OKX supports both Full Position and Isolated Position modes for contract trading. While Full Position shares account margin across trades, Isolated Position independently manages risks per trade. Users must manually select their preferred mode when no positions are open—automatic switching isn't available. Beginners are advised to start with Isolated Position to prevent single-trade losses from affecting their entire account.
Core Differences Between Full Position and Isolated Position Modes
These modes diverge fundamentally in risk management approaches:
- Full Position Mode:
Uses your total account assets as unified collateral for all positions. When a trade incurs floating losses, the system automatically deploys remaining margin to mitigate risk, delaying liquidation and reducing margin call risks. - Isolated Position Mode:
Segregates each position's margin. Regardless of your account balance, only the allocated margin bears the trade's profit/loss. If losses reach liquidation thresholds, only that position closes—other assets and trades remain unaffected.
Simplified analogy:
- Full Position = All eggs in one basket (shared risk/reward)
- Isolated Position = Separate boxes per egg (isolated outcomes)
Step-by-Step Configuration Guide on OKX
Via Mobile App:
- Open the Contract Trading interface
- Select your trading pair
- Tap the "Full/Isolated" button above the order area
- Choose your mode in the pop-up window
Via Web Platform:
The process mirrors the app—toggle modes in the right-hand order panel. Note: Settings are pair-specific (e.g., BTC positions can use Isolated while ETH uses Full Position).
Can You Switch Modes After Opening Trades?
Only when no active positions or pending orders exist. With open trades, you must close positions/cancel orders before changing modes. Always confirm your mode before entering trades—especially during volatile markets.
Beginner Recommendations: Which Mode to Choose?
Prioritize Isolated Position when starting because:
✅ Limits risk to individual trades
✅ Prevents single bad trade from wiping your account
✅ Builds confidence through controlled exposure
Consider Full Position only when you:
✔️ Have trading experience
✔️ Understand unified risk management
✔️ Actively monitor positions
Quick decision guide:
- Uncertain about market → Isolated
- Maximizing capital efficiency → Full Position (experienced traders)
Critical Usage Considerations
⚠️ Isolated ≠ Risk-Free: High leverage without stop-losses can still cause rapid liquidation.
⚠️ Full Position Dangers: One large loss can cascade across all positions.
⚠️ Regular Mode Checks: Some users unknowingly operate in Full Position—always verify the mode indicator before trading.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use both modes simultaneously?
A: Yes—each contract pair operates independently. You might use Isolated for BTC and Full for ETH trades.
Q: Which mode has higher liquidation risks?
A: Full Position generally carries greater systemic risk since all margin is shared. However, both can liquidate if risk thresholds are breached.
Q: How do I check my current mode?
A: Look for the "Full/Isolated" label in your trading interface.
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