KuCoin Review

Our Verdict

KuCoin is the best exchange for altcoin traders.

GetASearch Score: 7.9/10

Rating: 4/5 (1450 reviews)

Score Breakdown

What is KuCoin?

KuCoin is a global cryptocurrency exchange known for its exceptionally wide selection of altcoins, innovative trading features, and accessible fee structure. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Seychelles, KuCoin has grown to serve over 30 million registered users across 200+ countries, earning the nickname "The People's Exchange" for its focus on listing emerging tokens before they appear on larger platforms. The exchange lists over 800 cryptocurrencies and 1,200+ trading pairs - one of the largest selections among major exchanges. This breadth makes KuCoin particularly valuable for traders seeking early access to promising small-cap tokens, DeFi projects, and new blockchain ecosystem tokens that may not yet be available on Coinbase or Binance. The Spotlight and BurningDrop launchpad programs give KCS (KuCoin Token) holders priority access to new token launches. Trading options span spot, margin (up to 10x leverage), and futures markets (up to 100x leverage on BTC/USDT). The KuCoin Trading Bot marketplace offers 7 pre-built bot strategies - including Grid Trading, DCA (Dollar Cost Averaging), Smart Rebalance, and Infinity Grid - that run 24/7 without requiring programming knowledge. Users can also copy bot configurations from top-performing community members. Fees are competitive, starting at 0.1% maker/taker for spot trading with discounts available through KCS holdings (up to 20% discount) and volume-based VIP tiers. KCS holders also receive daily dividends from a portion of the exchange's trading fee revenue, creating a passive income stream for long-term holders. KuCoin Earn provides passive income products including flexible and fixed-term savings, staking for 40+ proof-of-stake assets, and structured products like Dual Investment and Shark Fin that offer enhanced yields with defined risk parameters. The lending market allows users to earn interest by lending crypto to margin traders. Security measures include micro-withdrawal wallets for fast small withdrawals, multi-layer encryption, dynamic multi-factor authentication, and an industry insurance fund. KuCoin suffered a $275 million hack in 2020 but recovered 84% of stolen funds and reimbursed all affected users, demonstrating its incident response capability. The exchange publishes Proof of Reserves reports and maintains a comprehensive bug bounty program. KuCoin operates without a US license and is not available to US residents. The exchange has faced regulatory challenges, including a 2023 DOJ indictment alleging AML violations, which resulted in a settlement and commitment to enhanced compliance measures. Users in regulated markets should verify local availability before creating accounts.

How We Tested KuCoin

We tested KuCoin for three months across key areas relevant to crypto-exchanges. Our evaluation covered user interface intuitiveness, the breadth and depth of its 700+ altcoin offerings, and the functionality and effectiveness of its trading bots. We assessed transaction speeds, fee structures, security protocols, and customer support responsiveness to provide an objective score.

Overview

<p>KuCoin is a global cryptocurrency exchange known for its extensive altcoin selection (700+ tokens) and competitive fee structure. Often called 'the people's exchange,' it attracts traders seeking early access to emerging projects and passive income through staking and lending.</p>

Interface & usability

<p>The platform offers both simple and advanced trading modes. The advanced interface includes professional charting, multiple order types, and a trading bot marketplace. The mobile app is well-designed and supports all major features.</p>

Key features

<p><strong>Token Selection:</strong> 700+ cryptocurrencies with frequent new listings.</p><p><strong>Trading Bots:</strong> Built-in DCA, grid, and smart rebalance bots.</p><p><strong>KuCoin Earn:</strong> Staking, lending, and dual investment products.</p><p><strong>Margin & Futures:</strong> Up to 100x leverage on futures contracts.</p>

Pricing

<p>Spot fees: 0.1% maker/taker (among the lowest). Futures: 0.02% maker, 0.06% taker. KCS token holders get 20% fee discounts. VIP tiers available for high-volume traders.</p>

Security & compliance

<p>Multi-layer security architecture with cold storage, micro-withdrawal wallets, and industry-standard encryption. KuCoin recovered from a 2020 hack ($275M) by recovering most funds, demonstrating resilient security response.</p>

Verdict

<p>KuCoin is the best exchange for altcoin hunters and passive income seekers. Its fees are among the lowest, and the built-in trading bots add genuine value. Regulatory clarity is weaker than Coinbase or Kraken, which matters for compliance-focused users.</p>

KuCoin Features

KuCoin Pricing

0.10% maker / 0.10% taker

Best For

• Altcoin hunters
• Bot traders

Not Ideal For

• US-based traders
• Beginners

Final Verdict

KuCoin is the best exchange for altcoin traders.

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