Eightcap
HFM
Eightcap vs HFM
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
Eightcap and HFM are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. Eightcap, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, SCB and offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips with a minimum deposit of $100. HFM, established in 2010 in Limassol, Cyprus, holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $5 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, Eightcap scored 8/10 overall compared to HFM's 8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, HFM holds its own with stronger regulation and superior education resources, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
Eightcap scores 8/10 overall vs 8/10 for HFM — a 0.0-point difference.
- 💵
HFM requires just $5 to start, while Eightcap needs $100 — HFM is 20x more accessible.
- 📈
HFM offers 1,200+ instruments vs 800+ at Eightcap — a notable difference in market coverage.
- 🖥️
Eightcap runs on MT4, MT5, TradingView, while HFM uses MT4, MT5, HFM App — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Platforms & Tools: Eightcap scores 8.5 vs 7.5 for HFM — a 1.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
Eightcap
Score: 8.0/10 · Wins 2 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You prefer Eightcap's trading environment overall
HFM
Score: 8.0/10 · Wins 3 categories- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
Eightcap takes the lead with an overall score of 8/10 compared to 8/10, winning in 2 out of 8 scoring categories. Eightcap stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while HFM fights back with stronger regulation and superior education resources.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, Eightcap comes out ahead with a 8/10 overall rating, winning 2 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Trading Costs where it scores 8.5/10. Eightcap holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. HFM is not without merit — it scores 8/10 overall and excels in Regulation & Trust (9.0/10), winning 3 categories. Traders who value stronger regulation or superior education resources may find HFM the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full Eightcap review and HFM review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
Eightcap wins by 0.5 points
Eightcap wins by 1.0 points
HFM wins by 1.0 points
HFM wins by 1.0 points
HFM wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.0/10 ✓ | 8.0/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $100 | $5 ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:2000 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, HFM App |
| Regulation | ASIC, CySEC, SCB | CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2009 ✓ | 2010 |
| Markets | 800+ | 1,200+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, Eightcap has the edge with a score of 8.5/10 versus 8/10 for HFM. Eightcap offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while HFM starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at Eightcap is $100, compared to $5 at HFM. Both brokers operate primarily on a spread-based pricing model, though actual costs vary by account type and instrument. For high-volume traders, even small spread differences add up significantly over time, making this an important category to weigh carefully.
Trading Platforms
Eightcap scores 8.5/10 for platforms compared to 7.5/10 for HFM. Eightcap provides MT4, MT5, TradingView, while HFM offers MT4, MT5, HFM App. The choice of platform affects your charting, order execution speed, and available technical indicators. Traders who rely on MetaTrader's algorithmic trading capabilities should check which MT4/MT5 features each broker supports, including custom indicators and expert advisors.
Regulation & Safety
Regulation is crucial for fund safety. Eightcap is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, SCB (Tier 1), while HFM holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA (Tier 1). Eightcap scores 8/10 and HFM scores 9/10 in this category. Tier 1 regulators like FCA, ASIC, and CySEC offer the strongest investor protection, including segregated client funds and compensation schemes. Always verify your broker's specific license for your jurisdiction before opening an account.
Education & Research
For learning resources, HFM leads with 7.5/10 compared to 6.5/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. Eightcap and HFM both provide demo accounts for risk-free practice, but the depth of educational content varies. Beginners should prioritize this category when choosing between the two.
Customer Support
Eightcap offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email and scores 7/10, while HFM provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone with a score of 7.5/10. Reliable support becomes critical during market volatility or when you encounter account issues. Look for brokers with 24/5 or 24/7 availability, multiple contact channels, and support in your preferred language.
Deposit & Withdrawal
Eightcap scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while HFM scores 8/10. Eightcap accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, and HFM supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. Eightcap requires a minimum deposit of $100 versus $5 for HFM. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose Eightcap if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You prefer Eightcap's trading environment overall
Choose HFM if you...
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eightcap better than HFM?
Eightcap scores higher overall (8/10 vs 8/10), winning 2 of 8 categories. However, HFM is stronger in stronger regulation and superior education resources. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, Eightcap or HFM?
Eightcap scores higher for trading costs. Eightcap offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $100 minimum deposit, while HFM starts from 0.0 pips with $5 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is Eightcap safe to trade with?
Eightcap is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, SCB and scores 8/10 for regulation. HFM is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, Eightcap or HFM?
Eightcap scores 8.5/10 for platforms. Eightcap offers MT4, MT5, TradingView, while HFM provides MT4, MT5, HFM App. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for Eightcap vs HFM?
Eightcap requires a minimum deposit of $100, while HFM requires $5. HFM has the lower entry barrier, making it more accessible for beginners or those testing with smaller amounts.
Ready to Start Trading?
Open a free account with either broker and start trading today.