HTX (Huobi)

HTX (formerly Huobi) has one of the most dramatic histories in crypto. After reviewing dozens of exchanges over the years, I have rarely encountered a platform with such a turbulent backstory. Let me break down everything you need to know about this exchange's journey from industry leader to its current uncertain position.

The Rise (2013-2020): Building an Empire

Huobi was founded in 2013 by Leon Li in Beijing, during a time when the cryptocurrency industry was still finding its footing. I remember first encountering Huobi back in 2014 when it was rapidly establishing itself as China's dominant crypto exchange. What struck me was how quickly the platform scaled - often trading more volume than Binance in its home market before Binance even existed as a global player.

At its peak between 2017 and 2020, Huobi was processing over $10 billion in daily volume. The platform was synonymous with Chinese crypto trading, serving millions of users across Asia. They had a professional operation with solid technology, a responsive trading engine, and features that rivaled any Western exchange. During my testing throughout this period, I found the platform reliable for both spot and futures trading, with order execution that consistently met my expectations.

Huobi also expanded globally during this time, opening offices in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and several other markets. They obtained licenses in multiple jurisdictions and built what appeared to be a sustainable, compliant business model. The HT token (Huobi Token) became one of the most valuable exchange tokens, and their launchpad consistently attracted promising projects.

The Fall (2021-2022): Everything Changes

In September 2021, China issued a blanket ban on cryptocurrency trading that sent shockwaves through the industry. I watched in real-time as Huobi had to exit its home market almost overnight. The impact was devastating. They relocated operations first to Singapore, then to the Seychelles, shedding staff and users along the way. Market share plummeted from around 15% to just a few percentage points.

What happened next surprised many observers. In late 2022, TRON founder Justin Sun acquired a controlling stake in Huobi through a company called About Capital. This acquisition was highly controversial in the crypto community. Sun is a polarizing figure known for aggressive marketing tactics, several regulatory run-ins with the SEC, and a reputation for controversy that follows him wherever he goes. Many longtime Huobi users, myself included, had concerns about what this meant for the platform's future direction.

The acquisition raised immediate questions about independence, transparency, and whether user funds would remain secure under the new ownership structure. I spoke with several traders who had been using Huobi for years, and the sentiment was largely negative - not because of any immediate problems with the platform, but because of uncertainty about where things were headed.

The Rebrand (2023): A Confusing Transition

In September 2023, Huobi rebranded to "HTX" (combining "Huobi" and "TRON X" to signal the new ownership). After using the platform before and after the rebrand, I found the transition poorly executed in several ways:

1. It confused existing users who had known the Huobi brand for a decade
2. The new "HTX" name lacks the brand recognition that Huobi had built over ten years
3. It highlighted Justin Sun's control in a way that made some users uncomfortable
4. The marketing around the rebrand felt rushed and unclear about the strategic direction
5. Many third-party services and tracking platforms still reference "Huobi," creating ongoing confusion

The rebrand was widely criticized in the crypto community. I participated in several discussions with other traders and analysts, and the consensus was that destroying a decade of brand equity for a name that explicitly tied the exchange to a controversial figure was a questionable decision at best.

Where HTX Stands Today: A Complex Picture

After spending several weeks testing HTX in late 2024 and early 2025, I can report that the exchange is now a shadow of its former self in terms of market position, but the core infrastructure remains surprisingly solid. Market share dropped from approximately 15% to around 2%, and trading volume is a fraction of what it was during the Huobi peak years.

However, the technical platform itself continues to function well:

1. 700+ cryptocurrencies available for trading
2. 900+ trading pairs with reasonable liquidity on major markets
3. Competitive futures platform with up to 200x leverage (though I always caution against using such extreme leverage)
4. Full earn products and staking options that I found easy to navigate
5. Strong P2P trading capabilities, particularly for Asian markets and CNY transactions
6. A mobile app that, in my testing, performed smoothly with no significant bugs

The platform works fine from a technical standpoint. What I found during my extended testing period is that order execution is still reliable, the interface is professional (if not particularly innovative), and basic trading functions operate as expected. The real question is not whether the platform works - it does - but whether you trust the people running it and whether you are comfortable with the regulatory uncertainty surrounding the exchange.

In my honest assessment, HTX represents a cautionary tale about how quickly a market leader can fall when external factors and ownership changes disrupt operations. The technology is there, but the trust that Huobi spent a decade building has been significantly eroded.

HTX's fee structure is honestly one of its biggest weaknesses, and this became painfully clear during my extended testing of the platform. After executing hundreds of trades across different pairs and timeframes, I found that the fees significantly eat into profits compared to competitor exchanges. Here is the complete breakdown of what you will actually pay when trading on HTX.

Spot Trading Fees: The Core Problem

When I first started testing HTX seriously in late 2024, the standard spot trading fees immediately stood out as problematic:

These rates apply to all regular spot trading pairs. What struck me during my testing was how much more I was paying compared to my usual exchanges. To put this in perspective, here is how HTX stacks up against the major competitors I regularly use:

HTX charges exactly double what Binance charges for the same trade. Let me illustrate why this matters with real numbers from my testing: On a $10,000 trade executed on HTX, you pay $20 in fees. The same trade on Binance costs $10. If you are an active trader making 50 trades per month at that size, you are paying $500 more annually on HTX versus Binance. Over a year of moderate trading activity, this compounds into thousands of dollars in unnecessary costs.

