I will analyze the best crypto exchanges in and for Kenya. Since Kenya is witnessing the growing popularity of crypto assets, we must select a safe and trustworthy platform.
From novice traders to those more advanced, the exchanges give the opportunity to make seamless and safe transactions, and low fees.
You will have to give the exchange to trade in crypto assets, round the clock digital market support, helping Kenyans to trade effectively.
What is Crypto Exchanges?
A cryptocurrency exchange is an online service where individuals buy, sell, store, trade, and hold various cryptographic currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, among others.
These exchanges serve as a marketplace where buyers and sellers can see and transact in real-time as per their desired entries, and buy at varying prices depending on demand.
A cryptocurrency exchange can also include a plethora of services such as digital wallets, staking, margin trading, as well as support of real currency, providing all users a plethora of opportunities in the trading of digital currencies.
How To Choose Crypto Exchanges in Kenya
Regulatory Framework and Licensing — Confirm that the exchange is licensed and that the exchange implements KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) Policies accross their operations.
Security and Protection of Funds — The exchange should possess 2-factor authentication (2FA), employ cold wallet storage, and be transparent about their security practices.
Support for Local Payments (KES, M-Pesa, etc.) — Consider exchanges that allow for withdrawal and deposit via M-Pesa, or a local bank transfer, as it makes the exchange of Kenyan shillings (KES) more efficient.
Fees and Transparency — Find out the costs for deposits, trades, withdrawal, conversion of currencies and any potentially concealed costs. Transparency helps in identifying any and all costs that come with the aforementioned services.
Liquidity and Different Digital Currencies Offered — One factor is that the exchange should be liquid enough to accommodate your ability to rapidly buy or sell at the desired price or close to it, and also have commonly traded currencies to maintain your flexibility.
Easy-to-use and Supportive Platforms — New users generally appreciate having fewer buttons or commands to minimize complexity. The presence of readily available support to assist users increases appreciation.
Key Point & Best Crypto Exchanges in Kenya
| Exchange | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Binance | Largest global exchange, high liquidity, wide crypto selection, advanced trading tools, supports fiat and P2P trading. |
| Bybit | Focused on derivatives and margin trading, user-friendly interface, strong security features, low trading fees. |
| OKX | Wide range of spot & futures markets, DeFi integration, staking options, supports multiple fiat currencies. |
| MEXC | Offers hundreds of altcoins, low trading fees, margin and futures trading, strong for emerging crypto projects. |
| HTX (Huobi) | Long-standing exchange, secure wallet infrastructure, spot and derivatives trading, global presence with multiple languages. |
| Bitget | Known for copy trading, futures trading, competitive fees, beginner-friendly interface, fast deposits/withdrawals. |
| Kraken | Regulated exchange, strong security, fiat on/off ramps, margin trading, beginner-friendly with robust customer support. |
| Coinbase | U.S.-regulated, beginner-friendly, insured custodial wallets, supports fiat deposits, educational tools for crypto beginners. |
| Gate.io | Wide variety of coins, margin & futures trading, staking options, beginner-friendly P2P and spot trading. |
| KuCoin | Supports a large number of altcoins, spot and margin trading, low fees, strong community, staking & lending features. |
1. Binance
Binance is one of the most reputable and biggest crypto exchanges globally, and is the most suitable for usage in Kenya given that it was established in 2017.
Users can choose between the English and Swahili interfaces. The platform deals in numerous cryptocurrencies, along with secured wallet storage and 2FA (two-factor authentication).
They have customer service operatives that can be contacted at any time of the day for any queries that may arise. Further, the platform has clearly outlined its charges/fees, and is one of the lowest when it comes to the trading of crypto, therefore very suitable for users of all levels in Kenya.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2017 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), BNB, and hundreds of altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, regular audits |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.1% standard; discounts with BNB) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); higher limits require full KYC |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
2. Bybit
Bybit is one of the first Best Crypto Exchanges in Kenya to be established in 2018. It is one of the best in the crypto exchange due to the great user experience.
