Comparison of Bithumb vs Independent Reserve [ 2024 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

bithumb

Bithumb

  • Threenvest valuation: 4,3/5
  • US legal: No
  • Security: High 4,9/5
  • Mobile App: Yes
Go exchange

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

independent reserve

Independent Reserve

  • Threenvest valuation: 4/5
  • US legal: No
  • Security: High 4,6/5
  • Mobile App: No
Go exchange

Main points

Fees

0,10%/0,15%

Earns

Yes

Customer service

4/5
≤0,50%

Fees

No

Earns

4/5

Customer service


Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Yes
Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

No

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold


Comparison of fees

Rating

3.9 – Competitive fees but variable depending on the trading volume.
3.9 – Reasonable fees with strong local support in Australia and New Zealand.

Level

0,10%/0,15%
≤0,50%

Brief explanation

Bithumb structures its trading fees to accommodate both high-volume traders and casual users, making it an attractive platform for a broad range of investors. The fee system is tiered, based on the user’s 30-day trading volume, which incentivizes frequent trading and higher volumes. Fees start relatively low compared to industry averages, with maker fees often being lower than taker fees, which benefits those who add liquidity to the market. This structure not only supports active traders but also ensures that the exchange remains competitive and accessible to newcomers. The clarity and competitiveness of these fees contribute significantly to Bithumb’s appeal in the global crypto trading landscape.
Independent Reserve operates with a tiered fee structure that incentivizes higher trading volumes with progressively lower fees. The standard trading fee starts at 0.50% and can decrease to as low as 0.02% depending on the user’s 30-day trading volume. For deposits, there are no fees for electronic fund transfers (EFT) over AUD 100, and SWIFT transfers are free for amounts over AUD 5,000. Withdrawals to Australian bank accounts are free, while international withdrawals incur a fee of AUD 20. Cryptocurrency withdrawal fees are competitive, with a fee of 0.0003 BTC for Bitcoin, which is significantly lower than the global industry average​​.

Bithumb

bithumb
Go exchange
  • Year Founded: Established in 2014, Bithumb has a long-standing presence in the cryptocurrency market. This longevity signifies stability and experience in handling a dynamic and sometimes volatile market, providing a solid foundation of trust among its users.
  • Security Methods: Bithumb has implemented robust security measures, including multi-layered security systems and regular updates to safeguard against new types of cyber threats. These rigorous security practices help ensure the safety of user funds and personal information.
  • Volume Managed and Trading Volume and Liquidity: Bithumb consistently ranks among the top exchanges globally in terms of trading volume. High liquidity not only makes it easier for users to execute trades at desired prices but also reflects the trust and reliability of the platform in the eyes of a large user base.
  • Reputation and Reviews: The exchange has built a solid reputation over the years, backed by positive reviews from many of its users. This reputation is supported by Bithumb's responsiveness to past challenges and its ongoing commitment to improve user experience and security.
  • Customer Service: Bithumb offers extensive customer support with 24/7 access, including real-time assistance for resolving issues. Effective customer service enhances user trust by ensuring that assistance is readily available whenever needed, which is crucial in the fast-paced environment of cryptocurrency trading.
  • Pros
  • High trading volume ensures liquidity.
  • User-friendly interface for beginners.
  • Robust security measures in place.
  • Cons
  • Past security breaches raise concerns.
  • Limited global accessibility.

Independent Reserve

independent reserve
Go exchange
  • Year Founded: Independent Reserve was established in 2013, making it one of the longest-running cryptocurrency exchanges in Australia. Its longevity in the market is a testament to its reliability and stability​​.
  • Reputation and Reviews: With over a decade of operation, Independent Reserve has built a strong reputation among users for its reliability and customer service. It has consistently received positive reviews and high ratings for its security, user experience, and customer support​​.
  • Regulation and Compliance: The exchange is registered with AUSTRAC (Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre) and complies with stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations. This regulatory adherence ensures a high level of trust and security for users​​.
  • Customer Service: Independent Reserve offers comprehensive customer support through various channels including email, support tickets, and a well-resourced help center. This ensures that users can get timely assistance for any issues they encounter​​.
  • Security Methods: Independent Reserve employs robust security measures including two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption of sensitive data, and cold storage for the majority of its cryptocurrency holdings. The exchange also conducts regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities​​.
  • Pros
  • Strong adherence to regulatory standards.
  • High level of platform security.
  • User-friendly interface for beginners.
  • Cons
  • Limited selection of cryptocurrencies.
  • No margin trading available.

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Product selection

Native token

No
No

Earns

Yes
No

NFT marketplace

Yes
No

Cripto/debit card

Yes
No

Company information

Full name

Bithumb Korea Co., Ltd.
Independent Reserve Pty. Ltd.