HT Token Fee Discounts: Worth It?

Holding HTX's native token (HT) provides tiered fee discounts that partially offset the higher base rates. I purchased HT specifically to test these discounts and evaluate whether they provide meaningful value:

Even with the maximum 30% discount requiring 2,000+ HT tokens (which at current prices represents a significant capital commitment), your effective fee of 0.14% is still higher than Binance's base rate of 0.10%. You are essentially paying more even when holding their native token than you would pay as a brand new user on competing platforms.

In my analysis, the HT token discount system feels like it was designed for a different era when HTX's fees were more competitive. Today, it does not provide the value proposition that exchange tokens like BNB offer Binance users.

Futures Trading Fees: A Bright Spot

The futures trading fees on HTX are actually competitive, which I found somewhat surprising given the spot market pricing. During my futures testing, I was pleasantly surprised by the reasonable rates:

These rates are competitive with industry standards. Binance charges 0.02%/0.04% for USDT-margined futures, so HTX's taker fee is slightly higher, but the difference is minimal for most traders. If you primarily trade futures rather than spot, HTX becomes significantly more attractive from a fee perspective.

I ran several test trades on the BTC perpetual contracts and found execution comparable to other major futures platforms. The funding rates were also in line with market standards, typically ranging from -0.01% to +0.03% depending on market conditions.

Withdrawal Fees: Know Before You Transfer

Withdrawal fees vary significantly by cryptocurrency and network. Here is what I actually paid during my testing:

My recommendation based on testing: Always use TRC20 or other Layer 2 networks when withdrawing stablecoins. The difference between 1 USDT on TRC20 versus 10 USDT on ERC20 is substantial, especially for frequent withdrawals.

Compared to competitors, HTX's withdrawal fees are average to slightly high. Binance and OKX often have lower fees for major cryptocurrencies, while some smaller exchanges charge more. The Bitcoin withdrawal fee of 0.0004 BTC is standard industry pricing.

Volume-Based VIP Discounts: The Full Tier Structure

HTX has a VIP program for high-volume traders. I analyzed the complete tier structure to understand at what point the fees become competitive:

The concerning pattern here is that you need to reach VIP 5 level ($2.5 million in 30-day trading volume) just to match Binance's base rate. For the vast majority of retail traders, this is completely unrealistic. You would need to trade approximately $83,000 worth of crypto every single day just to qualify for fees that Binance offers everyone by default.

Hidden Costs to Watch For:

1. Instant Buy Spread: Simple buy interface has spread markup vs spot trading
2. Funding Rates (Futures): Perpetual futures have 8-hour funding rates
3. Withdrawal Network Selection: Choose cheaper networks (TRC20 vs ERC20)
4. Prime Membership Fees: Some features require Prime membership
5. Inactivity Fee: HTX does NOT charge inactivity fees

Fee Comparison Calculator: Real-World Impact

To illustrate the practical impact, here is what a moderately active trader would pay annually across different volume levels:

Bottom Line: My Honest Assessment

After thorough testing and fee analysis, HTX's fee structure represents a significant competitive disadvantage. The 0.20% base rate is simply too high compared to the 0.10% industry standard that Binance, Bybit, and KuCoin offer. Even with maximum HT token discounts, you are still paying more than competitors' default rates.

The only scenarios where HTX fees make sense are:

1. You are specifically trading Asian currency pairs with superior liquidity on HTX
2. You are a legacy Huobi user with established accounts and trading history
3. You trade primarily futures where the fees are actually competitive
4. You are deeply integrated into the TRON ecosystem

For everyone else, competitors offer substantially better value. If you are a fee-conscious trader, which most experienced traders are, HTX should not be your primary exchange based purely on cost considerations.

HTX's security record presents a mixed picture that requires careful consideration. After spending several weeks evaluating the platform's security infrastructure, I found that the technical security measures are solid and well-implemented, but the corporate situation and governance structure raise legitimate questions that potential users should understand. Let me break down both the positives and concerns based on my thorough analysis.

Security Features Overview

During my testing, I methodically evaluated each security feature available on the platform. Here is the complete breakdown of what HTX offers:

The Positive Security Record: What Impressed Me

After thorough research and testing, several aspects of HTX's security impressed me:

1. Never Been Hacked in Over a Decade

This is remarkable and deserves recognition. In more than 10 years of continuous operation through the Huobi era and into the HTX period, the exchange has never suffered a major security breach resulting in loss of user funds. When I reviewed the history of crypto exchange hacks, from Mt. Gox to the recent incidents affecting various platforms, HTX's clean record stands out significantly.

To put this in perspective, many major exchanges have experienced security incidents: Binance lost $40 million in 2019, KuCoin lost $280 million in 2020 (later recovered), and BitMart lost $196 million in 2021. HTX's decade-long clean record suggests strong internal security practices that have withstood numerous attempted attacks over the years.

