Exchange fee schedules show two rates: maker and taker. The rate applied depends on how you place the order, so without knowing the difference you cannot compare real costs.
This guide explains maker versus taker, token discounts and VIP tiers, and how to compare exchanges fairly.
Maker vs taker
An order that rests on the order book and waits to be filled is a maker order; an order that fills immediately against existing orders is a taker order. Limit orders are usually makers, market orders are takers.
| Order | Effect on the book | Fee applied |
|---|---|---|
| Limit (rests on the book) | Adds liquidity | Maker fee (lower) |
| Market | Removes liquidity | Taker fee (higher) |
| Limit (fills immediately) | Removes liquidity | Taker fee |
On most exchanges a limit order that crosses the book and fills immediately is charged as a taker.
Discounts and VIP tiers
- Discounts for paying fees in the exchange's own token
- VIP tiers based on 30-day trading volume or holdings, with rates falling step by step
- Campaign and region-specific fee promotions
When comparing exchanges, line up the VIP 0 (base tier) rates without discounts. Looking only at discounted figures can leave you paying more than expected if you do not meet the conditions.
Futures-specific costs
Futures add funding-rate payments on top of trading fees. For frequent trading the trading fee dominates; for positions held over time the funding rate matters more.
- Spot: maker/taker fees
- Futures: maker/taker fees plus funding rate
- Both: deposit and withdrawal fees, including network fees
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is a 0% maker fee really free?
A. Spot maker orders carry no trading fee, but any order that fills as a taker pays the taker rate. Deposit and withdrawal fees and futures funding rates are charged separately.
Q. When is the fee deducted?
A. Usually at each fill, from the asset you receive or pay. The fee column in your trade history shows the amount.
Q. How do I move up a VIP tier?
A. Most exchanges assess 30-day trading volume or holdings of their own token. The conditions and rate table are on the official fee page.
Sources and conditions
FX Textbook is an independent information site, not an exchange or a provider of personal investment advice. Crypto-asset trading involves risk: price moves, liquidation of leveraged positions, transfer errors and exchange operating risk can result in the loss of some or all invested capital.
NEXT STEP
Once you know the mechanics, compare the exchanges.
Spot and futures fees, maximum leverage, liquidation rules and Japanese-language support, organised exchange by exchange.
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