How Do Centralized Exchanges (CEX) Differ from DEXs?

CEXs are operated by a single company, use traditional order books, and require users to deposit funds (custodial). DEXs are decentralized, use smart contracts (often AMMs), and allow users to trade directly from their private wallets (non-custodial).

CEXs offer higher speed and liquidity, while DEXs offer greater security and trustlessness.

How Can Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Impact Altcoin Liquidity Compared to Centralized Exchanges (CEXs)?
How Does Counterparty Risk Differ between Custodial and Non-Custodial Exchanges?
How Do Centralized Exchanges (CEXs) and DEXs Differ in Their Insurance Mechanisms?
How Do ‘Decentralized Exchanges’ (DEXs) Differ from ‘Centralized Exchanges’ (CEXs)?
How Do Liquidity Pools on Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs) Differ from Traditional Order Books?
Why Do CEXs Generally Offer Higher Liquidity than DEXs?
What Is a ‘Limit Order’?
How Does a Centralized Exchange (CEX) Minimize Slippage Compared to a DEX?

Glossar