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HTX
86
HTX is a crypto exchange offering spot and derivatives trading with a focus on deep liquidity, competitive fees, and tools for both beginner and professional traders.
Type
Spot + Perps
Trading Pairs
700+
Leverage
Up to 200x
Signup Offer
Up to 1,500 USDT
Pros and Cons
Wide Range of Assets (Altcoin Heavy)
Advanced Trading Features
Multiple Earning Opportunities
Global Presence & High User Base
Cons
Questionable Security History
Weak Regulatory Standing
Mixed User Feedback & Support Issues
Not Beginner-Friendly
Overview
HTX is a global cryptocurrency exchange known for its wide range of digital assets, trading products, and strong presence in Asian markets. Originally launched in 2013 as Huobi, the platform rebranded to HTX as part of a broader strategic shift aimed at revitalizing its brand and expanding its international reach.
The platform offers spot trading for a large selection of cryptocurrencies, along with derivatives such as futures and margin trading. HTX also provides staking, earning products, and a native wallet, with an interface that accommodates both beginners and advanced users. Its ecosystem includes various financial services designed to support active trading as well as passive income strategies.
A key differentiator for HTX is its extensive asset coverage and established market presence. The exchange has historically been among the leaders in global trading volume and continues to offer deep liquidity across many pairs. While its regulatory positioning has evolved across jurisdictions, HTX emphasizes security infrastructure and ongoing compliance efforts to maintain user trust.
Overall, HTX is best described as a globally oriented, full-service exchange that combines a broad product suite with deep market access. It is particularly well suited for users seeking exposure to a wide range of assets and trading opportunities, though its shifting regulatory footprint and complex interface may require additional consideration for newer participants.
Pros and Cons
Wide Range of Assets (Altcoin Heavy)
HTX supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies (700+ in some listings), making it one of the better platforms for altcoin exposure.
Advanced Trading Features
The platform offers spot, margin, futures trading, and trading bots, along with high leverage (up to 200x in futures), catering to experienced traders.
Multiple Earning Opportunities
HTX includes staking, dual-investment products, and lending features, allowing users to generate passive income.
Global Presence & High User Base
With 40+ million users across 160+ countries, HTX remains a major global exchange with significant trading activity.
Cons
Questionable Security History
HTX has experienced past security incidents and hacks, which still affect its reputation despite improvements.
Weak Regulatory Standing
The exchange operates offshore and is restricted or banned in several regions, with ongoing regulatory scrutiny in places like the UK.
Mixed User Feedback & Support Issues
User reviews are often negative, citing slow customer support, frozen accounts, and poor issue resolution.
Not Beginner-Friendly
Despite having a simple buy feature, most of the platform is complex and geared toward experienced traders, making onboarding harder for newcomers.
Scoring System
Each centralized crypto exchange is evaluated on a 100-point scale using a weighted framework that reflects real-world usability, security, and service reliability. Scores are based on the following categories:
- Security & Compliance (25 points) – Measures platform security practices, regulatory compliance, insurance coverage, history of breaches, and adherence to KYC/AML standards.
- Liquidity & Market Depth (20 points) – Evaluates trading volume, order book depth, slippage, and the ability to execute large trades efficiently across spot and derivatives markets.
- Asset Support & Listings (15 points) – Considers the range of supported cryptocurrencies and tokens, fiat gateways, and access to niche or newly listed assets.
- Trading Features & Tools (15 points) – Assesses the quality of spot, margin, and derivatives trading, staking, lending, advanced charting, and order types.
- User Experience & Interface (10 points) – Reviews onboarding, platform navigation, mobile and desktop app usability, and overall ease of use.
- Customer Support & Reliability (10 points) – Evaluates responsiveness, support channels, dispute resolution, and platform uptime/stability.
- Fees & Value for Money (5 points) – Examines trading fees, withdrawal costs, and competitive pricing relative to available features and services.
Each category contributes a defined portion of the total score. Higher-scoring exchanges demonstrate a strong balance of security, liquidity, usability, and trading features; not just flashy interfaces or a large coin list.
