ATFXvs
HFMCrypto Exchange Comparison
ATFX and HFM clash as CFD brokers offering crypto exposure, testing regulation, asset depth, and platform choices. The axis of tension hinges on asset breadth versus platform flexibility.
Our Verdict
HFM winsby 0.3 pts
HFM wins on editorial score, edging ATFX by 0.3 points thanks to broader crypto coverage and multiplatform support.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1ATFX lists 8 coins; HFM lists 50.
- 2ATFX uses MT4 only; HFM offers MT4 and MT5.
- 3Advanced charting available on HFM but not on ATFX.
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
It’s a tie
Both equally suited
ATFX benefits from UK FSCS protection for UK clients.
Best for low fees
Recommended
ATFX offers transparent pricing.
ATFX vs HFM: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  ATFX |  HFM |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.6/ 5 | 3.9/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | No minimum | No minimum |
| Spreads From | 1.8 pips | 0 pips▼ lower |
| Taker Fee | N/A | 6.00% |
ATFX vs HFM Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- FCA, CySEC, and FSCA regulation, UK clients get FSCS protection up to GBP 85,000
- Crypto CFDs available on MT4 alongside forex, indices, and equities, no platform switching
- No minimum deposit or inactivity fee
- Negative balance protection under FCA and CySEC frameworks
Cons
- MT4 only, no MT5, cTrader, or proprietary platform for crypto
ATFX vs HFM: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
ATFX
criteria wins
0
HFM
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | ATFX | HFM |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Pass |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Pass |
| 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 | Fail |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
ATFX vs HFM: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: ATFX rates 3.6/5 and HFM rates 3.9/5. HFM 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.
HFM lists a lower spread from 0, compared with ATFX's 1.8. Crypto trading costs are typically quoted as a percentage of the trade value; check each exchange's full fee schedule, as maker/taker rates and volume discounts vary.
Neither ATFX nor HFM requires a minimum deposit, making both accessible regardless of starting capital.
Both ATFX and HFM hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each exchange's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, both exchanges provide negative balance protection. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each exchange's site before deciding.
ATFX offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus HFM'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.
HFM charges $6 per trade on commission-based accounts. Commission details for ATFX are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing. Crypto fees are typically quoted as maker/taker rates rather than fixed per-trade commissions; check each exchange's fee schedule for volume-based discounts.
ATFX supports MetaTrader 4, while HFM supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. HFM has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5.