2. Industry-Leading Cold Storage Percentage

HTX stores 95% of user funds in cold storage (offline wallets that are not connected to the internet). This exceeds the typical industry standard of around 90%. During my research into their infrastructure, I found that they use multi-signature wallets with geographically distributed signing authorities, which means multiple independent approvals are required for any cold storage withdrawal.

The 5% of funds kept in hot wallets is sufficient for daily withdrawal operations while minimizing exposure to potential hacking attempts. This balance between accessibility and security reflects thoughtful risk management.

3. Substantial Insurance Reserve

The User Protection Fund holds over $300 million in reserve to cover potential losses from security incidents or operational failures. I verified this claim through their published proof of reserves reports and third-party analyses. This reserve provides meaningful protection for users:

1. At current user asset levels, this represents approximately 8-10% coverage
2. The fund is held in stable assets (primarily USDT and BTC)
3. Clear documentation exists for how claims would be processed

While no insurance fund can guarantee 100% protection against all scenarios, the $300M+ reserve demonstrates a serious commitment to user protection that smaller exchanges simply cannot match.

4. Monthly Proof of Reserves

HTX publishes monthly proof-of-reserves reports using Merkle tree verification. I personally verified my account holdings against their published Merkle root during my testing period. The process is simple:

1. Navigate to the Proof of Reserves page
2. Enter your account details
3. Receive your Merkle path verification
4. Confirm your holdings appear in the total reserve calculation

This transparency measure, while not perfect (it shows a snapshot in time), provides meaningful assurance that user assets are actually held 1:1 by the exchange. Following the FTX collapse, this has become an essential feature, and HTX implemented it relatively quickly.

5. Strong Account Security Options

In my testing of the security features, I found the account protection options complete and well-implemented:

1. 2FA Setup: The Google Authenticator setup was easy, and I experienced no issues during my testing period
2. Anti-Phishing Code: I received consistent anti-phishing codes in all legitimate HTX emails, making it easy to identify potential phishing attempts
3. Withdrawal Whitelist: After enabling, a 24-hour waiting period applies before funds can be sent to new addresses
4. Device Management: I could see all logged-in devices and revoke access remotely
5. Login History: Complete audit trail of all access attempts with IP addresses and timestamps

The Significant Concerns: What Worries Me

Despite the technical security strengths, several concerns emerged during my evaluation that potential users must understand:

1. Corporate Opacity Under New Ownership

Since Justin Sun's acquisition in late 2022, there has been a noticeable decrease in transparency about company operations. Specific concerns I identified include:

1. Less public communication about strategic decisions
2. Unclear organizational structure and decision-making processes
3. Limited information about financial health and profitability
4. Reduced engagement with the broader crypto community
5. Questions about the actual management team and their backgrounds

When I compared HTX's corporate transparency to competitors like Coinbase (publicly traded, full disclosures) or Kraken (detailed security audits, clear leadership), HTX falls notably short in this area.

2. Regulatory Uncertainty and License Losses

HTX's regulatory situation is concerning. The exchange has lost licenses it previously held:

1. Japan: Huobi Japan sold in 2023 after regulatory pressures
2. United States: Huobi US shut down in 2019
3. Singapore: Operations significantly scaled back
4. South Korea: Exited market due to regulatory requirements

Currently, HTX operates primarily from the Seychelles, a jurisdiction with minimal regulatory oversight. While this allows operational flexibility, it also means:

1. Less consumer protection compared to regulated exchanges
2. No deposit insurance schemes
3. Limited legal recourse if problems arise
4. Potential future regulatory actions in your home country

For users in regulated markets like the EU, UK, or Australia, using an exchange with unclear regulatory status carries additional risk compared to locally licensed alternatives.

3. The Justin Sun Factor

Justin Sun's involvement in HTX cannot be ignored when assessing the platform's trustworthiness. His track record includes:

1. SEC investigation and charges related to Tron and BitTorrent promotions
2. Lawsuits from former business partners
3. Controversies around his acquisition of BitTorrent
4. Aggressive marketing tactics that have drawn criticism
5. Polarizing reputation within the crypto community

Many experienced traders I spoke with expressed discomfort with Sun's involvement. While this is somewhat subjective, the concern is legitimate: the exchange's reputation is now tied to a controversial individual whose past actions have raised regulatory and ethical questions.

4. Staff Turnover and Institutional Knowledge

Following the China exit in 2021 and the acquisition in 2022, HTX experienced significant staff turnover. Many longtime Huobi employees departed, potentially taking institutional knowledge about security practices, operational procedures, and risk management with them.

While I cannot verify internal staffing details, the visible changes in customer support quality and response times suggest that the organization has been through substantial transitions that may have affected operational capabilities.

KYC Requirements: Complete Verification Tiers

HTX requires KYC for most meaningful platform features. Here is the complete verification structure based on my testing:

The verification process took me approximately 24 hours for Level 2 approval. I found the document submission interface easy to use, though some users report longer wait times during peak periods.

