Side-by-side comparison of two perpetual futures exchanges — updated in real time.
Aster and ApeX are both multi-chain orderbook DEXes, but they target different segments. Aster pushes boundaries with 1001x leverage and 302 markets, while ApeX focuses on proven StarkEx infrastructure with a more conservative feature set.
Aster operates on BNB Chain with 302 markets, including tokenized stock perps, and a headline 1001x leverage in Simple mode. Fees are competitive at 0.01% maker and 0.035% taker. ApeX leverages StarkEx ZK-rollup technology on Ethereum L2, offering 40 markets with up to 30x leverage and fees of 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. The platforms differ dramatically in scope: Aster lists nearly 8 times more markets. ApeX accepts both USDC and USDT, while Aster takes only USDC. ApeX uses 8-hour funding intervals, which can lead to larger funding rate swings compared to Aster's 1-hour intervals. ApeX launched a year earlier (November 2022 vs November 2024) and has built an established user base through its trade-to-earn APEX token program. Aster's YZi Labs backing and higher community allocation (53.5% vs 23%) may provide stronger token incentives going forward. Both platforms support multi-chain deposits, enhancing accessibility.
Choose Aster for significantly more markets, tokenized stocks, and extreme leverage. Choose ApeX for StarkEx's proven ZK-rollup security, USDT collateral support, and a mature platform with an established track record.
