Gunbot and 3Commas are two popular crypto trading bots, but which one aligns best with your trading style and technical comfort level? This guide dives into deployment, security, pricing, strategies, exchange support, and user experience to help you decide without fluff.
At a Glance: Gunbot vs 3Commas
| Feature | Gunbot | 3Commas |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Self-hosted (PC or VPS) | Cloud SaaS (vendor servers) |
| Pricing Model | One-time license (lifetime from $59 for Standard) | Subscription (Starter to Pro from $29–$99/mo) |
| Core Strategies | Spot & futures grid, DCA, indicator based, liquidity provider, scalping, trailing, custom JS | DCA bots, GRID bots, Options bots, SmartTrade terminal |
| Custom Scripting | Full JavaScript engine; TradingView webhooks | No native scripting; presets and signals only |
| Exchange Connectivity | Native connectors for 25+ exchanges | 18 major exchanges |
| API Credentials | Local storage (API secret or private key stays on device) | Stored on 3Commas servers |
Deployment and Security
Gunbot runs on your own hardware, whether that’s your desktop or a VPS you control. This self-hosted setup means your API secret or private key never leaves your system, reducing the risk of third-party breaches. You manage updates, backups, and uptime, but gain unmatched control and transparency over every trading operation.
3Commas is a fully managed cloud service you access through your browser. It’s quick to start and requires no local installation, but you must trust 3Commas with your API keys. Although they maintain robust security measures, any cloud-based platform inherently carries a higher attack surface.
Pricing Model and Long-Term Value
Gunbot charges a one-time fee starting at $59 for the Standard license. That includes lifetime access and updates for that version tier. For active traders, this upfront cost often pays for itself within two months compared to a $29/mo subscription, and under one month versus a $99/mo plan.
3Commas spreads costs over monthly fees. The Starter plan at $29/mo is accessible, but fees accumulate indefinitely. If you prefer predictable, pay-as-you-go billing or plan to use advanced features only short term, a subscription might suit you. For longer horizons, Gunbot’s flat license typically offers better value.
Trading Strategies and Customization
Gunbot provides a solid mix of built-in strategies: spot & futures grid, DCA, indicator based, liquidity provider, scalping, trailing, plus the ability to write your own in JavaScript. You can integrate TradingView alerts via webhooks and refine every parameter to match your risk appetite. This flexibility appeals to developers and experienced traders who tweak strategies iteratively.
3Commas covers the essentials with DCA bots, GRID bots, and options trading, alongside its SmartTrade terminal for manual market entries. Customization is user-friendly but limited to preset configurations and TradingView signals. This works well if you want effective strategies out of the box, without coding.
Exchange Connectivity
Gunbot ships with native connectors for 25+ leading exchanges across spot, futures, and DeFi markets. This breadth lets you tap specialized venues or arbitrage opportunities beyond the biggest platforms.
3Commas focuses on 18 major exchanges, covering all high-liquidity markets you likely trade on. If you rarely venture outside the industry’s heavy hitters, 3Commas’ selection should cover most needs.
User Experience and Ease of Use
Gunbot requires a bit more technical setup — installing the software, loading your license, and configuring strategies. Over the years, the community has built GUI add-ons and walkthroughs that simplify the process, but a basic comfort with command lines or server management helps.
3Commas offers a polished web interface that lets you launch bots, view analytics, and join the copy-trading marketplace in minutes. For traders who value a clean dashboard and minimal maintenance, 3Commas feels more approachable.
Strengths of Gunbot
- Full Local Control: Your API secret or private key remains on your device.
- One-Time Fee: Lifetime license avoids recurring subscription costs.
- Deep Customization: Full JavaScript engine and TradingView webhook support.
- Wide Exchange Support: Connect to 25+ exchanges, including DeFi and niche markets.
- Active Community: Extensive user forums, GitHub repos, and strategy sharing.
Strengths of 3Commas
- Beginner-Friendly UI: Intuitive platform ideal for new traders.
- Copy Trading: Access to a marketplace of proven strategies.
- Hassle-Free Setup: No local install; just sign up and trade.
- Reliable Upkeep: Platform maintenance and uptime handled by the vendor.
Verdict: Which Bot Should You Choose?
Choose Gunbot if you:
- Prioritize keeping your API credentials on your own hardware.
- Want to code or deeply tweak strategies.
- Plan to trade long term and avoid monthly fees.
- Need access to a broad range of exchanges, including DeFi venues.
- Don’t mind a bit of initial setup in exchange for full control.
Choose 3Commas if you:
- Seek a turnkey cloud solution with minimal installation.
- Appreciate a sleek web UI and strong analytics dashboard.
- Enjoy copy trading or following expert signal providers.
- Stick to major exchanges and prefer preset strategies.
- Are testing bot trading before committing to a larger toolset.
Ultimately, Gunbot excels for tech-savvy traders who value local control and unlimited customization, while 3Commas delivers ease of use and social features for those who want to trade quickly without managing a server environment. Choose the one that aligns with your technical comfort, time horizon, and trading goals.