In a head to head of regulated CFD crypto access, HFM and XTB compete on platform strength, regulation mix, and educational support.
XTB posts a higher editorial score (4.2 vs 3.9) and a stronger Platforms & Tools rating (4.7 vs 4.0).
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
XTB gains security from FCA and CySEC oversight plus KNF regulation.
XTB offers transparent pricing and competitive spreads.
| Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.9/ 5 | 4.2/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | No minimum | No minimum |
| Spreads From | 0 pips▼ lower | 0.8 pips |
| Taker Fee | 6.00% | N/A |
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | HFM | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Fail |
| Transparent pricing page | Fail | Pass |
| 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 | Fail | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
The scores are close: HFM rates 3.9/5 and XTB rates 4.2/5. XTB 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 XTB's 0.8. 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 HFM nor XTB requires a minimum deposit, making both accessible regardless of starting capital.
Both HFM and XTB 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.
HFM offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus XTB'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 XTB 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.
HFM supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while XTB supports xStation 5, MetaTrader 4. Both provide MetaTrader 4. HFM has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5. XTB has exclusive access to xStation 5.
HFM 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.
Equally matched with 50+ crypto CFDs each.
Equally matched; neither offers DeFi, staking, or on-chain access.
| 0.6 pips |
| N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | None | €10/month (after 12 months) |
|---|
| Deposit Fee | Free | Free |
|---|
| Deposit methods | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardSkrillNetellerFasaPay | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardSkrillNeteller |
|---|
| Withdrawal methods | Bank transferCredit cardSkrillNetellerFasaPay | Bank transferCredit cardSkrillNeteller |
|---|
| Withdrawal Fee | Free | Free |
|---|
| Regulators | FCA FSCA DFSA CySEC | FCA CySEC KNF |
|---|
| Cold Storage | No | No |
|---|
| Proof of Reserves | No | No |
|---|
| Staking | No | No |
|---|
| DeFi Integration | No | No |
|---|
| NFT Trading | No | No |
|---|
| 500+ Coins | No | No |
|---|
| P2P Trading | No | No |
|---|
| Crypto Earn / Savings | No | No |
|---|
| Token Launchpad | No | No |
|---|
Dig deeper into each broker’s features, fees, and regulation.
Score 3.9 / 5
Personalised recommendation
Answer 6 quick questions and we’ll match you with the brokers that best fit your trading style, experience level, and country.
Find my broker