Comparison of Kucoin vs Pionex [ 2024 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Kucoin

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Pionex

Main points

Fees

≈ 0,10%

Earns

Customer service

4/5

0.05%

Fees

Yes

Earns

3/5

Customer service

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.3 – Competitive fees with additional rewards for using the native token.

4.0 – Competitive fees with additional benefits for automated trading.

Level

≈ 0,10%

0.05%

Brief explanation

KuCoin is renowned for its competitive and appealing fee structure, which is a major draw for traders. The exchange operates on a tiered fee system based on the 30-day trading volume, where fees are reduced as trading volume increases. Typical trading fees start at 0.1% for both makers and takers, which is already lower than many other exchanges. Additionally, users can enjoy further discounts on these fees by holding and using KuCoin’s native token, KuCoin Shares (KCS), to pay for trading fees. This incentivizes both higher trading volumes and the use of KCS within the platform, making it economically beneficial for frequent traders and KCS holders alike. Such a fee structure not only enhances trading profitability but also promotes greater liquidity on the platform.

Pionex’s trading fee structure is notably competitive, designed to cater to both frequent and casual traders. The platform charges a flat trading fee of 0.05% per transaction, which applies to both makers and takers. This fee rate is among the lowest in the cryptocurrency exchange industry, making Pionex an attractive option for traders looking to minimize costs while maximizing returns. Additionally, the integration of trading bots at no extra cost enhances the value, as these bots can execute trades automatically based on predefined strategies, further optimizing trading expenses for users.

Kucoin

Year Founded: Established in 2017, KuCoin has quickly grown to become one of the major players in the cryptocurrency exchange market. Its rapid growth and sustained operation over the years demonstrate its resilience and ability to adapt to the evolving crypto landscape.
Number of Users: KuCoin boasts a substantial user base, with over 8 million traders worldwide. This extensive community not only underscores the exchange's popularity but also enhances its liquidity, making it a reliable platform for executing trades efficiently.
Security Methods: Following the 2020 security breach, KuCoin significantly upgraded its security measures, implementing multi-layer encryption, enhanced authentication methods, and segregated customer wallets. These robust security protocols help in safeguarding user funds against potential threats.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: KuCoin is known for its high trading volume, which ensures liquidity across its numerous trading pairs. This liquidity is crucial for users to execute large trades quickly and at desired prices without substantial price slippage.
Reputation and Reviews: Despite the challenges, KuCoin has maintained a strong reputation within the crypto community. The platform is well-regarded for its wide range of services, competitive fees, and responsive customer support. Positive reviews from users across various forums highlight its usability and the effectiveness of its customer service team.

Pionex

Regulation: Pionex is registered with FinCEN as a Money Services Business (MSB), which means it complies with several regulatory standards aimed at preventing money laundering and financial fraud. This registration enhances user trust as the platform adheres to stringent financial regulations.
Security methods: Pionex prioritizes security with several layers of protection, including bank-level security systems and encrypted algorithms to safeguard user data and assets. The platform also employs two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional security during login and withdrawal processes.
Customer service: Pionex offers a comprehensive customer support system, including a detailed FAQ, a responsive email support team, and a community on various social media platforms where users can seek help and share their experiences.
Trading volume and liquidity: Thanks to its liquidity aggregation that combines liquidity from Binance and Huobi Global, Pionex provides high trading volume and liquidity, ensuring that trade orders are executed swiftly and at competitive prices.
Reputation and Reviews: Pionex has garnered positive reviews from users primarily due to its user-friendly interface and the unique offering of built-in trading bots. The community feedback on the effective functioning of these bots and the overall reliability of the platform is generally favorable, reinforcing its reputation in the crypto community.

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Account Minimum

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Direct link to the website

Product selection

Native token

Token KCS (KuCoin Shares)

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Yes

Cripto/debit card

Yes

Full name

Mek Global Limited

Pionex Inc.

