Introduction
Kraken and Kraken Pro are two prominent cryptocurrency trading platforms under the same umbrella, catering to different user needs. While Kraken offers simplicity for beginners, Kraken Pro targets advanced traders with robust tools. This guide compares their fees, features, security, supported countries, cryptocurrencies, and more to help you choose the best fit for your trading goals in 2025.
Overview
Kraken
A user-friendly exchange based in the USA, supporting 200+ cryptocurrencies with features like recurring buys, staking, and interest-earning accounts.
Kraken Pro
An advanced trading platform offering 400+ assets, margin/derivatives trading, customizable dashboards, and lower fees for high-volume traders.
👉 Discover the best crypto trading platform for your needs
Supported Countries
Both platforms serve 190+ countries, excluding restricted regions like:
- New York & Washington state (USA)
- Japan, Russia, Belarus
- Cuba, Iran, North Korea
Note: Some European countries restrict futures trading.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
| Feature | Kraken | Kraken Pro |
|----------------|----------------|----------------|
| Assets | 200+ (BTC, ETH, SOL, SHIB) | 400+ (BTC, ETH, USDT, XRP) |
| Networks | Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, Polygon | Includes Arbitrum, Lightning Network |
Fee Comparison
Kraken
Withdrawals:
- ACH/SEPA: Free
- Wire Transfer: $25
- BTC: Network fees apply
Kraken Pro
Trading Fees (Taker/Maker):
- 0.25%/0.40% (<$10K volume)
- Discount tiers down to 0.00%/0.08% (>$100M volume)
- BTC Withdrawals: Free via Lightning Network
Payment Methods
| Method | Kraken | Kraken Pro |
|----------------|----------------|----------------|
| Bank Transfers | ✅ (ACH, Wire, SEPA) | ✅ (ACH, Wire) |
| Cards | ✅ (Debit, Apple/Google Pay) | ✅ (Credit/Debit) |
| PayPal | ✅ | ❌ |
Security & Storage
Both platforms feature:
- Cold storage with 24/7 surveillance
- ISO 27001 certification
- FIDO2 2FA and proof of reserves
Historical Incident: Kraken had a 47-minute breach in 2024 (no funds lost). Kraken Pro has no reported hacks.
Mobile App Ratings
| Platform | iOS Rating | Android Rating |
|----------------|-----------|---------------|
| Kraken | 4.7 | 4.3 |
| Kraken Pro | 4.7 | 4.6 |
👉 Explore advanced trading tools
Key Differences
| Feature | Kraken | Kraken Pro |
|----------------|----------------|----------------|
| Best For | Beginners, passive earners | Advanced traders, institutions |
| Fees | Higher for instant buys | Lower for high-volume trading |
| Tools | Auto-DCA, staking | Margin trading, derivatives |
FAQ
1. Can I earn interest on Kraken?
Yes! Kraken offers 0.15%–6.5% APY on BTC, stablecoins, and EUR.
2. Which has lower fees?
Kraken Pro wins for high-volume traders with fees as low as 0.00%.
3. Is Kraken available in Europe?
Yes, but futures trading may be restricted in some countries.
4. Does Kraken Pro support Lightning Network?
Yes, with free BTC withdrawals.
5. Which is more secure?
Both have top-tier security, but Kraken Pro has no breach history.
Final Verdict
- Choose Kraken for simplicity, staking, and recurring buys.
- Opt for Kraken Pro for advanced trading, lower fees, and 400+ assets.
For a competitive alternative, check out 👉 OKX’s trading platform.
### SEO Keywords:
- Kraken vs Kraken Pro 2025
- Kraken Pro trading fees
- Best crypto exchange for beginners
- Advanced trading platform
- Kraken security features
- Lightning Network withdrawals