Best crypto futures trading platforms have become essential for traders seeking to capitalize on the booming digital asset market. Recent data from CCData reveals that futures and options trading make up 71 percent of all digital asset trading volumes, underscoring their growing importance.
Notably, open interest in crypto derivatives has reached over $40 billion this year, marking a significant milestone. The allure of derivatives lies in their potential for heavy borrowing, enabling traders to magnify their investments, especially in a post-2022 environment where traditional lending has yet to recover.
The best crypto futures trading platforms
- PrimeXBT: Offers low-fee, high-leverage crypto futures trading with a user-friendly platform and advanced features for all.
- MEXC: Provides robust futures trading with zero maker fees, high leverage, and a variety of trading options
- Kraken: Leading platform for trading cryptocurrency futures with robust security and extensive trading options, ideal for all trader levels
- Binance: The exchange offers high liquidity, advanced trading features, and diverse options for cryptocurrency futures, catering to all traders
- BloFin: Rapidly growing futures exchange featuring USDT-margined contracts, high leverage, and low trading fees
- Margex: Offers high-leverage crypto futures trading with low fees, a vast asset selection, and a user-friendly interface
- Bybit: Versatile crypto futures trading experience with high leverage, diverse contracts, and advanced automated trading tools
The best crypto futures platforms – A Closer look
Futures trading has emerged as a powerful tool for investors looking to capitalize on market volatility. With the ability to leverage positions and trade on rising and falling markets, crypto trading platforms offer unique profit opportunities.
This said, let’s examine some platforms making waves that you should consider:
1. PrimeXBT exchange
Rating: 9.5/10
Over a million traders worldwide trust PrimeXBT as a top crypto futures trading platform. Offering futures on various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, PrimeXBT allows users to take advantage of rising and falling markets through long and short positions.
With minimal fees ranging between 0.01% and 0.02% and a funding rate of 0.01% applied in 8-hour intervals, trading costs are notably low, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious traders.
A significant highlight is the platform’s high leverage, allowing up to 200x on crypto futures. This level of leverage allows experienced traders to amplify gains, though it requires a solid risk management approach. PrimeXBT offers cross and isolated margin options, enabling traders to customize margin strategies to suit their trading styles and risk tolerance.
Crypto copy trading lets users mimic top-performing traders, and trading contests offer a unique, no-deposit-required way to practice strategies. There’s also a robust referral program, a mobile app for iOS and Android, and an Academy offering educational content for all skill levels.
However, it’s worth noting that PrimeXBT is largely unregulated, limiting consumer protections and not supporting staking services. Yet, with the added benefit of KYC-free withdrawals of up to $20,000 daily, PrimeXBT remains a compelling choice for cryptocurrency futures trading.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 38 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 200x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.01%, 0.02% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) via credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers |
Pros
- Covesting feature for copying top traders’ strategies easily.
- High leverage options for aggressive traders.
- Copy trading feature for passive income.
- No KYC requirements for some features.
Cons
- High funding fees for leveraged positions.
- Limited number of trading pairs compared to larger exchanges.
- Complex order types may intimidate less experienced traders.
2. MEXC exchange
Rating: 9.4/10
MEXC, established in 2020, is a highly regarded crypto futures platform that draws in new and seasoned traders with its robust feature set and efficient performance.
Boasting 555 trading pairs and an impressive daily trading volume of over $12.9 billion, MEXC has rapidly become a go-to platform for futures trading enthusiasts. The platform supports futures contracts, including USDT-M futures, Coin-M futures, and a demo trading feature, giving users multiple ways to approach futures trading. These features make MEXC one of the best crypto futures trading platforms today.
A primary advantage of MEXC is the distinction between its USDT-M and Coin-M futures. USDT-M futures, denominated in stablecoins, offer straightforward returns in fiat terms, making them a preferred option for those who value consistent profit calculations.
In contrast, MEXC’s Coin-M futures allow traders to maintain positions in BTC or ETH while trading futures. This is a beneficial strategy for optimizing their capital in crypto holdings.