Security and Compliance
22
Security
HTX has invested in advanced security infrastructure, though its historical track record affects overall perception.
- Cold Storage & Asset Protection
A significant portion of user funds is stored in offline cold wallets, reducing exposure to online threats. - Multi-Signature Wallet System
Transactions require multiple approvals, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. - User-Level Security Features
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Anti-phishing codes
- Withdrawal address whitelisting
- Device and login monitoring
- Real-Time Risk Control Systems
HTX uses automated systems to detect suspicious activity, abnormal trading patterns, and potential breaches. - Security Reserve Fund
The platform maintains a user protection fund designed to compensate users in the event of certain security incidents.
Historical Context
HTX’s security reputation is influenced by past events:
- The exchange has experienced security breaches and fund outflows, including incidents linked to hot wallet compromises.
- In some cases, losses were recovered or covered, but these events have impacted trust.
Despite improvements, HTX is still considered less battle-tested than top-tier regulated exchanges.
Compliance
Compliance is where HTX differs most from highly regulated platforms.
- KYC/AML Requirements
HTX enforces identity verification for most features, particularly withdrawals, derivatives trading, and higher limits. - Tiered Verification System
Users must complete different KYC levels to unlock full platform functionality. - Offshore Operating Structure
HTX operates primarily through offshore jurisdictions, which allows flexibility but reduces regulatory oversight. - Limited Licensing in Major Markets
Unlike exchanges such as Coinbase or Gemini, HTX does not hold extensive licenses in key regions like the U.S. or EU. - Regional Restrictions
Access to certain services may be limited or restricted depending on local regulations.
Trade-Off: Flexibility vs Regulation
HTX presents a clear trade-off:
- Greater product availability and flexibility
- Lower regulatory transparency and oversight
This results in:
- Access to more features (e.g., high-leverage derivatives, altcoins)
- Increased regulatory uncertainty for users
Liquidity & Market Depth
18
Liquidity Overview
HTX maintains high overall liquidity, especially in its core markets.
Strong Liquidity in Major Pairs
Trading pairs such as BTC/USDT, ETH/USDT, and other large-cap assets benefit from significant volume and tight spreads.High Derivatives Volume
Futures and perpetual contracts account for a substantial portion of HTX’s liquidity, attracting active and leveraged traders.Global User Base Contribution
A large international user base helps sustain consistent trading activity across time zones.
Market Depth
HTX offers solid market depth, particularly in high-demand markets.
Deep Order Books (Top Assets)
Major pairs show strong buy/sell walls across multiple price levels, supporting stable price discovery.Efficient Execution for Medium-to-Large Trades
Traders can execute reasonably large orders with moderate slippage, especially in liquid pairs.Altcoin Depth Variability
While HTX lists many altcoins, market depth can vary significantly between top-tier and lower-cap assets.
Trade Execution Quality
Fast Matching Engine
HTX’s infrastructure supports quick order execution, even during volatile market conditions.Competitive Spreads
Tight spreads on major pairs help reduce trading costs.Leverage-Driven Liquidity
Margin and derivatives trading enhance overall liquidity but may introduce higher volatility.
Competitive Position
Compared to major exchanges like Binance and OKX:
HTX offers strong liquidity in derivatives markets
Slightly lower spot liquidity overall
Remains competitive for altcoin and leveraged trading environments
Limitations
Inconsistent Depth Across Altcoins
Smaller tokens may have thin order books and higher slippage.Volume Concentration in Derivatives
A large portion of liquidity is concentrated in futures markets rather than spot.Potential Volatility in Leveraged Markets
High leverage can amplify price swings, affecting execution quality during extreme conditions.
Asset Support & Listings
14
Asset Coverage
HTX supports a very large selection of digital assets, often exceeding 600–700+ cryptocurrencies and hundreds of trading pairs.
Core Market Coverage
Major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other large-cap assets are fully supported with strong liquidity.Extensive Altcoin Selection
HTX is particularly strong in altcoins, offering access to:DeFi tokens
Layer 1 and Layer 2 projects
Gaming and metaverse tokens
Emerging and trending assets
Strong Stablecoin Ecosystem
Includes major stablecoins such as USDT, USDC, and others, enabling flexible trading and liquidity management.Early Access to New Tokens
HTX often lists new and trending projects earlier than more regulated exchanges, appealing to speculative traders.
