Comparison of Upbit vs Pionex [ 2024 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Upbit

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Pionex

Main points

Fees

≈ 0,20%/0,25%

Earns

Yes

Customer service

4/5

Fees

0.05%

Earns

Yes

Customer service

3/5

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Yes

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.0 – Competitive fees with strong local support in South Korea and Southeast Asia.

4.0 – Competitive fees with additional benefits for automated trading.

Level

≈ 0,20%/0,25%

0.05%

Brief explanation

Upbit’s commission structure is designed to accommodate a range of trading volumes and styles, which makes it appealing for both high-volume traders and casual participants. The exchange typically employs a tiered fee system, where the trading fees decrease as the user’s monthly trade volume increases. This structure incentivizes frequent trading and larger transactions. However, it’s important for users to note that fees may vary depending on the market conditions and the specific cryptocurrencies being traded. Overall, Upbit’s fees are competitive within the industry but require users to stay informed about the specific details applicable to their trading activities.

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.

Upbit

Security methods: Upbit employs rigorous security protocols, including regular security audits and multi-factor authentication, which significantly minimize the risk of breaches and unauthorized access.
Reputation and Reviews: Since its inception in 2017, Upbit has maintained a strong reputation within the crypto community, especially in South Korea. Its partnerships and transparent practices contribute to its positive image among users.
Trading volume and liquidity: Upbit boasts one of the highest trading volumes among South Korean exchanges, providing users with high liquidity which is crucial for executing trades efficiently and at desirable prices.
Customer service: Upbit offers comprehensive customer support with various channels for communication, ensuring that users' issues and queries are addressed promptly and effectively.
Transparency: The platform is known for its transparent operational practices, such as providing clear information on fees and the regular publication of audit reports, which helps in building trust with its clientele.

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.

Product selection

Native token

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Yes

Cripto/debit card

Yes

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Features	Upbit	Pionex
Minimum Trade	Upbit allows users to trade with relatively small amounts, making it accessible for beginners.	Pionex allows for low minimum trade amounts, making it accessible for beginners wanting to start small.
Trading and Transaction Fees	The fees are competitive but the structure can be complex and confusing for new users.	Offers highly competitive fees, particularly attractive because of the zero-fee trading with bots, which is a standout feature.
Number of Cryptocurrencies	Upbit offers a wide array of over 150 cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trading preferences.	Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, providing users with a diverse selection of trading options.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Provides an extensive range of trading pairs, supporting various crypto-to-crypto transactions.	Extensive range of trading pairs, allowing users flexibility in their trading strategies.
Website Transparency	Generally transparent about trading conditions and security policies, though some information like fee structures could be simplified for better clarity.	While Pionex offers good information on its operations, more clarity on regulatory compliance and security measures could improve transparency.
Credit/Debit Card	Lacking a dedicated exchange card, Upbit misses an opportunity to integrate cryptocurrency spending into everyday transactions for its users.	PointPay does not currently offer a card for customers to use in their daily transactions or at shops.
Storage Offering	Offers secure storage solutions, though it's primarily an exchange, not a dedicated wallet service.	Provides secure storage options, but enhanced details about its cold storage capabilities would be beneficial.
Staking and Rewards	Offers competitive staking options and rewards, providing users with opportunities to earn from their holdings.	Offers competitive staking rewards, particularly through its bot-driven strategies, though it could expand its rewards program.
Mobile App and Desktop	Both platforms are user-friendly and offer full functionality, facilitating trading on-the-go and from desktop setups.	Both platforms are highly user-friendly and well-designed, offering full functionality.
Customer Service	Available and responsive, though some users report delays during peak times, which could be improved.	Responsive customer service with multiple channels, but could improve by adding real-time support like live chat.
Deposit and Withdraw	Efficient processes with some limits on international transactions, reflecting the need for broader accessibility.	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 analysis

Integrated bots for automated trading

Mobile APP

Yes

Security

High 4,9/5

High 4,6/5

Additional features

Margin trading, staking, Upbit Earn, fiat on/off ramps

Automated trading bots, margin trading, staking, Pionex Earn

Anonymity

Yes

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

200+

120+ (with trading bots)

User-friendliness

Upbit features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it suitable for beginners. The platform focuses on providing a seamless trading experience.

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

Delivers good value for money with competitive fees and a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies, making it an affordable option for traders.

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

South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand

Singapore, United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom

Best for

Best for South Korean, Singaporean, Indonesian, and Thai investors seeking a reliable platform with competitive fees.

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

Base currencies available

KRW, BTC

USDT, BTC

Account

Trading

Upbit is a major exchange in South Korea, offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies and high liquidity. It provides advanced trading tools but can be complex for beginners.

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

Upbit is a major exchange in South Korea, offering multiple deposit and withdrawal methods. Withdrawals are processed quickly, with competitive fees.

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

Account opening process

Upbit 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.

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

Upbit offers 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

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

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

As an expert reviewing Upbit, I’d recommend this exchange for users interested in a wide variety of cryptocurrencies and robust trading options. Its comprehensive security measures and high liquidity make it a reliable choice, especially for traders who prioritize a secure trading environment. However, newcomers should take time to familiarize themselves with its interface and fee structure to fully leverage Upbit’s offerings effectively.

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?

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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.

Comparison of Upbit vs Pionex [ 2024 ]

Upbit

Pionex

Main points

Recommended for

Comparison of fees

Rating

Level

Brief explanation

Upbit

Pionex

Product selection

Native token

Earns

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Company information

Full name

Regulation

Year founded

Founder

Payment methods

Transfers

Mastercard

Wire transfer

Card

Comparative table

Key features

Analysis tools

Mobile APP

Security

Additional features

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

User-friendliness

Value for money

Countries of operation

Best for

Base currencies available

Account

Trading

Deposit and withdrawal

Account opening process

KYC required?

Customer Service

Security

Which of these exchanges is for you?

How do we review crypto exchanges?

Risk Disclaimer

More comparatives Upbit and Pionex