Cryptocurrency trading has become increasingly accessible, and platforms like OKX are leading the way in providing secure, user-friendly experiences for both beginners and advanced traders. As one of the world’s most trusted digital asset exchanges, OKX offers robust security features, intuitive trading tools, and a comprehensive suite of financial products. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started—setting up your account, buying and selling crypto, navigating trading options, and exploring earning opportunities—all while keeping your assets safe.
Whether you're interested in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), or newer assets like XCH and BZZ, OKX supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies with flexible deposit, withdrawal, and trading options. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process.
Step 1: Pre-Trade Setup
Before you start trading, it’s essential to properly set up your OKX account for security and functionality.
Download the App
For Android users, visit the official OKX website and scan the QR code using your browser (not微信) to download the app directly. If prompted, select “Open in Browser” and proceed with the standard installation.
For iPhone users, the OKX app is not available on the Chinese App Store. You’ll need to create a non-China Apple ID:
- Go to appleid.apple.com and register with a U.S. or other international region.
- Use a valid email and phone number to receive verification codes.
- Once registered, log out of your current Apple ID in the App Store and log in with your new one.
- Search for "OKX" and download the official app.
👉 Get started with secure crypto trading on a trusted global platform.
Register Your Account
You can sign up using either a phone number or email address. However, phone registration is recommended since KYC verification and fund withdrawals require a verified mobile number.
If you encounter issues receiving SMS codes:
- Click “Didn’t receive the code?” during login to request support.
- Alternatively, email your ID documents (front and back) along with the phone number you wish to unbind to [email protected] for assistance.
After registration, check the Rewards Center in the app to complete onboarding tasks and potentially earn BTC bonuses.
Complete Personal Information
To enable trading, complete these three critical steps:
- KYC Verification: Navigate to your profile > Identity Verification and complete Level 1 (basic), Level 2 (advanced), or Level 3 (video call). Higher levels unlock better trading limits and access to premium features.
- Bind Phone/Email: Go to Security Settings > Phone Verification. If you registered via phone, bind an email instead.
- Set a Fund Password: This password is required for all withdrawals and sensitive operations. Set it under Security Settings > Fund Password.
Additional security options include:
- Login password reset
- Gesture unlock
- Google Authenticator
- Anti-phishing code
The more layers you add, the safer your account becomes.
Add Payment Methods
To sell cryptocurrency and withdraw funds, link your preferred payment method:
- Open the app > Tap Buy Crypto > Quick Buy/Sell > More (⋯) > Payment Methods.
- Click Add Recipient Account and link your bank card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
Only use accounts under your name that match your KYC details to avoid transaction rejections.
Step 2: How to Buy Cryptocurrency
Now that your account is ready, it’s time to purchase your first digital assets.
Buy via Quick Trade (P2P)
Ideal for beginners, this feature allows instant purchases using fiat currency:
- Tap Buy Crypto > Quick Buy/Sell > Buy.
- Enter the amount in CNY or desired coin quantity.
- Select USDT (or another supported stablecoin).
- Choose your payment method and confirm the purchase.
After confirming:
- Transfer the exact amount to the seller’s provided bank account via mobile banking, Alipay, or WeChat.
- Once done, tap I’ve Transferred – Notify Seller.
- After confirmation, your USDT will appear in your Assets wallet.
⚠️ Important: Always use your own KYC-verified bank card. Transactions over 50,000 CNY outside business hours (8:00–17:00 on weekdays) should be split into smaller transfers to avoid delays.
You can also explore Custom Orders or Large Orders (≥100,000 CNY) for more control over pricing and counterparties.
Deposit Existing Crypto
If you already hold crypto elsewhere, deposit it into OKX:
- Tap Assets > Deposit > Select USDT.
- Choose the network (e.g., TRC20, ERC20). Ensure it matches the withdrawal network from your external wallet.
- Copy the deposit address and initiate a transfer from your other platform.
🔴 Never send coins across mismatched networks—this may result in permanent loss.
