Crypto trading in India is experiencing rapid growth, driven by rising digital literacy, increasing investor interest, and the emergence of user-friendly platforms. However, one often overlooked aspect can significantly impact returns: trading fees. From maker-taker charges and network costs to withdrawal fees and hidden spreads, these expenses quietly erode profits—especially for frequent traders.
As a result, Indian investors are actively searching for low-fee crypto apps that offer transparency, efficiency, and value. But with so many platforms claiming “zero fees,” how do you separate marketing hype from reality? And more importantly, which crypto app truly delivers the lowest total cost of trading?
This guide dives deep into the current landscape of Indian crypto exchanges, unpacks what “zero fee” really means, reveals hidden charges most users miss, and highlights strategies to minimize costs in 2025.
Are There Truly No-Fee Crypto Apps in India?
Yes—some platforms advertise zero trading fees. But here’s the catch: zero fee doesn’t mean zero cost.
Many apps eliminate visible commissions but make up for it through spread markups—the difference between the buy and sell price of an asset. For example, if Bitcoin is trading at ₹25,00,000 on global markets and your app shows ₹25,25,000 to buy, that ₹25,000 gap is an invisible fee baked into the price.
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Other hidden revenue models include:
- Currency conversion surcharges
- Network fee markups during withdrawals
- Priority processing charges for faster transactions
- Indirect monetization via referral programs or data usage
So while an app may claim "no trading fees," always assess the total cost of ownership—from deposit to trade execution to withdrawal. True cost-efficiency comes not from flashy promises but from fee transparency and fair pricing across all transaction types.
Top Low-Fee Crypto Apps in India (2025)
Below is a breakdown of leading crypto platforms in India based on their spot and futures fee structures, unique features, and overall value proposition. All follow a volume-tiered pricing model, meaning higher monthly trade volumes lead to lower fees.
Mudrex
- Spot Trading Fee: 0.45% – 0.12%
- Futures Trading Fee: 0.050% – 0.030%
- Key Advantage: Transparent pricing, beginner-friendly interface, and zero trading fees on Coin Sets—thematic baskets that allow diversified exposure with minimal transaction costs.
CoinSwitch
- Spot Trading Fee: 0.4% – 0.04%
- Futures Trading Fee: 0.26% – 0.04%
- Key Advantage: Intuitive UI ideal for new users; aggregates prices across multiple exchanges but may include slight markups.
CoinDCX
- Spot Trading (PRO): 0.50% – 0.03%
- Futures Trading: 0.050% – 0.030%
- Key Advantage: Strong security protocols and regulatory compliance; popular among intermediate traders.
ZebPay
- Spot Trading Fee: 0.45% – 0.03%
- Futures Trading Fee: 0.080% – 0.030%
- Key Advantage: Offers BTC SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) and lending options for passive income generation.
Binance (via global access)
- Spot Trading Fee: 0.10% – 0.023%
- Futures Trading Fee: 0.050% – 0.017%
- Key Advantage: Advanced tools, deep liquidity, and some of the lowest visible fees—but requires careful management of network costs and tax compliance.
While Binance leads in low nominal fees, Indian users must navigate UPI deposit limitations and ensure adherence to local tax laws. Platforms like Mudrex strike a balance between accessibility, transparency, and competitive pricing—making them ideal for both beginners and active traders.
How to Minimize Crypto Trading Fees in India
Even if true zero-cost trading doesn’t exist, you can drastically reduce your expenses with smart strategies.
Choose Platforms with Zero Fees on Specific Products
Some apps offer no-fee access to certain investment vehicles. For instance, Mudrex waives trading fees on Coin Sets, allowing users to invest in diversified crypto portfolios without paying per-trade commissions.
Compare Prices Across Platforms
Always cross-check asset prices using real-time data from sources like CoinGecko or Binance. If your app shows a noticeably higher price than market rates, it likely includes a spread markup.
Limit Frequent Token Swaps
Each swap—like converting INR → USDT → ETH—can incur hidden conversion fees. Reduce unnecessary swaps by planning trades ahead of time.
Use In-App Wallets Wisely
Withdrawing crypto often triggers network fees. If you're holding long-term, keep assets in secure in-app wallets (with strong security measures) to avoid repeated withdrawal charges.
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Take Advantage of Promotions
Exchanges sometimes run limited-time offers: zero-fee weekends, no-commission new coin listings, or referral bonuses. Stay updated through official announcements or newsletters.
Trade During Off-Peak Hours
Network congestion increases gas fees, especially on Ethereum-based tokens. Scheduling trades during low-traffic periods or using Layer 2 solutions can cut transaction costs significantly.
Hidden Crypto Fees You Must Watch For
Even “fee-free” platforms charge indirectly. Be aware of these often-overlooked costs:
- Spread Fees: The biggest silent cost. A wide bid-ask spread means you lose value the moment you trade.
- Deposit & Withdrawal Charges: While INR deposits via UPI are usually free, fast withdrawals or altcoin transfers may carry platform or blockchain fees.
- Conversion Costs: Non-INR trading pairs (e.g., BTC/USDT) often involve intermediary tokens with embedded fees.
- Inactivity Fees: Rare in India, but some global platforms charge dormant account maintenance fees.
Regulatory Costs: Regardless of platform choice, Indian law mandates:
- 30% tax on crypto gains
- 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on all transactions above ₹10,000 (₹50,000 for certain transfers)
These taxes are non-negotiable and apply universally—factor them into your profit calculations.
Why Transparency Beats "Zero Fees"
Marketing slogans like “zero fees” attract attention—but they often obscure the real picture. A platform that clearly discloses its fee structure—even if slightly higher—is more trustworthy than one hiding costs behind spreads.
Mudrex stands out by offering clear fee schedules and zero-cost options like Coin Sets, empowering users to make informed decisions. It's not about chasing "free"; it's about maximizing value per rupee spent.
👉 See how top traders optimize their entry and exit points with low-cost execution tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does "zero-fee crypto app" actually mean?
It typically means no direct commission on trades. However, platforms may still charge via spread markups, network fees, or conversion costs—so always review the full cost structure.
Is there any crypto app in India with truly zero fees?
Not entirely. While some waive trading commissions, they often compensate through spreads or other indirect charges. True cost-free trading doesn’t exist due to blockchain and operational overheads.
How do spread-based fees work?
The spread is the difference between buying and selling prices. A wider spread means you pay more to enter a position and receive less when exiting—effectively acting as a hidden fee.
Can I avoid paying 1% TDS on crypto transactions?
No. The 1% TDS is mandated by Indian tax law on all crypto purchases above specified thresholds. It applies regardless of the platform used.
Which crypto app offers the lowest overall cost in India?
Mudrex, Binance (via international access), and CoinDCX offer competitive rates. Mudrex excels in transparency and offers zero fees on Coin Sets, making it highly cost-efficient for passive investors.
Do low fees guarantee safety and reliability?
Not necessarily. Always evaluate security features like two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage usage, audit history, and regulatory compliance alongside fee structures.
By focusing on transparency, understanding hidden costs, and choosing platforms that align with your trading style, you can significantly reduce friction in your crypto journey. In 2025, the best strategy isn't just finding the lowest fee—it's building a sustainable, informed approach to digital asset investing.