HFM
Orbex
HFM vs Orbex
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
HFM and Orbex 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. Orbex, established in 2011 in Limassol, Cyprus, holds licenses from CySEC with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $200 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, HFM scored 8/10 overall compared to Orbex's 7/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, Orbex 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 Orbex — a 1.0-point difference.
- 💵
HFM requires just $5 to start, while Orbex needs $200 — HFM is 40x more accessible.
- 📈
HFM offers 1,200+ instruments vs 300+ at Orbex — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
HFM runs on MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Orbex uses MT4 — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Regulation & Trust: HFM scores 9.0 vs 7.5 for Orbex — a 1.5-point difference.
Our Verdict
HFM
Score: 8.0/10 · Wins 7 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
Orbex
Score: 7.0/10 · Wins 0 categories- You prefer Orbex'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 better trading platforms, while Orbex 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. Orbex is not without merit — it scores 7/10 overall and excels in Trading Costs (7.5/10). For a complete breakdown, read our full HFM review and Orbex review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
HFM wins by 0.5 points
HFM wins by 1.0 points
HFM wins by 1.5 points
HFM wins by 0.5 points
HFM wins by 0.5 points
HFM wins by 1.0 points
HFM wins by 1.0 points
Full Feature Comparison
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, HFM has the edge with a score of 8/10 versus 7.5/10 for Orbex. HFM offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while Orbex starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at HFM is $5, compared to $200 at Orbex. 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
HFM scores 7.5/10 for platforms compared to 6.5/10 for Orbex. HFM provides MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Orbex offers MT4. 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. HFM is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, FSA (Tier 1), while Orbex holds licenses from CySEC (Tier 1). HFM scores 9/10 and Orbex scores 7.5/10 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.
Education & Research
For learning resources, HFM leads with 7.5/10 compared to 7/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. HFM and Orbex 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
HFM offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7.5/10, while Orbex provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone 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.
Deposit & Withdrawal
HFM scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while Orbex scores 7/10. HFM accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin, and Orbex supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. HFM requires a minimum deposit of $5 versus $200 for Orbex. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose HFM if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HFM better than Orbex?
HFM scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7/10), winning 7 of 8 categories. However, Orbex remains competitive. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, HFM or Orbex?
HFM scores higher for trading costs. HFM offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $5 minimum deposit, while Orbex starts from 0.0 pips with $200 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. Orbex is regulated by CySEC with a score of 7.5/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, HFM or Orbex?
HFM scores 7.5/10 for platforms. HFM offers MT4, MT5, HFM App, while Orbex provides MT4. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for HFM vs Orbex?
HFM requires a minimum deposit of $5, while Orbex requires $200. 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.