Best Crypto Futures Trading Platforms

Kraken is another name that often comes up when talking about the best crypto futures trading platforms. As one of the most established exchanges in the world, it has built a solid reputation among crypto fans for its high reliability, robust security, and strict regulatory compliance.

The platform also seems to have just about everything a trader could ask for. From basic services like buying and selling crypto to an advanced derivatives market, both beginners and pros alike should feel at home.

As of writing this top crypto futures exchanges guide, Kraken provides access to over 200 perpetual contracts. Some popular assets you can trade include:

• Bitcoin
• Ethereum
• Tether
• Solana
• Dogecoin
• Cardano
• and more!

Kraken gives you ample flexibility when it comes to risk management. If you're more risk-averse, you can opt for an isolated margin to play it safe and limit your risk to a single trade. But if you're a seasoned pro, you might want to choose cross margin option for riskier trades with better flexibility.

Now, if you want to spice things up, Kraken offers up to 50x leverage, allowing you to open bigger positions than what’s in your wallet. Keep in mind, though, that while leverage can multiply profits, it also increases potential losses. So, use it wisely!

Fee-wise, Kraken has one of the most competitive structures in the industry. Its maker-taker fees for futures trading range from 0.02% to 0.05%, with rates dropping as low as -0.006% for makers and 0.01% for takers if you’re a high-volume trader.

You won't have to worry much about price slippage and volatility. Kraken's deep liquidity keeps trades on track at the price you expect, with spreads as tight as 1 pip. As the largest exchange by euro trading volume and a top player in Bitcoin liquidity, the platform ensures your trades always stay quick and smooth.

What's more, Kraken also provides an impressive set of advanced tools. You can access in-depth trading analytics, historical performance tracking, and a consolidated portfolio view to help you make informed decisions. The platform also has a clean and intuitive interface, which makes it easy to navigate, manage accounts, and execute trades.

Topping that with a wide array of funding options and extensive coin support, Kraken stands out among the top cryptocurrency trading platforms, especially if you're looking for a reliable altcoins and Bitcoin futures exchange.

If you're living in the States and wondering, “Where can I trade crypto futures in the US reliably?” Coinbase is definitely one of the top options to consider.

The platform is well-regarded for being secure, trustworthy, and accessible to newcomers. It's primarily known for spot trading, cryptocurrency wallets, and staking. However, the exchange also offers futures contracts for those looking to diversify their portfolios.

Now, Coinbase doesn’t have the biggest lineup of futures contracts compared to some of its competitors. As of writing, they’ve got about 11 products, including Nano Bitcoin, Nano Ether, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Polkadot, and Shiba Inu.

Sure, the list of contracts isn't the longest, but it’s more than enough to get started for those mainly interested in big-name coins. So, if it's the Bitcoin futures exchange you're looking for, this platform will do just fine.

Coinbase uses a tiered fee structure that starts at 0.60%. While that’s a bit more expensive than some other best crypto futures trading platforms, those rates can drop significantly with higher transaction volumes. Plus, Coinbase occasionally offers promotional discounts to make the fees go even lower.

Another thing I also like about Coinbase is its focus on security. It employs top-notch encryption protocol, automatic two-factor authentication, and hardware security keys if you’re extra cautious.

And if you’re super serious about safety, the Coinbase vault features a multi-approval withdrawal option that you can utilize. This way, you can trade futures contracts with peace of mind, knowing your digital assets are well protected.

The exchange is also known for its strict legal compliance. As a US-based platform, it follows rigorous regulatory standards and requires you to complete a KYC process even just to create a free account. While this step might feel like a hassle, it’s an important measure for protecting users and ensuring a secure trading environment.

So, while Coinbase might not have the widest selection of futures contracts or the lowest fees, it definitely shines in terms of security, ease of use, and legal conformity. It's certainly the first name that comes to mind if you ask me, "Where can I trade crypto futures in the US safely?".

BYDFi is a user-friendly trading platform designed for both beginner and experienced users. It offers various services, including spot trading, perpetual contracts, and copy trading, with support for hundreds of cryptocurrencies.

The platform provides you with all the essential tools to get started, along with some advanced features to explore the limitless potential of crypto trading once you're ready to level up.

BYDFi offers a decent lineup of over 150 trading pairs, with leverage going up to 200x. Sure, it may not have the wildest selection of altcoins, but it still covers popular options like BTC, ETH, and XRP. This is more than enough for most traders who used to trade the big names in crypto.

Talking about the fees, I think it has pretty reasonable rates of 0.06% for both USDT-M & COIN-M perpetual contracts. These are still budget-friendly compared to other platforms in the market.