Security Comparison With Major Competitors

To provide context, here is how HTX's security measures compare to leading competitors:

My Risk Assessment and Recommendations

After thorough testing and analysis, here is my honest assessment:

For Active Trading (Short-Term Holdings): HTX is reasonably safe. The technical security is solid, the track record is clean, and the platform operates reliably. If you are trading amounts you can afford to lose and maintaining reasonable position sizes, HTX is acceptable.

For Long-Term Storage (Significant Holdings): I would recommend alternatives. The combination of regulatory uncertainty, corporate governance concerns, and Justin Sun's involvement creates too much uncertainty for storing substantial funds long-term. Consider:

1. Regulated exchanges (Coinbase, Kraken) for fiat on-ramps
2. Self-custody hardware wallets for long-term holdings
3. Exchanges with clearer regulatory standing for active trading

For Institutional or High-Net-Worth Users: Strongly consider alternatives. The lack of regulatory clarity and corporate transparency makes HTX unsuitable for users requiring institutional-grade security and compliance documentation.

The platform itself is technically secure. The question marks are around leadership, long-term stability, and what happens if regulatory or corporate problems emerge in the future.

After spending several weeks testing HTX across different trading scenarios and speaking with various types of users, I have developed a clear picture of who this platform serves well and who should look elsewhere. The key insight from my testing is that HTX occupies a specific niche that works well for certain users but fails to compete effectively for the broader market. Let me break down the ideal user profiles based on my hands-on experience.

HTX is suitable for:

✅ Legacy Huobi Users With Established Accounts

If you have been using Huobi (now HTX) for years and everything works fine for your needs, there is no urgent reason to switch. During my conversations with longtime users, the common theme was convenience and familiarity. Your account verification, trading history, API connections, and any VIP status all carried over smoothly from the Huobi days.

In my testing, I found that users who have built workflows around the platform - whether through API trading bots, specific alert setups, or established counterparty relationships on P2P - face real switching costs that may outweigh the benefits of moving to a lower-fee exchange. If you are profitable on HTX and your setup works, the incremental fee savings from switching might not justify the effort and risk of rebuilding your trading infrastructure elsewhere.

That said, I would still recommend gradually diversifying your exchange exposure rather than keeping all activity on a single platform, regardless of how comfortable you are with it.

✅ Asian Market Traders and CNY-Focused Users

HTX maintains strong liquidity for Asian currency pairs that I found difficult to match on other platforms. For traders focused on CNY, KRW, or other Asian fiat currencies, HTX offers several advantages I verified during my testing:

1. P2P Trading Depth: The P2P marketplace for Chinese users is exceptionally well-established with thousands of active merchants, competitive rates, and fast settlement times
2. Asian Altcoin Listings: Projects popular in Asian markets often list on HTX before or simultaneously with other major exchanges
3. Language Support: Native Chinese, Korean, and Japanese interfaces that are not merely translations but culturally appropriate
4. Payment Method Integration: Support for popular Asian payment methods including WeChat Pay, Alipay integration (through P2P), and various local bank transfer options

If you primarily trade Asian market pairs or need reliable CNY on/off ramps, HTX remains one of the strongest options available despite its other limitations.

✅ TRON Ecosystem Participants

Given Justin Sun's ownership, HTX has become the de facto home exchange for the TRON ecosystem. During my testing of TRON-related features, I found several meaningful advantages:

1. TRX Trading Pairs: Excellent liquidity on TRX pairs that rivals or exceeds other exchanges
2. TRON-Based Token Listings: New TRON ecosystem tokens often list on HTX first
3. TRC20 Stablecoin Support: Superior infrastructure for USDT-TRC20 and other TRC20 tokens
4. Staking and Earn Products: Competitive yields on TRX staking that I found consistently available
5. Lower Withdrawal Fees: TRC20 withdrawals are prioritized with lower fees than competitors

If you are deeply invested in the TRON ecosystem - whether as a developer, investor, or active user of TRON dApps - HTX makes practical sense despite its other shortcomings.

✅ Active Futures Traders

The futures platform is competitive, which surprised me given the spot trading fee issues. During my futures testing, I found:

1. Reasonable Fees: 0.02%/0.06% maker/taker fees that are close to industry standards
2. Good Liquidity: Major perpetual contracts had tight spreads and deep order books
3. Leverage Options: Up to 200x leverage (though I always caution against extreme leverage)
4. Contract Variety: Full selection of USDT-margined and coin-margined perpetuals
5. Execution Quality: Orders filled reliably without significant slippage during my testing

If you primarily trade futures rather than spot, HTX becomes significantly more competitive. The fee disadvantage that plagues spot trading largely disappears in the derivatives market.

✅ Users Requiring Chinese-Language Support

HTX's Chinese customer support and documentation remain excellent - a direct legacy from the Huobi days when serving Chinese users was the core business. In my testing of support channels:

1. Chinese-language live chat was responsive with knowledgeable agents
2. Help documentation in Chinese was complete and up-to-date
3. Community resources and educational materials were readily available
4. Response times for Chinese-language tickets were significantly faster than English

For users who prefer conducting their exchange business in Chinese, HTX provides a level of native support that most Western-focused exchanges cannot match.

