Comparison of dYdX vs THORChain [ 2024 ]

The best cryptocurrency exchanges compared by their commissions, products offered, security and much more. Here is the dYdX vs THORChain comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

dYdX

dYdX

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

THORChain

THORChain

Main points

Fees

0,10%/0,05%
NFTs
Yes

Native token

Token DYDX
fluctuates

Fees

No
NFTs
Token RUNE
Native token

Recommended for

Beginners

No

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

No
No

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold


Comparison of fees

Rating

4.0 – Competitive trading fees, especially for advanced trading features, but higher costs for gas fees on Layer 1.
4.0 – Fees are competitive for cross-chain swaps, but can vary depending on the asset and network conditions.

Level

0,10%/0,05%
fluctuates

Brief explanation

dYdX employs a competitive fee structure that benefits both low-volume and high-volume traders. For trading, the platform uses a maker-taker fee model. Maker fees, for orders that rest on the order book and provide liquidity, range from 0% to 0.02%, while taker fees, for orders that remove liquidity, range from 0.05% to 0.1% based on trading volume. Notably, dYdX offers zero trading fees for users with a 30-day trading volume below $100,000​​. Additionally, holding the platform’s native DYDX token can earn users up to a 50% discount on trading fees​​. For withdrawals, there are no fees for standard transactions, but a 0.1% fee applies for fast withdrawals​​. There are no deposit fees, making dYdX a cost-effective choice for active traders​​.
THORChain employs a distinct fee structure aimed at ensuring network security and providing economic incentives for its participants. The platform charges several types of fees: a fixed outbound fee, a dynamic liquidity fee, and a slip-based fee. Outbound Fee: This is a fixed fee applied to transactions leaving the THORChain network. It covers the cost of sending assets from the network to an external blockchain, ensuring the network remains sustainable. Liquidity Fee: This dynamic fee varies based on the liquidity of the pool involved in the transaction. It serves to reward liquidity providers, who are essential for the functioning of the protocol. This fee is crucial in maintaining the balance and availability of assets across the network. Slip-Based Fee: Designed to mitigate the risk of market manipulation by large traders (whales), this fee is calculated based on the impact of the trade on the pool’s price. Larger trades that significantly alter the pool’s balance incur higher fees. These fees are distributed to liquidity providers as compensation for the potential price impact of large trades . This multi-faceted fee structure not only ensures the economic viability of the THORChain network but also promotes fair trading practices and rewards participants who contribute to the ecosystem’s liquidity.

dYdX

THORChain

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Product selection

Native token

Yes, the native token is DYDX.
Yes, the native token is RUNE.

Earns

Yes, dYdX offers EARN opportunities mainly through staking DYDX tokens for staking rewards and liquidity provider incentives.
Yes, THORChain offers EARN opportunities by providing liquidity in native assets to liquidity pools, and staking RUNE tokens for network participation and rewards.

NFT marketplace

No, dYdX does not have an NFT marketplace.
No, THORChain does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

No, dYdX does not offer a debit card.
No, THORChain does not offer a debit card.

Company information

Full name

dYdX Trading Inc.
THORChain

Regulation

No, dYdX is not regulated by any specific financial regulatory authority, although it operates under compliance with general regulations for financial products and services.
No, THORChain is not regulated by any specific financial regulatory authority.

Year founded

2017
2018

Founder

Antonio Juliano
The founding team is pseudonymous, known collectively as the THORChain team.

Payment methods

Transfers

Deposits: Cryptocurrency transfers; Withdrawals: Cryptocurrency transfers.
Deposits: Cryptocurrency transfers; Withdrawals: Cryptocurrency transfers.

Mastercard

No, dYdX does not support direct deposits via Mastercard. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.
No, THORChain does not support direct deposits via Mastercard. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.

Wire transfer

No, dYdX does not support direct deposits via wire transfer. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.
No, THORChain does not support direct deposits via wire transfer. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.

Card

No, dYdX does not support direct deposits via credit card. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.
No, THORChain does not support direct deposits via credit card. It only allows transactions through wallet connections.

Comparative table

dYdX FEATURES THORChain
dYdX allows relatively low minimum trades, suitable for both small and large investors, though not the lowest in the market.
Minimum Trade
THORChain allows users to trade with relatively low minimums, accommodating small-scale traders but requiring enough to maintain liquidity integrity.
dYdX offers highly competitive fee structures, especially on Layer 2, minimizing costs significantly for traders.
Trading and Transaction Fees
Fees on THORChain are competitive within the DeFi space, ensuring affordability while supporting network and liquidity providers.
The selection of cryptocurrencies is somewhat limited, focusing primarily on major assets which restricts diversity in trading.
Number of Cryptocurrencies
THORChain supports a moderate range of cryptocurrencies focused primarily on major assets, limiting variety but enhancing quality.
Offers a moderate range of crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, primarily focused on major cryptocurrencies, limiting options for altcoin traders.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs
The platform excels in offering cross-chain trading pairs, enabling direct swaps between significant cryptocurrencies without intermediaries.
The platform excels in transparency, with open access to smart contracts and clear, public documentation of its operational protocols.
Website Transparency
THORChain provides detailed documentation and open-source code, fostering trust through transparency in operations and development.
dYdX operates primarily on Ethereum and has integrated Layer 2 solutions, enhancing speed and reducing costs, though it’s not available on multiple blockchains.
Credit/Debit Card
Primarily operates on its own network with bridges to major chains like Bitcoin and Ethereum, somewhat limiting compared to multi-network DEXs.
As a non-custodial exchange, dYdX allows users to maintain control over their private keys, though it doesn’t provide custody services itself.
Storage Offering
As a decentralized platform, THORChain does not offer custodial storage, relying on users to manage their own wallet security.
dYdX offers some staking options and rewards, mainly focused on liquidity providers, but it’s not as extensive or diverse as some might prefer.
Staking and Rewards
Offers excellent staking rewards and incentives for liquidity providers, making it attractive for users looking to earn through participation.
The dYdX website is user-friendly, well-designed, and offers all necessary information readily accessible, making it easy for users to navigate.
Mobile App and Desktop
The THORChain website is user-friendly, providing essential information clearly but could improve in navigational aspects and user interface design.
Customer service is adequate with support channels available, but feedback suggests there could be improvements in response times and support reach.
Customer Service
Customer support is available through community channels, providing adequate but not real-time support; could benefit from more direct customer service options.
Deposits and withdrawals are efficiently handled via smart contracts, although options are limited to cryptocurrencies with no fiat support.
Deposit and Withdraw
THORChain supports straightforward deposit and withdrawal mechanisms that are inherently secure through decentralized operation, though subject to typical blockchain network delays.

Key features

Analysis tools

Advanced trading charts, order book depth, margin and leverage calculators, risk management tools, and historical trade data.
Cross-chain swap analytics, liquidity pool performance data, node metrics, and slippage calculators.

Mobile APP

Yes, dYdX has a mobile app available for both iOS and Android.
No, THORChain does not have a dedicated mobile app, but it can be accessed via mobile browsers.

Security

dYdX emphasizes security through extensive smart contract audits, multi-signature wallets, and robust risk management tools. The platform also utilizes Layer 2 scaling solutions to provide secure and cost-effective transactions.
THORChain focuses on cross-chain security, using a unique design that minimizes the need for wrapped assets. The platform employs rigorous security audits and has a robust bug bounty program to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Additional features

dYdX provides Layer 2 scaling for faster and cheaper transactions, insurance funds to protect traders from extreme losses, and perpetual contracts for advanced trading strategies.
THORChain supports non-custodial cross-chain swaps, node bonding for running network nodes, a strong focus on decentralization, and the ability to earn yield through providing liquidity in native assets.

Anonymity

No, dYdX typically requires identity verification, especially for advanced trading features and higher withdrawal limits, due to regulatory compliance.
Yes, THORChain enables anonymous trading through the use of connected wallets without requiring personal information.

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin (BTC), dYdX (DYDX), Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), and other popular ERC-20 tokens.
Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Binance Coin (BNB), Litecoin (LTC), THORChain (RUNE), and various cross-chain assets.

User-friendliness

dYdX is designed for more experienced traders, offering advanced trading options like margin trading and perpetual contracts. While its user interface is clean and professional, the complexity of its trading tools might not be suitable for beginners.
THORChain’s cross-chain liquidity protocol is powerful but can be complex for beginners. The interface is user-friendly, but the underlying technology and the concept of cross-chain swaps might require some learning for those new to the space.

