CEX.IO Fee Calculator
Your Estimated Trading Fees
Enter your details and click "Calculate My Fees" to see your estimated costs.
Base Fees
Maker: 0.20% | Taker: 0.25%
Volume Discounts
$100K+ 30-day volume: Maker 0.15% | Taker 0.20%
Token Discount
CEX Token holders get 10% off fees
When you type “COXI.IO” into a search bar, the results actually point to CEX.IO, a well‑known crypto exchange that’s been around since 2013. The mix‑up is easy-just swap the "O" and "E"-but the real question is: does CEX.IO live up to the hype? This review walks through the platform’s core features, fees, security, payment options, mobile experience, and support, so you can decide if it’s the right place to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any of the 200+ assets it lists.
Key Takeaways
- CEX.IO supports over 200 crypto markets and offers both a web portal and a mobile app for iOS and Android.
- Fees start at 0.20% for makers and 0.25% for takers, with discounts for higher volume and CEX Token holders.
- Security includes two‑factor authentication, DDoS protection, and multi‑signature Bitcoin wallets; the exchange is registered as a Money Services Business with FinCEN.
- Payment methods cover Visa/Mastercard cards, SWIFT, SEPA, FasterPayments, Skrill, and Epay, making fiat deposits straightforward for most users.
- The mobile app mirrors the desktop experience, offering charting tools, instant buy/sell, and wallet management on the go.
Platform Overview
CEX.IO started as a Bitcoin-only exchange and has grown into a full‑service platform that lists approximately 200 crypto markets. Major pairs include BTC/USD, ETH/GBP, DASH/EUR and ADA/USDT. The exchange is available in over 100 jurisdictions, though some countries (e.g., the United States) require users to meet eligibility criteria due to regulatory compliance.
Trading is powered by CEX.IO Prime, a deep‑liquidity pool that minimizes slippage for large orders. The interface is split into three tiers: a basic “Buy/Sell” tab for newcomers, a “Pro” tab with advanced order types (Stop Limit, Trailing Stop, OCO), and a “Prime” dashboard for institutional‑grade execution.
Fees and Discount Structure
Fee transparency is crucial for any trader. CEX.IO employs a maker‑taker model:
- Maker fee: 0.20%
- Taker fee: 0.25%
Volume‑based discounts kick in at 30‑day trade totals of $100,000, dropping the maker fee to 0.15% and the taker fee to 0.20%. Holding the platform’s native CEX Token grants an additional 10% discount on fees, a perk that can be a game‑changer for high‑frequency traders.
Deposit fees depend on the method. Credit‑card purchases incur a 3.5% fee, while SWIFT and SEPA transfers are free for most regions. Withdrawal fees are set per cryptocurrency; for Bitcoin, the fee is currently 0.0005BTC, which aligns with network average rates.
Security Measures
Security is non‑negotiable in the crypto world. CEX.IO layers protection in three ways:
- Two‑Factor Authentication (2FA) via Google Authenticator or SMS, required for all withdrawals.
- Network‑level defenses, including DDoS mitigation and IP‑whitelisting for admin access.
- Cold‑storage of the majority of assets, with Bitcoin held in multi‑signature wallets that need multiple keys to move funds.
The exchange holds a Money Services Business (MSB) license from FinCEN, meaning it must conduct KYC/AML checks and report suspicious activity. This regulatory status adds an extra layer of trust for users in regulated markets.
Payment Methods and Fiat On‑ramping
Getting cash into crypto can be a pain if the exchange limits options. CEX.IO accepts:
- Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards (instant purchase, higher fees).
- Bank transfers via SWIFT, SEPA, and FasterPayments (free or low‑cost, 1‑3 business days).
- E‑wallets: Skrill and Epay (instant, moderate fees).
Cryptocurrency deposits are also supported, with a 1‑hour average processing time for most coins. The platform’s “instant exchange” feature lets you swap between any of the listed assets with a single click, which is handy for quick portfolio rebalancing.
Trading Tools and Charting
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the tools you use shape your trading experience. The basic “Buy/Sell” tab offers a simple dropdown for coin selection, price input, and a confirmation screen. The “Pro” tab upgrades the UI with:
- Live order‑book depth visualized in real time.
- Advanced charting powered by TradingView, including over 100 technical indicators.