Some tokens like XRP require both an address and a tag/memo—always fill both fields correctly.
Transfer Funds Between Accounts
After buying USDT, it will reside in your Funding Account. To trade other cryptocurrencies like DOGE or BTC, transfer it to your Trading Account:
- Go to Assets > Transfer.
- Select USDT > From Funding Account to Trading Account.
- Enter amount and confirm.
You can reverse this process when withdrawing profits.
Trade Cryptos (Spot Trading)
Now you’re ready for direct crypto-to-crypto trades:
- Open the Trade tab > Tap the pair (e.g., BTC/USDT).
- Switch mode to Spot > Search for DOGE/USDT.
- Choose Limit Order, enter price and quantity.
- Tap Buy DOGE.
Your order executes when market prices meet your set value.
Step 3: How to Sell Cryptocurrency
When it’s time to cash out, here are two reliable methods.
Sell via Quick Trade
- Tap Buy Crypto > Quick Sell > Enter amount > Select USDT.
- Confirm sale > Wait for buyer payment.
- Once payment lights up as confirmed, verify receipt in your bank app.
- Enter fund password > Tap Confirm Receipt to release crypto.
✅ Always confirm actual bank deposits before releasing funds.
Use Custom Offers or Large Transactions for higher volumes or better rates.
Sell via Spot Market
To sell DOGE for USDT:
- Go to Trade > Switch to Spot > Find DOGE/USDT.
- Enter sell amount and price > Tap Sell DOGE.
Remember: Proceeds stay in your trading account. Transfer them back to your funding account before selling for fiat.
Understanding Trading Data
Make informed decisions by analyzing key metrics:
- K-Line Chart: View price trends over time, including volume, change rate, and historical data.
- Order Book (Depth): Green bids = buyers; red asks = sellers. Helps gauge market sentiment.
- Recent Trades: See executed orders in real time.
- Asset Overview: Access project details, market cap, supply info via the coin’s info button.
Explore Financial Products on OKX
Turn idle assets into passive income with OKX’s financial services:
Earn Crypto (Staking & Yield)
Options include:
- Flexible Savings (e.g., Yu Bit Bao): Instant redemption, daily interest.
- DeFi Liquidity Pools: Provide liquidity and earn rewards.
- Jumpstart: Participate in token launches with staked assets.
How to Subscribe & Redeem
- Tap Earn > Choose a product > Enter amount > Confirm subscription.
- For redemption (e.g., Yu Bit Bao): Go to Order Management > Redeem > Confirm.
📌 Note: Some products have lock-up periods or carry risk. Always read terms before investing.
👉 Discover how to grow your crypto holdings with low-risk financial tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is OKX safe for beginners?
Yes. OKX uses bank-level security protocols, cold storage for 95% of assets, multi-signature wallets, and regular third-party audits to protect user funds.
Q: Can I trade without KYC?
Limited features are available without verification, but full trading, deposits, and withdrawals require at least Level 1 KYC.
Q: Why isn’t my deposit showing up?
Ensure you used the correct network (e.g., TRC20 vs ERC20). Mismatched networks cause delays or permanent loss. Check transaction status on a blockchain explorer.
Q: What is the minimum trade amount?
Minimums vary by coin—for example, DOGE trades may require at least 50 DOGE. Check each trading pair's rules before placing orders.
Q: How long does withdrawal take?
Most crypto withdrawals process within minutes. Bank transfers typically take 1–3 business days depending on region and institution.
Q: Are there fees for buying crypto?
Yes, but they’re competitive. Fees depend on payment method, volume, and whether you’re a maker or taker. View fee schedule in-app for details.
With its powerful tools, strong security, and beginner-friendly interface, OKX makes entering the world of cryptocurrency straightforward and secure. Whether you're buying Bitcoin for the first time or exploring yield-generating opportunities, this platform equips you with everything you need.
👉 Start your crypto journey today with one of the most trusted platforms globally.