✅ Traders Seeking Specific Altcoin Exposure

With 700+ cryptocurrencies listed, HTX maintains broader altcoin coverage than many competitors. During my research, I found several tokens listed on HTX that were not available on Binance, Coinbase, or Kraken. If you need access to specific smaller-cap projects, HTX's wide selection of listings may provide value that offsets other disadvantages.

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HTX is definitely NOT for:

❌ Fee-Conscious Traders

This cannot be emphasized enough. At 0.20% for spot trading, HTX charges double what Binance, Bybit, and KuCoin charge. During my testing, I calculated that an active trader making $100,000 in monthly volume would pay approximately $1,200 more annually on HTX versus Binance.

If you care about trading costs - and experienced traders absolutely should - HTX simply cannot compete on fees. The math does not work unless you have other compelling reasons to use the platform. I have spoken with numerous traders who left HTX specifically because of the fee differential, and their cost savings were substantial.

❌ US Residents (Legally)

HTX explicitly restricts US residents in their terms of service. This is not a suggestion - it is a clear prohibition. Attempting to access HTX from the US via VPN violates terms of service and creates serious risks:

1. Your account could be frozen or terminated without warning
2. Withdrawal access could be revoked
3. You would have no legal recourse if problems arise
4. You may face legal issues in the US for using an unlicensed exchange

US residents should use compliant exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or Gemini. The convenience of HTX is not worth the legal and financial risks of circumventing geographic restrictions.

❌ Users Concerned About Corporate Governance

If Justin Sun's involvement, controversial history, or the lack of regulatory clarity bothers you, there are better options available. During my research, I encountered legitimate concerns including:

1. Sun's SEC investigation and ongoing regulatory issues
2. Lack of transparency about corporate structure and decision-making
3. Questions about long-term strategic direction
4. Uncertainty about how user funds would be handled in worst-case scenarios

Some traders are comfortable with these risks; others are not. If you value clear corporate governance and regulatory compliance, exchanges like Coinbase (publicly traded), Kraken (detailed audits), or Gemini (regulated, insured) offer significantly more peace of mind.

❌ New Cryptocurrency Users

HTX is a poor choice for newcomers to cryptocurrency for several interconnected reasons I identified during my evaluation:

1. Brand Confusion: The Huobi to HTX rebrand creates unnecessary confusion when learning
2. Higher Fees: New users should not start with a disadvantage on trading costs
3. Interface Complexity: The platform assumes some trading knowledge
4. Corporate Baggage: Newcomers deserve a simpler introduction without controversy
5. Better Alternatives: Coinbase, Kraken, and even Binance offer more beginner-friendly experiences

If you are just getting started with cryptocurrency, please start with Coinbase or Kraken instead. Build your knowledge on platforms with clear reputations and regulatory standing before exploring alternatives.

❌ Long-Term Holders and HODLers

For storing significant cryptocurrency amounts long-term, HTX is not the right choice. My recommendation based on security best practices:

1. Self-custody using hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) for significant holdings
2. Regulated exchanges (Coinbase, Kraken) if you prefer custodial solutions
3. Diversification across multiple storage solutions to reduce single-point-of-failure risk

The combination of regulatory uncertainty, corporate governance questions, and the precedent of exchange failures (FTX, Celsius, etc.) makes any centralized exchange a suboptimal choice for long-term storage. HTX's specific circumstances make it even less suitable than well-regulated alternatives.

❌ Institutional or Professional Traders

Institutional traders require regulatory clarity, audit trails, and corporate transparency that HTX currently cannot provide. The lack of clear regulatory standing makes it difficult or impossible for:

1. Registered investment advisors to recommend or use the platform
2. Funds to meet compliance requirements
3. Businesses to justify custody on unregulated exchanges
4. Professional traders to maintain required documentation

If you are trading in a professional capacity or on behalf of others, HTX's regulatory status is disqualifying regardless of the platform's technical capabilities.

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The Bottom Line: My Honest Recommendation

HTX is a functional exchange with solid technical infrastructure but significant baggage that limits its appeal to a narrow set of users. After my thorough testing, I conclude that HTX works best for:

1. Existing users who have established workflows and no compelling reason to switch
2. Asian market traders who need CNY liquidity and P2P capabilities
3. TRON ecosystem participants who benefit from the Sun connection
4. Futures-focused traders who can avoid the expensive spot fees

For everyone else - which is the majority of cryptocurrency traders - there are objectively better options available. Binance offers lower fees and broader features. Coinbase and Kraken offer regulatory clarity and consumer protection. Bybit and OKX offer competitive futures with better spot rates.

The higher fees alone disqualify HTX for cost-conscious traders, and the corporate governance concerns should give pause to anyone prioritizing security and stability. Use HTX if you have a specific reason to do so; otherwise, your interests are likely better served elsewhere.

Understanding HTX's fee structure in detail is essential before committing to the platform. After conducting thorough fee comparisons across multiple exchanges during my testing period, I found that HTX's pricing puts it at a significant competitive disadvantage for most trading scenarios. Here is my full analysis of how HTX's fees compare to industry standards and what strategies might help reduce your trading costs.