MEXC’s commitment to low fees and high-leverage options (up to 200x) adds to its appeal. The platform’s high-performance system, capable of handling 1.4 million transactions per second, ensures minimal delays during high volatility.
MEXC ranks among the best futures trading platforms, with zero maker fees and low taker fees for competitive costs. The demo feature also supports risk-free strategy exploration, positioning MEXC as a well-rounded choice in the cryptocurrency futures market.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 626 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 100x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0%, 0.01% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, and others) via credit/debit cards, bank transfers |
Pros
- Wide range of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs.
- Low trading fees, especially for large traders.
- Regular promotions and USDT bonuses for users.
Cons
- Less regulated than some other exchanges.
- Less liquidity for some altcoins.
3. Kraken exchange
Rating: 9.2/10
Kraken Futures, launched in 2019, is a centralized platform that has become a trusted name in crypto futures trading. It offers an extensive selection of 315 trading pairs, ensuring traders can engage with various cryptocurrencies.
Kraken’s daily trading volume is over $698 million, reflecting strong liquidity and making it one of the best crypto futures platforms for beginners and experienced traders. The platform allows futures trading on top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum and numerous altcoins, which appeals to traders looking to diversify their portfolios.
Kraken’s user-friendly interface makes navigating the platform simple. It allows users to execute trades quickly and manage accounts efficiently.
This is particularly valuable in the fast-paced crypto futures market, where quick responses to price changes can impact results. Kraken also offers robust margin trading and futures contracts, helping traders maximize potential profits by amplifying their positions. Additional features like cryptocurrency staking enhance the user experience, providing multiple ways for traders to earn rewards.
Supporting multiple blockchain ecosystems, Kraken delivers security and flexibility, making it a competitive choice in the best crypto futures trading platforms.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 351 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 50x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.02%, 0.05% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, and others) via bank transfers, wire transfers |
Pros
- Highly regulated and trusted exchange.
- Wide range of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs.
- Advanced trading tools for experienced traders, especially on Kraken Pro
Cons
- Higher fees than some other exchanges.
- Strict KYC requirements for some features.
4. Binance exchange
Rating: 9.0/10
Binance Futures combines extensive trading features with high liquidity to serve millions of users.
Launched in 2019, the future trading platform boasts over 422 trading pairs and regularly exceeds $58 billion in daily trading volume, securing its position among the top exchanges in the crypto futures market.
Binance Futures supports two core platforms—USDT-Margined Futures for perpetual contracts and Coin-Margined Futures for token-margined contracts with up to 125x leverage, appealing to both beginner and advanced traders.
Its user-friendly platform allows seamless transfers between Binance Spot and Futures wallets, helping traders manage assets easily across accounts.
High-quality charting tools and multiple order types enable users to execute strategies effectively while utilizing the platform’s renowned liquidity.
With Binance’s Support Center and Learn section, users can access numerous guides on buying crypto. The leaderboard showcases top-performing traders, fostering a competitive community atmosphere.
Moreover, Binance also offers lucrative bonuses, like a referral program with 10% rewards for affiliates, and hosts regular tournaments for additional earning opportunities. Combining innovation with versatility, Binance remains a strong choice for traders looking for the best futures trading platform to optimize their bitcoin futures trading experience.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 437 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 125x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.02%, 0.05% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, and others) via credit/debit cards, bank transfers, P2P trading |
Pros
- Largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume.
- Multiple ways to earn passive income from your crypto, such as staking and DeFi.
- Low trading fees, especially for large traders.
Cons
- Can be slow to process withdrawals.
- Can be overwhelming for new users due to many features.
5. BloFin exchange
Rating: 8.9/10
Since its founding in 2021, BloFin has rapidly established itself among the best crypto futures trading platforms. Catering to retail traders, BloFin offers a user-friendly interface focusing on derivatives, particularly USDT-margined perpetual contracts.
This approach lowers the barrier to entry for futures trading, allowing traders to manage and hedge their exposure with high precision. The platform supports an impressive 415 trading pairs, providing users with a wide range of options in the crypto futures market.
