This article will answer the question, “What is BitMEX?”. I have taken the time to do extensive research and write this article with the intention of answering this question for my readers. has its headquarters in Hong Kong, China. Using only BitMEX for trades, deposits, and derivative settlements.
Leverage
This information is important when making comparisons between BitMEX and Deribit. The first key comparison is leverage. There is a high level of leverage in both these systems. However, in comparison to other popular online currency brokers, BitMEX offers the highest level of leverage available to an investor. Leverage allows you to purchase large amounts of currency with little cash outlay and thereby allows you to enjoy greater returns on your investment than with most other platforms and brokers.
Liquidity
Another key comparison is in terms of liquidity. Both are leveraged trading platforms, but there is a significantly higher level of liquidity in the hands of BitMEX users. Deribit does not have nearly the amount of liquidity that BitMEX has. These are real complaints that some users have posted regarding the service.
Market leader
Next, the market leader, Deribit, has a problem with its commissions. This is not a problem in a forex trade, where liquidity is king, but when you consider that the market leader has a low liquidity level and still makes money despite the lack of commission, this fact should be enough to discount the benefits of Deribit to its customers.
Cost structure
Finally, we will take a look at the cost structure of each trading platform. Here, BitMEX has an advantage over its competitor. The lack of minimum deposit requirements and its ability to function as a cross-marketing platform between two different currencies makes it a superior service. This, in turn, allows its users to enjoy better liquidity and better performance than its competitor.
Perform a thorough analysis between these two choices
When comparing BitMEX versus Deribit, the most important thing to remember is that you must perform a thorough analysis between these two choices. You must look beyond the basic cost structure of each platform and dig into the differences between the two that will affect your trades. With this information, you can then determine which one will give you a better return on investment for your money. The comparisons are not simply between BitMEX and Deribit but between the two different currency pair markets. Thus, a proper comparison between these two products is needed to ensure you get the best value.
So, should you use BitMEX or Deribit?
It all depends. Do you trade mostly in one currency, or are you a daily trader looking to make profits on trends? If you are a day trader, then Deribit is probably a better option for you. On the other hand, if you trade mostly in two different currencies, then you might want to go with BitMEX.
BitMEX is the premier exchange available
In terms of what is this new exchange platform compared to the others out there? BitMEX works under the premise that it is the premier exchange available in the crypto-coin space. In order for this premise to be true, then it must be able to provide something that is different from other platforms out there. It must offer a unique combination of characteristics, like low commissions, a high level of security, a fair and open trade market, and instant conversions from one currency to another. By meeting these requirements, the premise that BitMEX offers is different and superior to any other option out there.
BitMEX has also received praises from industry experts
In addition to its distinct characteristics, BitMEX has also received praises from industry experts who see the platform as a superior choice. Not only does it offer low trading commissions and a competitive price for every trade, but the platform also offers a number of features that will allow you to earn more money. While most people compare BitMEX to the popular Cryptocurrency trading platform, it must also be mentioned that the two platforms serve completely different purposes.
When comparing the two currency trading platforms, the bottom line is that the right decision for you depends entirely on your own trading needs and preferences. The one thing that is certain is that both offer a unique level of convenience and value for each trade. If you are looking for a fast and convenient way to make money in the currency markets, then BitMEX is probably a good choice for you. If you like a quieter, more controlled approach and more long term value for your investment, then Deribit may be the better choice. Learn more about this when you visit site.
BitMEX vs Deribit: Key Facts Compared
| Feature | BitMEX | Deribit |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 | 2016 |
| Main products | Perpetual swaps and futures on Bitcoin and other coins | Perpetual swaps, futures, and options; the largest crypto options exchange |
| Fees | Maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade, not zero | Maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade, not an hourly rate |
| Leverage | High leverage available, up to 100x on some contracts | High leverage available on futures and options |
| Identity checks | Mandatory KYC since 2020 | KYC required to trade |
BitMEX and Deribit are both crypto derivatives exchanges. A derivative is a contract whose value comes from another asset, like Bitcoin. You do not buy the coin. You trade a contract based on its price. BitMEX was founded in 2014. It became famous for its Bitcoin perpetual swap, called XBTUSD. A perpetual swap is a contract that never expires. It tracks the price of Bitcoin. Deribit was founded in 2016. It became famous for crypto options. An option is a contract that gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell at a set price. Deribit is now the largest crypto options exchange by volume. Both exchanges offer high leverage. Leverage lets you trade a large amount with little money. For example, 10x leverage means you control $10,000 with $1,000. Leverage can increase profits. It can also increase losses. If the price moves against you, your position can be liquidated. Liquidation means the exchange closes your position and you lose your margin. This can happen fast. Both exchanges charge fees. BitMEX does not have zero commissions. It charges maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade. Deribit does not charge an hourly rate of $5. It also charges maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade. The exact fees change over time. Check the official fee pages of each exchange. Both exchanges now require identity checks. BitMEX introduced mandatory KYC in 2020. Deribit also requires KYC. This means you must show ID before you trade. Neither exchange is available in all countries. The United States is restricted on both. Check if the exchange is legal in your country before you use it.
The Risks of Leveraged Crypto Trading
Leveraged crypto trading is very risky. Crypto prices move fast. A price can fall 10 percent in one day. With 100x leverage, a small move can wipe out your money. Most retail traders lose money on leveraged trading. Do not trade with money you cannot afford to lose. Do not borrow money to trade. Start with a small amount. Learn how the exchange works. Use a test account if one is available. A test account lets you practise with fake money. Learn about risk controls. A stop loss is an order that closes your position at a set price. It limits your loss. A take profit order closes your position at a set gain. Use them. Do not risk all your money on one trade. A common rule is to risk no more than 1 to 2 percent of your account on one trade. Keep your account safe. Use a strong password. Turn on two-factor login. Keep your coins in a hardware wallet when you are not trading. An exchange can be hacked. An exchange can fail. Do not keep all your money on one exchange. This guide does not tell you which exchange to use. It does not tell you to trade. It only explains how the two exchanges differ. Trading is a personal choice. It is a risky one. If you are not sure, do not trade. Learn first. Read the official help pages of each exchange. Talk to a licensed financial adviser if you need advice about your own money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BitMEX?
BitMEX is a crypto derivatives exchange founded in 2014. It is famous for its Bitcoin perpetual swap, called XBTUSD. A perpetual swap is a contract that never expires and tracks the price of Bitcoin.
What is Deribit?
Deribit is a crypto derivatives exchange founded in 2016. It is famous for crypto options and is now the largest crypto options exchange by volume. It also offers perpetual swaps and futures.
Does BitMEX have zero commissions?
No. BitMEX charges maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade. The exact fees change over time. Check the official fee page of the exchange for current rates.
Does Deribit charge an hourly rate?
No. Deribit charges maker and taker fees as a percent of the trade. It does not charge an hourly rate. Check the official fee page for current rates.
Is leveraged crypto trading risky?
Yes. Leverage can increase profits and losses. A small price move can liquidate your position and you can lose your margin. Most retail traders lose money on leveraged trading. Do not trade with money you cannot afford to lose.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information about BitMEX and Deribit. It is for information only. This guide gives no investment advice for readers. Crypto trading is very risky. Fees, rules, and availability change over time. Check the official websites of each exchange for current details, and talk to a licensed financial adviser before you trade.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026