OKX Trade is a large and widely used cryptocurrency exchange, one of the original pioneers in the crypto industry, founded in 2016. With its rebranding and platform overhaul, we felt it was appropriate to provide an updated OKX review, as this exchange has undergone some exciting developments.
Leveraging its spot market expertise, OKX offers customers the ability to trade futures, perpetual swaps, and options markets. Beyond being a haven for active crypto traders, the platform has added an Earn section, NFT marketplace entry, crypto lending space, Jumpstart launchpad, crypto trading bots, and even a way for customers to participate in DOT slot auctions. Each feature offers traders new ways to trade, hedge, earn, and explore crypto markets.
So, is it worth it? This review aims to answer that question. We’ll also highlight key insights to know when using the platform.
👉 Unique 40% rebate on trading fees at the lowest rates—available indefinitely!
Note: Customers in the US and UK are not supported.
What is OKX?
OKX was originally founded in Hong Kong in 2016 but relocated to Valletta, Malta, in 2018, with additional headquarters in the Seychelles. This move was undoubtedly influenced by favorable crypto regulations in these jurisdictions.
The exchange quickly expanded from a spot crypto trading platform at launch and is now available in over 100 countries. BTC daily futures trading volume on OKX exceeds $1.5 billion, catering to both institutional and retail traders.
While OKX derivatives are accessible in over 100 international locations, some regions are unsupported, including the US, sanctioned countries, and other restricted areas.
For our US readers, we highly recommend checking out our Kraken Review as an alternative.
OKX X1
In November 2023, OKX launched X1, its Ethereum Virtual Machine Layer-2 community testnet with zero-knowledge proofs, utilizing Polygon’s Chain Development Kit (CDK).
OKX isn’t the first centralized exchange to launch its Layer-2 (that honor goes to Coinbase’s BASE), but OKX X1 stands out as a zero-knowledge rollup solution. This enables near-instant settlements on any L1 and its native ecosystem, a departure from the delayed settlement times associated with optimistic rollups (used by BASE).
The X1 mainnet launch is scheduled for March 31, 2024. The first quarter may also see the release of zkBridge, zkOracle, and zkDEX, with key partners deploying DApps on the X1 mainnet.
Is OKX Safe?
Safety is a paramount concern for any crypto trader. Given the risks associated with centralized exchanges, let’s examine OKX’s security measures.
Security Measures
OKX operates a secure cold and hot wallet storage process, with 95% of assets stored offline in cold storage. This means funds are protected from hackers. OKX’s cold storage system requires confirmation from at least two licensed personnel, ensuring robust security.
Key security features include:
- Fund Storage: 95% of funds are held offline in cold wallets.
- OKX Risk Protect: Allocates a portion of profits to an asset risk reserve.
- Mandatory 2FA: Two-factor authentication is enforced.
- Secure Private Key Storage: Private keys are stored in RAM for enhanced security.
- Emergency Backups: Multiple backup protocols ensure preparedness.
Threat Management
As a leveraged trading platform, OKX implements measures to mitigate risks posed by market actions. Its insurance fund acts as a safety net for trades that can’t be liquidated above chapter value, replenished by preliminary margins from liquidated traders.
Personal Security
OKX provides tools to help users secure their accounts, including:
- Two-factor authentication (Google Authenticator recommended over SMS).
- Anti-phishing codes in emails to verify legitimacy.
- Login passwords, email verification, fund passwords, and more.
Proof of Reserves
Post-FTX, OKX adopted Merkle-Tree proofs for transparency. Users can verify their assets via:
- Personal account audits.
- Public address listings on GitHub.
- Reserve ratio checks.
While these snapshots offer reassurance, they are momentary, and real-time audits would enhance trust further.
OKX Derivatives and Leverage
OKX offers a range of derivative products, allowing traders to amplify gains/losses with leverage up to 100x, depending on the trading pair.
OKX Futures
Futures contracts on OKX cover 12 assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, with leverage up to 100x. Contracts expire weekly, bi-weekly, quarterly, or bi-quarterly, settled daily at 8:00 UTC. Traders can choose between cash (crypto) or Tether (USDT) margining.
