HYCM
Kraken
VS
Higher Rated
HYCM
Capital at risk · T&Cs apply
Choosing between HYCM and Kraken depends on your trading style, preferred markets, and budget. HYCM is headquartered in London, UK, while Kraken operates from San Francisco, USA. HYCM has the longer track record, established in 1977, compared to Kraken which was founded in 2011. This in-depth comparison covers regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and overall ratings to help you decide which broker is the better fit in 2026.
HYCM
Kraken
| HYCM | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.4/5 ✓ | 3.4/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $100 | $0 ✓ |
| Spread from | 0.2 pips | 0.2 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 ✓ | 1:5 |
| Regulation | FCA, CySEC, DFSA ✓ | FCA, CFTC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5 | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile |
HYCM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.4/5 vs 3.4/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HYCM offers lower spreads (0.2 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowHYCM
WinnerKraken
HYCM
Lower feesKraken
HYCM holds licences from FCA, CySEC, DFSA. Kraken is regulated by FCA, CFTC.
HYCM additionally covers Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities. Kraken adds Crypto.
On spreads, HYCM is more competitive with EUR/USD spreads from 0.2 pips, compared to 0.2 pips at Kraken.
HYCM supports MT4, MT5. Kraken offers Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
HYCM requires a minimum deposit of $100, while Kraken sets no minimum deposit. This makes Kraken accessible to traders with any budget.
BrokerRank scores HYCM at 3.43/5 and Kraken at 3.37/5, based on 50+ data points covering regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and user experience. HYCM leads overall with a clear advantage.
HYCM
3.4/5
Choose HYCM if you want…
Kraken
3.4/5
Choose Kraken if you want…
HYCM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. HYCM holds a 3.4/5 rating vs Kraken's 3.4/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
HYCM offers spreads from 0.2 pips, while Kraken starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
HYCM requires a minimum deposit of $100. Kraken requires $0.
HYCM is regulated by FCA, CySEC, DFSA, while Kraken holds licences from FCA, CFTC.
HYCM supports MT4, MT5. Kraken supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
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 — MT4 vs MT5 vs proprietary
Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.