HFM

HFM

🟢 Tier 1 Regulated
8.0
/ 10
vs
Deriv

Deriv

🟡 Tier 3 Regulated
7.0
/ 10

HFM vs Deriv

A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.

HFM and Deriv are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. HFM, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA and offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips with a minimum deposit of $5. Deriv, established in 2000 in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, holds licenses from VFSC, FSC, LFSA with spreads from 0.5 pips and a $5 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, HFM scored 8/10 overall compared to Deriv's 7/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, Deriv holds its own with overall value, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.

Key Differences at a Glance

  • 📊

    HFM scores 8/10 overall vs 7/10 for Deriv — a 1.0-point difference.

  • 🛡️

    HFM holds Tier 1 regulation (CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA) offering stronger investor protection than Deriv's Tier 3 status.

  • 📈

    HFM offers 1,200+ instruments vs 150+ at Deriv — a massive gap in market coverage.

  • 🖥️

    HFM runs on MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Deriv uses DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X — different ecosystems for different trading styles.

  • The biggest gap is in Regulation & Trust: HFM scores 9.0 vs 5.5 for Deriv — a 3.5-point difference.

Our Verdict

🏆 WINNER
HFM

HFM

Score: 8.0/10 · Wins 7 categories
  • You want lower spreads and trading fees
  • You're a beginner who values learning resources
  • Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
  • Responsive customer support matters to you
Deriv

Deriv

Score: 7.0/10 · Wins 0 categories
  • You prefer Deriv's trading environment overall

HFM takes the lead with an overall score of 8/10 compared to 7/10, winning in 7 out of 8 scoring categories. HFM stands out for lower trading costs and stronger regulation, while Deriv remains a solid alternative.

Detailed Verdict

After testing both brokers with real accounts, HFM comes out ahead with a 8/10 overall rating, winning 7 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Regulation & Trust where it scores 9.0/10. HFM holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. Deriv is not without merit — it scores 7/10 overall and excels in Platforms & Tools (7.5/10). For a complete breakdown, read our full HFM review and Deriv review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.

Score Breakdown

HFM
Deriv
Trading Costs
8.0 7.0

HFM wins by 1.0 points

Platforms & Tools
7.5 7.5
Regulation & Trust
9.0 5.5

HFM wins by 3.5 points

Education
7.5 6.5

HFM wins by 1.0 points

Customer Service
7.5 7.0

HFM wins by 0.5 points

Research & Analysis
7.0 6.5

HFM wins by 0.5 points

Deposit & Withdrawal
8.0 7.5

HFM wins by 0.5 points

Product Range
7.5 7.0

HFM wins by 0.5 points

Full Feature Comparison

Structured broker facts pulled from the shared broker dataset.
Feature
Overall Score
8.0/10
7.0/10
Min Deposit
Lower is better
$5
$5
Max Leverage
1:2000
1:1000
Spreads From
0.0 pips
0.5 pips
Platforms
MT4, MT5, HFM App
DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X
Regulation
CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA
VFSC, FSC, LFSA
Founded
Older track record highlighted
2010
2000
Markets
1,200+
150+
HFM: 1 Deriv: 0
💰

Fees & Costs

🏅 Section Winner: HFM (8.0 vs 7.0)

When it comes to trading costs, HFM has the edge with a score of 8/10 versus 7/10 for Deriv. HFM offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while Deriv starts from 0.5 pips. The minimum deposit at HFM is $5, compared to $5 at Deriv. 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.

HFM
8.0
Deriv
7.0
HFM: 1 Deriv: 0
🖥️

Trading Platforms

HFM scores 7.5/10 for platforms compared to 7.5/10 for Deriv. HFM provides MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Deriv offers DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X. 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.

HFM
7.5
Deriv
7.5
HFM: 2 Deriv: 0
🛡️

Regulation & Safety

🏅 Section Winner: HFM (9.0 vs 5.5)

Regulation is crucial for fund safety. HFM is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA (Tier 1), while Deriv holds licenses from VFSC, FSC, LFSA (Tier 3). HFM scores 9/10 and Deriv scores 5.5/10 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.

HFM
9.0
Deriv
5.5
HFM: 3 Deriv: 0
📚

Education & Research

🏅 Section Winner: HFM (7.5 vs 6.5)

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. HFM and Deriv 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.

HFM
7.5
Deriv
6.5
HFM: 4 Deriv: 0
🎧

Customer Support

🏅 Section Winner: HFM (7.5 vs 7.0)

HFM offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7.5/10, while Deriv provides 24/7 Live Chat, Email with a score of 7/10. 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.

HFM
7.5
Deriv
7.0
HFM: 5 Deriv: 0
💳

Deposit & Withdrawal

🏅 Section Winner: HFM (8.0 vs 7.5)

HFM scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while Deriv scores 7.5/10. HFM accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin, and Deriv supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, E-wallets. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. HFM requires a minimum deposit of $5 versus $5 for Deriv. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.

HFM
8.0
Deriv
7.5

Which Broker Is Right for You?

HFM

Choose HFM if you...

  • You want lower spreads and trading fees
  • You're a beginner who values learning resources
  • Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
  • Responsive customer support matters to you
Visit HFM
Deriv

Choose Deriv if you...

  • You prefer Deriv's trading environment overall
Visit Deriv

🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?

Cast your vote — see what other traders think

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HFM better than Deriv?

HFM scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7/10), winning 7 of 8 categories. However, Deriv remains competitive. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.

Which has lower fees, HFM or Deriv?

HFM scores higher for trading costs. HFM offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $5 minimum deposit, while Deriv starts from 0.5 pips with $5 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.

Is HFM safe to trade with?

HFM is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA and scores 9/10 for regulation. Deriv is regulated by VFSC, FSC, LFSA with a score of 5.5/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.

Which has better trading platforms, HFM or Deriv?

HFM scores 7.5/10 for platforms. HFM offers MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Deriv provides DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.

What's the minimum deposit for HFM vs Deriv?

HFM requires a minimum deposit of $5, while Deriv requires $5. Deriv 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.

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