10 Best Crypto Exchanges for Futures Trading

Are you looking to get into crypto futures trading? With so many exchanges out there, it can be tough to know where to start. Don’t worry, here are the 10 best crypto exchanges for futures trading.

1. Binance

Binance is one of the most popular and trusted crypto exchanges, offering a wide range of futures trading options. Key features include:

• High liquidity
• Low trading fees (0.02% – 0.04%)
• Leverage up to 125x
• Intuitive user interface
• Wide selection of trading pairs

Binance is known for its robust security measures and user-friendly platform, making it a top choice for both novice and experienced traders.

2. BitMEX

BitMEX is a leading crypto derivatives exchange, specializing in perpetual contracts and futures trading. Notable features include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Competitive fees (0.025% taker fee, 0.05% settlement fee)
• High trading volume
• Advanced trading tools and charts
• Bitcoin-based contracts

While BitMEX offers a professional trading experience, you need to note that it’s not available to users in certain jurisdictions, such as the United States.

3. Bybit

Bybit is a fast-growing crypto derivatives exchange that offers perpetual contracts and futures trading. Key advantages include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Low fees (0.025% taker fee, 0.075% funding fee)
• Fast order execution
• User-friendly interface
• 24/7 customer support

Bybit has gained popularity for its reliable platform, attractive fee structure, and responsive customer service.

4. Deribit

Deribit is a Netherlands-based crypto derivatives exchange that offers Bitcoin and Ethereum options and futures. Notable features include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Competitive fees (0.03% taker fee, 0.02% maker fee)
• Institutional-grade security
• Advanced risk management tools
• High liquidity for BTC and ETH options

Deribit is known for its focus on cryptocurrency options trading and its commitment to security and transparency.

5. FTX

FTX is a fast-growing crypto derivatives exchange that offers futures, options, and leveraged tokens. Key advantages include:

• Up to 101x leverage
• Low fees (0.07% taker fee, 0.02% maker fee)
• Innovative products like leveraged tokens
• Customizable risk management tools
• Responsive customer support

FTX has gained a reputation for its great trading products and user-friendly interface.

Related: All You Must Know about Cryptocurrency Scams

6. Huobi Futures

Huobi Futures is a leading crypto derivatives platform that offers a wide range of futures contracts. Notable features include:

• Up to 125x leverage
• Competitive fees (0.02% – 0.03% maker/taker fees)
• Wide selection of trading pairs
• Advanced charting and trading tools
• Multiple language support

Huobi Futures is part of the larger Huobi ecosystem, which includes a spot exchange and other crypto services.

7. OKEx Futures

OKEx Futures is a popular crypto derivatives platform that offers a diverse range of futures contracts. Key features include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Low fees (0.02% – 0.05% maker/taker fees)
• Wide variety of trading pairs
• Advanced order types and risk management tools
• 24/7 customer support

OKEx Futures is part of the OKEx ecosystem, which includes spot trading, options, and other crypto services.

8. Kraken Futures

Kraken Futures is a regulated crypto derivatives exchange that offers futures trading on a range of cryptocurrencies. Notable advantages include:

• Up to 50x leverage
• Competitive fees (0.02% – 0.05% maker/taker fees)
• Regulated by the CFTC
• Advanced charting and trading tools
• Dedicated customer support

Kraken Futures is known for its commitment to security and regulatory compliance.

9. BitMax Futures

BitMax Futures is a crypto derivatives platform that offers perpetual contracts and futures trading. Key features include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Low fees (0.02% – 0.06% maker/taker fees)
• Customizable risk management tools
• 24/7 customer support
• Multiple language support

BitMax Futures is part of the BitMax ecosystem, which includes spot trading and other crypto services.

10. Phemex

Phemex is a Singapore-based crypto derivatives exchange that offers perpetual contracts and futures trading. Notable advantages include:

• Up to 100x leverage
• Low fees (0.01% – 0.06% maker/taker fees)
• Fast order execution
• User-friendly interface
• 24/7 customer support

Phemex has gained popularity for its reliable platform and commitment to security.

Key Takeaways

When choosing a crypto exchange for futures trading, consider the following key factors:

1. Leverage: Look for exchanges that offer leverage levels that suit your trading style and risk tolerance.

2. Fees: Compare the maker and taker fees across different exchanges to find the most cost-effective option.

3. Security: Choose exchanges with strong security measures, such as two-factor authentication, cold storage, and regular security audits.

4. Liquidity: Opt for exchanges with high trading volumes to ensure better price stability and faster order execution.

5. User Interface: Select an exchange with a user-friendly interface and advanced trading tools that meet your needs.

6. Customer Support: Consider exchanges with responsive customer support, available 24/7 to assist you with any issues or queries.

7. Regulation: If compliance is a priority, choose exchanges that are regulated by reputable authorities, such as Kraken Futures.

8. Asset Variety: Look for exchanges that offer a wide range of trading pairs and contracts to diversify your trading options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is crypto futures trading?

Crypto futures trading involves buying or selling contracts that specify the future price and date at which a cryptocurrency will be bought or sold. Traders can profit from price movements without owning the underlying asset.

2. What are the risks associated with crypto futures trading?

Crypto futures trading carries significant risks, such as high volatility, leverage-induced liquidation, and counterparty risk. It’s crucial to understand these risks and use  proper risk management strategies.

3. How do I choose the best crypto exchange for futures trading?

Consider factors such as leverage, fees, security, liquidity, user interface, customer support, regulation, and asset variety when selecting a crypto exchange for futures trading. Evaluate your individual needs and preferences before making a decision.

4. What is leverage in crypto futures trading?

Leverage allows traders to open larger positions with a smaller amount of capital. For example, if an exchange offers 50x leverage, a trader can open a position worth $5,000 with only $100. 

5. How do I manage risk in crypto futures trading?

To manage risk in crypto futures trading, employ strategies such as setting stop-loss orders, diversifying your portfolio, avoiding over-leveraging, and staying informed about market conditions. It’s also essential to invest only what you can afford to lose.

6. Are crypto futures traded on weekends?

Most crypto exchanges offer futures trading 24/7, including weekends. However, some exchanges may have brief maintenance periods or limited trading hours for specific contracts.

7. How do I start trading crypto futures?

To start trading crypto futures, choose a reputable exchange, complete the registration and verification process, fund your account, and familiarize yourself with the trading platform. It’s recommended to start with small positions and gradually increase your exposure as you gain experience.