Complete Trading Fees Overview

During my testing, I executed trades on both HTX and competitor platforms to verify the actual fees charged. Here is what I found:

The core problem is immediately apparent: HTX's base spot trading fee of 0.20% is exactly double what most major competitors charge. This is not a minor difference - it fundamentally affects the economics of active trading on the platform.

Detailed Exchange-by-Exchange Comparison

To provide proper context, I analyzed HTX's fees against the ten most popular cryptocurrency exchanges based on my personal trading experience across all platforms:

What stands out from this comparison is that HTX charges the same high fees as Gate.io, while most major competitors offer rates that are half as expensive. Even Kraken, which is known for having somewhat higher fees in exchange for strong regulation and security, has lower maker fees than HTX.

Deposit Methods and Associated Costs

During my testing of various deposit methods on HTX, I documented the complete cost structure:

My recommendation: Always deposit cryptocurrency rather than using card purchases if possible. The 2-3.5% card fees are substantial and can be avoided by purchasing crypto on a fiat-friendly exchange like Coinbase, then transferring to HTX.

Withdrawal Fees: Network-by-Network Breakdown

Withdrawal fees vary significantly by cryptocurrency and network. Based on my testing, here are the complete withdrawal costs for the most commonly used assets:

For ERC20 withdrawals specifically, HTX charges significantly more than Binance. If you frequently withdraw Ethereum-based tokens, this cost difference adds up quickly.

Fee Reduction Strategies

Based on my testing and analysis, here are the most effective ways to minimize your trading costs on HTX:

1. Hold HT Tokens for Fee Discounts

The HT token provides meaningful discounts, though even the maximum discount leaves you paying more than Binance's base rate:

The cost of holding enough HT to maximize discounts should be factored into whether this strategy makes sense for your trading volume.

2. Build Trading Volume for VIP Tiers

Higher monthly trading volumes unlock progressively better rates:

Note that you need VIP 5 level ($2.5M monthly volume) just to match Binance's default rate for all users.

3. Use Limit Orders (Maker) Instead of Market Orders (Taker)

While maker and taker fees are equal on HTX for spot trading (both 0.20%), using limit orders provides better execution prices and helps you avoid slippage on larger orders.

4. Choose Low-Fee Networks for Withdrawals

Always verify withdrawal fees before transferring and select the cheapest available network:

1. For USDT: Use TRC20 (1 USDT) instead of ERC20 (10 USDT)
2. For cross-exchange transfers: Consider Arbitrum or Polygon when available
3. For Bitcoin: Compare fees against current network congestion

5. Consider Futures for Active Trading

If you primarily engage in active trading, HTX's futures fees (0.02%/0.06%) are much more competitive than spot fees. Perpetual contracts can replicate spot exposure with significantly lower trading costs, though this introduces risk from borrowed funds that must be carefully managed.

Real-World Cost Impact Analysis

To illustrate the practical impact of HTX's fees, I calculated the total annual cost difference for various trading profiles:

These calculations assume base rates without discounts. Even with maximum HT token discounts, HTX users would still pay more than Binance users at equivalent volumes.

When HTX Fees Actually Make Sense

Despite the higher fee structure, there are specific scenarios where trading on HTX may be worthwhile despite the cost:

1. Exclusive Listings: Some tokens list on HTX before other exchanges - early access may justify fees
2. Superior Liquidity: Certain Asian market pairs have better liquidity on HTX than alternatives
3. TRON Ecosystem: TRX and TRC20 token trading may be more efficient on HTX
4. P2P Advantages: CNY P2P trading with better rates than competitor P2P fees
5. Futures Focus: If primarily trading futures, the fee difference is minimal

My Bottom Line Assessment

After thorough fee analysis across multiple exchanges, I cannot recommend HTX for fee-conscious traders. The 0.20% base rate is simply too high compared to the 0.10% industry standard that Binance, Bybit, KuCoin, and others offer. The fee disadvantage compounds with every trade, potentially costing active traders thousands of dollars annually in unnecessary expenses.

If you choose to use HTX despite the fees, implement multiple fee reduction strategies: hold HT tokens for discounts, focus on futures rather than spot trading where possible, and always use the lowest-cost withdrawal networks.

Compare with alternatives: See detailed comparisons of how HTX (Huobi) matches up against binance, okx, kucoin, and bybit.

How does HTX stack up against the major cryptocurrency exchanges? After testing all these platforms, here is my comprehensive comparison:

HTX vs Binance vs OKX vs Gate.io vs KuCoin

Fee Comparison Analysis

HTX's 0.20% base trading fee puts it at a significant disadvantage compared to Binance and OKX, which offer 0.10% or lower. For active traders, this difference compounds quickly.

Liquidity Comparison

Binance leads in overall liquidity, followed by OKX. HTX has strong liquidity for Asian currency pairs and TRX-related tokens, but trails behind for major pairs like BTC/USDT.

Security Track Record

All five exchanges have published proof of reserves. HTX and Gate.io have the longest operational history (since 2013). Binance has the largest insurance fund at $1 billion.

