ActivTradesvs
DerivCrypto Exchange Comparison
The comparison pits two CFD and non-native crypto brokers with different regulatory footprints and asset depth. It tests whether a broader protection regime can offset a smaller coin menu.
Our Verdict
ActivTrades winsby 0.3 pts
ActivTrades edges out Deriv on editorial score, thanks to stronger regulation and broader client fund protection.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1ActivTrades offers top-tier regulation with GBP 1,000,000 protection.
- 2Deriv provides a $5 minimum deposit.
- 3ActivTrades lists 10 coins vs Deriv’s 5.
Who should choose ActivTrades vs Deriv?
Find out which crypto exchange best suits your trading profile.
Choose ActivTrades if…
Choose ActivTrades if you value top-tier regulation and solid client protection, including up to GBP 1,000,000 insurance and FSCS coverage, plus no inactivity fees and responsive phone support. This matters if you want strong guardrails and direct support.
Choose Deriv if…
Choose Deriv if you want a very low entry point and flexible platform access, including MT5 and DXtrade, plus 24/7 trading on synthetic indices that can complement crypto exposure. You also get a broader multi-asset experience with quick onboarding.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
Best for security
Recommended
ActivTrades wins for security due to FCA regulation and FSCS protection.
Best for low fees
ActivTrades vs Deriv: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  ActivTrades |  Deriv |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.7/ 5 | 3.4/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | No minimum▼ lower | $5 |
| Spreads From | 0.5 pips | 0.5 pips |
| Taker Fee | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | None |
ActivTrades vs Deriv Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- FCA regulated with supplemental insurance up to GBP 1,000,000 per client, strongest fund protection among mid-tier brokers
- ActivTrader's volatility protection automatically cancels orders during extreme crypto market spikes
- Crypto CFDs available on ActivTrader and MT4 with no minimum deposit
- Negative balance protection and FSCS coverage for UK retail clients
Cons
- Limited coin selection (major tokens only, no altcoins or DeFi access)
ActivTrades vs Deriv: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
4
ActivTrades
criteria wins
0
Deriv
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | ActivTrades | Deriv |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Fail | Fail |
| Proof of reserves published | Fail | Fail |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Pass | Fail |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Fail |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Fail | Fail |
| DeFi integration | Fail | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
ActivTrades vs Deriv: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: ActivTrades rates 3.7/5 and Deriv rates 3.4/5. ActivTrades has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
Both ActivTrades and Deriv list the same spread figure of 0.5. Compare each exchange's full fee schedule, including maker/taker rates and any volume discounts, to evaluate total trading costs.
ActivTrades has no minimum deposit, while Deriv requires at least $5. This makes ActivTrades more accessible for traders looking to start with a smaller crypto investment.
ActivTrades holds top-tier regulation (FCA, CMVM, SCB), providing stronger investor protections. Deriv may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
ActivTrades stands out for beginners: it has a lower entry point and provides negative balance protection, which caps losses at your deposited amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
ActivTrades offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus Deriv's 2:1 cap. Margin and futures trading carry higher risk than spot crypto; confirm product availability and jurisdiction-specific limits on each exchange's website.
ActivTrades supports MetaTrader 4, ActivTrader, while Deriv supports MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web/Mobile, DXtrade. ActivTrades has exclusive access to MetaTrader 4 and ActivTrader. Deriv has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5 and Proprietary Web/Mobile and DXtrade.
ActivTrades scores better on fee criteria (no deposit fee, no inactivity fee). Always check both exchanges' current fee schedules, as maker/taker rates and withdrawal fees vary and are subject to change.
