Staking Cosmos (ATOM) has become one of the most attractive ways to generate passive income in the crypto space, offering annual percentage yields (APY) that can reach up to 21.9% depending on the platform and staking terms. Whether you're a beginner looking for a user-friendly interface or an advanced investor prioritizing security and validator control, there are multiple trusted platforms and wallets to stake ATOM effectively.
This comprehensive guide explores the best options for staking Cosmos in 2025, compares key features like APY, staking flexibility, fees, and security, and answers common questions to help you make an informed decision.
Why Stake ATOM?
Before diving into the best staking platforms, it's important to understand what Cosmos staking entails and why it’s worth considering.
Cosmos (ATOM) is the native cryptocurrency of the Cosmos Network — a decentralized ecosystem of interconnected blockchains. By staking ATOM, users help secure the network through delegation to validators, who are responsible for verifying transactions and maintaining consensus.
In return, stakers earn rewards in the form of additional ATOM tokens. These rewards come from two sources:
- Transaction fees collected on the network
- Newly minted ATOM tokens (inflation-based rewards)
Additionally, stakers gain governance rights, allowing them to vote on protocol upgrades and changes within the Cosmos Hub.
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Top Platforms to Stake ATOM in 2025
Below is a detailed comparison of the leading platforms where you can stake Cosmos (ATOM), based on APY, ease of use, security, and flexibility.
1. Binance – Best Overall for Staking ATOM
Binance remains the top choice for staking ATOM due to its high liquidity, competitive rewards, and flexible staking options.
- APY Range: 3.5% (flexible) to 21.9% (120-day fixed term)
- Minimum Stake: 0.001 ATOM
- Staking Types: Flexible and fixed-term
- Fees: No staking fees
- Unstaking Time: Instant (flexible), fixed lock-up for term plans
Binance offers its Simple Earn program, which allows users to stake ATOM with no minimum barrier and immediate reward accrual. The longer the lock-up period, the higher the return — with the 120-day plan delivering one of the highest yields available.
Flexible staking is ideal for traders who want exposure to market movements while still earning passive income. Fixed-term plans suit those focused on long-term yield maximization.
While Binance doesn’t currently support DeFi staking for ATOM, its reliability, global accessibility (excluding some regions), and integration with trading tools make it a powerful all-in-one platform.
2. Kraken – Best for International Users Outside the U.S.
Kraken stands out for offering on-chain staking, meaning your ATOM is directly delegated to Cosmos validators — giving you transparency and alignment with decentralized principles.
- APY: 12% – 15%
- Staking Type: Flexible only
- Payout Frequency: Bi-weekly
- Fees: 15% commission on rewards
- Unstaking: Instant
One of Kraken’s biggest advantages is instant unstaking — unlike many platforms that impose a 21-day unbonding period, Kraken covers this delay internally so users can access funds immediately.
However, U.S. residents can no longer stake ATOM on Kraken due to regulatory actions by the SEC. This limitation applies only to U.S. users; international customers in supported countries can still participate.
Despite the 15% fee on rewards, Kraken’s intuitive interface and strong security reputation make it a solid option for non-U.S. investors.
3. Bybit – Ideal for Active Traders
Bybit offers a clean, beginner-friendly platform with growing staking capabilities.
- APY: Up to 2.20% (flexible only)
- Staking Type: Flexible
- Fees: None
- Minimum Stake: None specified
Currently, Bybit only supports flexible staking for ATOM, which explains the lower APY compared to fixed-term alternatives. However, rewards are calculated daily and start accruing just one day after depositing ATOM into your wallet.
Bybit is particularly appealing for active traders who want to keep their funds accessible while earning modest passive returns. With ongoing platform development, fixed-term staking for ATOM may be introduced soon.
4. Coinbase – Best for Beginners
Coinbase is a go-to platform for new crypto users thanks to its simple interface and regulatory compliance.
- APY: Up to 5%
- Staking Type: Flexible
- Fees: 25% commission on rewards
- Minimum Stake: Less than $1 worth of ATOM
- Unstaking: Requires waiting for unstaking cycle (7–14 days)
While Coinbase makes it incredibly easy to start staking — even with small amounts — it charges one of the highest commissions at 25%. Additionally, users cannot choose their own validators, reducing control over their delegation.
Another drawback is the delayed withdrawal process: even though staking is “flexible,” you must wait for Coinbase to unstake your tokens before withdrawing funds.
Still, for beginners who value simplicity and trust in a regulated U.S.-based exchange, Coinbase remains a viable entry point.