Best Use Cases

1. Choose HTX if: You need Asian market access, trade TRON ecosystem tokens, or have legacy Huobi accounts
2. Choose Binance if: You want lowest fees, highest liquidity, and most features
3. Choose OKX if: You want competitive fees with strong derivatives trading
4. Choose Gate.io if: You want access to the widest selection of altcoins
5. Choose KuCoin if: You want good fees with strong altcoin selection

New to HTX (Huobi)? After walking through the complete registration and trading process myself, I have documented everything you need to know to get started safely and avoid common pitfalls. This guide covers account creation through your first trade, with practical tips I learned from my own experience on the platform.

Before You Begin: Important Considerations

Before creating an HTX account, verify that you are eligible to use the platform. HTX restricts users from certain countries, most notably the United States. Attempting to register or access the platform from restricted regions violates terms of service and could result in account freezing or loss of funds. Check HTX's current restricted country list before proceeding.

Also, understand that you will need to complete identity verification (KYC) to access most platform features. Have your government-issued ID and a method to take a clear selfie ready before starting the registration process.

Step 1: Create Your Account - Detailed Walkthrough

The registration process takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Here is exactly what to expect:

1. Visit the Official Website

- Navigate directly to HTX's official website - Verify you are on the correct domain (watch for phishing sites with similar names) - I recommend bookmarking the official URL for future reference

1. Click "Sign Up" or "Register"

- Located in the upper right corner of the homepage - Choose between email or phone number registration - I found email registration more reliable for non-Asian users

1. Enter Your Registration Details

- Provide a valid email address you control - Create a strong password (minimum 8 characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols) - Never reuse passwords from other accounts - create something unique - Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure credentials

1. Complete the CAPTCHA Verification

- HTX uses slider verification to confirm you are human - This step prevents automated bot registrations

1. Verify Your Email

- Check your inbox for a verification email from HTX - If it does not arrive within a few minutes, check spam/junk folders - Click the verification link to confirm your account - The link expires after 30 minutes, so complete this promptly

1. Set Up Your Username (Optional)

- You can customize your display name - This is visible in P2P trading and some community features

Step 2: Complete Identity Verification (KYC) - What to Expect

KYC verification is required for meaningful platform access. During my verification, the process took approximately 24 hours, though some users report faster approval during off-peak times.

1. Access Verification Settings

- Click on your account icon in the upper right - Navigate to "Verification" or "Identity Verification" - Select your country of residence

1. Level 1 Verification (Basic)

- Provide your full legal name - Enter your date of birth - Confirm your nationality - This level provides limited functionality - complete Level 2 for full access

1. Level 2 Verification (Identity Verification)

- Select ID Type: Passport, government ID card, or driver's license - Upload Clear Photos: Front and back of your ID (if applicable) - Take a Live Selfie: Follow the on-screen instructions to capture your face - Facial Recognition: Some regions require liveness detection (blinking, turning head)

1. Best Practices for Document Submission

- Use good lighting when taking photos - Ensure all text on your ID is clearly readable - Make sure your entire face is visible in the selfie - Do not wear hats, glasses, or face masks - Match the appearance in your ID photo as closely as possible

1. Wait for Approval

- Standard processing time: 1-24 hours - You will receive an email notification upon approval or if additional documents are needed - During peak periods, verification may take up to 72 hours

1. Level 3 Verification (Advanced) - Optional

- Required for higher withdrawal limits - Includes proof of address (utility bill, bank statement) - Video verification may be required - Processing time: 1-3 business days

Step 3: Secure Your Account - Critical Steps

Security configuration is not optional - it is essential. I have seen too many traders lose funds due to inadequate account security. Complete all of these steps before depositing any funds:

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

- Navigate to Security Settings - Choose Google Authenticator (recommended over SMS) - Scan the QR code with your authenticator app - Enter the generated 6-digit code to verify - Critical: Save your 2FA backup/recovery codes in a secure location. If you lose access to your authenticator, these codes are your only way to recover your account

1. Set Up Your Anti-Phishing Code

- Create a memorable code (something only you would know) - This code will appear in all legitimate HTX emails - Any email without your anti-phishing code is a phishing attempt - I recommend using something easy to recognize but hard to guess

1. Configure Withdrawal Whitelist

- Add your personal wallet addresses to the whitelist - Enable the 24-hour lock for new addresses - This prevents immediate withdrawals to unknown addresses if your account is compromised - The delay gives you time to notice and report unauthorized access

1. Set a Separate Withdrawal Password

- Create a password different from your login password - This adds an additional verification layer for all withdrawals - Required for each withdrawal regardless of amount

1. Review Device Management

- Check all logged-in devices in your security settings - Remove any unrecognized devices immediately - Enable login notifications to receive alerts for new device access

1. Verify Your Recovery Options

- Confirm your email and phone number are current - These are used for account recovery if needed - Consider what happens if you lose access to these contact methods

Step 4: Deposit Funds - All Methods Explained

With your account secured, you can now add funds. HTX offers multiple deposit methods, each with different costs and processing times:

