Crypto Exchange API Comparison

Comprehensive comparison of top crypto exchange APIs. Features, rate limits, fees, and developer experience.

Create Binance Account → Create OKX Account →

Quick Comparison

Exchange Maker Fee Taker Fee API Rate Limit WebSocket Best For
Binance 0.02% 0.04% 1200/min ✓ Algo Trading
OKX 0.015% 0.03% 3000/min ✓ Low Fees
Coinbase 0.4% 0.6% 10/sec ✓ US Users
Kraken 0.16% 0.26% 60/sec ✓ Security
Bybit 0.02% 0.06% 120/min ✓ Derivatives
Kucoin 0.02% 0.06% 1800/min ✓ Altcoins

Binance API

✓ Pros

  • Highest liquidity
  • Most trading pairs
  • Excellent documentation
  • Testnet available

✗ Cons

  • Complex fee structure
  • Limited in some regions
  • API key permissions confusing
View Guide Get API Keys →

OKX API

✓ Pros

  • Lowest fees
  • High rate limits
  • Great for arbitrage
  • Copy trading features

✗ Cons

  • Complex UI
  • Documentation could be better
  • Limited US support
View Guide Get API Keys →

Coinbase API

✓ Pros

  • US regulatory compliance
  • Simple to use
  • Prime for institutions
  • USD support

✗ Cons

  • High fees
  • Low rate limits
  • Limited coin selection

Kraken API

✓ Pros

  • Strong security
  • Good EUR support
  • Transparent fees

✗ Cons

  • Higher fees than Asian exchanges
  • Complex API structure
  • Lower liquidity

Recommendation

For Algorithmic Trading

Binance or OKX - both offer high rate limits, WebSocket support, and competitive fees.

For Arbitrage

OKX - lowest fees make it ideal for cross-exchange arbitrage strategies.

For US-Based Projects

Coinbase or Kraken - regulatory compliance matters for US users.

For Altcoin Trading

Kucoin or Gate.io - widest selection of small-cap tokens.