How to Calculate Position Size in Crypto

Size every trade by risk, not gut feel: how to work out position size from your account, stop distance and risk per trade.

Position size calculator →

Risk first, size second

Professional sizing starts from one number: how much you are willing to lose on the trade. A common rule is to risk 1–2% of your account per trade. Your position size then follows from your stop distance.

The formula

Position size = (account × risk %) ÷ (stop distance %). If you risk $20 and your stop is 2% away, you take $1,000 of exposure - regardless of leverage. Leverage only sets the margin required, not your risk.

Leverage is not risk

This is the point most beginners miss: your risk is set by size and stop, not by leverage. 10× on a small, well-stopped position can be far safer than 2× on an oversized one. Use a position size calculator so every trade risks the same amount, and keep an eye on your liquidation price.

FAQ

How much should I risk per trade?

A widely used guideline is 1–2% of your account per trade, so a run of losses cannot blow up the account.

Does leverage change my position size?

No - your risk is set by position size and stop distance. Leverage only determines the margin needed to hold that position.

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