One of BloFin’s standout features is its robust leverage of up to 125x, empowering traders to amplify potential returns while maintaining careful risk control. The platform also has a competitive fee structure, with a maker fee of 0.02% and a taker fee of 0.06%.
These rates are notably lower than many competitors, giving active traders a cost-efficient trading experience.
Security is another key priority; BloFin leverages advanced AI-powered algorithms and an Insurance Fund to manage liquidation risks. This fund, backed by the platform’s surplus liquidation reserves, cushions against sharp market downturns, enhancing traders’ reliability.
With a 24-hour trading volume of over $1 billion, BloFin ranks among the top crypto exchanges globally for a reason: a testament to its growing influence in the crypto futures trading arena. For those seeking one of the best futures trading platforms with high leverage and low fees, BloFin is a solid choice.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 428 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 100x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.02%, 0.06% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others) |
Pros
- Low trading fees compared to some competitors.
- Focus on institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals.
- Excellent customer support team.
Cons
- Limited language support.
- High funding fees for leveraged positions.
6. Margex exchange
Rating: 8.8/10
Margex has built a strong reputation in the crypto futures trading space, particularly for those looking for high leverage and variety in trading options.
Founded in 2019, the platform offers perpetual futures trading for over 50 cryptocurrencies, including leading coins like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) and popular meme coins like PEPE, BONK, and FLOKI.
Traders can use Margex’s up to 100x leverage on major assets, with flexible leverage options based on the coin. The platform’s maker and taker fees are competitive at 0.019% and 0.060%, appealing to seasoned and new traders.
Margex has some key advantages distinguishing it from other top crypto futures platforms. A 100,000 transaction-per-second engine ensures efficient order execution, while a $50 million order book enhances liquidity, allowing traders to enter and exit positions without hassle.
Additionally, the platform’s commitment to user privacy stands out; crypto deposits don’t require KYC, providing a layer of anonymity for users who value their privacy.
New users benefit from attractive trading fee bonuses, and an array of training materials ensures even beginners can quickly adapt to the Margex interface.
Margex’s extensive crypto offerings and high-leverage options make it a top pick for anyone seeking a robust futures trading experience in 2024. The platform combines low fees, high security, and a user-friendly interface, placing it among today’s best futures trading platforms.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 50 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 100x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.019%, 0.060% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR) via credit/debit cards, bank transfers |
Pros
- Copy trading feature for passive income.
- Advanced charting tools for technical analysis.
- Variety of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs./li>
Cons
- Complex fee structure for some users.
- Limited educational resources for new traders.
7. Bybit exchange
Rating: 8.8/10
Since its 2018 debut, Bybit has quickly become one of the best crypto futures platforms, offering extensive features and over 569 trading pairs to cater to a broad audience.
With a daily trading volume exceeding $24 billion, Bybit provides impressive liquidity that enables smooth trade execution, even during volatile market periods.
The platform’s fees are competitive, with a taker fee of 0.055% and a maker fee of 0.02%. This allows traders to maximize their returns while keeping transaction costs low.
Bybit’s robust suite of tools includes USDC-settled perpetual and standard futures contracts, offering diversified options to traders.
The platform’s Futures Grid Bot and Martingale Bot stand out for those interested in automation. The Futures Grid Bot automates long and short positions to optimize profitability, while the Martingale Bot leverages incremental buys to adjust the entry price strategically, enhancing control over trading strategies.
Bybit also allows for high leverage, with up to 100x on Bitcoin and 50x on other major cryptocurrencies, empowering users to expand their position sizes without significant additional capital.
For traders looking for a reliable and comprehensive cryptocurrency futures platform, Bybit offers a full suite of features that make it a strong contender among the best crypto futures trading platforms available today.
Available crypto futures (pairs) | 594 |
Leverage for futures | Up to 100x |
Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) | 0.02%, 0.055% |
Funding methods | Crypto (BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, and others), Fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, and others) via credit/debit cards, bank transfers |
Pros
- Large cryptocurrency exchange with high liquidity.