Listing Philosophy
HTX follows a fast-moving, market-driven listing strategy.
Rapid Listing of New Assets
Compared to exchanges like Bitstamp or Gemini, HTX lists tokens more quickly, especially those gaining market attention.Market Demand Focus
Listings are heavily influenced by trading demand, ecosystem growth, and popularity.Basic Due Diligence
Projects undergo internal review, but the process is generally less strict than highly regulated platforms.
Regional Availability
Global Access with Restrictions
HTX is accessible in many regions but restricts or limits services in certain jurisdictions due to regulatory requirements.Feature-Based Availability
Some tokens or trading products (e.g., derivatives) may not be available in all regions.
Strengths vs Limitations
Strengths:
Very large asset selection
Strong altcoin and emerging token coverage
Faster access to new market opportunities
Limitations:
Higher exposure to risky or low-quality tokens
Inconsistent liquidity across smaller assets
Less rigorous listing standards compared to regulated exchanges
Trading Features & Tools
14
HTX provides a feature-rich, all-in-one trading ecosystem, combining spot markets, derivatives, automation tools, and earning products. It is designed to support both active traders and passive investors, with a strong emphasis on flexibility and product variety.
Spot Trading
Spot trading is the foundation of HTX’s platform.
- 700+ cryptocurrencies and 1,000+ trading pairs
- Real-time order book with competitive spreads
- Standard order types (market, limit, stop)
This makes HTX one of the most asset-diverse spot exchanges in the market.
Derivatives & Futures
HTX has a strong derivatives ecosystem, especially for leveraged traders.
- Perpetual futures and contracts
- Up to 200x leverage on select pairs
- Hundreds of contract markets available
Derivatives are a major driver of HTX’s liquidity and trading volume.
Margin & Leverage Trading
HTX offers margin trading to amplify positions.
- Up to 5x leverage on spot markets
- Cross and isolated margin modes
- Borrowing system integrated into trading interface
This enables traders to increase exposure while managing risk.
Staking & Earn Features
HTX provides a wide range of Earn and passive income products.
- Staking for multiple cryptocurrencies
- Flexible and fixed savings products
- Launchpool for earning new tokens
These products cover hundreds of assets, making HTX strong in yield generation.
Copy Trading
HTX offers copy trading features for less experienced users.
- Follow professional traders’ strategies
- Automated replication of trades
- Risk controls and fund isolation features
This lowers the barrier to entry for users without advanced trading knowledge.
Crypto Loans
HTX provides crypto-backed lending services.
- Borrow stablecoins or other assets using crypto as collateral
- Flexible loan terms and adjustable collateral ratios
- Useful for liquidity without selling holdings
This adds financial flexibility for traders and long-term investors.
OTC & P2P Trading (Fiat Gateway)
HTX includes peer-to-peer (P2P) and OTC trading services.
- Buy/sell crypto directly with other users
- Supports 70+ fiat currencies and hundreds of payment methods
- Reduced slippage for large trades
This feature improves accessibility and provides an alternative fiat on/off-ramp.
Trading Bots & Automation
HTX includes built-in trading bots and automated strategies.
- Grid trading bots (spot and futures)
- Automated strategy execution
- Growing adoption of “intelligent trading tools”
Bot trading volume has grown significantly, showing strong user demand for automation.
Additional Tools & Ecosystem Features
HTX offers a wide range of supporting tools that expand its ecosystem:
- API access for algorithmic and high-frequency trading
- Mobile trading app with full functionality
- HT token ecosystem (discounts, rewards, governance)
- Launch events & promotions (trading competitions, new listings)
- C2C Select (enhanced OTC system) with risk controls and guarantees
These features position HTX as a multi-layered trading platform rather than just an exchange.
User Experience & Interface
8
Platform Design
HTX offers a modern and visually polished interface, with a layout similar to other large global exchanges.