- Conditional orders: Stop Limit, Take Profit, Trailing Stop, and OCO (One‑Cancels‑the‑Other).
For institutional traders, the “Prime” interface provides API access (REST and WebSocket), iceberg orders, and custom liquidity routing. The API documentation is clear, with code samples in Python, JavaScript, and Go, reducing integration effort.
Mobile App Experience
The CEX.IO mobile app (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store) mirrors the desktop’s core functionality. Key features include:
- Instant buy/sell with saved payment methods.
- Portfolio tracker that updates in real time.
- Push notifications for price alerts, order fills, and security events.
- Built‑in wallet that supports the same 80+ coins as the web version.
Reviews consistently praise the app’s clean UI and reliable performance, though power users sometimes miss the full set of TradingView indicators that are only available on the desktop.
CEX.IO Wallet Services
The exchange bundles a CEX.IO Wallet that works both on web and mobile. It’s a custodial solution, meaning the platform holds the private keys. The wallet offers:
- Instant purchase of Bitcoin and over 80 altcoins.
- One‑click exchange between supported assets.
- QR‑code scanning for inbound transfers.
While convenient, custodial wallets expose you to the exchange’s risk profile. For those who need full control, CEX.IO also supports withdrawals to external (non‑custodial) wallets.
Customer Support and Community Channels
Prompt support can be the difference between a smooth trade and a frustrating experience. CEX.IO offers:
- 24/7 live chat on the website, with average response time under 2 minutes.
- Email ticketing system (response within 24hours for non‑urgent queries).
- Active presence on Twitter, Telegram, and Reddit, where the team posts maintenance notices and security alerts.
Support quality is generally rated high, although users in regions with stricter KYC requirements sometimes experience longer verification times.
Regulatory Compliance
Operating under a FinCEN MSB license means CEX.IO must adhere to U.S. anti‑money‑laundering (AML) and know‑your‑customer (KYC) rules. The platform also complies with EU’s GDPR for data protection and follows local licensing in jurisdictions like the UK (FCA) and Canada (FINTRAC). This compliance adds credibility but also means users must submit identity documents before they can trade over $2,000 worth of fiat.
How CEX.IO Stacks Up Against Competitors
| Feature | CEX.IO | Binance | Kraken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supported assets | ≈200 | ≈500 | ≈200 |
| Maker fee (base) | 0.20% | 0.10% | 0.16% |
| Taker fee (base) | 0.25% | 0.10% | 0.26% |
| Card purchase fee | 3.5% | 1.8% | 3.0% |
| 2FA options | Auth app, SMS | Auth app, SMS, YubiKey | Auth app, SMS |
| Mobile app rating (Google Play) | 4.4 ★ | 4.6 ★ | 4.5 ★ |
| Regulatory licence | FinCEN MSB | None (global) | FINTRAC, FCA |
In short, CEX.IO offers a solid middle ground: decent liquidity, strong regulatory backing, and a user‑friendly interface. It may not have the lowest fees or the widest asset list, but its compliance focus makes it attractive for users who value security and legal clarity.
Pros and Cons Summary
- Pros: Regulated MSB status, comprehensive fiat options, robust security, decent mobile app, volume‑based fee discounts.
- Cons: Higher card fees than some rivals, custodial wallet only, fewer exotic assets.
Final Verdict
If you’re new to crypto and want a platform that balances ease of use with solid compliance, CEX.IO is a safe bet. Seasoned traders who need deep liquidity and API access will also find the Prime offering worthwhile, especially after the fee discounts kick in. The only real deal‑breaker is the slightly higher cost for card purchases-if you can stick to bank transfers, the overall cost structure is very competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CEX.IO available in New Zealand?
Yes. Residents of New Zealand can register, complete KYC, and trade fiat‑crypto pairs using local bank transfers or credit cards. The platform complies with local AML regulations, so you’ll need a valid ID and proof of address.
Can I trade directly from the mobile app?
The app supports market orders, limit orders, and instant buy/sell for the assets listed in the wallet. Advanced order types like Stop Limit are only available on the desktop “Pro” interface.
What is the fee for withdrawing Bitcoin?
CEX.IO charges a flat 0.0005BTC per withdrawal, which aligns with the typical network fee at the time of writing. Fees may vary slightly based on blockchain congestion.
