When it comes to digital asset trading, especially in the fast-paced world of perpetual contracts, understanding fee structures is crucial. Many traders assume that fewer contracts mean lower fees — but what if the opposite happens? One user recently reached out to customer support with a common yet puzzling question:
"Why is the trading fee for 3,000 contracts of ETH perpetual only 0.032639 ETH, while 2,000 contracts cost me 0.081959 ETH? I traded fewer contracts, so why did I pay more?"
This confusion is understandable — but the answer lies not in volume, but in how the trade was executed.
Understanding Maker and Taker Fees on OKX
On OKX (formerly known as OKEX), perpetual contract trades are categorized into two types: maker and taker. Each has a different fee rate, which directly impacts your total cost.
👉 Discover how maker vs. taker fees can save you money on every trade.
The key formula for calculating trading fees is:
Fee = Contract Value × Number of Contracts × Fee Rate ÷ Execution Price
While this may seem straightforward, the critical variable here is the fee rate, which changes based on whether your order acts as a maker or a taker.
What Is a Maker Order?
A maker order is one that adds liquidity to the market. When you place an order at a price that does not immediately match existing bids or asks, it "makes" the market by sitting in the order book, waiting to be filled.
For example:
- The current best sell price (ask) is $3,000.
- You place a buy order at $2,990.
- Since your price is better for sellers but not instantly executable, your order waits — and you become a maker.
Maker orders typically come with lower or even negative fees (meaning you get rebates), incentivizing users to provide market depth.
What Is a Taker Order?
A taker order removes liquidity from the market. If your buy order matches or exceeds the lowest ask price, or your sell order matches or goes below the highest bid, your trade executes instantly — "taking" available liquidity.
For example:
- The best bid is $2,980; the best ask is $3,000.
- You place a market buy at $3,000 or higher.
- Your order fills immediately — and you're classified as a taker.
Taker fees are generally higher than maker fees because they consume existing order book depth.
This explains why the user paid more for fewer contracts:
The 2,000-contract trade was likely a taker order (higher fee rate), while the 3,000-contract trade was a maker order (lower or negative rate).
Why OKX Offers Industry-Leading Low Fees
OKX has long been committed to reducing trading costs and boosting market efficiency. In November 2019, the platform adjusted its perpetual contract fee structure to ensure the lowest overall trading fees in the industry — a position it continues to hold in 2025.
By offering competitive maker rebates and low taker rates, OKX encourages both high-frequency traders and long-term investors to participate actively, enhancing liquidity across major trading pairs like BTC/USDT, ETH/USDT, and more.
👉 See how OKX’s low-fee model boosts your trading profitability today.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I choose whether my order is a maker or taker?
Yes — by setting a limit price away from the current market level, you increase the chance of being a maker. Using market orders almost always results in taker status.
Q: Are maker fees always lower than taker fees on OKX?
Generally, yes. Maker fees are often lower or even negative (rebates), while taker fees are slightly higher. Always check the latest fee schedule on the OKX website for updates.
Q: Does trading volume affect my fee rate?
Yes. OKX uses a tiered fee system based on your 30-day trading volume and holdings of OKB (the platform’s native token). Higher volume and OKB balances can unlock lower fees.
Q: Why did my small trade incur a higher fee than a larger one?
As shown in the example, it’s not about size — it’s about execution. A small taker order can cost more than a large maker order due to differing fee rates.
Q: How can I reduce my trading fees on OKX?
Strategies include:
- Placing limit orders instead of market orders
- Increasing your 30-day trading volume
- Holding OKB to qualify for discounts
- Participating in liquidity programs
👉 Start optimizing your trading strategy with ultra-low fees on OKX now.
Final Thoughts: Trade Smarter, Not Harder
Understanding the mechanics behind trading fees empowers you to make smarter decisions. Instead of focusing solely on contract size, consider how your orders execute. By aiming to be a liquidity provider (maker), you not only reduce costs but also contribute to a healthier, more efficient market.
With OKX's industry-leading fee structure, transparent pricing, and robust support system available 24/7, traders at all levels can operate with confidence. Whether you're new to perpetual contracts or a seasoned pro, mastering fee dynamics is a small step that leads to big savings over time.
Remember: every basis point saved on fees is potential profit retained. Make every trade count.
Note: Digital asset trading involves risk. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.