Cryptocurrency trading can seem overwhelming for newcomers, but with the right platform and guidance, it becomes simple, secure, and efficient. OKX, one of the world’s leading digital asset exchanges, offers a powerful yet user-friendly ecosystem for buying, selling, and managing crypto assets. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from setup to trading and even earning with crypto—so you can confidently begin your journey on OKX.
Whether you're interested in trading BTC, ETH, USDT, or newer assets like XCH and BZZ, OKX supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies with strong security protocols and flexible payment options. Let’s dive into the process step by step.
Step 1: Pre-Trade Setup
Before you can buy or sell digital assets, you’ll need to set up your OKX account properly. This ensures both smooth transactions and enhanced account security.
Download the OKX App
For Android users: Visit the official OKX website, scan the QR code using your browser (not微信), and select "Local Download". If prompted, choose "Open in Browser" to proceed safely.
For iOS users: The Chinese Apple ID doesn’t support direct downloads from the App Store. You’ll need to create a non-China Apple ID:
- Go to appleid.apple.com and register.
- Select United States as your region.
- Use a new email and active phone number to receive verification codes.
- After registration, log out of your current Apple ID and sign in with the new one.
- Search for "OKX" in the App Store and download the official app.
👉 Get started on OKX today with a secure, global-ready account.
Register Your Account
You can register using either your mobile number or email. However, since phone verification is required for trading, we recommend signing up with your mobile number.
Need help?
If you’re unable to receive SMS verification:
- Click "Didn't receive the code?" during login.
- Or email a scanned copy of your ID (front and back) along with your request to unbind the number to [email protected].
After registration, head to the "Rewards Center" in the app and complete your "Growth Tasks" to earn free BTC—great incentive for new users!
Complete Personal Information Settings
Three key steps are required before trading:
- KYC Verification: Tap the profile icon → Identity Verification → complete Level 1 (Basic), Level 2 (Advanced), and optionally Level 3 (Video Verification). Higher levels unlock better trading limits and access to premium liquidity providers.
- Bind Phone & Email: Navigate to Security Settings → Phone Verification. If you registered via phone, bind an email instead.
- Set Up a Fund Password: Found under Security Settings → Fund Password, this protects all withdrawal and transaction actions.
While here, consider enabling additional security features:
- Login password change
- Gesture password
- Google Authenticator
- Anti-phishing code
The more layers you add, the safer your account becomes.
Add Payment Methods
To withdraw funds or sell crypto for fiat (like CNY), you must link a payment method:
- Open the app → tap Buy Crypto → Quick Buy/Sell → ⋮ (More) → Payment Methods → Add Bank Account / Alipay / WeChat Pay.
- Follow prompts to verify your details.
Now you’re ready to trade.
Step 2: How to Buy Cryptocurrency
OKX offers multiple ways to acquire digital assets—from instant purchases to advanced trading.
Buy in the Quick Trade Zone
Ideal for beginners:
- Tap Buy Crypto → Quick Buy/Sell → Buy
- Enter amount or quantity
- Select USDT (or another supported coin)
- Choose payment method (bank transfer, Alipay, etc.)
- Confirm purchase
After confirming:
- Transfer funds via your banking app to the seller’s account
- Tap “I’ve transferred” once done
- Once verified, your crypto will appear in your Assets wallet
📌 Tips:
- Use only KYC-verified personal bank accounts
- Single transaction limit: 10 – 1,000,000 CNY
- For transfers over 50,000 CNY outside business hours (after 5 PM or holidays), split payments to avoid delays
- Avoid frequent cancellations—this affects your trading reputation
You can also explore the Custom Trade zone or use Large Order Filter for trades ≥100,000 CNY.
Recharge Existing Crypto Assets
If you already hold crypto elsewhere:
- Go to Assets → Deposit
- Select coin (e.g., USDT)
- Choose network (ERC20, TRC20, or OEC) — must match sender's network
- Copy address and initiate withdrawal from external wallet
⚠️ Warning: Mismatched networks = lost funds
Some coins like XRP require a tag/memo—always check before depositing.
