Kraken is one of the most established cryptocurrency exchanges, known for its security and regulatory compliance. Its maker-taker fee structure is straightforward and features nine volume tiers that reward high-frequency traders with substantially reduced rates.
Kraken Base Maker and Taker Rates
At the lowest volume tier (under $50,000 in 30-day volume), Kraken charges:
- Maker fee: 0.25%
- Taker fee: 0.40%
The 0.15 percentage point spread between maker and taker rates creates a meaningful incentive for traders to use limit orders. Over hundreds of trades, this difference significantly impacts net profitability.
Volume Tier System
Kraken's nine-tier volume system reduces fees progressively as monthly trading volume increases. Traders who reach the highest tiers can access maker fees of 0.00%, making resting limit orders essentially free on Kraken. Taker fees at the highest tiers also decline substantially, though they never reach zero.
How to Guarantee Maker Status on Kraken
Kraken offers a post-only limit order option that ensures your limit order will only be placed if it will rest on the book (maker position). If the order would immediately match an existing order and become a taker, Kraken cancels it instead of filling it. This is the safest way to ensure you always pay the maker rate on Kraken.
Stablecoin and FX Pairs
Kraken applies a separate, often lower fee schedule to stablecoin pairs and fiat currency exchange pairs. Traders who frequently convert between USDT, USDC, and other stablecoins can benefit from these reduced rates compared to the standard crypto trading schedule.
Kraken vs Binance Fee Comparison
At the base tier, Kraken's maker fee (0.25%) is higher than Binance's (0.10%), and its taker fee (0.40%) is also higher than Binance's (0.10%). However, Kraken offers advantages in regulatory compliance, security track record, and fiat on-ramp options that attract traders willing to pay slightly higher fees. For traders prioritizing cost above all else, Binance remains the lower-cost option at equivalent volume levels.
Limit orders can also execute immediately on Kraken, incurring a taker fee. When placing a limit order with the intention of avoiding taker fees, it is important to know how to set the price correctly — or to use the post-only option.
