CEX.IO Exchange Review: Compliance, User Experience, and Core Features
Key Advantages:
Licensed and regulated (Fincen, PCI DSS), ensuring transparency and user protection.
Intuitive, multi-language trading platform suited for global users.
Margin trading available up to 3x leverage for select pairs.
Full fiat support—deposits/withdrawals via bank cards and SEPA.
Robust security including 2FA and cold storage for digital assets.
Main Drawbacks:
Limited range of assets eligible for margin trading.
KYC process is rigorous and can be time-consuming.
Support response times can lag, especially during peak demand.
About CEX.IO
Launched in London in 2013, CEX.IO evolved from a cloud mining service to a regulated exchange with strong fiat gateways. It supports a suite of leading cryptocurrencies and enables seamless trading against major fiat currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, RUB).
Registration & Verification
Account creation is open globally, but full functionality requires multi-step KYC. You’ll need:
Government-issued ID (passport or ID card scan).
A selfie with your ID in hand.
Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement).
Bank card verification (card details and documentation).
The process can take a few days, particularly during surges in new signups.
Trading Conditions
CEX.IO offers spot trading for major digital assets, including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Ripple (XRP)
Stellar Lumens (XLM)
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) and more
BTC pairs are available against USD, EUR, GBP, and RUB.
Margin Trading
Leverage of 2x or 3x is available for key pairs such as:
BTC/USD
BTC/EUR
ETH/BTC
ETH/USD
Makers pay 0% fees; taker fees are 0.2%. The system will auto-close positions during major market swings to prevent deep losses.
Fees
30d Trading Volume (BTC)
Maker Fee
Taker Fee
≤ 5
0.16%
0.25%
≤ 30
0.15%
0.23%
≤ 3000
0.04%
0.13%
> 6000
0.00%
0.10%
Security
CEX.IO’s security stack includes:
Two-factor authentication (Google Authenticator or SMS).
SSL certificates for encrypted traffic.
Cold storage for the vast majority of digital assets.
Conclusion
CEX.IO is a robust, regulated platform built for both entry-level and seasoned traders. Its strengths are regulatory clarity, fiat flexibility, and a simple UI—offset by slow KYC and limited margin pairs. For users seeking compliance, stability, and solid fiat support, CEX.IO is a competitive choice in today’s exchange market.
I’ve used CEX.IO for fiat on- and off-ramps, especially as someone in the UK. Deposits and withdrawals are straightforward, and I like that support actually replies. The coin selection is kind of limited, and fees aren’t the lowest, but for quick bank transfers it does the job. I’d recommend it to anyone who needs easy access to crypto using GBP or EUR.
CEX.IO’s alright for buying crypto with GBP, and their support actually replies (unlike some!). Limits on buying with cards can be a hassle, and fees aren’t the lowest, but for UK folks wanting something legal — can’t complain much.
