CEX.IO
FCA
Gemini
NYDFS/FCA
CEX.IO vs Gemini
Head-to-Head Comparison 2026
Our Verdict
Gemini has a higher rating of 4.2/5 compared to CEX.IO (3.7/5). Gemini offers 5 instrument types, while CEX.IO offers 4. The minimum deposit is lower at Gemini with 0 $. CEX.IO has been in the market since 2013, making it the more experienced provider. On spreads, CEX.IO offers Trading fee 0.16% maker / 0.25% taker (spot, Pro Trading); approx. 1.5% spread on instant buy, while Gemini offers Trading fee 0.40% maker / 0.60% taker (ActiveTrader); approx. 1.49% spread on simple buy.
Comparison Table
| Criteria | CEX.IO | Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 3.7/5 (850 reviews) | 4.2/5 (1800 reviews)✓ |
| Regulation | FCA | NYDFS/FCA |
| Fees | 0.15% Maker / 0.25% Taker, credit card purchase 2.99% | 0.2% Maker / 0.4% Taker (ActiveTrader), convenience fee 1.49% |
| Min. Deposit | 20 $ | 0 $ |
| Instruments | Bitcoin, Ethereum, Altcoins, Staking | Bitcoin, Ethereum, Altcoins, Staking, Gemini Dollar (GUSD) |
| Platforms | CEX.IO Web, CEX.IO App | Gemini Web, Gemini App, ActiveTrader |
| Options Trading | No | No |
| Spread (typical) | Trading fee 0.16% maker / 0.25% taker (spot, Pro Trading); approx. 1.5% spread on instant buy | Trading fee 0.40% maker / 0.60% taker (ActiveTrader); approx. 1.49% spread on simple buy |
| Founded | 2013 | 2014 |
| Headquarters | London | New York |
Detailed Comparison
Fee Comparison
CEX.IO: 0.15% Maker / 0.25% Taker, credit card purchase 2.99%. Minimum deposit: 20 $. Spread: Trading fee 0.16% maker / 0.25% taker (spot, Pro Trading); approx. 1.5% spread on instant buy.
Gemini: 0.2% Maker / 0.4% Taker (ActiveTrader), convenience fee 1.49%. Minimum deposit: 0 $. Spread: Trading fee 0.40% maker / 0.60% taker (ActiveTrader); approx. 1.49% spread on simple buy.
Product Range
CEX.IO (4 categories)
Gemini (5 categories)
Trading Platforms
CEX.IO
- CEX.IO Web
- CEX.IO App
Gemini
- Gemini Web
- Gemini App
- ActiveTrader
Regulation & Security
CEX.IO is regulated by FCA (HQ: London).
Gemini is regulated by NYDFS/FCA (HQ: New York).
Who Is It For?
CEX.IO
FCA-regulated crypto exchange with credit card purchase and staking
✓ FCA-regulated with long operating history since 2013
✓ Easy crypto purchase via credit card
✓ Staking offerings for passive earnings
✗ High fees for credit card purchases (2.99%)
✗ Fewer coin selections than larger exchanges
Gemini
US-regulated crypto exchange focused on security and compliance
✓ NYDFS-regulated with highest security standards
✓ SOC 2 certified and insured deposits
✓ Gemini Earn for staking yields
✗ Higher fees than many competitors (convenience fee)
✗ Fewer altcoins than Binance or Gate.io
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CEX.IO or Gemini cheaper?
Which broker offers more products: CEX.IO or Gemini?
Which broker is better regulated?
Is CEX.IO or Gemini better for beginners?
CEX.IO vs Gemini: Which broker is better overall?
How do spreads compare between CEX.IO and Gemini?
CEX.IO
FCA-regulated crypto exchange with credit card purchase and staking
Open Account →From 20 $ min. deposit
Gemini
US-regulated crypto exchange focused on security and compliance
Open Account →From 0 $ min. deposit