Value for money

dYdX delivers significant value, especially for advanced traders looking for margin trading and perpetual contracts. Despite being on Ethereum, its sophisticated tools and zero gas fees on Layer 2 trades make it a worthwhile investment for serious traders.
THORChain offers good value for money by enabling cross-chain swaps without the need for wrapped tokens, which can save users on additional fees. Its native token, RUNE, also provides various incentives and liquidity rewards, adding to its overall value.

Countries of operation

Available globally, with some restrictions in countries like the US due to regulatory concerns.
Available globally, no specific country restrictions.

Best for

Geared towards advanced traders and institutional investors who require sophisticated trading tools like margin trading and perpetual contracts. Its robust platform is ideal for those seeking high leverage and advanced order types.
Best for investors who need cross-chain liquidity and want to trade assets across different blockchains without using wrapped tokens. It’s particularly useful for those who value decentralized, trustless trading environments.

Account

Trading

dYdX stands out for its advanced trading features, including margin trading and perpetual contracts. It is built on Ethereum, providing a secure and decentralized trading environment. The platform is ideal for experienced traders but might be overwhelming for beginners due to its advanced tools and higher transaction fees.
THORChain enables cross-chain trading, allowing users to swap tokens from different blockchains without wrapping. This functionality is unique and highly beneficial for diversified portfolios. However, the platform’s complexity and security incidents in the past may concern new users.

Deposit and withdrawal

dYdX supports Ethereum-based wallets like MetaMask for deposits and withdrawals. Users need to deposit funds into the platform to utilize advanced features like margin trading. While dYdX offers high security and control, Ethereum’s high gas fees can make the deposit and withdrawal process expensive, especially for smaller transactions.
THORChain allows cross-chain deposits and withdrawals, enabling users to trade assets across different blockchains without wrapping tokens. This feature provides flexibility and security, as users control their funds via compatible wallets. However, the complexity of cross-chain transactions can be daunting for beginners, and users must pay attention to network fees and security.

Account opening process

To use dYdX, users connect their Ethereum-based wallets, such as MetaMask or Ledger. The platform requires a deposit of funds to enable trading features like margin and perpetual contracts. While the setup is straightforward and secure, new users might find the process complex due to Ethereum’s transaction fees and the need for initial deposits.
THORChain enables cross-chain trading by connecting users’ wallets from various blockchains. There is no traditional account setup, as users manage their funds through wallets compatible with THORChain. This decentralized model offers flexibility and security but can be complex for those unfamiliar with managing multiple blockchain wallets.

KYC required?

Yes, KYC is mandatory for certain features and higher withdrawal limits.
No, KYC is not mandatory for using the platform.

Customer Service

dYdX provides support through its help center, which includes detailed documentation, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. The platform also engages with its community via Discord and Twitter. While the available resources are thorough, the absence of direct customer service might be challenging for users needing quick, personalized assistance.
THORChain provides support through its active community on Discord and Twitter, along with detailed documentation and FAQs on their website. While these resources are beneficial for self-help, the lack of direct customer service may pose challenges for users who need immediate assistance or personalized support.

Security

dYdX emphasizes security through extensive smart contract audits, multi-signature wallets, and robust risk management tools. The platform also utilizes Layer 2 scaling solutions to provide secure and cost-effective transactions.
THORChain focuses on cross-chain security, using a unique design that minimizes the need for wrapped assets. The platform employs rigorous security audits and has a robust bug bounty program to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

As an expert interacting frequently with various trading platforms, I find dYdX to be an exceptional choice for traders looking to delve into advanced trading options like derivatives and leverage within a secure, decentralized environment. The platform’s robust security measures and transparency make it a trustworthy option. However, I recommend it primarily for seasoned traders due to its complexity and focus on advanced financial instruments. Newcomers to cryptocurrency trading might find simpler platforms more suitable to start with.
As a seasoned observer of the DeFi landscape, I highly recommend THORChain for users seeking a robust platform for cross-chain trading. Its innovative approach to enabling direct swaps between disparate cryptocurrencies sets it apart. However, prospective users should acquaint themselves with its security history and the inherent complexities of operating within a multi-chain environment to fully leverage its offerings.

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, any exchange can have problems.

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

More comparatives dYdX and THORChain

Comparison of dYdX vs THORChain [ 2024 ]