Why crypto exchange rates differ
Ask several providers to swap the same amount of the same coin and you will get different payouts. None of them is necessarily wrong. This guide explains where the differences come from and how to compare quotes fairly.
Each provider sources liquidity differently
Providers fill swaps from their own reserves, from exchanges they connect to, or from market makers. Their cost of filling the same order differs, and so does the rate they can offer.
Spreads vary by pair and size
Popular pairs with deep markets usually carry tighter spreads than thinly traded coins. Larger amounts can move the price a provider has to pay, so the rate for a big swap is not always the same as for a small one.
Network costs are handled differently
Some providers net the cost of sending your payout into the rate; others show it separately. Two quotes can look different on the rate and end up close on the amount you receive.
Fixed and floating rates
A fixed quote locks the payout for a short window and usually pays slightly less, because the provider carries the price risk. A floating quote tracks the market until your deposit confirms.
Quotes are a moment in time
A quote reflects the market when it was requested. On a floating rate, the amount you finally receive can be higher or lower than the estimate shown.
How Monivo measures the differences
The Monivo Rate Index samples live quotes across providers and reports median gaps rather than averages, so a single outlier doesn't distort the picture. The methodology explains exactly how samples are taken and filtered.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the price on Google different from my quote?
Search and market tickers show a reference price with no spread and no network costs. A swap quote is what a provider will actually pay for your amount on your networks.
Why did my final amount change?
On a floating rate the provider executes at the market rate when your deposit confirms, so the result can differ from the estimate. A fixed rate locks the payout if the deposit arrives in time and matches the quote.
Which rate should I compare?
Compare the amount you will receive for the same send amount, asset and networks — not the headline rate.
Compare live payouts side by side
Enter an amount to see what each provider pays for your pair right now.
Compare live quotesRelated: Monivo Rate Index · Rate Index methodology · Crypto exchange rates · Crypto swap fees
Ready to swap? Here's exactly what to do
Three steps, no account and no ID. Monivo compares live rates across every connected provider and sends the coins straight to your own wallet.
- 1Pick the pair and the amount you want to exchange — the widget shows the compared rate before you commit.
- 2Paste the wallet address that should receive the funds, then confirm the quote.
- 3Send your deposit to the address shown. The swap settles automatically, usually in minutes.
Non-custodial: Monivo never holds your coins and never asks for an account.