Whether you face strict regulations in your country, or simply prefer to keep your privacy, crypto exchanges without KYC let users trade hundreds of altcoins from anywhere in the world.
While the number of non-KYC crypto exchanges are declining, there are still good choices available. I searched through Twitter, Reddit, and other online resources to find the best ones.
Here's an updated list of platforms where you can start trading and withdrawing funds immediately with just an email address. This post has also been updated over 6 times to reflect recent changes, such as Binance, KuCoin, and Bitget now requiring mandatory KYC.
Methodology
I chose the best non-KYC platforms based on various criteria like security, popularity, and ease of use. However, it's still important that you conduct your own research.
Best No KYC Crypto Exchanges
Lots of platforms like Binance, KuCoin, and Bitget have started to introduce mandatory KYC over the years. However, there are still many alternatives available. The best non-KYC platforms right now are MEXC, AscendEx, and Phemex. I've also included bonuses and DEXs, because some of these platforms may introduce KYC in the future.
MEXC Global
1,700+
Coins
Free
Trading Fee
MEXC is a top choice because it has spot, margin and futures trading on 1,700+ cryptocurrencies and 200+ futures trading pairs. Their platform features up to 200x leverage, high liquidity and zero spot trading fees, allowing you to get great rates on altcoins and fast execution on your trades. They serve 10+ million users in 170+ countries and only asks for an email when signing up. Full Review...
ApeX
15+
Coins
0.02%/0.05%
Trading Fee
ApeX is a decentralized exchange which only requires a crypto wallet to use. It's on the list because it was created by Bybit, a popular centralized exchange with over 5 million users. Bybit recently introduced mandatory KYC, so their decentralized alternative, ApeX, is a good option. ApeX offers 15+ trading pairs, perpetual contracts with up to 30x leverage, and low 0.02%/0.05% trading fee. Full Review...
AscendEx
350+
Coins
0.20%
Trading Fee
AscendEx is a Singapore-based exchange founded in 2018 with 1 million users. The trading fees are 0.20% for altcoins and 0.10% for large-cap coins. They have roughly $100M in daily trading volume according to CoinMarketCap and it's easy to start trading with just an email address, no KYC required. Full Review...
Phemex
200+
Coins
0.10%
Trading Fee
Phemex is a cryptocurrency exchange that has over 5 million users in more than 200 countries. Users can quickly sign up with just an email and have access to a daily withdrawal limit of 50,000 USDT.
Non-KYC account can enjoy a variety of trading features, such as spot trading, margin, futures, copy trading, and more. And you'll find 200+ cryptocurrencies and 150 contract pairs with up to 100x leverage.
Other Platforms
StealthEx
700+
Coins
Varies
Trading Fee
StealthEx is a privacy-focused, non-custodial exchange where you can make cypto-crypto swaps or buy crypto with fiat in 90 seconds without having to KYC or even create an account. You can buy 9 cryptos with 10+ fiat currencies as well as swap 700+ coins cross-chain.
All you need is an email address, wallet address, and payment method and crypto will be sent directly to your wallet. Some transactions can have higher fees, however it's the fastest and easiest way to trade Bitcoin or altcoins on this list. Full Review....
What Is KYC?
KYC stands for 'know your customer' which refers to verifying the customer's identity. It involves the user providing their government issued ID, name, address, and personal information before they can start transacting. In general, KYC exists to help prevent fraudulent transactions, money laundering, and criminal behavior.
Are Non-KYC Crypto Exchanges Safe?
Generally speaking, non-KYC crypto exchanges are less safe because they lack the regulations, licenses, and consumer protections of their regulated peers. If you decide to use one, it's important to do your research, pick your platforms carefully, and approach it with caution. In the case of bankruptcy, hack or collapse, you could lose your funds permanently.
Tips for Non-KYC Exchanges
Using a non-KYC exchange poses risks, such as less consumer protections, locking your funds, and more. Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:
Summary
These are the best and largest non-KYC exchanges at the moment. You should also check out the best decentralized exchanges since those do not require KYC either.
Edits
The crypto industry changes quickly. Here is how this page is changing over time: