#CEXvsDEX101 Centralized exchanges (CEX) and decentralized exchanges (DEX) are the two main models of platforms for cryptocurrency trading. CEX, such as Binance and Coinbase, emerged first, offering user-friendly interfaces, high liquidity, and support for fiat currencies. They act as intermediaries, custodial the users' assets and facilitating transactions.

With the advancement of blockchain technology, DEX gained prominence by allowing direct trading between users, without intermediaries, using smart contracts. Platforms like Uniswap and PancakeSwap exemplify this model, prioritizing decentralization, privacy, and total control of assets by users.

In 2025, CEX continues to dominate trading volume, with over 300 million registered users globally, thanks to their ease of use and liquidity. However, DEX has been growing significantly, representing around 10 to 15% of the total spot trading volume in 2024. Experts predict that DEX will continue to evolve, offering greater security and resistance to censorship, while CEX will maintain their relevance, especially for beginners in the market.

The choice between CEX and DEX depends on the user's priorities: convenience and support in CEX, or autonomy and privacy in DEX. Both play complementary roles in the current crypto ecosystem.