Navigating the world of digital assets can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers. One platform that consistently stands out in the crypto space is OKX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange known for its robust security, user-friendly interface, and comprehensive trading tools. Whether you're looking to buy your first Bitcoin or dive into advanced trading strategies, this guide will walk you through every step of using OKX—from registration to executing your first trade.
This beginner-friendly walkthrough focuses on the OKX mobile app, ensuring you get up and running quickly and safely. By the end, you’ll understand how to register, verify your identity, deposit funds, and start trading with confidence.
👉 Discover how easy it is to start trading on a secure, trusted platform today.
Step 1: Registering Your OKX Account
The first step to using OKX is creating an account. The process is straightforward and supports both email and phone number registration.
- Open the OKX website or download the app.
- Tap "Sign Up" and choose either phone number or email.
- Enter your details and complete the CAPTCHA verification.
- Set a strong password and confirm your registration.
Pro Tip: We recommend registering with your phone number since KYC (Know Your Customer) verification requires a linked mobile number for buy/sell transactions.
If you encounter issues receiving SMS verification codes:
- Click "Didn't receive the code?" during login to request assistance.
- Alternatively, contact support at [email protected] with a copy of your ID and a request to update your phone number.
Step 2: Secure Your Account & Complete KYC
Before trading, you must complete three essential security and identity steps:
1. KYC Verification
- Go to your profile > Identity Verification.
- Complete Level 1 (Basic) and Level 2 (Advanced) verification by uploading government-issued ID documents.
- Higher verification levels unlock better trading limits and access to premium services.
Note: Video verification (if required) is only available via the OKX mobile app, not the desktop site.
2. Bind Your Phone Number
- Navigate to Security Center > Phone Verification.
- Confirm your mobile number if not already done during registration.
- You can also link an email for added recovery options.
3. Set a Fund Password
- Under Security Center > Fund Password, create a separate password used specifically for withdrawals and sensitive operations.
- This adds an extra layer of protection beyond your login credentials.
While here, consider enabling:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) via Google Authenticator
- Anti-phishing code
- Email and device login alerts
These settings significantly enhance your account’s security posture.
Step 3: Add Payment Methods for Buying Crypto
To buy digital assets with fiat currency (like CNY or USD), you need to set up payment methods.
- Tap Buy Crypto > More > Personal Settings > Add收款 Account.
- Link your bank card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
Once verified, these methods allow instant purchases and smooth withdrawals.
Step 4: Buy Your First Cryptocurrency
OKX offers multiple ways to acquire crypto. For beginners, we recommend starting with the Quick Buy/Sell feature.
Option 1: Quick Buy (Recommended for Beginners)
Let’s say you want to buy USDT (Tether):
- Go to Buy Crypto > Quick Buy/Sell
- Enter the amount in CNY
- Select your preferred payment method
- Tap Buy USDT
After confirming the order:
- Transfer the amount via your bank app, Alipay, or WeChat
- Return to OKX and click “I’ve transferred, next”
- Once confirmed by the seller, your USDT appears in your wallet
⚠️ Important:
- Use only a bank account under your own name (matching KYC)
- Daily limit in Quick Buy: 10 – 1,000,000 CNY
- For transfers over 50,000 CNY outside business hours (after 5 PM or holidays), split into smaller batches to avoid delays
Option 2: C2C Trading
You can also trade directly with other users:
- Visit Buy Crypto > C2C Trading
- Choose a seller with good ratings and favorable rates
- Click Buy USDT and follow similar steps
For large amounts (≥100,000 CNY), use the OTC Desk for institutional-grade pricing and execution.
Step 5: Deposit Cryptocurrency from External Wallets
Already hold crypto elsewhere? Transfer it safely to OKX.
Example: Depositing USDT
- Tap Assets > Deposit
- Select USDT
- Choose network: ERC20, TRC20, or OEC
- Copy the deposit address
- Paste it into your external wallet’s withdrawal field
🔴 Critical Warning:
- Always ensure the network matches on both ends (e.g., TRC20 to TRC20)
- Some tokens like XRP require a tag/memo—don’t forget to include it!
Mistakes in network or tag selection may result in permanent fund loss.
Step 6: Transfer Funds Between Accounts
After buying or depositing USDT, you may need to move it from your funding account to your trading account.
Here’s how:
- Go to Assets > Transfer
- Select USDT
- Transfer from Funding Account → Trading Account
- Enter amount and confirm
Now you're ready to trade!
Step 7: Start Trading – Buy DOGE with USDT
Let’s execute a simple spot trade: buying Dogecoin (DOGE) using USDT.
- Tap Trade > Basic Mode
- Search for the trading pair: DOGE/USDT
- Select Limit Order
- Input desired price and quantity
- Tap Buy DOGE
Your order waits in the market until the price hits your target. Once matched, the DOGE appears in your trading account.
Understanding trading pairs:
- DOGE/USDT = How much USDT needed per DOGE
- You’re effectively exchanging one cryptocurrency for another
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is OKX safe for beginners?
Yes. OKX uses military-grade encryption, cold wallet storage, and regular third-party audits. With over seven years in operation and millions of users worldwide, it's one of the most trusted exchanges globally.
Q2: Can I use OKX without KYC?
You can explore features like demo trading without KYC, but to buy crypto with fiat or withdraw funds, identity verification is mandatory.
Q3: Why isn’t my deposit showing up?
Double-check:
- Correct blockchain network used
- Transaction has enough confirmations
- Tag/memo included (if required)
If still missing after 24 hours, contact OKX support with transaction hash.
Q4: What are the trading fees on OKX?
Spot trading fees start as low as 0.1%, with discounts for high-volume traders or those holding OKB (OKX’s native token). Using an invite code may also reduce fees by up to 20%.
Q5: How do I withdraw money to my bank account?
Use the Sell Crypto function in C2C:
- Select a buyer offering bank transfer
- Confirm sale
- Receive fiat in your linked bank account after completing the transaction
Q6: Which app should I download?
Search “OKX” in your app store. Android users may need to disable “Pure Mode” on Huawei devices. iOS users should use an international Apple ID if unavailable locally.
👉 Download the OKX app now and take control of your financial future.
Final Thoughts
Getting started with OKX doesn’t have to be complicated. With clear navigation, strong security practices, and flexible buying options, it's ideal for both new and experienced crypto enthusiasts.
Whether you're interested in spot trading, futures, DeFi, or NFTs, OKX provides all the tools you need—all within a single integrated platform.
Remember: always enable two-factor authentication, double-check addresses before sending funds, and never share your fund password.
Ready to begin your journey?
👉 Join millions of traders on one of the world’s most powerful crypto platforms.