OKX Perpetual Swaps
Perpetual swaps function like futures but without expiration dates. Traders can maintain positions indefinitely, with funding fees ensuring price alignment with spot markets. Leverage remains up to 100x, with 12 supported assets.
OKX Options
Options provide the right, but not obligation, to buy/sell assets at predetermined times. OKX currently supports Bitcoin options, with four expiration instances. Buyers enjoy limited downside and unlimited upside, while sellers face the opposite.
OKX Fees
OKX boasts some of the lowest fees in the industry. Trading fees vary by:
- Trading tier.
- Instrument type.
- OKB token holdings.
Fee Structure
- Spot Trading: Maker/taker model with discounts for high-volume traders.
- Derivatives: Futures and perpetual swaps follow similar fee structures.
- VIP Tiers: Achieved via 30-day trading volume, offering reduced fees.
For the lowest fees, use our OKX referral link for an additional 40% discount.
OKX Trade: Registration
Creating an OKX account is straightforward:
- Visit the website and click "Register."
- Sign up via email, mobile number, or Google account.
- Complete KYC verification for higher limits.
Deposits/Withdrawals
OKX supports crypto and fiat deposits via:
- Bank transfers (SEPA/SWIFT).
- Debit/credit cards.
- Third-party providers (Simplex, Banxa).
Withdrawals follow similar steps, with limits based on verification level.
OKX Futures Platform
The trading interface is intuitive, featuring:
- Market selection on the left.
- Expiration time and margin currency options.
- Order types (limit, stop-limit, iceberg, TWAP).
- Charting tools (TradingView integration).
Margin Trading
Leverage depends on position size, with up to 100x for smaller trades. Cross-margin allows borrowing from other accounts but is not recommended.
OKX Products
Beyond trading, OKX offers:
- OKX Earn: Savings accounts, staking, and structured products.
- DeFi Access: Aave, Compound, and more via OKX’s interface.
- DOT/Kusama Auctions: Participate in slot auctions for rewards.
- OKX Jumpstart: Token sales for new projects.
- OKB Token: Native utility token with trading fee discounts.
OKX Wallet
The OKX Wallet supports multichain operations across 15+ blockchains and 1,000+ DeFi protocols, integrating DEXs, NFTs, and dApps seamlessly.
OKX Mobile App & PC Client
The mobile app mirrors the web platform’s functionality, offering trading, NFTs, and more. PC clients provide similar convenience for desktop users.
OKX API & Trading Bots
OKX’s robust API supports algorithmic trading with REST and WebSocket endpoints. SDKs are available for Java, Python, C++, and more. Pre-built bots are also offered, though caution is advised with third-party providers.
OKX vs. Other Exchanges
OKX competes with top exchanges like Binance and Coinbase, offering lower fees and diverse products. For detailed comparisons, see our exchange contrast articles.
OKX Customer Support
OKX provides robust support via:
- Live chat.
- Email tickets.
- Telegram assistance (beware of scams).
- Comprehensive help center and OKX Academy for education.
Why Choose OKX?
OKX stands out for its:
- Low fees.
- Wide product range (trading, NFTs, DeFi).
- Strong security.
- User-friendly interface.
👉 Join OKX today and enjoy a 40% trading fee rebate!
Warning: Leveraged trading is high-risk. Always practice proper risk management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OKX Trustworthy?
Yes, OKX is a long-standing exchange with strong security practices and positive user reviews.
Is OKX Available in the US?
No, OKX restricts US customers due to regulations. Alternatives include Kraken or Coinbase.
Is OKX Good for Day Trading?
Yes, its low fees, high liquidity, and advanced tools make it ideal for active traders.
How Do You Earn on OKX?
Via trading, staking, lending, yield farming, and referral programs.
What’s OKX’s Daily Withdrawal Limit?
Limits vary by verification level, from a few BTC for basic accounts to higher amounts for verified users.
Is OKX a Tier-1 Exchange?
Yes, it ranks among the top global crypto exchanges by volume and trust.
For further questions, explore OKX’s help center.
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