Does CEX.IO offer staking services?
Yes. Staking is available for a select group of PoS coins such as ETH 2.0, Cardano, and Polkadot. Yields range from 4% to 7% APY, credited daily to your wallet.
How long does KYC verification take?
Standard verification usually completes within a few hours, but during peak traffic it can take up to 24hours. Providing clear documents (passport, driver’s license, utility bill) speeds up the process.
Next Steps
1. Create an account on CEX.IO and complete the KYC process. 2. Link a preferred fiat method (bank transfer for lowest cost, or credit card for instant access). 3. Deposit funds, enable 2FA, and test a small market order. 4. If you plan to trade heavily, consider the CEX Token discount and explore the Prime API documentation. 5. Keep an eye on the mobile app notifications for price alerts and security updates.
Following these steps will give you a hands‑on feel for the platform’s speed, fees, and overall user experience-exactly the data you need to decide if CEX.IO is the right fit for your crypto journey.
Rebecca Andrews
I'm a blockchain analyst and cryptocurrency content strategist. I publish practical guides on coin fundamentals, exchange mechanics, and curated airdrop opportunities. I also advise startups on tokenomics and risk controls. My goal is to translate complex protocols into clear, actionable insights.
18 Comments
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Adarsh Menon
May 25, 2025 AT 18:47Oh great, another exchange claiming it’s "secure" – as if we needed another hub for our money to get lost. they slap on 2FA and call it a day, lol. the card fees? 3.5%? yeah right, because we all love paying extra to buy Bitcoin instantly.
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Promise Usoh
May 30, 2025 AT 21:37When evaluating any financial conduit, one must consider the epistemic foundations upon which it rests. CEX.IO’s compliance with FinCEN and GDPR provides a structural integrity that many rivals lack. Nonetheless, the philosophical question remains: does regulatory oversight truly safeguard the individual, or merely the institution? The layered security – 2FA, cold storage, DDoS mitigation – reflects a conscientious design. One should weigh these aspects against the inherent volatility of crypto assets.
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Amy Harrison
June 5, 2025 AT 00:26Love the clean UI on the mobile app! 😊 It’s super easy to snap a quick buy and watch the portfolio grow.
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Marc Addington
June 10, 2025 AT 03:15This platform pretends to be user‑friendly, but the hidden fees are a nightmare. If you’re not prepared to grind through the fine print, you’ll get burned.
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Amal Al.
June 15, 2025 AT 06:05While your concerns are noted, the platform’s regulatory compliance actually enhances user safety.
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Alex Gatti
June 20, 2025 AT 08:54Did anyone notice the API latency spikes during peak hours? It might affect high‑frequency traders.
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stephanie lauman
June 25, 2025 AT 11:44One must consider that the underlying blockchain dynamics are susceptible to state‑level surveillance. CEX.IO’s data retention policies could be leveraged for ulterior motives. The presence of a domestic MSB license does not absolve users from potential privacy erosion.
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Twinkle Shop
June 30, 2025 AT 14:33The interoperability framework employed by CEX.IO leverages a multi‑tiered liquidity aggregation model, which, in turn, minimizes slippage across order books. Moreover, the integration of TradingView widgets provides a robust technical analysis suite, satisfying both retail and institutional participants. However, the platform’s token‑discount mechanism, while beneficial, introduces an additional vector for market manipulation. From a compliance standpoint, the KYC/AML procedures are stringent, yet they may inadvertently impede user onboarding velocity. In terms of fiat on‑ramps, the inclusion of SWIFT, SEPA, and FasterPayments aligns with best‑practice standards for cross‑border settlements. Lastly, the mobile client’s architecture employs native codebases, delivering superior performance compared to hybrid solutions.
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Shaian Rawlins
July 5, 2025 AT 17:22Just a heads‑up: the support chat can be a bit slow on weekends, but they eventually get back to you. Overall, pretty decent.
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Taylor Gibbs
July 10, 2025 AT 20:12Yo fam, if u r looking 4 a solid exchange, CEX.IO is kinda the real deal. They got all the basics covered, and u wont get scammed. Just make sure u double‑check ur ID docs before you start.
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Rob Watts
July 15, 2025 AT 23:01Overall it's fine. The app works well enough.