Clean but Information-Dense Layout
The interface is relatively intuitive at first glance, but includes a large amount of data such as charts, order books, and trading panels.Well-Structured Navigation
Key sections (spot, derivatives, wallet, earn) are clearly organized, making it easier to move between features.Consistency Across Devices
The web platform and mobile app maintain a consistent design and functionality.
Beginner Experience
HTX provides some tools for new users, but the experience can still feel overwhelming.
Simple Buy/Sell Option
A basic interface allows users to quickly purchase crypto using fiat or card payments.Guided Features Available
Tutorials and onboarding prompts exist, but are not as prominent as on beginner-focused platforms.Learning Curve
The wide range of features can make it difficult for beginners to fully understand the platform.
Advanced Trading Experience
HTX is particularly strong for experienced traders.
Professional Trading Interface
Includes real-time charts, depth charts, and multiple order types.Integrated Derivatives & Margin Trading
Users can seamlessly switch between spot, margin, and futures markets.Customizable Layouts
Some flexibility in adjusting charts and trading panels for different strategies.
Performance & Reliability
Fast Matching Engine
HTX provides quick order execution and handles high trading volumes efficiently.Stable Mobile App
The mobile application is feature-rich and supports most trading functionalities.Generally Reliable Performance
The platform maintains solid uptime, though occasional slowdowns have been reported during extreme market volatility.
Limitations
Cluttered Interface for New Users
The amount of information and features can feel overwhelming.Inconsistent UX Across Features
Some sections (especially newer or less-used tools) may feel less refined.Less Polished Than Top Competitors
Compared to platforms like Binance or Coinbase, the experience can feel slightly less intuitive.
Customer Support & Reliability
6
Customer Support
HTX offers multiple support channels, but overall effectiveness can vary.
24/7 Customer Support Channels
Users can access support via:Live chat
Email/ticket system
In-app support
Help Center & Self-Service Resources
HTX provides a large knowledge base with FAQs, guides, and tutorials covering trading, security, and account management.Response Time Variability
While simple queries may be resolved quickly, more complex issues; such as account verification or withdrawals; can take longer.Mixed User Feedback
User experiences are inconsistent:Some report fast and helpful responses
Others cite delays, generic replies, or difficulty resolving account-related issues
Reliability
From a technical standpoint, HTX performs relatively well.
Stable Trading Infrastructure
The platform generally maintains solid uptime and can handle high trading volumes.Fast Execution Speeds
Orders are processed quickly through a capable matching engine.Consistent Mobile Performance
The mobile app is stable and supports most platform features without major issues.Operational Continuity
Despite past incidents, HTX has maintained ongoing service availability and continues to operate at scale.
Trade-Off: Infrastructure vs Support Quality
HTX demonstrates a clear trade-off:
Strong backend infrastructure and trading reliability
Less consistent customer support experience
This means:
Active traders benefit from stable performance
Users needing assistance may encounter delays or inconsistencies
Limitations
Inconsistent Support Quality
Not all issues are resolved efficiently, especially more complex cases.Language & Regional Differences
Support quality can vary depending on the user’s region and language.Escalation Challenges
Difficulties in escalating urgent issues have been reported by some users.
Fees & Value for Money
4
Spot Trading Fees Table – Find all exact numbers regarding the platform’s fees here.
Fee Structure Overview
HTX uses a maker-taker fee model, with additional incentives tied to its native ecosystem.
Standard Trading Fees
~0.20% maker / 0.20% taker (base level)
Reduced fees based on trading volume and account tier
HT Token (HT) Discounts
Holding or using the platform’s native token (HT) can significantly reduce trading fees.VIP Tier System
High-volume traders benefit from progressively lower fees, making HTX more cost-efficient at scale.
Derivatives & Margin Fees
Futures Trading Fees
Typically lower than spot:~0.02% maker / ~0.05% taker (varies by contract)
Funding Rates (Perpetual Contracts)
Traders pay or receive funding depending on market conditions.Margin Interest Rates
Borrowing funds incurs variable interest depending on demand.
These features make HTX attractive for active and leveraged traders, but costs can accumulate depending on strategy.