Additionally, BYDFi scores points for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. The platform layout is clean and easy to navigate, with clearly displayed features that make executing trades very easy, even if you're a first-timer.

What stands out to me is its commitment to regulatory compliance across multiple regions. By following international regulations, BYDFi ensures a safe and compliant trading experience. It should give you peace of mind knowing that everything is aligned with global standards.

And yes, the exchange has regulatory conformity in the United States! So, if you’re asking, “Where can I trade crypto futures in the US?” BYDFi is definitely worth adding to your list of go-to platforms.

If you're hunting for an underrated Bitcoin futures exchange, Phemex might just be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for.

Built with a focus on flexibility and user control, the platform combines a semi-centralized model with elements of DAO governance. It’s accessible to traders in over 200 countries, though, regrettably, it’s restricted in the US, UK, Canada, China, and Hong Kong.

Phemex provides two types of futures contracts: USDT-M and COIN-M options, with leverage reaching up to 100x for those willing to take on the risks for higher rewards. Note that if you’re trading COIN-M contracts, you’re limited to BTC and ETH as margin options.

The platform’s maker-taker fees start at 0.01% and 0.06%. These rates are pretty competitive, even among the best crypto futures trading platforms on the market. For those aiming to cut costs even further, Phemex also has a tier-based VIP structure that offers extra discounts based on your trading volume.

That said, more experienced users will appreciate the advanced tools packed into the interface of the platform. These handy kits are designed for seamless navigation and unlocking your full trading potential.

If you’re just starting out, don’t worry! Phemex has you covered with its mock trading feature. It will allow you to test strategies without putting real cash on the line. It’s a safe way to get comfortable before jumping into live trading.

Now, imagine you’ve made quite a gain from trading futures contracts and want to take it a bit easy. Phemex has you covered with its flexible earning and savings program. This "crypto piggy bank" allows you to park your fortune and earn passive income with interest rates of up to 10%. It’s a really nice setup if you want to grow your holdings with lower risk!

In short, Phemex is a versatile platform that deserves a spot among the best crypto futures trading platforms and is undoubtedly worth a look!

Crypto.com is a prominent player in the cryptocurrency world, offering a comprehensive suite of financial services centered around digital assets. Founded in 2016, the platform has grown rapidly, boasting a user base of over 100 million by mid-2024.

Crypto.com provides a user-friendly app for buying, selling, and trading around 400 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and many altcoins. Beyond its exchange services, Crypto.com offers a non-custodial DeFi wallet, an NFT marketplace, and even a direct payment service for cryptocurrency transactions.

One of Crypto.com's most recognizable features is its Visa card, which allows users to earn cashback in CRO, the platform's native token, on their everyday spending. The card comes in various tiers, each offering different levels of rewards and perks, such as rebates on streaming subscriptions and airport lounge access.

Crypto.com also takes security seriously. It holds all customer assets deposited on our platform in institutional-grade reserve accounts on a 1:1 basis. Users’ accounts are protected by the latest security advancements, including Passkeys, HSMs, and FIDO2, as well as MFA methods like passwords, biometrics, and authenticator codes.

It also runs an active bug bounty program on Hacker One, where people can disclose security vulnerabilities on the platform and get rewards.

Gemini is a prominent cryptocurrency exchange established in 2014 by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss with its headquarters in New York. It caters to both novice and experienced traders, offering a secure and user-friendly platform for buying, selling, and storing digital assets.

Currently, Gemini supports around 70 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and some meme coins like Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Pepe (PEPE). While this list is relatively limited to other big names in the market, it still allows users to diversify their portfolios and explore other investment opportunities.

The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for newcomers to buy, sell, and manage cryptocurrencies. For more experienced users, Gemini provides ActiveTrader, a platform with advanced charting tools, multiple order types, and faster order execution.

Another notable feature is Gemini Earn, which allows users to earn interest on their cryptocurrency holdings. Security is also a cornerstone of Gemini's operations. The exchange implements robust measures to protect user assets and data, including:

• Cold Storage: The majority of user funds are stored in offline, air-gapped cold storage systems, safeguarding them from online threats.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Users are required to enable 2FA, adding an extra layer of security to account access.
• SOC Certifications: Gemini has achieved SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications, demonstrating its commitment to industry-leading security standards.
• Insurance Coverage: Digital assets held in Gemini's hot wallet are insured against security breaches and fraudulent transfers.

All in all, Gemini stands out as a reliable and secure cryptocurrency exchange, offering a comprehensive suite of features tailored to meet the needs of a diverse user base.

Robinhood is a popular commission-free investment platform that gained widespread recognition for democratizing access to financial markets. Initially known for its user-friendly mobile app and commission-free stock trading, Robinhood has expanded its offerings to include options trading, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and cryptocurrencies.

