MEXC Review (2026) – Fees, Security, Pros & Cons
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What is MEXC?
MEXC is a cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2018 and is particularly well known for its enormous selection of altcoins — smaller, newer cryptocurrencies beyond the mainstream names. With over 1,500 cryptocurrencies listed, MEXC consistently ranks as one of the widest-ranging exchanges in the world, making it the go-to platform for investors who want early access to new and emerging digital assets.
UK users can access MEXC, though it is not registered with the FCA and operates as an offshore platform for British investors. One of its most distinctive features is its spot trading fee structure: MEXC currently charges 0% on spot maker and taker fees, making it effectively free to trade on the spot market — an unusually competitive offer.
While MEXC's altcoin selection and zero spot fees are compelling, it is worth understanding that many of the tokens listed are small-cap assets with higher volatility and risk than established coins like Bitcoin or Ethereum. MEXC is best suited to investors who understand these risks and are specifically looking to access a broader range of digital assets.
Capital at risk. Crypto is not FSCS protected. We may earn a commission.
Pros and Cons
- 0% spot trading fees — one of the lowest of any major exchange
- 1,500+ cryptocurrencies — one of the widest selections available
- Early access to new token listings and launchpad projects
- Simple interface suitable for beginner altcoin investors
- Strong mobile app
- Regular Proof of Reserves published
- Not FCA registered — offshore platform for UK users
- Many listed coins are small-cap and high risk
- GBP deposits require third-party providers
- Less suitable for investors focused solely on major coins
- Customer support response times can be slow
- Derivatives unavailable to UK retail customers
MEXC Trading Fees
Understanding fees before you invest is essential. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay on MEXC.
| Fee Type | Interface | Cost | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot Maker Fee | Spot Trading | 0% | Zero cost limit orders |
| Spot Taker Fee | Spot Trading | 0% | Zero cost market orders |
| Futures Maker | Futures | 0% | Where available |
| Futures Taker | Futures | 0.10% | Where available |
| GBP Deposit | Via third party | Varies | Check current rates |
| Card Purchase | Quick Buy | ~2% | For convenience |
Supported Cryptocurrencies
MEXC supports 1,500+ cryptocurrencies, giving UK investors access to a wide range of digital assets. Below are some of the most popular coins available on the platform.
Security
Security is one of the most important factors when choosing a cryptocurrency exchange. Here is how MEXC protects your funds.
Cold Storage
The majority of customer funds are kept in offline cold storage — completely disconnected from the internet and unreachable by hackers.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
All accounts can be protected with 2FA. Even if someone knows your password, they cannot log in without a second code from your phone or authenticator app.
Proof of Reserves
Regular reserve audits allow users to verify that the exchange holds sufficient funds to cover all customer balances.
Account Security Tools
Features such as withdrawal address whitelisting, anti-phishing codes, and login notifications help protect your account from unauthorised access.
New Listing Security
MEXC conducts due diligence on new token listings through its review process, though investors should always research any new asset independently before investing.
Ease of Use
MEXC has a relatively straightforward interface for a platform with such a large number of listed assets. The main trading screen is clean, and there is a Quick Buy option that lets beginners purchase the most popular cryptocurrencies without needing to navigate the full trading platform.
For those looking to invest in lesser-known altcoins, MEXC's search and filtering tools make it reasonably easy to find specific tokens. The mobile app mirrors the desktop experience well and is well-suited to investors who track a large number of different coins.
New investors should take care when exploring MEXC's full coin catalogue. Many of the 1,500+ listed assets are highly speculative small-cap tokens. We recommend beginners start with well-established cryptocurrencies before exploring the broader altcoin market.
How to Open a MEXC Account
Opening a MEXC account is straightforward and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Visit the Website
Go to the exchange website and click 'Create Account'. Enter your email address and choose a strong, unique password.
Verify Your Email
Check your inbox for a verification email and click the confirmation link to activate your account.
Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
Upload a valid photo ID (passport or driving licence) and proof of address. As a regulated platform, identity verification is required by law.
Wait 24 Hours (FCA Cooling-Off Period)
UK regulations require new users to wait 24 hours after registering before placing their first trade. Use this time to explore the platform.
Deposit Funds
Transfer GBP from your UK bank account using Faster Payments where available — it is usually free and arrives within minutes.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Before trading, turn on 2FA in your account security settings. This is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your funds.
Start Buying Cryptocurrency
Search for a coin, enter your amount in pounds, review the fee shown, and confirm your purchase. Start small — there is no rush.
Capital at risk. Crypto is not covered by FSCS. InvestCompareUK may earn a commission.
Crypto Tax in the UK
HMRC treats cryptocurrency as a capital asset. If you sell crypto for more than you paid, you may owe Capital Gains Tax on the profit. For the 2025–26 tax year, the annual CGT allowance is £3,000. Gains above this threshold are taxed at 18% for basic-rate taxpayers or 24% for higher-rate taxpayers.
From January 2026, all FCA-registered exchanges are required to report transaction data to HMRC automatically under the Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF). Keeping your own records is still strongly recommended. Many investors use dedicated crypto tax software to calculate their liability accurately.
Final Verdict
MEXC stands out in 2026 for two reasons: its 0% spot trading fees and its unrivalled selection of over 1,500 cryptocurrencies. For altcoin investors who want early access to new tokens at zero trading cost, it is one of the most compelling platforms available.
The key caveats are MEXC's offshore status and the inherently speculative nature of many of its listed assets. It is not an FCA-registered exchange, which means UK consumers do not benefit from the same protections as on a regulated platform.
Compare MEXC with all other exchanges in our full UK crypto exchange comparison.
Capital at risk. Crypto is not covered by FSCS. InvestCompareUK may earn a commission if you open an account via our link.