Gunbot and TradeSanta are two popular crypto trading bots, but which one is better for your trading needs? In this guide we break down both bots in terms of core features, supported strategies, pricing, and user experience - without any fluff.
Core Differences: Gunbot vs TradeSanta
| Feature | Gunbot | TradeSanta |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Self-hosted (Desktop, Server, or VPS) | Cloud SaaS |
| Pricing Model | One-time lifetime license, starts at $59 | Free tier (limited bots), paid plans $15-$35 / mo |
| Core Strategies | Spot & futures grid, DCA, liquidity provider, trailing, indicator based, scalping, custom JS | Grid, DCA, simple long/short, futures bots |
| Custom Scripting | Full JavaScript engine; TradingView webhook support | No custom scripting |
| Exchange Integrations | Native connectors for 25 + exchanges across spot, futures, and DeFi | ~8 major CEXs |
| API Key Custody | Local - your API secret or private key never leaves your device | Stored encrypted on TradeSanta servers |
Deployment Model and API Secret Security
Gunbot runs on hardware you fully control – your PC, a home server, or a remote VPS. Because execution is local, the exchange API secret stays on your machine, inaccessible to third parties. If you value maximum control over credentials, self-hosting is the safest route.
TradeSanta executes trades in the cloud. You manage bots through its web interface, but the encrypted API keys sit on TradeSanta infrastructure. While encryption and access controls are in place, ultimate custody rests with the vendor.
Bottom line: Gunbot wins on raw security and sovereignty. You hold the keys, literally.
Pricing: Lifetime Value vs Monthly Subscriptions
- Gunbot: A single payment of $59 (Standard edition) unlocks a lifetime license, full updates for that tier, and unlimited runtime. Power users can upgrade later without losing the original license.
- TradeSanta: A forever-free plan lets you run a handful of bots with caps on traded volume. Scaling up means $15 to $35 per month in recurring fees.
Cost break-even: At $35 / mo TradeSanta’s top plan overtakes Gunbot’s $59 cost in under two months. Even the $15 / mo tier surpasses Gunbot after four months of active use.
Strategy Automation and Customization
| Capability | Gunbot | TradeSanta |
|---|---|---|
| Out-of-the-box strategies | Spot & futures grid, DCA, trailing, liquidity provider (market making), indicator based presets, scalping bundles | Grid, DCA, long/short bots |
| Scripting engine | Native JavaScript (custom.js) with full access to tick data, indicators, order books, and external APIs | None |
| Backtesting | Built-in backtester for JS scripts, plus third-party TradingView integrations | Visual backtests for preset strategies only |
| Fine-grained controls | Adjustable order pacing, partial fills, dynamic trailing, multi-pair templates | Basic parameter sliders |
If you like tweaking every variable or writing your own algo, Gunbot is unmatched. TradeSanta focuses on quick setup and minimal configuration.
Supported Exchanges
Gunbot ships with 25 + exchange connectors, ranging from Binance, Kraken, Bybit, and OKX to DeFi venues like dYdX v4 and HyperLiquid. Both spot and derivatives markets are covered, including USD-M, COIN-M, and decentralized perpetuals.
TradeSanta currently integrates with roughly eight top centralized exchanges. Coverage is adequate for casual traders but limited for those who arbitrage across multiple venues or need niche markets.
Additional Factors to Consider
Ease of Use and Onboarding
- Gunbot: Requires initial installation and exchange key setup. The Quick Start Wizard plus ready-made presets smooth the first run, yet self-hosting knowledge helps.
- TradeSanta: Nothing to install. Sign up, paste keys, and deploy a template bot in minutes. The dashboard walks you through each step.
Performance and Reliability
- Gunbot: Runs as a lightweight Node.js app. Local latency is minimal, and you can allocate as much CPU or RAM as needed. A VPS with 1 GB RAM easily handles dozens of pairs.
- TradeSanta: Uptime is handled by the vendor. Outages are rare but out of your control. Back-end latency is acceptable for grid and DCA but may not suit sub-second scalping.
Unique Selling Points
| Gunbot Strengths | TradeSanta Strengths |
|---|---|
| Local custody of API secrets | Zero hosting maintenance |
| True lifetime license with free standard updates | Free tier for testing |
| Powerful custom JS engine and TradingView webhook support | Clean interface and wizard-driven bot creation |
| Wide exchange, futures, and DeFi coverage | Telegram and mobile push notifications out of the box |
| Advanced strategy types including indicator based and liquidity provider modes | Rapid grid and DCA deployment for beginners |
Who Should Choose Gunbot?
- Traders demanding maximum security and on-device key storage.
- Algorithmic enthusiasts who want full code-level access via JavaScript.
- Cost-conscious users seeking a one-time purchase instead of endless subscriptions.
- Arbitrageurs and scalpers operating across a broad set of centralized and decentralized exchanges.
Who Should Choose TradeSanta?
- Absolute beginners who prefer plug-and-play cloud bots.
- Users wanting to dip a toe into automation with a free plan and straightforward UI.
- Traders focusing on a small set of major exchanges and willing to trade off flexibility for convenience.
- Anyone who dislikes server management or local installations.
The Verdict
Gunbot and TradeSanta serve distinct audiences.
Gunbot is the power user’s toolkit. Local execution, lifetime licensing, and limitless strategy scripting make it the go-to option for serious traders who value security, flexibility, and long-term cost savings.
TradeSanta shines as a hassle-free introduction to automated trading. For quick grid or DCA deployment it is hard to beat, but you sacrifice deep customization, exchange breadth, and true key sovereignty.
Choosing the best bot ultimately depends on your appetite for control versus convenience. If you need the freedom to craft strategies, own your secrets, and avoid monthly fees, Gunbot is the clear winner. If simplicity and hands-off operation matter more, TradeSanta delivers.