The platform's intuitive interface and simplified trading experience have attracted a younger generation of investors, making it easier for them to start investing with smaller amounts of capital. Robinhood's appeal lies in its ease of use, particularly for beginners who might find traditional brokerage platforms intimidating.

While Robinhood offers access to a growing number of cryptocurrencies, its selection is generally smaller compared to dedicated crypto exchanges at around 40 assets.

Despite that, Robinhood takes security seriously. It holds the majority of users' coins in cold storage, entirely disconnected from the internet. Robinhood also carries crime insurance that protects a portion of the assets held across its storage systems against losses from theft, including cybersecurity breaches.

The platform also provides multi-factor authentication on all accounts, so users can protect their assets even further. Last but not least, Robinhood maintains strong US regulatory compliance, holding licenses from the New York State Department of Financial Services and FinCEN.

CEX.IO, founded in 2013, has evolved from a Bitcoin cloud mining service into a comprehensive cryptocurrency exchange, serving over 15 million users globally. As of 2025, the platform supports more than 220 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and a diverse range of altcoins, enabling users to diversify their digital portfolios.

The platform offers a user-friendly interface suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. Users can fund their accounts through various methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and cryptocurrency deposits, providing flexibility in managing funds.

For advanced traders, CEX.IO provides features such as margin trading, stop-loss orders, and limit orders, catering to sophisticated trading strategies. Additionally, the platform offers staking services, allowing users to earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies directly on the platform.

CEX.IO employs robust security measures to protect user assets and data, including the use of cold storage solutions to safeguard the majority of user funds offline, minimizing exposure to potential online threats.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is implemented to enhance account security, requiring users to provide an additional verification step during login. Furthermore, CEX.IO maintains compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring a secure and transparent environment for cryptocurrency trading.

Bitstamp is a safe and reliable platform. It currently has more than 5 million users and around 50 licenses and registrations. As for crypto offerings, Bitstamp supports around 130 different cryptocurrencies at the time of writing. These include popular options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Cardano. While this is decent for those who only focus on mainstream coins, it can feel a tad limiting if you're looking for more niche assets.

Speaking of buying crypto, Bitstamp lets you purchase digital assets directly with fiat using multiple payment options, including credit/debit card, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. This is great for complete beginners who want to start their crypto journey. But don't worry, experienced traders can also use the spot trading interface to get more control over their transactions.

Security is also a big factor to consider when choosing an exchange. While Bitstamp has experienced a hacking incident back in 2015, the platform now implements decent security measures to safeguard users' funds. It stores 95% of its assets in offline storage, implements a strong KYC verification process, and uses strong personal data encryption.

Besides trading, Bitstamp also offers a way for users to earn passive income through its crypto staking feature. Currently, the option is limited to only ETH and ADA. Annual yields are competitive: up to 3.10% on ETH and around 1.0% on ADA, with weekly or monthly payouts, depending on the asset.

That being said, the interface can be a bit confusing depending on how familiar you are with crypto-trading UI. Thankfully, you can easily switch between the Basic and Pro interface depending on your needs.

All in all, Bitstamp strikes a balance between beginner accessibility and professional-grade features. It may not have the flashiest design or the widest coin selection, but its solid reputation, strong security, and straightforward services make it a dependable choice for anyone looking to trade crypto with confidence.

Binance.US is a cryptocurrency exchange platform tailored specifically for users in the United States. It was launched in 2019 as a separate entity from Binance, the globally recognized exchange, to comply with US regulatory requirements.

While both platforms share branding and some technological infrastructure, Binance.US operates independently under BAM Trading Services and follows strict US financial regulations.

The main difference between Binance.US and the global Binance platform is the reduced number of supported cryptocurrencies and trading pairs. Due to US regulatory constraints, Binance.US offers fewer digital assets and features compared to its international counterpart.

For instance, certain tokens available globally may not be listed on Binance.US because of compliance concerns. Additionally, the exchange does not offer derivatives trading, which is a significant part of Binance’s global offering.

Binance.US is known for its relatively low trading fees compared to other US-based exchanges, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious traders. The platform supports various order types, including market, limit, and stop-limit orders.

Some key features of Binance.US include:

• Low Fees: Competitive trading fees, often lower than other US-based platforms.
• Limited Selection: Fewer cryptocurrencies compared to Binance Global.
• Staking: Earn rewards by staking supported cryptocurrencies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Operates under US financial laws and regulations.
• Simple Interface: User-friendly platform suitable for beginners and experienced traders.

Overall, Binance.US is a streamlined, regulation-compliant exchange designed to meet the needs of US cryptocurrency traders, although it sacrifices some of the global platform’s extensive offerings.