It is available in the English and Swahili Language enabling local users to use the exchange. It is one of the exchanges with the highest range of crypto with great security with the use of 2FA and cold wallets.
The exchange is available at all times to assist in case of anything. It is one of the exchanges with the lowest fees. It is well suited in case you are a beginner in crypto exchange as well as a pro due to the great user experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2018 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and major altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, withdrawal whitelist |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.1% for spot; lower for derivatives) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); higher withdrawal limits require full KYC |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
3. OKX
OKX is a trustworthy and flexible trading platform founded in 2017 and is predominantly used by Kenyan traders. The platform is accessible to local users as it has support for both English and Swahili.
The exchange has a wide selection of crypto assets as it includes bitcoins and Ethereum along with many other altcoins. The exchange also incorporates security features such as two-factor authentication and cold storage of user funds.
There is also 24/7 customer support to resolve trading-related issues. Due to their transparent and competitive pricing, OKX is as well a good fit for novice and seasoned traders looking for a safe, fast and cost-efficient platform to trade crypto in Kenya.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2017 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and popular altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, withdrawal whitelist |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.08%–0.10% for spot trading) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); higher limits require full verification |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
4. MEXC
MEXC global is one of the most popular Best Crypto Exchanges in Kenya in the world as it has lots of services that most competitors do not offer such as trading with futures. Although it is a global provider it is popular with Kenyan traders as it is a cryptocurrency exchange that is accessible in both Swahili and English.
MEXC also offers many cryptocurrencies one being Bitcoin or Ettehereum paired with a newer altcoin. Also, the exchange has reliable features that keep the users and their funds safe such as 2FA and holders of cold wallets.
To make the exchange even more reliable, users can reach out 24 hours a day to MEXC for customer support. MEXC is also known for their low and transparent fee and is a great exchange for traders of all levels, including beginners. To conclude, MEXC is one of the recommended exchanges to trade cryptocurrency with.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2018 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and hundreds of altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, regular security audits |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.1% standard) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); higher limits require full verification |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
5. HTX (Huobi)
Launched in 2013, Huobi (HTX) is the oldest and one of the most reliable crypto exchanges that is very popular among Kenyan traders. It is one of the few exchanges that offer service in both English and Swahili making are accessible to more local users.
With Bitcoin, Ethereum, and various altcoins available for trade, the cryptocurrencies on offer are diverse. It uses several advanced security protocols to protect users’ funds including cold storage, two-factor authentication (2FA) and routine security audits to minimize vulnerabilities.
HTX has made it to the top tier of exchanges by providing 24/7 customer service and user trading support. With very few comparative exchanges in the area, HTX is a very good choice for both novice and experienced traders.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2013 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and popular altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, withdrawal whitelist |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.2% standard) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); higher limits require full verification |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
6. Bitget
Bitget started operating in 2018 and has gained popularity among traders in Kenya, which may be due in part to the accessibility of the platform and the ability to use copy trading. There is a support in English and Swahili, so customers from Kenya local to the platform can easily use it.
As it trades a large number of cryptocurrencies (including major ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other famous altcoins), and has measures like 2FA and cold wallets to protect its customers’ funds, it is a reasonably safe exchange.
Bitget also has a very nice 24/7 service, so it is possible to get answers to questions very quickly. Finally, the platform has low fees, which is a characteristic that can be appreciated by advanced and new traders, making . it a good option to trade crypto in Kenya.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2018 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and major altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, withdrawal whitelist |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.1% standard; lower for futures) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); full KYC needed for higher limits |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
7. Kraken
Kraken is one of the most experienced Best Crypto Exchanges in Kenya, having been established in 2011 (initiated in 2013). With their long time experience they gained the trust of many customers and made Kraken a very secure and reliable platform, perfect for customers in Kenya for their preference in safety.
