When you trade on Poloniex, a once-dominant cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2014 that still operates as a niche platform for altcoins. Also known as Poloniex crypto exchange, it’s one of the few platforms that still supports obscure tokens you won’t find on Binance or Coinbase. But if you’re thinking of using it, the Poloniex fees might surprise you.
Poloniex charges taker fees, the cost you pay when you immediately match an existing order on the order book and maker fees, the lower rate you get when you add liquidity by placing a limit order that waits to be filled. As of 2025, taker fees start at 0.15% and drop with higher trading volume, while maker fees are as low as 0.08%. That’s not terrible—but it’s not cheap either. Compare that to Binance’s 0.02% maker fee and you’ll see why many traders moved away. Withdrawal fees are even more unpredictable: Bitcoin withdrawals cost around $0.0005, but lesser-known tokens can cost $5 or more, sometimes more than the value of the token itself. These aren’t hidden—they’re listed—but they add up fast if you’re trading small amounts or moving funds often.
What’s worse, Poloniex doesn’t offer staking, savings accounts, or zero-fee fiat on-ramps like newer exchanges do. If you’re holding tokens long-term, you’re paying storage fees just by keeping them there. And if you’re trading altcoins? You’re likely trading on a platform with thin liquidity, meaning your orders get filled at worse prices than you expect. That’s not a fee you see on your statement—but it’s a real cost. Poloniex still has value for traders hunting rare tokens or doing arbitrage between exchanges, but it’s not for beginners or casual users. The platform feels like a relic: reliable for some, outdated for most.
Below, you’ll find real reviews, hidden costs, and comparisons that show exactly how Poloniex fees stack up against other exchanges—and which ones are actually better for your wallet.
Poloniex was once a top crypto exchange, but it no longer serves U.S. users. This review covers its security, trading features, savings options, and why it's no longer viable for most people in 2025.