- Innovative trading features like margin trading and leverage.
- Active community and support from the Bybit team.
Cons
- Can be overwhelming for new users due to many features.
- Can’t deposit or withdraw directly with fiat currency
Crypto futures trading platforms, compared
Trading platform | Available crypto futures (pairs) | Leverage for Bitcoin futures | Crypto futures fees (Maker, Taker) |
PrimeXBT | 38 | Up to 200x | 0.01%, 0.02% |
MEXC | 626 | Up to 100x | 0%, 0.01% |
Kraken | 351 | Up to 50x | 0.02%, 0.05% |
Binance | 437 | Up to 125x | 0.02%, 0.05% |
BloFin | 428 | Up to 100x | 0.02%, 0.06% |
Margex | 50 | Up to 100x | 0.019%, 0.060% |
Bybit | 594 | Up to 100x | 0.02%, 0.055% |
Writer’s note: For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, please visit the official websites of the respective exchanges, as linked in the table above.
What are crypto futures?
Unlike traditional investing, where you buy and hold an asset, futures allow for speculation on price movements over a set timeframe. Traders can predict whether the price of a cryptocurrency will rise or fall. The contracts are standardized and traded on exchanges, providing a regulated environment for trading.
One significant advantage of crypto futures is the ability to use leverage, allowing traders to increase their market exposure with less capital.
Types of Crypto Futures Trading Contracts
There are 2 common types of crypto futures.
Standard future contracts
Standard crypto futures contracts are prevalent agreements that specify an expiration date for purchasing the underlying asset. In other words, the contract must be settled on a fixed date.
Perpetual crypto futures
Perpetual crypto futures, or perpetual swaps, are similar to crypto futures but without an expiration date. This means that futures can be held indefinitely without an expiration date.
What are the risks of trading crypto futures?
Cryptocurrencies are extremely volatile. When leverage is applied, the potential profit may increase, but the potential loss is amplified. Past events have shown that violent price volatility can occur anytime.
Hefty losses may be incurred when you are in a leveraged position against the trend.
Pros and cons of crypto futures
Pros | Cons |
Leverage for higher returns – amplifies capital and enables both short and long positions. | High risk – leverage amplifies losses, which can lead to significant risks and liquidation. |
Complex – requires an advanced understanding of trading strategies and market mechanisms. | High risk – leverage amplifies losses, leading to significant risks and liquidation. |
High liquidity and volume – high trading volume and liquidity, often available 24/7. | High fees and costs – futures trading often has higher fees, with ongoing costs like funding and borrowing fees. |
Diversification and hedging – adds exposure without owning crypto and protects against market drops. | Risk of manipulation – prone to manipulation by larger market players. |
How we ranked the best crypto futures platforms
With the cryptocurrency market’s ongoing growth, numerous traders are now utilizing futures platforms to take advantage of price changes and improve their trading approaches.
But, choosing the correct platform can be overwhelming due to the abundance of choices. This article offers a well-organized analysis of the top crypto futures platforms, assisting traders in making informed choices to enhance their trading journey.
Methodology
- User experience: Reviewed how user-friendly the platform’s interface is and its accessibility for both novice and expert traders.
- Trading features: Assessed the range of trading tools offered, including leverage options, order types, and advanced charting tools.
- Liquidity: Analyzed trading volume and order book depth to ensure users can execute trades efficiently without significant slippage.
- The fees: Looked into the trading fees, withdrawal fees, and any hidden costs of using the platform.
- Asset variety: Reviewed the range of cryptocurrencies available for trading on futures, including popular and emerging assets.
- Customer support: Tested the responsiveness and quality of customer support through various channels like live chat, email, and phone.
- Market analysis tools: Analyzed the quality and depth of analytical tools provided, such as technical indicators, market news, and sentiment analysis.
FAQs
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References
Micro Cryptocurrency futures and options | CME
What Is The Future Of Bitcoin Futures? | Forbes
Crypto exchanges turn to derivatives to lure cautious investors | Financial Times