Regulation

Not regulated

Year founded

2017

2019

Founder

Michael Gan

Unknown

Payment methods

Transfers

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Kucoin	FEATURES	Pionex
KuCoin allows users to trade with small amounts, making it accessible for beginners or those trading on a budget.	Minimum Trade	Pionex allows for low minimum trade amounts, making it accessible for beginners wanting to start small.
KuCoin offers competitive fees, with low transaction costs compared to other exchanges.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Offers highly competitive fees, particularly attractive because of the zero-fee trading with bots, which is a standout feature.
Supports over 600 cryptocurrencies, providing a wide range of options for traders.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, providing users with a diverse selection of trading options.
Offers a vast array of trading pairs, enhancing trading flexibility and opportunities.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Extensive range of trading pairs, allowing users flexibility in their trading strategies.
While generally transparent, improvements could be made in regulatory and security disclosures.	Website Transparency	While Pionex offers good information on its operations, more clarity on regulatory compliance and security measures could improve transparency.
The Kucoin card has a wide range of services, providing convenience and accessibility for in-store purchases, while facilitating the conversion of cryptocurrency to fiat money. It also provides cashback and other benefits. This feature enhances the user experience by expanding the possibilities of using cryptocurrencies in everyday life.	Credit/Debit Card	PointPay does not currently offer a card for customers to use in their daily transactions or at shops.
Provides secure storage with advanced security features, though not as comprehensive as some specialized wallets.	Storage Offering	Provides secure storage options, but enhanced details about its cold storage capabilities would be beneficial.
Offers competitive staking options and rewards, but not as extensive as some exclusively staking platforms.	Staking and Rewards	Offers competitive staking rewards, particularly through its bot-driven strategies, though it could expand its rewards program.
Both platforms are well-designed, intuitive, and offer full trading functionality.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both platforms are highly user-friendly and well-designed, offering full functionality.
Responsive and helpful, but sometimes experiences delays during peak times.	Customer Service	Responsive customer service with multiple channels, but could improve by adding real-time support like live chat.
Supports multiple deposit and withdrawal methods with relatively quick processing times.	Deposit and Withdraw	Responsive customer service with multiple channels, but could improve by adding real-time support like live chat.

Key features

Analysis tools

Advanced charting tools, technical indicators

Integrated bots for automated trading

Mobile APP

Yes

Security

High 4,9/5

High 4,6/5

Additional features

Margin trading, futures trading, staking, KuCoin Earn

Automated trading bots, margin trading, staking, Pionex Earn

Anonymity

Yes

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

400+

120+ (with trading bots)

User-friendliness

KuCoin 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.

Pionex 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

Provides good value for money with competitive fees, a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies, and additional earning opportunities.

Provides good value for money with low trading fees and automated trading bots, making it an attractive option for new and experienced traders.

Countries of operation

Global, including United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany

Singapore, United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom

Best for

Ideal for traders of all experience levels looking for a platform with a wide range of cryptocurrencies and competitive fees.

Ideal for traders interested in automated trading bots and low trading fees.

Base currencies available

USD, BTC, USDT

USDT, BTC

Account

Trading

KuCoin provides a wide range of cryptocurrencies and competitive fees. It offers advanced trading tools and a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders.

Pionex is known for its automated trading bots, offering a unique feature for users. It has a good range of cryptocurrencies and competitive fees but can be complex for beginners.

Deposit and withdrawal

KuCoin offers multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers and crypto. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, usually within a day, with low fees.

Pionex offers multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are processed quickly, with competitive fees.

Account opening process

KuCoin provides an easy and fast account opening process. Users need to provide personal information and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and usually completed within a day.

Pionex provides a straightforward and user-friendly account opening process. Users need to provide personal information and verify their identity. The process is efficient and typically takes less than a day to complete.

KYC required?

Yes

Customer Service

KuCoin 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.

Pionex provides customer support via email and live chat. The support team is responsive and helpful, but the lack of 24/7 support may be a limitation for some users.

Security

KuCoin provides robust security with 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. However, it is not regulated by major financial authorities, which might be a concern for some users.

Pionex employs comprehensive security measures, including 2FA and cold storage. However, it lacks regulation from major financial authorities, which might be a concern for some investors.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

In concluding our comprehensive review of KuCoin as part of Threenvest’s analysis, it’s evident that KuCoin stands out as a formidable player in the global cryptocurrency market. With an expansive array of over 700 cryptocurrencies available for trade and a presence in over 200 countries, KuCoin offers a rich trading experience that caters to both novice traders and seasoned investors. The platform’s strength lies in its extensive selection of trading options which includes spot, margin, and futures trading, alongside advanced features like leveraged tokens and a robust API that appeals to a technologically savvy clientele. However, KuCoin’s lack of formal regulatory oversight in significant markets like the U.S. poses a considerable limitation, reflecting a critical area where it trails behind competitors that boast strong regulatory frameworks. From Threenvest’s perspective, while KuCoin demonstrates robust security measures and a commitment to user safety, exemplified by its recovery actions during the 2020 security breach, potential users should weigh these against the absence of regulatory assurances that can offer additional layers of protection. The platform’s innovative approach to customer service, extensive educational resources, and competitive fee structure further solidify its position as a top choice for users looking to explore the crypto space. However, the challenges associated with regulatory uncertainties and potential geo-restrictions should be carefully considered by anyone looking to engage with KuCoin. Overall, KuCoin’s offerings make it a worthy consideration for those seeking a comprehensive and dynamic trading platform, provided they are comfortable with the associated risks and limitations highlighted in this review.

Xavier Tarrasó

As a seasoned user and reviewer of cryptocurrency exchanges, I find Pionex to be an intriguing option, particularly for those who are fascinated by automated trading. The built-in trading bots, which offer diverse strategies and the ability to operate 24/7, make Pionex a standout choice for traders who aim to maximize their trading efficiency without constant personal monitoring. This feature alone simplifies the trading process significantly and can be a game-changer for both new and experienced traders. However, it’s important to approach with a degree of caution and ensure understanding of how these bots operate to truly benefit from what Pionex has to offer.

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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.