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

HFM vs Public.com 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the realm of online brokerage, HFM and Public.com cater to distinct trading audiences with their unique offerings. HFM, with a rating of 3.78/5, appeals to experienced traders seeking diverse market access, including forex, CFDs, and commodities, alongside high leverage up to 1:2000. In contrast, Public.com, rated 3.01/5, is ideal for beginners and casual investors focused on commission-free stock and crypto trading, coupled with a social investing experience. While HFM is suited for those desiring advanced trading platforms like MT4 and MT5, Public.com attracts users with its user-friendly mobile app and fractional investing options.

HFM

Public.com

Higher ratedHFM logo

HFM

3.8/ 5
Visit HFM →Full review
VS
HFMPublic.com
BrokerRank Score3.8/5 ✓3.0/5
Min. Deposit$5$0 ✓
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:2000 ✓1:1
RegulationFCA, CySEC, FSCA ✓SEC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary MobileProprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
Public.comHFM
Best for Low Fees
HFMPublic.com
Best for Regulation
HFMPublic.com
Best Overall
HFMPublic.com
Quick Answer

HFM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.8/5 vs 3.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HFM offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

HFM vs Public.com: Key Differences

Feature

HFM

Public.com

Our Rating
3.8 / 5
3.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$5
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
$3/lot
None
Regulated By
SEC
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Stocks, Crypto
Founded
2010
2019
Headquarters
Limassol, Cyprus
New York, USA
Score
2 / 4
2 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

HFM

Public.com

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

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Public.com is the more suitable choice due to its user-friendly mobile platform, commission-free trades, and social investing features, which provide an accessible entry into stock and crypto markets. Professional traders may find HFM more appealing, given its access to advanced trading tools via MT4 and MT5, a variety of markets, and high leverage options up to 1:2000. On fees, Public.com holds the advantage with its zero-commission structure, whereas HFM includes commissions and potential inactivity fees.

Who Should Choose Which?

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)
Public.com

Public.com

3.0/5

Choose Public.com if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • No minimum deposit

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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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is HFM better than Public.com?

HFM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. HFM holds a 3.8/5 rating vs Public.com's 3.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, HFM or Public.com?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for HFM vs Public.com?

HFM requires a minimum deposit of $5. Public.com requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, HFM or Public.com?

HFM is regulated by FCA, CySEC, FSCA, while Public.com holds licences from SEC.

5

What trading platforms do HFM and Public.com support?

HFM supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile. Public.com supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both HFM and Public.com?

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

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