Trading fees
Most exchanges charge a fee when you buy or sell. Some use maker-taker pricing. A maker order adds liquidity to the book. A taker order removes liquidity. Beginner apps may simplify this into one visible fee or include cost in the spread.
Spread
The spread is the gap between the buy price and sell price. A platform can advertise zero commission and still make money through a wider spread. Always compare the final quote, not just the marketing phrase.
Network fees and gas
When you send crypto on-chain, the network may charge a fee. Ethereum calls this gas. Bitcoin has miner fees. Solana and other networks have different fee structures. Fees rise when networks are busy.
Read smart contracts and gas fees for a deeper explanation.
Withdrawal fees
Platforms may charge a withdrawal fee when you move crypto to your own wallet. The fee may be fixed or network-dependent. For small balances, a fixed withdrawal fee can be a large percentage of the transfer.
How to reduce fee mistakes
- Preview the full trade before confirming.
- Check the spread, not only commission.
- Use small test transfers before moving larger amounts.
- Avoid moving tiny balances across expensive networks.
- Keep records for tax reporting.
FAQ
Why did I receive less crypto than expected?
Trading fees, spread, withdrawal fees, or network fees may have reduced the final amount.
Are low-fee networks always better?
Not always. Security, liquidity, app support, and bridge risk matter too.
Can fees affect taxes?
Fees can affect cost basis in many jurisdictions. Keep records and consult a qualified tax professional for your situation.