Skip to main content
Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

Firstrade vs HFM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the "Firstrade vs HFM" broker comparison, the key difference lies in their market focus and target clientele. Firstrade, established in 1985 and headquartered in New York, appeals to stock and ETF traders seeking zero commission and no minimum deposit requirements, though it offers a limited product range. Meanwhile, HFM, based in Cyprus and founded in 2010, caters to traders looking for diverse markets including forex and crypto, with high leverage options and low minimum deposits, but carries higher risk due to its leverage. Each broker serves distinct trading needs, with Firstrade ideal for traditional stock investors and HFM suited for more adventurous traders seeking diverse asset classes.

Firstrade

HFM

VS
FirstradeHFM
BrokerRank Score3.4/53.8/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$5
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:21:2000 ✓
RegulationSEC, CFTCFCA, CySEC, FSCA ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileMT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
FirstradeHFM
Best for Low Fees
FirstradeHFM
Best for Regulation
HFMFirstrade
Best Overall
HFMFirstrade
Quick Answer

HFM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.8/5 vs 3.4/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Firstrade offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Firstrade vs HFM: Key Differences

Feature

Firstrade

Winner

HFM

Our Rating
3.4 / 5
3.8 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$5
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3/lot
Regulated By
SECCFTC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Stocks, Indices
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1985
2010
Headquarters
New York, USA
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
2 / 3
1 / 3

Still deciding between Firstrade and HFM?

Skip the back-and-forth — answer 4 quick questions and we'll match you to your best fit.

Matching for:Travelling or on a VPN? Change it.
Find my match

Fees Comparison

Fee

Firstrade

Lower fees

HFM

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

BrokerRank Verdict

In the comparison between Firstrade and HFM, HFM emerges as the better choice for professional traders due to its wide range of markets, including forex and commodities, and the availability of advanced platforms like MT4 and MT5. Firstrade, with its zero commission on stocks, ETFs, and options, and no minimum deposit requirement, is more suitable for beginners seeking a straightforward entry into stock trading. In terms of fees, Firstrade has the edge with its zero commission structure, making it more cost-effective for trading equities.

Who Should Choose Which?

Firstrade

Firstrade

3.4/5

Choose Firstrade if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • No minimum deposit
  • More established (est. 1985)
HFM

HFM

3.8/5

Top pick

Choose HFM if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.8/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:2000)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (6)

Also consider

View all rankings

We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.

#1ForTrade logo
ForTrade
4.3
FCA
Visit
#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
Visit
#5Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

#6AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
Visit

Both Firstrade & HFM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Firstrade better than HFM?

HFM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Firstrade holds a 3.4/5 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, Firstrade or HFM?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for Firstrade vs HFM?

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

4

Which broker is safer, Firstrade or HFM?

Firstrade is regulated by SEC, CFTC, while HFM holds licences from FCA, CySEC, FSCA.

5

What trading platforms do Firstrade and HFM support?

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

6

Can I use both Firstrade and HFM?

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

Key Trading Terms

Related Guides

More Comparisons

BrokerRank Research

Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.

Featured

Deriv

4.0
Open Account

Capital at risk · T&Cs apply