Centralized vs Decentralized Exchanges: Comparison Guide

With the advent of cryptocurrency technologies in our lives, many tools and solutions for working with them have appeared. One such tool today is cryptocurrency exchanges, which are presented in two groups: decentralized and centralized exchanges. How do they differ? 

Centralized exchanges can be used to settle transactions: change fiat for cryptocurrency (or vice versa). Users can also apply it to make transactions between two diverse cryptocurrencies.

Decentralized exchanges work alternatively. They do not have an intermediary (3rd party owner of the exchange). These types of exchanges operate as peer-to-peer trading platforms. The service never holds assets. Transactions and trades are carried out exclusively based on smart contracts and atomic (cross-chain) swaps.

In this article, we will explore the key features of each type of exchange and discover their use cases, famous examples, and more.

Both centralized (CEX) and decentralized (DEX) exchanges are the central link of the cryptocurrency markets where cryptocurrencies are traded. These exchanges are designed to provide the ability to trade and exchange various digital coins easily, quickly, and safely.

Below, we summarized the information to provide you with a clear picture of core differences between centralized vs decentralized crypto exchanges: 

Now, let’s consider these two types of exchanges in more detail. You will gain a more comprehensive understanding of their characteristics and functionalities.

As their name suggests, CEXs are operated by a single entity that primarily acts as an intermediary between two parties - sellers and buyers. 

Let's imagine a user who aims to purchase Bitcoin. A user can go to the exchange, register with their bank details, complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification (if required), and deposit cash. The exchange will show them the cost based on an "order book" of people purchasing and selling for diverse amounts. After that, users can make a transaction to buy Bitcoin for the amount listed on the exchange.

Next, the exchange will show the Bitcoins the user purchased in their account, and they can exchange them for other tokens on the platform. But a user doesn't actually hold them because they're instructing the CEX to operate as a repository on their behalf. Any trading users do, such as exchanging Bitcoin for Ethereum, does not happen on the blockchain but on the exchange's database.

Examples of well-known centralized exchanges:

• Binance: Largest cryptocurrency exchange. Ranks first in terms of trading volume ($22 billion).
• Kraken: Known for its security and wide range of cryptocurrencies. $1 billion in trading volume.
• Gemini: Priorities security and compliance. Has a trading volume of $87 million.
• Coinbase: One of the top exchanges globally. Trading volume, according to CoinGecko: $3 billion.

In our guide on the comparison of centralized exchanges vs decentralized exchanges, we came to the topic of CEX use cases. Centralized exchanges provide an array of services tailored to meet the diverse requirements of users: 

CEXs provide a user-friendly platform for spot trading, enabling users to shop and sell a variety of cryptocurrencies for immediate delivery. This straightforward process attracts both beginners and experienced traders. In turn, this contributes to the efficiency and liquidity of the crypto market. 

Beyond spot trading, some CEXs offer sophisticated options such as futures and perpetual contracts. These derivative instruments enable traders to engage in more complex strategies, including hedging and leverage, enhancing the diversity of trading options available on the platform.

It is a process where users actively participate in the blockchain network's operations, facilitated by CEXs. Users lock up their crypto holdings to support network functions, earning additional tokens as rewards. This benefits individual users and contributes to blockchain's general security and decentralization. 

For example, CEXs like Gemini, Binance, Coinbase, KuCoin, and Kraken enable cryptocurrency users to stake their assets and earn staking rewards, providing an avenue for passive income.

CEXs are instrumental in providing asset management services, catering to users who prefer a hands-off approach to their crypto holdings. Entities like Grayscale Investments and others manage crypto assets on behalf of clients, offering various investment products and opportunities. 

CEXs specializing in crypto loans offer a unique service where users can borrow funds against their crypto assets. By using their holdings as collateral, users can access liquidity without trading their crypto. This borrowing mechanism provides flexibility for users who need funds while maintaining their long-term crypto investments. There are many CEXs specializing in cryptocurrency loans, such as Nebeus or CoinRabbit.

Centralized crypto exchanges have many advantages, which is why they remain extremely popular:

Intuitive user interface: Centralized exchanges are known for their user-friendly interfaces, catering to novice traders. The ease of navigation allows users to efficiently conduct trades, manage portfolios, and engage in various activities without facing a steep learning curve.

Enhanced security measures: CEXs implement robust security protocols to safeguard user assets and accounts. Safety is provided by features such as 2FA (two-factor authentication), encryption, and secure wallet storage. The centralized model enables stringent security practices, lowering the risk of unauthorized access or security incidents. Also, these exchanges have a KYC verification system to confirm the individuals’ identities. 

High liquidity and trading volume: Traditional exchanges boast significant liquidity and trading volumes. This ensures users can execute trades promptly at desired prices, minimizing slippage. The high liquidity also guarantees the availability of buyers or sellers for most trading pairs, enhancing overall trading efficiency. This is one of the essential benefits of CEX in the comparison of centralized exchanges vs decentralized exchanges.

