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Gemini and Kraken are two of the most trusted US-based cryptocurrency exchanges, but they serve very different types of traders. Gemini is a security-first, regulatory-compliant exchange ideal for beginners and institutional investors, while Kraken offers a much broader crypto selection and lower fees for active traders. In this Gemini vs Kraken comparison for 2026, we break down fees, features, security, and more to help you choose the right platform.
| Feature | Gemini | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | New York, USA | San Francisco, USA |
| Cryptocurrencies | 76 | 580+ |
| Trading Fees (Advanced) | 0.20% maker / 0.40% taker | 0.25% maker / 0.40% taker |
| Simple Buy Fees | 1.49% + 0.50% spread | Up to 1.00% |
| US State Availability | All 50 states | 48 states (not NY or ME) |
| Countries Supported | 60+ | 190+ |
| Staking | 3 assets | 20+ assets |
| Futures Trading | Yes (up to 100× leverage) | Yes (up to 50× leverage) |
| Mobile App (iOS) | 4.8 ★ | 4.7 ★ |
| Customer Support | Email, help centre | 24/7 live chat |
| Security Certifications | SOC 1 & SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001 | ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type 1 |
Gemini vs Kraken: Fees Compared
Fees are one of the biggest differentiators when choosing between Gemini and Kraken. Both exchanges operate tiered fee structures that reward higher trading volume, but their starting rates and simple-buy costs differ significantly.
| Fee Type | Gemini | Kraken | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant/Simple Buy | 1.49% + 0.50% convenience fee | Up to 1.00% | Kraken |
| Maker Fee (Advanced) | 0.20% | 0.25% | Gemini |
| Taker Fee (Advanced) | 0.40% | 0.40% | Tie |
| Stablecoin–USD Maker | 0.00% | 0.20% | Gemini |
| Stablecoin–USD Taker | 0.01% | 0.40% | Gemini |
| ACH Deposit | Free | Free | Tie |
| Wire Withdrawal | $25 | $25 | Tie |
| Crypto Conversion | 1.49% | ~1.50% | Tie |
| Subscription Plan | None | Kraken+ ($4.99/mo, $0 fees up to $10K) | Kraken |
Verdict on fees: For casual buyers using simple-buy interfaces, Kraken is significantly cheaper at up to 1% vs Gemini's 1.49%+ fees. For advanced traders, Gemini ActiveTrader edges out with a lower 0.20% maker fee. Kraken's $4.99/month Kraken+ subscription is excellent value for traders doing under $10,000/month in volume.
Supported Cryptocurrencies and Trading Pairs
Kraken supports over 580 cryptocurrencies and hundreds of trading pairs, making it one of the most comprehensive exchanges available. Gemini, by contrast, lists 76 cryptocurrencies with approximately 390 trading pairs. If access to altcoins and newer tokens matters to you, Kraken is the clear winner here.
Both platforms support major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), XRP, Polkadot (DOT), and Avalanche (AVAX). Gemini has historically been selective about listings, prioritising regulatory compliance over breadth. Kraken's larger selection includes DeFi tokens, meme coins, and layer-2 tokens that Gemini doesn't carry.
Security and Regulation
Both Gemini and Kraken are among the most secure cryptocurrency exchanges in the industry. Neither has suffered a major loss of customer funds, and both employ cold storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), and encryption as standard.
| Security Feature | Gemini | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Storage | Yes (majority of funds) | Yes (majority of funds) |
| 2FA / Hardware Keys | Yes (FIDO2 supported) | Yes (FIDO2 supported) |
| SOC 2 Certification | SOC 1 & SOC 2 Type 2 | SOC 2 Type 1 |
| ISO 27001 | Yes | Yes |
| Insurance | Hot wallet insurance | No public insurance policy |
| Proof of Reserves | No | Yes (regular audits) |
| Major Hacks | None (Genesis bankruptcy caused delays, all funds recovered) | Minor 2024 breach, fixed in 47 min, no client losses |
| Regulatory Status | NY BitLicense, NYDFS regulated | State money transmitter licences |
Gemini is the world's first SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certified crypto exchange, which is a significant differentiator for security-conscious users and institutions. Gemini also carries hot wallet insurance, providing an extra layer of protection. Kraken counters with transparent proof-of-reserves audits that allow users to verify the exchange holds sufficient assets. For security, Gemini has a slight edge overall thanks to its insurance and higher-level compliance certifications.
User Experience and Interface
Gemini is widely regarded as one of the most beginner-friendly crypto exchanges. Its clean, minimalist interface makes buying Bitcoin or Ethereum simple — even for first-time crypto buyers. The Gemini mobile app holds a 4.8-star rating on the iOS App Store, reflecting strong user satisfaction.
Kraken offers a more feature-rich experience that caters to intermediate and advanced traders. The Kraken Pro platform includes advanced charting, order types, and portfolio analytics. Its mobile app scores 4.7 stars on iOS. While Kraken has improved its onboarding in recent years, it still has a steeper learning curve than Gemini.
Staking and Earning
Staking is an area where Kraken significantly outperforms Gemini. Kraken supports staking for 20+ cryptocurrencies with yields ranging from 0.15% to 6.5% APY, including both bonded and flexible options. Popular staking options include ETH, DOT, SOL, ADA, and USDT.
Gemini offers staking on only 3 assets, with a 15% commission on staking rewards. For passive income through staking, Kraken is the far better choice. If you're looking for broader earning opportunities across platforms, see our crypto staking comparison.