Deposit & Withdrawal Fees
Crypto Deposits
Generally freeCrypto Withdrawals
Subject to network fees, which vary by asset and blockchain conditionsFiat Services
Fees vary depending on payment provider and region, and may include spreads or third-party charges
Strengths
Competitive Fees for Active Traders
VIP tiers and HT token discounts can significantly lower costs.Low Derivatives Fees
Futures trading fees are among the more competitive in the market.Frequent Promotions & Incentives
HTX often runs campaigns that reduce fees or provide rebates.
Weaknesses
Higher Base Fees for Casual Users
Without discounts, the default 0.20% fee is higher than some competitors.Complex Fee Structure
Multiple layers (VIP tiers, token discounts, funding rates) can be confusing.Hidden Costs in Spreads & Funding
Especially relevant for derivatives and instant buy features.
Value for Money
HTX offers good overall value, particularly for users who actively engage with its ecosystem.
High value for:
Active and high-volume traders
Derivatives traders
Users leveraging HT token discounts
Lower value for:
Beginners making occasional trades
Users not utilizing VIP tiers or HT token benefits
The Block Note's Score
Aggregated Score
22
18
14
14
8
6
4
Total Score
Who is HTX Best for
1. Active & Experienced Traders
HTX is best suited for users who already understand trading and market dynamics.
- Access to spot, margin, and high-leverage futures
- Advanced tools and trading bots
- Deep liquidity in major markets
The platform is specifically designed for frequent trading and strategy execution.
2. Altcoin & High-Risk Traders
HTX excels in providing extensive asset exposure, especially in emerging markets.
- 600–1000+ cryptocurrencies and trading pairs
- Early listings of trending tokens
- Strong presence in Asian-market assets
This makes it ideal for users seeking diversification and speculative opportunities.
3. Derivatives & Leverage Traders
HTX is particularly attractive for users focused on leveraged trading.
- High leverage (up to ~200x in futures)
- Active derivatives markets
- Competitive fees for futures trading
These features appeal to traders using short-term, high-risk strategies.
4. Crypto-Native Users (Non-Fiat Focused)
HTX works best for users already operating within the crypto ecosystem.
- Strong crypto-to-crypto trading environment
- Wide range of earning products (staking, lending, etc.)
- Less reliance on traditional banking infrastructure
It is especially suitable for users who prioritize access and flexibility over regulation.
Final Verdict
HTX
86
HTX is a crypto exchange offering spot and derivatives trading with a focus on deep liquidity, competitive fees, and tools for both beginner and professional traders.
Type
Spot + Perps
Trading Pairs
700+
Leverage
Up to 200x
Signup Offer
Up to 1,500 USDT
Pros and Cons
Wide Range of Assets (Altcoin Heavy)
Advanced Trading Features
Multiple Earning Opportunities
Global Presence & High User Base
Cons
Questionable Security History
Weak Regulatory Standing
Mixed User Feedback & Support Issues
Not Beginner-Friendly
HTX Team
Justin Sun
Founder of TRON and Global Advisor to HTX
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions
What is a centralized crypto exchange (CEX)?
A CEX is a platform that facilitates buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies through a company that holds custody of your funds.
How do I create an account on a centralized exchange?
Most exchanges require email verification, identity checks (KYC), and sometimes phone verification. Once verified, you can deposit funds and start trading.
What happens if the exchange gets hacked?
Your funds could be at risk, though some platforms offer insurance or compensation. Always follow best practices and avoid leaving large balances on a CEX.
Can I trade on mobile?
Most exchanges offer mobile apps with full functionality for trading, portfolio tracking, and security management.
How is security measured for these exchanges?
Security includes platform safeguards, regulatory compliance, insurance coverage, and past incidents. Exchanges with strong security practices and transparency score higher.
Why aren’t fees the main scoring factor?
Fees are important, but we weigh them alongside usability, liquidity, support, and asset variety. A low-fee platform with poor security or unreliable support will score lower.
Can an exchange’s score change over time?
Yes. Scores are updated based on security updates, liquidity changes, new features, or regulatory developments.
Do you receive compensation for higher scores?
No. Scores are independent of partnerships or affiliate relationships.
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