Freetradevs
HFMStock Broker Comparison
This comparison contrasts two approaches to stock exposure and investor features. The axis of tension centers on costs, long-term wrappers, and platform scope.
Our Verdict
Freetrade winsby 0.2 pts
Freetrade edges HFM on editorial score for its commission-free trading and ISA/SIPP support.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1Freetrade offers commission-free stock trading; HFM does not.
- 2Freetrade supports ISAs and SIPPs; HFM does not.
- 3Freetrade uses a proprietary mobile app; HFM offers MT4/MT5 CFDs.
Who should choose Freetrade vs HFM?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Best for low cost trading
Recommended
Freetrade wins for low cost trading due to commission-free stocks and ETFs.
Best for safety & regulation
Recommended
Freetrade vs HFM: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.0/ 5 | 3.8/ 5 |
| Min deposit | N/A | No minimum |
| Spreads from | N/A | 0 pips |
| Commission / lot | N/A | $6/lot |
Freetrade vs HFM Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- Commission-free stocks and ETF trading
- Both Stocks & Shares ISA and SIPP available
- Clean, beginner-friendly mobile interface
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection
- No minimum deposit requirement
Cons
- Narrower stock universe than full-service brokers
Freetrade vs HFM: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
Freetrade
criteria wins
4
HFM
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | Freetrade | HFM |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Pass | Fail |
| No deposit fee | Pass | — |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Pass | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Fail |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Fail | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Fail | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Fail | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Pass |
Freetrade vs HFM: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: Freetrade rates 4/5 and HFM rates 3.8/5. Freetrade 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 starts from 0. Current spread data is not available for Freetrade. Check both brokers' websites for up-to-date spread and commission pricing.
HFM requires no minimum deposit required. Minimum deposit information is not currently available for Freetrade.
Both Freetrade and HFM hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, HFM provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each broker's site before deciding.
Freetrade lists maximum leverage of 1:1, while HFM lists up to 20:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
HFM charges $6 per trade on commission-based accounts. Commission details for Freetrade are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing. Stock commissions may be charged as a flat rate per trade or per share; confirm the exact structure on each broker's website.
Freetrade supports Freetrade App, while HFM supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4. Freetrade has exclusive access to Freetrade App. HFM has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4.
Freetrade offers commission-free stock trading while HFM does not according to our data. Commission-free trading can reduce costs for frequent traders. Always confirm the current fee structure directly on each broker's website.
Both Freetrade and HFM are covered by a compensation scheme according to our data, providing an additional safety net for your stock investments. Confirm the specific scheme and coverage limit that applies to your account before depositing.
