Comparison of Kraken vs Luno [ 2025 ]

The crypto exchanges compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is the Kraken vs Luno comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Kraken

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Luno

Main points

Fees

0,16%/0,26%

Earns

Customer service

5/5

≤0,10%

Fees

Earns

4/5

Customer service

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Trading

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.5 – Low fees with additional benefits for high-volume traders.

3.8 – Reasonable fees with strong local support in emerging markets.

Level

0,16%/0,26%

≤0,10%

Brief explanation

Kraken’s commission structure is designed to be competitive and favorable for both low and high-volume traders. The exchange employs a tiered fee schedule that rewards users with lower trading fees as their trading volume increases over a 30-day period. Fees vary depending on whether you are a maker (creating a new order on the book) or a taker (filling an existing order), with maker fees generally being lower than taker fees to encourage liquidity. While the fees are relatively low for high-volume traders, those trading smaller amounts may find the fees slightly higher compared to other platforms. Additionally, Kraken charges flat fees for fiat deposits and withdrawals, though these can vary based on the method and currency used. Overall, Kraken’s fee structure is transparent, with details readily available on its website, helping users to anticipate and calculate potential trading costs effectively.

Luno operates with a transparent and competitive commission structure that varies based on the type of transaction and the user’s activity level. For trading, Luno typically charges a tiered fee, which decreases as the user’s monthly trading volume increases, incentivizing high-frequency traders with lower rates. The fees for buying and selling cryptocurrencies are calculated either as a percentage of the transaction amount or as a flat rate, depending on the currency and payment method used. Deposit fees vary by payment method, with options like bank transfers often being free, while credit or debit card transactions may incur higher fees. Withdrawal fees also vary, generally depending on the network fees of the cryptocurrency being withdrawn and the urgency of the transaction. This fee structure is designed to be straightforward, allowing users to easily understand the costs associated with their trading and financial movements on the platform.

Kraken

Security Methods: Kraken's commitment to security is unparalleled, utilizing state-of-the-art security measures such as two-factor authentication, SSL encryption, and cold storage of the majority of assets. This rigorous approach minimizes the risk of hacking and unauthorized access, making it a trusted platform for trading cryptocurrencies.
Reputation and Reviews: Kraken has maintained a strong reputation within the crypto community for over a decade. Its track record of security, user-focused services, and operational resilience has garnered positive reviews from users and industry analysts alike, reinforcing its standing as a reputable exchange.
Transparency: Kraken is known for its transparency in operations, frequently updating users on system upgrades, security measures, and changes in regulatory compliance. This openness builds trust and ensures that users are well-informed about their trading environment.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: Kraken is one of the largest exchanges in terms of trading volume and liquidity. This allows users to execute large trades without significantly affecting the market price, which is critical for both retail and institutional traders.
Possible Regulation: Kraken adheres to regulatory requirements in all jurisdictions in which it operates, enhancing its credibility and reliability. Compliance with these regulations not only ensures the legality of its operations but also provides a layer of security for its users' investments.

Read Kraken review

Luno

Year Founded: Since its inception in 2013, Luno has built a long-standing reputation in the cryptocurrency market. This longevity serves as a testament to its resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving crypto landscape.
Security Methods: Luno prioritizes the security of its users' assets through robust security protocols, including state-of-the-art encryption and secure storage measures. These efforts ensure that users' investments are protected from external threats and vulnerabilities.
Possible Regulation: Luno’s commitment to regulatory compliance in each market it operates in reinforces its reputation as a trustworthy platform. By adhering to local financial regulations and guidelines, Luno provides a secure trading environment that aligns with legal standards.
Reputation and Reviews: The platform has garnered positive feedback from users globally, reflected in its favorable reviews across various consumer platforms. This positive reputation highlights user satisfaction with Luno's services and its effectiveness in meeting trader needs.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: Luno maintains a healthy trading volume and liquidity, ensuring that users can execute trades efficiently without significant price slippage. This reliability in trading performance makes Luno a preferred option for many traders looking to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.

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Product selection

Native token

Earns

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Full name

Payward, Inc.

Luno Pte Ltd.

Regulation

Regulated in the EE. UU.

