How Crypto Exchange Fees Work
Understand spot, futures, maker/taker, funding and withdrawal costs instead of comparing one headline rate.
Fees Are a Stack
Trading cost is a stack: execution fee, bid-ask spread, slippage, funding and withdrawal/network fees. Active traders care most about execution and slippage; long-term holders should also compare deposit, conversion and withdrawal costs. Always compare platforms using the same order size and order type.
Spot vs Futures Costs
Spot usually charges maker or taker fees on each trade. Perpetual futures add recurring funding payments. The longer a position stays open, the more likely funding exceeds the one-time execution fee. A low entry fee does not guarantee a low total cost.
A Fair Comparison
Define the real scenario first: trade size, monthly frequency, maker/taker mix, futures use, holding time and withdrawals. Then calculate post-fee cost with the comparison and rebate tools, and finally verify the exchange’s official fee page and campaign terms.