Regulation

Regulated in Corea del Sur
Regulated in Australia

Year founded

2014
2013

Founder

Unknown
Adam Tepper

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes
Yes

Mastercard

No
No

Wire transfer

Yes
Yes

Card

No
No

Comparative table

Bithumb FEATURES Independent Reserve
Bithumb allows relatively low minimum trades, accessible for beginners.
Minimum Trade
Minimum trade amounts at Independent Reserve are relatively low, making it accessible for new investors.
Fees are competitive but can be complex and vary by transaction type.
Trading and Transaction Fees
Fees are moderate compared to other exchanges, but some users might find them slightly higher for smaller trades.
Offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trader needs.
Number of Cryptocurrencies
Independent Reserve supports a decent range of popular cryptocurrencies, providing enough options for most investors.
Provides a substantial number of trading pairs, enhancing trading options.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs
The exchange offers a fair selection of crypto-to-crypto pairs, though not as extensive as some larger platforms.
Generally transparent but could improve in detailing fee structures.
Website Transparency
The website is user-friendly and transparent about fees, regulations, and available services.
Bithumb does not provide an exchange card for in-store purchases or associated benefits, which limits its utility for everyday transactions compared to some other exchanges offering this feature.
Credit/Debit Card
Independent Reserve does not offer a card for in-store purchases.
Provides secure storage options with advanced security features.
Storage Offering
Offers secure storage options, including insurance for stored assets, enhancing user confidence in the platform’s safety.
Offers competitive staking options and rewards for users.
Staking and Rewards
Independent Reserve does not have extensive staking or rewards programs compared to some other exchanges.
Excellent user interface on both mobile and desktop platforms.
Mobile App and Desktop
Both mobile and desktop platforms are well-designed, ensuring a seamless trading experience across devices.
Exceptional customer support with 24/7 availability and multiple languages.
Customer Service
Customer service is responsive, though there is room for improvement in speed and availability during peak times.
Efficient processes, though some users report delays during high traffic.
Deposit and Withdraw
Deposits and withdrawals are processed efficiently, with multiple options available, although some methods might incur fees.

Key features

Analysis tools

Basic charting tools
Basic charting tools

Mobile APP

Yes
No

Security

High 4,9/5
High 4,6/5

Additional features

Margin trading, staking, Bithumb Cash rewards, institutional services
OTC trading, SMSF services, staking, insurance options

Anonymity

No
No

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

150+
20+

User-friendliness

Bithumb provides a straightforward and user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to start trading cryptocurrencies. The platform’s design is clean and intuitive, facilitating a smooth trading experience.
Independent Reserve 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 good value for money with competitive fees and a wide selection of cryptocurrencies, though it may face regulatory challenges in some regions.
Delivers good value for money with competitive fees and strong security features, suitable for Australian and New Zealand users.

Countries of operation

South Korea, United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom
Australia, New Zealand, Singapore

Best for

Best for South Korean traders looking for a platform with a wide selection of cryptocurrencies and competitive fees.
Best for Australian and New Zealand investors looking for a reliable platform with competitive fees and strong security.

Base currencies available

KRW, BTC
AUD, NZD, USD, BTC

Account

Trading

Bithumb is one of South Korea’s largest exchanges, offering high liquidity and a wide range of cryptocurrencies. However, it has faced security issues in the past, which could be a concern for users.
Independent Reserve is a popular exchange in Australia and New Zealand, offering a user-friendly platform and easy fiat integration. It supports a decent range of cryptocurrencies but has higher fees.

Deposit and withdrawal

Bithumb offers various deposit methods, including bank transfers and crypto. Withdrawals are processed quickly, usually within a few hours. Fees are competitive but can vary depending on the method used.
Independent Reserve is popular in Australia and New Zealand, offering easy fiat and cryptocurrency deposit methods. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, with competitive fees.

Account opening process

Bithumb provides a straightforward account opening process. Users need to submit personal information and verify their identity. The process is efficient and typically completed within a day, ensuring quick access to trading.
Independent Reserve provides an easy and user-friendly account opening process. Users need to provide personal information and verify their identity. The process is efficient and usually takes less than a day to complete.

KYC required?

Yes
Yes

Customer Service

Bithumb offers customer support through email, live chat, and a help center. The support team is responsive, but the lack of 24/7 availability may be a limitation for some users.
Independent Reserve provides extensive customer support via email, live chat, and phone. The support team is responsive and available 24/7, making it reliable for users globally.

Security

Bithumb offers robust security features, including 2FA, cold storage, and encryption. Despite its strong security measures, the platform is not regulated by top-tier financial authorities, which could be a concern for some users.
Independent Reserve employs comprehensive security measures, including 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by Australian authorities, ensuring high security for investors.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

alejandro-borja-analista-de-brokers.webp

Alejandro Borja

As an expert on our website, I recommend Bithumb for traders looking for a robust platform with a wide selection of cryptocurrencies and high liquidity. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for beginners, while the depth of its market and security measures provides peace of mind. However, potential users should be aware of its complex fee structure and ensure they understand the costs associated with trading on this platform. Overall, Bithumb is a solid choice for those looking to dive into the dynamic world of cryptocurrency trading.
Xavier-tarraso-mascarell.jpg

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert in cryptocurrency exchanges, I can confidently recommend Independent Reserve for several reasons. This platform excels in security and regulatory compliance, ensuring that your investments are protected. It supports multiple fiat currencies, making it accessible for users in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. While its selection of cryptocurrencies is somewhat limited, it offers a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support, making it ideal for beginners. For those prioritizing safety and reliability in their crypto trading experience, Independent Reserve is a solid choice.

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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.

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