👉 Maximize your staking returns with competitive APY options now.
5. OKX – Highest Potential APY
OKX offers some of the most competitive staking rewards in the market, especially during promotional periods.
- APY Range: 9.54% (flexible) to 35.76% (120-day fixed term)
- Staking Types: Multiple fixed terms + flexible
- Fees: None
- Note: Many high-yield options sell out quickly
At the time of writing, OKX provides up to 35.76% APY for a 120-day lock-up — significantly surpassing other platforms. However, these high-yield slots are limited and often unavailable due to high demand.
OKX supports both on-chain and off-chain staking models, giving users flexibility in risk and return profiles. While not as widely recognized as Binance or Coinbase, OKX has gained traction globally and offers robust security features.
For yield-focused investors willing to act fast when high-APY slots open, OKX is an excellent choice.
6. Ledger Wallet – Best for Security-Conscious Investors
For maximum control and security, hardware wallets like Ledger allow direct on-chain staking.
- APY: ~20% (minus validator fees)
- Staking Type: On-chain, flexible delegation
- Validator Choice: Yes
- Unstaking Time: 21 days
Using Ledger Live, users can connect their hardware device and delegate ATOM to validators handpicked and vetted by Ledger. This method keeps private keys offline, protecting against hacks.
The main trade-off is the 21-day unbonding period — standard across Cosmos-native staking — which limits liquidity during volatile markets.
But if security and decentralization are your priorities, Ledger offers one of the safest ways to stake ATOM while retaining full ownership of your assets.
7. Guarda Wallet – Non-Custodial Option with Solid Returns
Guarda is a non-custodial software wallet supporting over 50 blockchains, including Cosmos.
- APY: ~10%
- Staking Type: Flexible
- Validator Choice: No
- Platform Type: Desktop and mobile app
Guarda allows users to stake ATOM directly through its interface without handing over control of private keys. It’s suitable for those who prefer decentralized solutions but don’t own a hardware wallet.
However, unlike Ledger or Atomic Wallet, users cannot select individual validators, reducing customization and transparency.
8. Atomic Wallet – Decentralized with Validator Control
Atomic Wallet is another non-custodial option that gives users full control over their funds.
- APY: ~10%
- Minimum Stake: 1 ATOM
- Validator Choice: Yes
- Unstaking Time: ~3 weeks
Atomic Wallet lets users choose their preferred validators, enhancing participation in network governance. However, being entirely decentralized means users bear full responsibility for security — there’s no recovery option if keys are lost.
Due to past security concerns with software wallets, this option is best suited for experienced users familiar with self-custody practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where should I stake ATOM?
The best place depends on your priorities:
- For high yields: OKX
- For beginners: Coinbase
- For security: Ledger Wallet
- For global access: Kraken
- For balance of yield and usability: Binance
Is ATOM good for staking?
Yes. ATOM offers strong staking rewards (up to 20%+ APY), active governance participation, and growing ecosystem adoption. It's considered one of the top coins for passive income in proof-of-stake networks.
How much can I earn staking ATOM?
Earnings vary by platform:
- Flexible staking: 3.5% – 10%
- Fixed-term staking: Up to 35.76% (e.g., OKX)
On-chain staking typically yields around 20%, adjusted for inflation.
What are the risks of staking ATOM?
Key risks include:
- Market volatility affecting token value
- Slashing penalties if validators misbehave
- Lock-up periods (e.g., 21 days) limiting liquidity
Always diversify validators and consider platform reliability.
Can I lose money staking ATOM?
Yes — not from losing principal directly, but through:
- Declining ATOM price during lock-up
- Slashing events (rare but possible)
- High commission fees reducing net gains
How do I unstake my ATOM?
On exchanges like Binance or Kraken (flexible), unstaking is instant. On-chain (Ledger, Atomic), it takes 21 days due to Cosmos protocol rules.
Final Thoughts
Staking Cosmos (ATOM) is a powerful way to earn passive income while supporting a rapidly evolving blockchain ecosystem. From centralized exchanges like Binance and OKX offering high-yield fixed terms to secure hardware wallets like Ledger enabling full decentralization, there’s an option for every type of investor.
When choosing where to stake ATOM, weigh factors like APY, fees, liquidity needs, security preferences, and validator control. For most users, Binance strikes the best balance between yield, ease of use, and reliability.
👉 Start earning high-yield rewards on your crypto today — explore top staking opportunities now.