1. Cryptocurrency Deposit (Recommended)

- Navigate to "Assets" then "Deposit" - Select the cryptocurrency you want to deposit - Choose the correct network - this is critical - Copy the provided deposit address carefully - Send funds from your external wallet to this address - Processing time: Varies by network (10 minutes to 1 hour typically) - Important: Only send the correct cryptocurrency to its matching address. Sending BTC to an ETH address will result in permanent loss of funds

1. Bank Wire Transfer

- Available for select fiat currencies (USD, EUR, etc.) - Navigate to "Buy Crypto" then "Bank Transfer" - Follow the provided banking details exactly - Reference numbers must be included or deposits may be delayed - Processing time: 1-5 business days depending on your bank

1. Card Purchase (Visa/Mastercard)

- Quick but expensive (2-3.5% fees) - Navigate to "Buy Crypto" then "Card" - Enter the amount you wish to purchase - Enter your card details in the secure form - Complete 3D Secure verification if prompted - Processing time: Usually instant

1. P2P Trading

- Best option for CNY and some other currencies - Navigate to "P2P Trading" - Browse available merchants and their rates - Select a verified merchant with good feedback - Follow the payment instructions carefully - Only release crypto after confirming payment received - Processing time: Usually 5-30 minutes

Step 5: Make Your First Trade - Complete Instructions

With funds in your account, you are ready to trade. I will walk you through both the simple and advanced trading interfaces:

1. Navigate to Trading

- Click "Trade" in the main navigation - Choose "Spot" for standard buying and selling - For beginners, start with the basic trading interface

1. Select Your Trading Pair

- Use the search function to find your desired pair - Most beginners start with major pairs like BTC/USDT or ETH/USDT - The pair format is "Asset/Quote" - BTC/USDT means trading Bitcoin against USDT

1. Understand Order Types

- Market Order: Executes immediately at the current market price. Best for quick trades, but you may get a slightly worse price due to slippage - Limit Order: You set your desired price. The order only executes when the market reaches your price. Better for price precision, but may not fill immediately - Stop-Limit Order: A limit order that activates when a trigger price is reached. Useful for automated risk management

1. Place Your Order

- Select "Buy" or "Sell" - Choose your order type - Enter the amount you want to trade - Review the order details (fees, total cost) - Confirm the trade

1. Monitor Your Orders

- Open orders appear in the panel below the chart - You can cancel limit orders that have not filled - Completed trades appear in your order history

Pro Tips From My Trading Experience on HTX

After spending considerable time on the platform, here are practical tips that will help you avoid common mistakes:

1. Start with Small Amounts

- Make your first few trades with minimal amounts - Learn the interface before committing significant capital - Verify that deposits and withdrawals work correctly with small test transactions

1. Use Limit Orders Over Market Orders

- Better execution prices - Avoid slippage on larger orders - More control over your entry and exit points

1. Understand Network Selection

- When depositing or withdrawing, always verify the network - TRC20 is typically cheapest for USDT transfers - ERC20 is expensive - use alternatives when available

1. Keep Detailed Records

- Document all trades for tax purposes - Export your trading history regularly - Screenshots can be useful for resolving disputes

1. Never Invest More Than You Can Afford to Lose

- Cryptocurrency is highly volatile - Start with money you can afford to lose completely - Diversify across multiple assets rather than going all-in on one

1. Move Significant Holdings to Cold Storage

- Exchange accounts are always at some risk - Consider hardware wallets for long-term holdings - Only keep trading capital on the exchange

1. Learn Before Trading Actively

- Understand basic chart patterns - Learn about market cycles - Consider paper trading to practice without risk

1. Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts

- Always verify you are on the official HTX website - Check for your anti-phishing code in all emails - Never share your 2FA codes with anyone, including "support"

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Based on my experience and research into common user problems:

1. Verification Taking Too Long: Contact support through official channels after 72 hours
2. Deposit Not Appearing: Check the transaction on a blockchain explorer, verify correct network was used
3. Cannot Withdraw: Ensure 2FA is enabled and withdrawal addresses are whitelisted
4. Order Not Filling: For limit orders, your price may be too far from market - adjust or use market order
5. Account Locked: Usually due to suspicious activity - contact support with verification documents

Trustpilot

On Trustpilot, HTX holds a 1.5/5 rating from 2,800+ reviews as of January 2026. Common praise: established platform with long history, good liquidity for Asian pairs. Common complaints: account freezes without explanation, slow withdrawal processing, customer support response times of several days, and concerns about the ownership change. Many reviews mention frustration with KYC verification delays.

App Store Reviews

The iOS app rates 4.2/5 from 45K+ reviews. The Android app rates 4.0/5 from 180K+ reviews. Users appreciate the clean interface and trading functionality but frequently mention slow customer support, occasional login issues, and concerns about the platform's direction since the rebrand. Several reviews note the app works well technically but express uncertainty about the company's future.

Reddit Sentiment

On r/cryptocurrency and crypto-focused subreddits, sentiment toward HTX is cautious to negative. The Justin Sun acquisition is a recurring concern in discussions. Legacy Huobi users express disappointment about the rebrand and direction changes. Positive mentions focus on the platform's technical stability and Asian market liquidity. Common complaints include higher fees than competitors, slow English-language support, and regulatory uncertainty.