Their platform’s support for both English and Swahili makes it very convenient for users from the Kenya. Kraken’s safety features are impressive and include 2FA, cold storage, and security audits. Their customer service is available all day, every day, allowing for immediate resolution of trading problems.
Their transparent fee structure makes Kraken ideal for customers of any experience. Cost and safety are very important for traders and Kraken has proven they can be dependable to beginners and experienced traders for their trading crypto in Kenya.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2011 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and popular altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, regular security audits |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.16%–0.26% for spot trading) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); full verification needed for higher limits |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, P2P trading |
8. Coinbase
Coinbase is a starting cryptocurrency exchange, above all in Africa, and most especially in Kenya. As a leading global crypto exchange, Coinbase is initial and available to Kenyans. Coinbase is a starting cryptocurrency exchange, above all in Africa, and most especially in Kenya.
Coinbase is an average exchange platform, above all in Africa, especially in Kenya, and is very easy and accessible. The exchange safety will result in a 2FA, insured storages, and will be kept in cold storage. Approved and easy to begin, beginner traders from 6 states to Kenya, coinbase is a starting exchange to begin trading.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2012 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and major altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), insured custodial wallets, cold storage |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Transparent fees (0.5%–1.49% depending on payment method) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for small transactions (email + phone); full verification for higher limits |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, P2P trading |
9. Gate.io
Gate.io was founded in 2013 and has grown to become one of the most trusted and reliable exchanges with a considerable number of clients in Kenya. The platform has a variety of features and a large number of currencies to trade in.
Gate.io is one of the most accessible platforms in Kenya since the platform is fully translated to Swahili. Gate.io is one of the most secure exchanges with its 2FA, study cold wallets, and regular security audits.
Gate.io has a very helpful and responsive customer service department, whose employees can assist customers with whatever needs they have in regards to accounts and trading, 24/7. Gate.io is one of the most secure exchanges in Kenya with a very low and transparent fee structure, making the platform perfect for novice traders and advanced traders.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2013 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and hundreds of altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, withdrawal whitelist |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.2% standard) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); full verification required for higher limits |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
10. KuCoin
KuCoin, which started operating in 2017, is highly regarded by Kenyan traders because it is well established, has several features, and offers a plethora of digital currencies. Users are able to easily communicate in languages like English and Swahili.
Users can trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a plethora of other coins, and can rest assured their capital is protected by 2FA, cold wallets, and regular checks by third party contractors. The exchange is able to assist users at any hour of any day. There is a great fee structure that makes KuCoin accessible to novice and professional traders in Kenya.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established Year | 2017 |
| Local Language | English, Swahili |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and hundreds of altcoins |
| Security | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallet storage, regular security audits |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat and email support |
| Fees | Low and transparent trading fees (0.1% standard) |
| KYC Requirement | Minimal KYC for basic account (email + phone); full verification required for higher limits |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, M-Pesa, P2P trading |
Conclusion
Kenya’s crypto market is still expanding and offers traders various trustworthy exchanges to trade digital assets. The digital finance market is expanding due to the current political and economic conditions.
The crypto exchanges Binance, Bybit, OKX, MEXC, HTX (Huobi), Bitget, Kraken, Coinbase, Gate.io, and KuCoin have good reputation, reliable security, have multiple currency options, support local languages, and have good fees.
The exchanges offer 24/7 support, have simple and intuitive designs, and can be used by anyone regardless of experience. Regulated and reputable exchanges offer traders around the country an effective and safe crypto trading experience.
FAQ
Which crypto exchange offers the lowest fees in Kenya?
Platforms like Binance, MEXC, and KuCoin provide competitive and transparent fee structures, making them cost-effective for trading.
Are crypto exchanges in Kenya safe to use?
Yes, regulated exchanges with strong security measures, including 2FA, cold storage, and regular audits, are considered safe for trading.
Can I use local currency on these exchanges?
Many exchanges, such as Binance, OKX, and Bybit, support Kenyan Shilling (KES) deposits via M-Pesa or bank transfers.