Regulated in Singapur y Sudáfrica

Year founded

2011

2013

Founder

Jesse Powell

Marcus Swanepoel

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Kraken	FEATURES	Luno
Kraken allows relatively low minimum trade volumes, making it accessible for beginners.	Minimum Trade	Luno allows small minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners to start with lower amounts.
Competitive fees, though slightly higher for low volume traders; discounts for high volume.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Luno’s fees are competitive but can vary by region and payment method, which may impact cost efficiency for some users.
Offers a wide selection of cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trading preferences.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Luno offers a selection of the most popular cryptocurrencies but has a more limited range compared to larger exchanges.
Extensive range of trading pairs, though some less popular pairs have lower liquidity.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Luno provides a few crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, focusing more on fiat to crypto transactions which limits trading strategies.
High transparency about fees, security measures, and operational status updates.	Website Transparency	The Luno website provides clear information on fees, policies, and company details, although some users may seek more depth in certain areas.
Kraken does not offer an exchange card for customers to use for in-store purchases and receive benefits.	Credit/Debit Card	The Luno card effectively integrates with their service offering, providing convenience and accessibility for in-store purchases while also facilitating easy conversion from crypto to fiat. This feature enhances user experience by expanding the usability of cryptocurrencies in everyday life. However, availability may vary by region, which is why it doesn’t achieve a perfect score.
Excellent security with a majority of funds held in cold storage; provides peace of mind.	Storage Offering	Luno excels in secure cryptocurrency storage solutions, offering integrated wallets with advanced security measures.
Offers staking options with competitive rewards, although not available for all assets.	Staking and Rewards	Currently, Luno has limited options for staking and rewards, which could be an area for future development to enhance user returns.
Both platforms are robust and fully-featured, though the interface can be complex for new users.	Mobile App and Desktop	Luno’s mobile app and desktop platform are highly user-friendly, offering intuitive navigation and robust functionality for all user levels.
Customer service is reliable but can experience delays during high demand periods.	Customer Service	Luno provides competent customer service with multiple channels for support, though response times can occasionally extend during high demand periods.
Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes, though options may vary by region.	Deposit and Withdraw	Deposits and withdrawals are generally smooth with Luno, supporting various methods, though some users might face delays depending on their region.

Key features

Analysis tools

Advanced charting tools, technical analysis

Basic charting tools

Mobile APP

Security

High 4,9/5

High 4,5/5

Additional features

Margin trading, futures trading, staking, Kraken Pro exchange

Savings wallets, fiat on/off ramps, staking, educational resources

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

100+

10+

User-friendliness

Kraken features a clean and intuitive interface that is easy for beginners to use. The platform is designed to provide a seamless trading experience, making it easy to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.

Luno offers a user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate, making it suitable for beginners. The interface is designed to facilitate a smooth trading experience with all necessary features easily accessible.

Value for money

Offers excellent value for money with low trading fees, strong security features, and a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies.

Provides decent value for money with competitive fees and a user-friendly platform, making it a good choice for beginners and emerging market users.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia

South Africa, Nigeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Europe

Best for

Suitable for all types of investors, from beginners to advanced traders, due to its low fees, strong security features, and wide range of supported cryptocurrencies.

Ideal for beginners and emerging market users looking for a user-friendly platform with competitive fees.

Base currencies available

USD, EUR, CAD, GBP, JPY, BTC

ZAR, NGN, MYR, IDR, EUR, BTC

Account

Trading

Kraken is known for its high security and wide range of cryptocurrencies. It offers advanced trading tools and competitive fees but can be complex for beginners.

Luno is a user-friendly exchange popular in emerging markets, offering easy fiat integration and a decent range of cryptocurrencies. It has competitive fees but lacks advanced trading tools.

Deposit and withdrawal

Kraken supports a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are processed quickly, with competitive fees .

Luno is user-friendly, offering easy fiat and cryptocurrency deposit methods. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, with competitive fees.

Account opening process

Kraken offers a straightforward and secure account registration process. Users need to submit personal details, verify their identity, and address. The process is fully digital and typically takes less than a day to complete.

Luno offers an easy and quick account registration process. Users need to provide personal information and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and typically takes less than a day to complete.

KYC required?

Yes

Customer Service

Kraken offers comprehensive customer support through email, live chat, and a help center. Support is available 24/7, and the response times are quick, ensuring users get timely assistance .

Luno offers support through email and live chat. The response time is quick, and the support team is available 24/7, making it reliable for users needing immediate help.

Security

Kraken offers extensive security features, including 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, making it a highly secure platform for investors.

Luno ensures security through 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, providing a secure environment for investors.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

In concluding our comprehensive review of Kraken through Threenvest’s lens, it’s clear that Kraken stands as a formidable player in the cryptocurrency exchange landscape. Known for its robust security measures, wide range of cryptocurrencies, and advanced trading features, Kraken appeals especially to traders who prioritize safety and a diverse portfolio. These strengths are complemented by its deep liquidity and competitive fee structure, making it a preferred choice for serious traders. However, its complex interface and sometimes slow customer service response times during peak periods could pose challenges, particularly for newcomers to cryptocurrency trading. Compared to other exchanges, Kraken’s commitment to regulatory compliance and security is notably strong, positioning it as one of the safer trading environments in an industry fraught with security concerns. On the flip side, its user interface and learning curve may not be as appealing to beginners as some other platforms that focus more heavily on user-friendliness and simple navigation. For users of Threenvest looking to engage in sophisticated trading strategies or those who value a highly secure trading platform, Kraken is undoubtedly a top contender. However, those new to the market might consider starting with platforms that offer more guidance and a more intuitive trading experience.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert on our website, I recommend Luno for newcomers venturing into the world of cryptocurrencies. Its user-friendly interface and robust educational resources make it an excellent starting point. However, more experienced traders might find the platform’s limited advanced trading features and crypto-to-crypto pairs a bit restrictive. If you’re just getting started or prefer a straightforward, secure trading environment, Luno is a solid choice to consider.

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How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).

For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.