CEX.IO vs OKX — UK Comparison 2026
7.2/10
Aggregated ScoreVS
6.6/10
Aggregated ScoreComparing CEX.IO and OKX for UK traders in 2026. We break down fees, security, app scores, and user sentiment to help you choose the right exchange.
Our Pick
CEX.IO
CEX.IO edges ahead with a higher aggregated score (7.2 vs 6.6), making it our recommended pick for most UK traders. That said, both are reputable platforms — the right choice depends on your specific needs.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Metric | CEX.IO | OKX |
|---|---|---|
| Our Score | 7.2 / 10 | 6.6 / 10 |
| Trustpilot Score | 6.6 | 4.6 |
| Reddit Sentiment | 5.5 | 6.0 |
| App Store Score | 8.8 | 9.2 |
| Google Play Score | 8.6 | 8.4 |
| Best For | UK users wanting competitive fees with easy fiat onboarding | Experienced traders who prioritise low fees and advanced trading tools |
Feature Breakdown
CEX.IO
Highlights
- Competitive Fees: Maker/taker fees from 0.25%/0.25%, among the lowest available for UK users.
- Long Track Record: Operating since 2013 with no major security breaches — over a decade of reliability.
- Easy Fiat Onboarding: Supports card payments, bank transfers, and GBP Faster Payments for quick deposits.
- 190+ Digital Assets: Solid selection of cryptocurrencies covering major tokens and popular altcoins.
- UK-Focused: 69% of European user base is from the UK, meaning the platform is optimised for British users.
UK Considerations
- Not Directly FCA Registered: Operates via partnership with FCA-authorised Gateway 21 for financial promotions; still pursuing full registration.
- Limited Advanced Features: Fewer trading tools than Kraken Pro or OKX for experienced traders.
- Card Deposit Fees: While bank transfers are reasonable, card deposits carry additional fees that increase costs.
- Smaller User Base: Less liquidity than major exchanges like Coinbase or Kraken on some trading pairs.
- App Can Be Glitchy: Some UK users report occasional stability issues with the mobile application.
OKX
Highlights
- Lowest Trading Fees: 0.08% maker / 0.10% taker at base tier — among the cheapest in the industry.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Professional charting, advanced order types, futures, options, and perpetual swaps.
- Built-in Web3 Wallet: Access DeFi protocols, NFTs, and decentralised applications directly from the OKX app.
- Copy Trading: Follow and automatically replicate the strategies of successful traders.
- 350+ Cryptocurrencies: Wide selection with deep liquidity on major trading pairs.
UK Considerations
- Not FCA Registered: No FCA registration means no FSCS protection and no Financial Ombudsman access for UK users.
- No Direct GBP Support: Cannot deposit or withdraw GBP directly — must use third-party providers (MoonPay, Banxa) with 3-5% fees.
- Complex for Beginners: The advanced interface is powerful but overwhelming for users new to crypto trading.
- Regulatory Uncertainty: While compliant with FCA financial promotions regime, the lack of registration creates ongoing uncertainty.
- Third-Party Fiat Fees: The 3-5% cost of buying crypto via card through third-party providers significantly increases the effective cost.
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose CEX.IO if...
- •UK users wanting competitive fees with easy fiat onboarding
- •Casual traders who prefer a straightforward, no-frills experience
- •Users comfortable with card payments for quick crypto purchases
Choose OKX if...
- •Experienced traders who prioritise low fees and advanced trading tools
- •DeFi enthusiasts who want a built-in Web3 wallet with exchange integration
- •Crypto-to-crypto traders who do not need GBP on/off ramps
Score Breakdowns
CEX.IO
Our Aggregated Score Breakdown
We combine ratings from multiple trusted sources to give you the most accurate picture
Trustpilot Rating6.6
Reddit Sentiment5.5
Google Play Score8.6
App Store Rating8.8
OKX
Our Aggregated Score Breakdown
We combine ratings from multiple trusted sources to give you the most accurate picture
Trustpilot Rating4.6
Reddit Sentiment6.0
Google Play Score8.4
App Store Rating9.2
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