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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

ActivTrades vs HFM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In this comparison between ActivTrades and HFM, we delve into the distinct features and offerings of these established brokers. ActivTrades, with its London headquarters and FCA regulation, appeals to traders who value regulatory oversight and a robust trading platform selection, including its proprietary ActivTrader. On the other hand, HFM, based in Cyprus, attracts risk-tolerant traders with its high leverage options up to 1:2000 and minimal initial deposit requirement of $5. While ActivTrades is suited for those prioritising stability and risk management tools, HFM caters to novice traders and those seeking greater leverage flexibility.

ActivTrades

HFM

VS
ActivTradesHFM
BrokerRank Score3.6/53.8/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$5
Spread from0.5 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:4001:2000 ✓
RegulationFCA, CySECFCA, CySEC, FSCA ✓
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary WebMT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
ActivTradesHFM
Best for Low Fees
HFMActivTrades
Best for Regulation
HFMActivTrades
Best Overall
HFMActivTrades
Quick Answer

HFM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.8/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HFM offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

ActivTrades vs HFM: Key Differences

Feature

ActivTrades

HFM

Winner
Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.8 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$5
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3/lot
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
2001
2010
Headquarters
London, UK
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
2 / 5
3 / 5

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Fees Comparison

Fee

ActivTrades

HFM

Spread From
0.5 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3/lot
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

In comparing ActivTrades and HFM, HFM emerges as the better choice for beginners due to its very low minimum deposit requirement of $5 and micro account options, making it accessible for those just starting out. For professional traders, HFM also offers an advantage with its high leverage limit of up to 1:2000, appealing to those seeking more significant trading opportunities. However, in terms of fees, ActivTrades takes the lead with no commission charges and competitive spreads starting from 0.5 pips, though HFM offers spreads from 0 pips but with a $3 commission.

Who Should Choose Which?

ActivTrades

ActivTrades

3.6/5

Choose ActivTrades if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • No minimum deposit
  • More established (est. 2001)
HFM

HFM

3.8/5

Top pick

Choose HFM if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.8/5)
  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:2000)
  • More regulatory licences (3)

Also consider

View all rankings

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4.3
FCA
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4.1
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4.0
MAS
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AvaTrade
4.0
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Both ActivTrades & HFM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is ActivTrades better than HFM?

HFM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. ActivTrades holds a 3.6/5 rating vs HFM's 3.8/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, ActivTrades or HFM?

ActivTrades offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while HFM starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for ActivTrades vs HFM?

ActivTrades requires a minimum deposit of $0. HFM requires $5.

4

Which broker is safer, ActivTrades or HFM?

ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC, while HFM holds licences from FCA, CySEC, FSCA.

5

What trading platforms do ActivTrades and HFM support?

ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. HFM supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both ActivTrades and HFM?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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