Frequently Asked Questions
Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees?
Binance has the lowest standard fees at 0.10% maker/taker for spot trading. With BNB fee discount enabled, this drops to 0.075%. For European users, Binance also offers free SEPA deposits, making total costs the lowest in the industry.
What's the difference between maker and taker fees?
Maker fees apply when your order adds liquidity to the order book (e.g., a limit order that doesn't fill immediately). Taker fees apply when your order removes liquidity (e.g., a market order or a limit order that fills instantly). Maker fees are usually lower because exchanges incentivise liquidity provision.
Are crypto trading fees tax-deductible?
In most EU jurisdictions, trading fees can be added to your cost basis, effectively reducing your taxable capital gains. For example, if you buy €1,000 of BTC and pay €1 in fees, your cost basis is €1,001. Consult a tax professional familiar with crypto regulations in your country.
How can I reduce my trading fees?
Five ways: (1) Use limit orders instead of market orders — maker fees are lower. (2) Hold the exchange's native token (BNB on Binance) for fee discounts. (3) Increase your trading volume to reach VIP tiers. (4) Use the exchange's spot interface, not 'instant buy'. (5) Deposit via SEPA to avoid deposit fees.
What are hidden fees in crypto trading?
Watch for: (1) Spread markup on 'instant buy' features (1–3% hidden in price). (2) Withdrawal fees (network fees, often higher than actual gas costs). (3) Currency conversion fees when depositing non-native currencies. (4) Inactivity fees on some platforms. (5) Funding rates on perpetual futures positions.
Are futures trading fees different from spot fees?
Yes. Futures fees are typically lower than spot fees (e.g., 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker on Binance Futures vs 0.10% on spot). However, futures involve funding rates (paid every 8 hours) and liquidation penalties. The total cost of holding a leveraged futures position can be higher than spot over time.
1. Why Fees Matter
Trading fees are the single biggest drag on your returns. A 0.5% fee per trade might seem small, but it compounds fast:
An active trader doing €100k/month in volume saves €6,000/year by choosing a 0.1% exchange over a 0.6% exchange.
3. Futures Trading Fees
Futures fees are lower than spot but include additional costs: funding rates (paid every 8 hours on perpetual contracts) and potential liquidation penalties .
Track live funding rates with our Funding Rate Tracker . Calculate your liquidation price with the Liquidation Calculator .
4. Deposit & Withdrawal Fees
For a full guide on EUR deposit options, see How to Buy Crypto with EUR .
5. Hidden Fees & Spread
The listed fee isn't always the full cost. Watch for these hidden charges:
7. Full Exchange Comparison
Total cost to buy €10,000 of BTC including deposit + trading fee:
8. Fee Impact on Returns
Fees compound over time. If you DCA €500/month into BTC for 5 years at 50% annual return:
Model your own returns with our DCA Calculator and Compound Interest Calculator .
Trade with the Lowest Fees
Binance offers 0.10% spot fees (0.075% with BNB discount), free SEPA deposits, and the deepest liquidity. An active trader saves thousands per year.