How Do Centralized Exchanges (CEX) and Decentralized Exchanges (DEX) Typically Compare on Spread Size?

CEXs generally have narrower bid-offer spreads than DEXs, especially for high-volume assets. CEXs rely on traditional market makers and high-speed infrastructure to provide deep liquidity.

DEXs, which often use Automated Market Makers (AMMs), can have wider spreads due to the mathematical model, impermanent loss risk, and higher gas/transaction fees impacting the cost of liquidity provision.

How Does a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) Differ from a Centralized Exchange (CEX)?
What Is a “Vampire Attack” in the Context of DEX Liquidity and Spread?
How Does a Centralized Exchange (CEX) Minimize Slippage Compared to a DEX?
How Does a Wider Bid-Ask Spread on an Altcoin Affect Option Pricing?
How Do ‘Decentralized Exchanges’ (DEXs) Differ from ‘Centralized Exchanges’ (CEXs)?
How Do Centralized Exchanges (CEX) and Decentralized Exchanges (DEX) Typically Compare in Terms of Bid-Offer Spreads?
How Do Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Handle Bid-Offer Spreads Differently than Centralized Exchanges (CEXs)?
What Market Structure Element Allows for the Effective Spread to Be Narrower than the Quoted Spread?

Glossar