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Bhagwat Sen
July 21, 2025 AT 01:51Hey guys, just wanted to shout that the community channels are buzzing with tips on how to max the CEX Token discount. Jump in and share your own hacks!
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Cathy Ruff
July 26, 2025 AT 04:40Honestly, most of those “tips” are just marketing fluff. Stick to the basics and don’t get fooled.
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Miranda Co
July 31, 2025 AT 07:29I get why some people are skeptical, but the layered security actually gives me peace of mind. The only downside is the occasional delay when withdrawing large amounts.
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mukesh chy
August 5, 2025 AT 10:19Sure, the fee structure looks nice on paper, but once you factor in the hidden spreads, it’s just another profit machine. Classic crypto hype.
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Kortney Williams
August 10, 2025 AT 13:08The dialectic between accessibility and regulation is ever‑present in the crypto sphere. CEX.IO attempts to balance this by offering both an intuitive UI and stringent KYC protocols. While this duality may alienate some purists, it also fosters a safer environment for the broader market. One might argue that such compromises are necessary for mainstream adoption.
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Tyrone Tubero
August 15, 2025 AT 15:58Let me break down why CEX.IO, despite its polished veneer, truly stands out in a sea of mediocrity. First, the platform’s commitment to regulatory compliance isn’t just a box‑checking exercise; it signifies a philosophical alignment with the principles of financial sovereignty and consumer protection, thereby cultivating an ecosystem where trust is not merely assumed but demonstrably earned. Second, the fee architecture, anchored by a baseline maker rate of 0.20% and a taker rate of 0.25%, is deceptively modest, yet the nuanced volume‑based reductions-dropping to 0.15%/0.20% beyond $100K-serve as a calculated incentive for high‑frequency strategists, compelling them to consolidate liquidity within this venue rather than dispersing across fragmented order books. Third, the inclusion of the CEX Token discount mechanism, a 10% fee reduction for token holders, operates as a subtle yet powerful tokenomics lever that aligns user interests with the platform’s native asset, fostering a feedback loop where increased token circulation directly mitigates operational costs for participants. Fourth, the multi‑modal fiat onboarding suite-encompassing Visa, Mastercard, SWIFT, SEPA, and FasterPayments-caters to a global clientele, obviating the friction traditionally associated with fiat‑crypto conversion, and this breadth of integration resonates particularly with institutional entrants seeking seamless capital flows. Fifth, the mobile application, while mirroring desktop functionalities, distinguishes itself through a streamlined UI/UX, real‑time portfolio tracking, and push notifications that democratize access to market movements for on‑the‑go traders, effectively narrowing the latency gap between decision and execution. Sixth, the security architecture-layered with two‑factor authentication, DDoS mitigation, and cold‑storage of the majority of assets behind multi‑signature wallets-constructs a robust defense posture that, combined with rigorous KYC/AML compliance under the FinCEN MSB license, creates a regulatory shield that many competitors lack. Seventh, the API ecosystem, offering both REST and WebSocket endpoints, empowers developers to construct bespoke trading algorithms, thereby cultivating an ancillary developer community that enriches the platform’s functional diversity. Eighth, the transparent fee calculator embedded within the UI serves as an educational tool, demystifying cost structures for novices and seasoned traders alike, reinforcing the platform’s ethos of informed participation. Ninth, the customer support framework, featuring sub‑two‑minute live‑chat responses and 24‑hour email ticketing, underscores a commitment to user experience that transcends mere transactional assistance. Tenth, the platform’s ongoing roadmap, punctuated by regular feature rollouts-such as staking services for PoS assets and expanded asset listings-signals a trajectory of continuous innovation. In summation, CEX.IO weaves together regulatory prudence, fee optimization, user‑centric design, and technological robustness, positioning itself not merely as a transactional conduit but as a holistic financial hub poised to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the decentralized future. For anyone seeking a balanced blend of security, accessibility, and progressive features, CEX.IO merits serious consideration.
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Natalie Rawley
May 20, 2025 AT 15:58Honestly, the whole CEX.IO saga feels like a blockbuster drama – the fees, the security layers, the mobile app – all intertwined like a thriller plot. I’ve scoured the fine print and can assure you the fee calculator does more than just guesswork. The tiered discounts? They’re a real lifesaver for volume traders. If you’re serious about crypto, this platform deserves a starring role.