Advanced Trading Features
Both exchanges offer advanced trading platforms for experienced users, but they differ in scope:
| Feature | Gemini | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Trading Platform | ActiveTrader | Kraken Pro |
| Futures Trading | Yes (up to 100×) | Yes (up to 50×) |
| Margin Trading | No | Yes |
| OTC Desk | Yes | Yes |
| API Access | Yes | Yes |
| NFT Marketplace | Gemini Nifty Gateway | Yes (Kraken NFT) |
| Crypto Wallet | Gemini Wallet | Kraken Wallet |
| Payment Methods | ACH, Wire, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay | ACH, Wire, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Debit Card, SEPA |
Kraken offers margin trading, which Gemini does not, giving advanced traders more flexibility. However, Gemini now supports perpetual futures with up to 100× leverage — higher than Kraken's 50× maximum. Both platforms provide robust API access for algorithmic traders. Gemini's Nifty Gateway remains one of the most established NFT marketplaces in the industry.
Customer Support
Kraken has the clear advantage in customer support with 24/7 live chat, allowing users to get help in real time. Gemini relies primarily on email-based support and a self-service help centre. While Gemini's educational resources and knowledge base are comprehensive, the lack of live chat can be frustrating for users needing urgent assistance.
Who Should Choose Gemini?
Gemini is the better choice if you:
- Are a beginner who wants a clean, simple interface
- Live in New York (Kraken is not available in NY)
- Prioritise regulatory compliance and insurance on stored funds
- Want lower advanced maker fees (0.20% vs 0.25%)
- Are interested in stablecoin trading with near-zero fees
- Need an institutional-grade custodian with SOC 2 Type 2 certification
Who Should Choose Kraken?
Kraken is the better choice if you:
- Want access to 580+ cryptocurrencies including altcoins and DeFi tokens
- Are an active trader looking for lower instant-buy fees
- Want to stake crypto and earn passive income on 20+ assets
- Need margin trading capabilities
- Value 24/7 live chat customer support
- Trade internationally (available in 190+ countries)
- Want fee-free trading via Kraken+ ($4.99/month for up to $10K/month)
Gemini vs Kraken: Final Verdict (2026)
Both Gemini and Kraken are excellent, trustworthy exchanges, but they excel in different areas. Here's our category-by-category verdict:
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fees (Casual Buyers) | Kraken | Up to 1% vs Gemini's 1.49%+ |
| Fees (Advanced Traders) | Gemini | 0.20% maker vs Kraken's 0.25% |
| Crypto Selection | Kraken | 580+ vs 76 cryptocurrencies |
| Security | Gemini | SOC 2 Type 2, hot wallet insurance |
| Ease of Use | Gemini | Cleaner interface, higher app rating |
| Staking | Kraken | 20+ assets vs 3 on Gemini |
| Customer Support | Kraken | 24/7 live chat vs email only |
| US Availability | Gemini | All 50 states including New York |
| Advanced Trading | Kraken | Margin trading, more order types |
| Overall | Kraken | Better value for most traders |
Overall, Kraken wins for the majority of crypto traders thanks to its vastly larger crypto selection, lower simple-buy fees, superior staking options, and 24/7 support. However, Gemini is the stronger choice for beginners, New York residents, and anyone who prioritises insurance and top-tier regulatory compliance.
For more exchange comparisons, see our guides on Gemini vs Coinbase, Kraken vs Coinbase, and our full crypto exchange rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Gemini or Kraken?
Kraken is better for most traders due to its lower instant-buy fees (up to 1% vs 1.49%), 580+ supported cryptocurrencies, and 20+ staking options. Gemini is better for beginners, New York residents, and users who prioritise insurance and regulatory compliance. Both are trusted US-based exchanges with strong security records.
Is Gemini cheaper than Kraken?
No, Kraken is generally cheaper for casual buyers, charging up to 1% on simple purchases compared to Gemini's 1.49% plus a 0.50% convenience fee. However, Gemini ActiveTrader offers a slightly lower maker fee (0.20%) than Kraken Pro (0.25%). Kraken+ subscribers pay $4.99/month for zero-fee trading up to $10,000.
Is Gemini safe to use in 2026?
Yes, Gemini is one of the safest crypto exchanges available. It is the first exchange to achieve both SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications, holds an ISO 27001 certification, is regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), and carries hot wallet insurance. Gemini has never been hacked.
Is Kraken available in New York?
No, Kraken is not available in New York or Maine as of 2026. If you live in New York, Gemini is a strong alternative since it is available in all 50 US states and is regulated by the NYDFS. Other New York-friendly options include Coinbase.
Which has more coins, Gemini or Kraken?
Kraken supports significantly more cryptocurrencies — over 580 compared to Gemini's 76. If having access to a wide range of altcoins, DeFi tokens, and meme coins is important to you, Kraken is the better choice. Gemini focuses on a curated selection of well-established cryptocurrencies.
Can I stake crypto on Gemini and Kraken?
Yes, both platforms support staking, but Kraken is far superior in this area. Kraken offers staking on 20+ assets with yields up to 6.5% APY, while Gemini supports staking on only 3 assets and takes a 15% commission on rewards. For staking, Kraken is the clear winner.
Do Gemini and Kraken have mobile apps?
Yes, both exchanges offer full-featured mobile apps for iOS and Android. Gemini's app holds a 4.8-star rating on the iOS App Store, while Kraken's app scores 4.7 stars. Both apps support trading, deposits, withdrawals, and portfolio tracking. Gemini's app is generally considered more beginner-friendly.
Should I use Gemini or Kraken for advanced trading?
For advanced trading, Kraken has the edge. Kraken Pro offers margin trading, futures (up to 50× leverage), and a wider range of order types. Gemini's ActiveTrader platform provides lower maker fees (0.20%) and perpetual futures with up to 100× leverage, but lacks margin trading. Kraken is the more complete platform for experienced traders.