Transfer Funds Between Accounts
After buying USDT, it lands in your Funding Account. To trade other coins (e.g., DOGE), move it to your Trading Account:
- Go to Assets → Fund Transfer
- Select currency (e.g., USDT)
- Transfer from Funding Account to Trading Account
- Enter amount → Confirm
Now you’re ready for spot trading.
Trade Coins Directly (Spot Trading)
Example: Buying DOGE with USDT
- Open Trade tab → Tap currency pair (e.g., BTC/USDT)
- Switch mode → Select Spot
- Search for DOGE/USDT
- Choose Limit Order
- Set price and quantity → Click Buy DOGE
Your order executes when market price matches your set value.
Keywords: crypto trading, buy Bitcoin, spot trading, USDT exchange, digital wallet security
Step 3: How to Sell Cryptocurrency
Selling works similarly—whether you want fast cash or precise control.
Sell via Quick Trade
Best for speed and simplicity:
- Tap Buy Crypto → Quick Buy/Sell → Sell
- Enter amount (e.g., USDT)
- Confirm sale
Wait for buyer’s payment:
- Check your bank account manually
- Only click “Confirm Receipt” after funds are confirmed
- Release crypto promptly to maintain good seller rating
⚠️ Don’t release early—scammers exist
Click “File Complaint” if no payment arrives within time limit
Alternative: Use Custom Trade or Large Order for better rates.
Sell via Spot Market
To sell DOGE for USDT:
- Go to Trade → Switch to Spot
- Find DOGE/USDT
- Click Sell, enter price and amount
- Submit order
Proceeds stay in your trading account—transfer back to funding account if you plan to withdraw fiat.
📌 Minimum trade amounts apply per coin
Use K-line charts and depth analysis to time your sell orders wisely.
Understanding Trading Data: Pairs & Market Info
Make smarter decisions by learning how to read market data.
- Tap the candlestick icon next to any price to view K-lines
- Analyze trends using timeframes (1m, 5m, 1d, etc.)
- View order book depth: green = buy orders, red = sell orders
- Check real-time trades under the Trades tab
- Use Coin Overview for project details and performance metrics
Track open orders under:
- Current Orders: Active limit orders
- Order History: Filled or canceled trades
Earn Passive Income with Crypto Finance
Don’t just hold—grow your assets.
OKX offers several ways to earn:
- Earn Crypto (Earn Hub): Staking, DeFi mining, flexible savings
- Lending: Lend assets for interest
- Jumpstart: Participate in token launches
How to Start Earning
- Tap Earn on homepage
- Choose product (e.g., YuBit – now integrated into Earn)
- Follow instructions to subscribe
How to Redeem Earnings
Example: Withdrawing from flexible savings
- Go to Financial Services → Select product → Order Management
- Tap Redeem
- Enter amount → Confirm
- Funds return to your Funding Account
💡 Always review lock-up periods, APYs, and risk disclosures before investing.
👉 Discover high-yield crypto earning opportunities on OKX now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is OKX safe for beginners?
Yes. OKX uses bank-grade encryption, cold storage for 95%+ of assets, and multi-layer authentication including Google 2FA and anti-phishing codes.
Q: Can I trade without KYC?
No. Full KYC is required for buying/selling fiat-to-crypto due to compliance regulations.
Q: What happens if I send crypto to the wrong network?
Mistakes like sending TRC20 USDT to an ERC20-only address usually result in permanent loss. Always double-check network compatibility before transferring.
Q: How long does withdrawal take?
Most crypto withdrawals process within 1–30 minutes depending on blockchain congestion. Fiat withdrawals may take 1–3 business days.
Q: Are there fees on OKX?
Yes, but competitive: spot trading fees start at 0.1%, with discounts for using OKB or higher VIP tiers.
Q: Can I access OKX from mainland China?
While OKX serves global users, local regulations may affect accessibility. Use official channels and stay compliant with regional laws.
Ready to take control of your financial future? With tools for trading, saving, and growing digital wealth—all in one trusted platform—OKX empowers every stage of your crypto journey.