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

HTX vs Kraken 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the "HTX vs Kraken" broker comparison, the primary difference lies in their regulatory compliance and leverage offerings. HTX, rebranded from Huobi and headquartered in Seychelles, provides extensive leverage up to 1:200, appealing to experienced traders seeking high-risk, high-reward opportunities with a large selection of over 600 crypto tokens. In contrast, Kraken, based in San Francisco and regulated by both the FCA and CFTC, offers a more secure environment with a leverage cap of 1:5, making it suitable for traders prioritising regulatory compliance and a trusted reputation. Each platform caters to distinct trading preferences, with HTX focusing on high-leverage crypto trading and Kraken on regulatory assurance and fiat accessibility.

HTX

Kraken

HTXKraken
BrokerRank Score3.8/54.3/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0.1 pips ✓0.2 pips
Max Leverage1:200 ✓1:5
RegulationFSAFCA, CFTC ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
HTXKraken
Best for Low Fees
HTXKraken
Best for Regulation
KrakenHTX
Best Overall
KrakenHTX
Quick Answer

Kraken is the better choice overall, scoring 4.3/5 vs 3.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HTX offers lower spreads (0.1 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

HTX vs Kraken: Key Differences

Feature

HTX

Kraken

Winner
Our Rating
3.8 / 5
4.3 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.1 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
$0.2/lot
$0.16/lot
Regulated By
FSA
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Crypto
Crypto
Founded
2013
2011
Headquarters
Seychelles
San Francisco, USA
Score
1 / 4
3 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

HTX

Lower fees

Kraken

Spread From
0.1 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
$0.2/lot
$0.16/lot
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
$1.5

BrokerRank Verdict

In the "HTX vs Kraken" comparison, Kraken emerges as the superior choice for professional traders due to its strong regulatory compliance and established reputation, despite offering limited leverage. HTX, with its extensive selection of over 600 cryptocurrencies and higher leverage options, is better suited for beginners looking to explore the crypto market comprehensively. Kraken wins on fees with a lower commission rate of 0.16 compared to HTX's 0.2, although HTX offers tighter spreads starting from 0.1 pips.

Who Should Choose Which?

HTX

HTX

3.8/5

Choose HTX if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0.1 pips)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:200)
  • Free withdrawals
Kraken

Kraken

4.3/5

Top pick

Choose Kraken if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.3/5)
  • More regulatory licences (2)
  • More established (est. 2011)

Also consider

View all rankings

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Both HTX & Kraken are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is HTX better than Kraken?

Kraken scores higher overall on our independent rating system. HTX holds a 3.8/5 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.

2

Which has lower fees, HTX or Kraken?

HTX offers spreads from 0.1 pips, while Kraken starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for HTX vs Kraken?

HTX requires a minimum deposit of $0. Kraken requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, HTX or Kraken?

HTX is regulated by FSA, while Kraken holds licences from FCA, CFTC.

5

What trading platforms do HTX and Kraken support?

HTX supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Kraken supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both HTX 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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