Diverse trading options: Centralized exchanges (CEXs) stand out by providing an extensive selection of trading opportunities. This allows users to explore diverse markets and engage with numerous cryptocurrency pairs. The broad spectrum of trading options not only facilitates portfolio diversification but also empowers users to navigate various market dynamics. This versatility caters to both beginners and skilled traders, offering a comprehensive trading environment with a broad range of digital assets to select from.

Seamless fiat connectivity: The ease of transitioning between cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies is a notable feature. Numerous centralized exchanges enable users to deposit and withdraw funds in conventional fiat currencies like USD, EUR, and more.

Responsive customer support: Many centralized exchanges provide customer support services to address user queries, account-related issues, and other concerns. Direct support can be invaluable for users seeking quick assistance and resolutions to challenges encountered while using the platform. 

While some of these characteristics are excellent, there are also a few drawbacks to a centralized exchange. 

Vulnerable to hacking or cybersecurity risks: Over the past decade, over thirty major hacker attacks on cryptocurrency platforms have been recorded (for example, Coincheck, Mt.Gox, BitGrail). We must not forget that scammers’ tricks are improving, and they continue to examine centralized systems for weak areas.

Takes service fees for its usage: Most services charge users when they apply them. Sometimes, these fees are hidden, and sometimes, they are built into the service itself, so they are not immediately detectable.

Dependence on a centralized entity: User assets are under the control of the exchange. If the site goes bankrupt, clients may lose all their funds. One of the examples is the FTX exchange, where the centralized crypto exchange managers use clients’ assets for personal enrichment.

Regulation by authorities: CEXs are increasingly subject to audits and pressure from government agencies. This can freeze or confiscate customer funds and force exchanges to make users' personal data public.

The DeFi (decentralized finances) sector is gaining popularity, and many authoritative sources, such as Statista, confirm this. This research website states that the number of users in the DeFi market is projected to amount to 22.09 million users by 2028. Decentralized exchanges are one of the main trends in the DeFi field. 

A decentralized exchange is a platform that enables individuals to manage their own funds fully. In addition, there are no intermediaries in such a type of exchange. 

Decentralized peer-to-peer exchanges emerged to solve problems associated with centralized platforms. The term “Peer-to-peer” marks that users can trade with each other directly, transferring cryptocurrencies between their wallets and bypassing the wallets of crypto exchanges. Let’s consider an example of how these exchanges work. 

For example, a user wants to trade a cryptocurrency that runs on the Ethereum blockchain. First, they need to find an Ethereum-based DEX, such as Uniswap. There is a wide choice of trading pairs on such platforms. A user should then connect their personal wallet to the exchange and place an order. The DEX will execute the order using AMM (automation market maker) funds, and the user’s trade will be completed. The tokens will go directly into the user's personal wallet without the need for deposits or withdrawals.

Examples of decentralized exchanges:

• Uniswap: DEX on the Ethereum blockchain. Trading volume: $1.18 billion.
• PankaceSwap: Decentralized exchange on the Binance blockchain (BEP20). Trading volume: $1.20 billion.
• DYDX: It is running on the Ethereum blockchain. 24h trading volume: $642 million.
• DODO: DEX is operating on the Ethereum blockchain. More than 2,000,000 users. 

Now, let's explore the use cases that distinguish decentralized exchanges in the CEX vs DEX comparison: 

DEX platforms excel in their ability to facilitate rapid token swaps. Whether a user aims to exchange cryptocurrencies directly or engage in decentralized finance activities, DEX platforms provide a direct and efficient avenue for completing these transactions without the need for intermediary involvement.

A prevalent use case within DeFi involves open lending protocols. DeFi lending and borrowing offer advantages such as rapid settlement, no KYC requirements, minimal to zero collateral needs for borrowing, and the absence of credit checks. Transactions unfold on a peer-to-peer blockchain. 

Yield optimization, synonymous with yield farming, employs data analytics and optimization techniques. DeFi software automates and optimizes yield compoundings from interest-bearing assets such as pooling, staking, and others. Computational strategies are employed to maximize rates on crypto transactions, enhancing the overall returns in yield optimization.

DeFi serves as a noteworthy use case for monetary banking services, encompassing straightforward mortgage offerings, stablecoin issuance, and insurance. As the blockchain industry expands, the demand for fiat-backed stablecoins grows. Traditional mortgage services often involve intermediaries, incurring costs and time delays. Smart contracts on public or permitted blockchains substantially reduce legal and underwriting charges. 

DeFi's most widespread applications manifest in decentralized marketplaces or exchanges. Traders can seamlessly join decentralized exchanges like Uniswap and PancakeSwap, facilitating lending, borrowing, or trading of crypto assets without intermediaries.

