Navigating the world of digital assets can be overwhelming for newcomers, but with the right tools and guidance, it becomes a seamless experience. OKX, one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges globally, offers a powerful, user-friendly platform for buying, selling, and trading digital assets. This comprehensive beginner’s guide walks you through every essential step—from registration to executing your first trade—ensuring you can confidently use the OKX app and unlock the full potential of crypto trading.
Why Choose OKX?
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Malta with regional offices in Hong Kong and Malaysia, OKX has evolved from an Asia-focused exchange into a global powerhouse serving millions of users across 100+ countries. Known for its robust security, diverse trading options, and intuitive interface, OKX supports everything from beginner-friendly fiat on-ramps to advanced trading features like spot, futures, and options.
Whether you're looking to buy your first Bitcoin or dive into complex trading strategies, OKX provides the infrastructure and tools to support your journey.
👉 Discover how easy it is to start trading on a trusted global exchange.
Step 1: Register Your OKX Account
The first step is creating your account. You can register via email or mobile number directly on the OKX website or through the mobile app.
Recommended: Register with Your Phone Number
Since phone verification is required before buying or selling crypto, using your mobile number streamlines the process. If you encounter issues receiving SMS codes:
- Click "Didn’t receive the code?" during login to request assistance.
- Alternatively, email your ID (front and back) along with the phone number you wish to unbind to [email protected] for manual support.
Tip: Always ensure your contact details are accurate and up-to-date to avoid access issues later.
Step 2: Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
To enhance security and unlock full trading capabilities, complete your Know Your Customer (KYC) verification.
How to Verify:
- Log in and tap the profile icon.
- Go to Identity Verification.
- Complete Level 1 (Basic) and Level 2 (Advanced) verification by submitting required documents.
Benefits of Higher Verification Levels:
- Access to higher transaction limits.
- Better matchmaking with reputable sellers.
- Eligibility for premium services and promotions.
Note: Video verification (Level 3) is only available via the OKX mobile app, so download it if you plan to trade at scale.
👉 Learn how identity verification protects your account and boosts trading power.
Step 3: Secure Your Account
Security is critical in crypto. After registration, take these essential steps:
- Set a fund password – Required for withdrawals and sensitive operations.
- Bind your email – Enables recovery options.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – Use Google Authenticator for stronger protection.
- Set up a phishing protection code – Helps identify fake websites.
You can manage all these settings under Security Center in your profile.
Step 4: Add Payment Methods
To buy crypto with fiat currency (like CNY or USD), you must link a payment method.
Supported Methods:
- Bank cards
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
How to Add:
- Tap Buy Crypto > More > Personal Settings > Add Payout Method.
- Follow prompts to link your preferred payment channel.
Once added, you’re ready to purchase your first digital asset.
Step 5: Buy Cryptocurrency
OKX offers multiple ways to buy crypto—ideal for both beginners and experienced users.
Option 1: Quick Buy/Sell (Beginner-Friendly)
Perfect for new users who want instant results.
Example: Buying USDT
- Go to Buy Crypto > Quick Trade.
- Enter the amount in fiat (e.g., 500 CNY).
- Select your payment method.
- Click Buy USDT.
After confirming payment via your bank or e-wallet, the purchased USDT will appear in your Assets wallet within minutes.
Important Notes:
- Use only a bank card under your verified name.
- Single transaction limit: 10 – 1,000,000 CNY.
- For large transfers (>50k CNY) outside business hours (17:00–8:00), split payments to avoid delays.
- Canceling or missing payments repeatedly affects your trading reputation.
Option 2: P2P (Peer-to-Peer) Trading
Buy directly from other users with flexible payment methods and competitive rates.
For transactions over 100,000 CNY, consider using the OTC (Over-the-Counter) desk for better pricing and faster settlement.
Step 6: Deposit Crypto from External Wallets
If you already hold crypto elsewhere, you can deposit it into your OKX account.
Example: Depositing USDT
- Tap Assets > Deposit.
- Select USDT.
- Choose a network: ERC20, TRC20, or OEC.
- Copy the deposit address.
- Paste it into your external wallet when withdrawing.
⚠️ Critical: Always match the withdrawal network on the sending platform with the deposit network on OKX. Mismatched networks may result in permanent fund loss.
Some tokens (e.g., XRP, XLM) require a tag/memo in addition to the address. Always check the deposit page for such requirements.
Step 7: Transfer Funds Between Accounts
OKX separates funds into different accounts:
- Funding Account: Holds deposited or purchased crypto.
- Trading Account: Used for placing orders in spot or futures markets.
To trade, transfer funds from your funding account to your trading account.
How to Transfer:
- Go to Assets > Transfer.
- Select currency (e.g., USDT).
- Choose source (Funding Account) and destination (Trading Account).
- Enter amount and confirm.
Use this step before engaging in any spot trading activity.
Step 8: Start Spot Trading
Now that your funds are ready, let’s execute your first trade.
Example: Buy DOGE with USDT
- Tap Trade > Basic Mode.
- Change trading pair to DOGE/USDT.
- Switch to Spot Trading mode.
- Select Limit Order.
- Enter desired price and quantity.
- Click Buy DOGE.
Your order will execute when market conditions meet your set price.
Understanding Trading Pairs:
A pair like DOGE/USDT means you’re exchanging USDT for DOGE. The first currency is what you’re buying; the second is what you’re paying with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is OKX legal and safe to use?
Yes. OKX complies with regulatory standards in multiple jurisdictions and employs industry-leading security measures including cold storage, two-factor authentication, and anti-phishing codes.
Q2: Can I use OKX without KYC?
You can create an account without KYC, but trading and withdrawal limits apply. Full functionality requires identity verification.
Q3: Why isn’t my crypto showing after deposit?
Double-check that you used the correct network (e.g., TRC20 vs ERC20). Also, some deposits take time to confirm based on blockchain congestion.
Q4: What are the fees on OKX?
Trading fees start as low as 0.1%, with discounts for high-volume traders or those using OKB (OKX’s native token). P2P trades have no platform fees—prices are set by individual sellers.
Q5: How do I withdraw money to my bank account?
Use the Sell Crypto function via P2P or Quick Trade, then transfer proceeds to your linked bank account.
Q6: Does OKX have a mobile app?
Yes. The OKX app is available on iOS and Android, offering full functionality including advanced trading, staking, and portfolio tracking.
Final Tips for New Users
- Start small and learn the interface before investing large amounts.
- Never share your password, fund password, or 2FA codes.
- Regularly review your transaction history under Orders & History.
- Explore educational resources within the OKX app to deepen your understanding of market dynamics.
👉 Start trading with confidence on a platform built for both beginners and pros.
By following this guide, you now have all the foundational knowledge needed to navigate OKX effectively. From registration and verification to buying, depositing, and trading—each step brings you closer to mastering digital asset management in today’s fast-moving crypto landscape.