Hargreaves Lansdown vs Kraken 2026: Which Broker is Better?
In the realm of trading platforms, Hargreaves Lansdown and Kraken serve distinctly different trader profiles. Hargreaves Lansdown, founded in 1981 and headquartered in Bristol, UK, caters primarily to UK-based investors seeking comprehensive investment options like Stocks and Shares ISAs and SIPPs, with a focus on long-term wealth management. In contrast, Kraken, established in 2011 in San Francisco, appeals to cryptocurrency traders, offering a range of digital assets with robust regulatory compliance and competitive staking options. While Hargreaves Lansdown is ideal for investors looking for established, UK-focused investments, Kraken is more suited for those interested in the dynamic world of cryptocurrency trading.
Hargreaves Lansdown
Kraken
| Hargreaves Lansdown | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 2.8/5 | 4.3/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Spread from | 0 pips ✓ | 0.2 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:1 | 1:5 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA | FCA, CFTC ✓ |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile |
Kraken is the better choice overall, scoring 4.3/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Hargreaves Lansdown offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowHargreaves Lansdown vs Kraken: Key Differences
Hargreaves Lansdown
Kraken
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Fees Comparison
Hargreaves Lansdown
Lower feesKraken
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
Hargreaves Lansdown
2.8/5
Choose Hargreaves Lansdown if you want…
- Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
- More market types (2)
- More established (est. 1981)
- Free withdrawals
Kraken
4.3/5
Choose Kraken if you want…
- Higher overall rating (4.3/5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:5)
- More regulatory licences (2)
Also consider
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Both Hargreaves Lansdown & Kraken are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is Hargreaves Lansdown better than Kraken?
Kraken scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Hargreaves Lansdown holds a 2.8/5 rating vs Kraken's 4.3/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, Hargreaves Lansdown or Kraken?
Hargreaves Lansdown offers spreads from 0 pips, while Kraken starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for Hargreaves Lansdown vs Kraken?
Hargreaves Lansdown requires a minimum deposit of $0. Kraken requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, Hargreaves Lansdown or Kraken?
Hargreaves Lansdown is regulated by FCA, while Kraken holds licences from FCA, CFTC.
5What trading platforms do Hargreaves Lansdown and Kraken support?
Hargreaves Lansdown supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Kraken supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both Hargreaves Lansdown and Kraken?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
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BrokerRank Research
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76% of Brokers Use Proprietary Platforms
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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.
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