To continue our comparison of DEX vs CEX, let’s consider the benefits that decentralized ones provide. Most of the strengths of decentralized exchanges come from their distributed structure. Here are a few advantages that encourage crypto owners to choose them:

Enhanced anonymity: DEXs operate on principles that prioritize user privacy with minimal data requirements. The absence of centralized accounts and the utilization of blockchain technology contribute to increased anonymity for traders.

Reduced counterparty risk: By facilitating peer-to-peer transactions through smart contracts, DEXs minimize counterparty risk. Traders retain control over their assets until the moment of trade execution, reducing reliance on intermediaries and enhancing overall security.

Security through decentralization: The decentralized nature of DEXs leverages blockchain's inherent security features. This cuts the risk of centralized points of failure. Furthermore, decentralization improves the resilience and robustness of the platform against possible security vulnerabilities.

Global accessibility: DEXs typically offer global accessibility, allowing users worldwide to participate without stringent geographic restrictions. This inclusive approach aligns with the decentralized finance philosophy, providing financial opportunities to a broader global audience.

Permissionless trading: Users can engage in trading on DEXs without the need for complex approval processes. The permissionless nature of DEXs aligns with the core principles of decentralized finance, offering financial access without traditional barriers.

Resilience to regulatory changes: The decentralized structure of DEXs may contribute to resilience in the face of certain regulatory changes. Users can continue trading without immediate interference from external regulatory authorities. 

However, regulatory authorities of the European Union and a number of countries, in particular the USA, China, and Singapore are today working on the creation and implementation of legislative acts at local levels to oversee all existing decentralized platforms and trade transactions carried out on them.

What do decentralized platforms lack? Opportunities to carry out margin trading, use stop loss, and other functions. Additionally, traders take more risks when working with this type of exchange. If personal data (access key, password) is lost, it will be impossible to recover it, and all funds can automatically be considered lost.

Difficulties in starting to use: Users first need to learn all its functionality. Any error related to crypto wallet data, sending funds to addresses, paying commissions, or other actions can be costly for the DEX user.

Lower liquidity: Decentralized exchanges tend to have less liquidity compared to CEXs. Therefore, when purchasing or trading large positions in low-liquidity pairs, individuals may face so-called price sliding. This means executing a transaction at a price that differs from the one set in order for the worse, which reduces user benefits.

Limited trading options: Decentralized exchanges have limited trading features and do not have the usual options such as different order types (for example, Buy Limit, Sell Limit, Stop Loss, Sell Stop, Buy Stop, Take Profit) or margin trades. This can make it much more challenging to follow a trading strategy, which can lead to losses. Also, decentralized exchanges do not have additional tools such as tape (record of all stock transactions), market depth, or order book.

Transaction speed: The transaction speed on decentralized exchanges (DEX) can occasionally face challenges attributed to the decentralized nature of the platform and its reliance on blockchain technology. Factors such as network congestion and block times may contribute to variations in transaction speed, which might not align with the swift execution expectations of traders accustomed to centralized exchanges.

Peiko is a team of experts with significant expertise in developing software and blockchain solutions for diverse business niches. We offer many blockchain development services, including DeFi solutions development, crypto wallets, crypto exchanges, smart contracts building, and others. 

At Peiko, we believe cryptocurrency should be accessible and user-friendly for everyone. Quan2um is a vivid example of a blockchain project we developed. It is the next-generation crypto exchange designed for both mobile and desktop users.

Here's what we successfully tackled during the development process:

• Create a clear design: We prioritized creating a modern, intuitive design that's visually appealing, crystal clear, and easy to navigate.
• Provide simple trading: We seamlessly integrated mobile capabilities, empowering users to manage their crypto portfolio with ease anytime, anywhere.
• Ensured a simple registration process: Users can register on Quan2um using Google and Apple ID. It is possible to connect with a few clicks and start exploring the exciting crypto world.
• Added a robust user verification system: We implemented a KYC verification system, ensuring the security and reliability of users' transactions.
• Implemented price tracking tool: Our experts integrated a powerful price tracking tool for crypto pairs. So users can confidently monitor market movements and make informed decisions.

As a result, Quant2um combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design and makes crypto accessible and empowering for everyone.

The selection between centralized vs decentralized crypto exchanges will depend on individuals’ specific needs and priorities. Decentralized exchanges offer users a greater level of control and ownership of their assets but may not be as fast or efficient as centralized exchanges. Centralized exchanges offer faster and more efficient trading, but users must trust the exchange to store and manage their assets.

When using a CEX, it is important not to transfer all your funds there or store them for a long time. When not in use, withdraw them to an external wallet. When choosing DEX, please note that the protocol has passed a security audit.

In general, centralized vs. decentralized exchanges are an important connecting element of the crypto market, without which the cryptosystem cannot exist. If you want to develop a reliable crypto exchange project to succeed on the market, turn to us. We will discuss your idea and help to implement it!