Key takeaways
- HTX supports over 700 cryptocurrencies and 1,000+ trading pairs with competitive fees.
- The platform offers strong security features, including cold storage and Merkle tree proof of reserves.
- HTX has faced notable security breaches but responded with transparency and user compensation.
- It’s unavailable in key regions like the US and China, limiting accessibility for some users.
HTX, previously known as Huobi, is a well-established cryptocurrency exchange that launched in 2013. It was founded by Leon Li, a former Oracle engineer and graduate of Tsinghua University.
Originally based in Beijing, the company eventually moved its headquarters to the Seychelles and expanded internationally, establishing offices in key markets.
The rebranding from Huobi to HTX took place in September 2023, marking the exchange's 10th anniversary.
As of March 2025, HTX ranks among the top cryptocurrency exchanges worldwide. It supports trading in over 700 digital assets and serves a user base of more than 45 million people.
The platform sees daily trading volumes of over $4 billion and operates in more than 160 countries, covering all major regions.
However, due to regulatory restrictions, the platform is currently unavailable in certain jurisdictions, including mainland China, the United States, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Let’s see how it stacks up.
User experience
HTX offers a versatile platform accessible through multiple channels:
- Web platform: Users can access HTX's services via a comprehensive web interface that provides a full suite of trading and account management tools.
- Mobile applications: HTX provides mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, enabling users to trade and manage their portfolios on the go.
- API access: For advanced users and developers, HTX offers API access, allowing for custom integrations and automated trading strategies.
HTX's user interface is built to cater to both beginners and experienced traders. The layout is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing users to quickly access trading options, manage their accounts and reach customer support without hassle.
For more advanced users, the platform offers powerful trading tools, including customizable charting features, a range of technical indicators and multiple order types, making it suitable for everything from simple trades to complex strategies.
Creating an account on HTX is straightforward:
- Click on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button, typically located at the top right corner of the homepage.
- Provide a valid email address, create a strong password and enter a referral code if available.
- HTX will send a verification email; click the link to confirm your account.
- For enhanced security, enabling 2FA using an authentication app like Google Authenticator is recommended.
- Lastly, users must complete a mandatory KYC process to access the full range of HTX services — including deposits, withdrawals, and advanced trading. This involves submitting personal information, uploading a government-issued ID and proof of address, and, in some cases, providing a selfie for identity verification.
Trading experience
HTX offers a vast selection of over 700 cryptocurrencies for trading, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH) and Litecoin (LTC), as well as a wide array of other altcoins, providing traders with extensive diversification opportunities.
The exchange supports more than 1,000 trading pairs, facilitating various trading strategies and liquidity options. Additionally, HTX supports multiple fiat currencies for deposits and withdrawals, including USD, EUR and the British pound.
Fees
- Trading fees: HTX charges a base fee of 0.2% for both makers and takers. However, users can reduce these fees to 0.15% by using the platform's native token, HT, for fee payments.
- Withdrawal fees: Withdrawal fees vary depending on the specific cryptocurrency and network conditions. Users are advised to consult the platform's fee schedule for detailed information.
- Other charges: HTX does not impose fees on cryptocurrency deposits. However, fees may apply for fiat currency transactions, depending on the payment method and region.
HTX is generally recognized for its high liquidity and efficient trade execution, ensuring that orders are processed promptly and reliably, which is crucial for both day traders and long-term investors.
Security
Regarding fund security, HTX ensures that most user assets are stored in cold wallets, keeping them offline and significantly reducing the risk of hacks. To further enhance transparency, the platform has implemented Merkle tree proof of reserves and has publicly disclosed its reserve data for 29 consecutive months as of March 2025, demonstrating a strong commitment to openness and user trust.
On the account security side, HTX offers several protective features. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is available and strongly recommended to secure account access. Users can also set up withdrawal whitelists, which limit withdrawals to pre-approved wallet addresses, adding an extra layer of protection.
Additionally, HTX actively combats phishing by regularly identifying and shutting down fraudulent websites and fake app download pages. In December 2024 alone, the platform successfully neutralized three phishing sites and associated threats.
Regarding regulatory compliance, as of March 2025, HTX is actively aligning its operations to comply with the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA). MiCA offers a unified regulatory framework across all 27 EU member states, enabling exchanges to streamline compliance processes and reduce associated costs.
Furthermore, HTX has ceased operations in certain regions to comply with local regulatory requirements. For instance, in September 2021, HTX announced it would stop serving customers in mainland China due to new regulations. Similarly, HTX ceased its operations in the United States in December 2019 due to stringent US regulations on cryptocurrency trading.
Incidents of note
While HTX has implemented robust security measures, it has experienced security breaches:
- September 2023 hack: HTX suffered a security breach resulting in the loss of about $7.9 million from its hot wallet. The exchange promptly addressed the issue, covering the losses to ensure user assets remained secure.
- November 2023 hack: HTX and its related Heco Chain protocol were hacked for $115 million. The exchange suspended withdrawals during the investigation and assured users that it would fully compensate for the hot wallet losses.
Despite these incidents, HTX's proactive responses and commitment to transparency have been recognized in the industry. In February 2025, HTX was honored by Forbes as one of the "Top 25 World's Most Trustworthy Crypto Exchanges of 2025”.
Did you know? While the official reason for the name change was to mark the exchange’s 10th anniversary and signal a new era of global expansion (with “H” for Huobi, “T” for Tron, and “X” for exchange), the rebrand came shortly after a series of high-profile security incidents, leading some to believe it was, at least in part, an attempt to distance the brand from hack-related publicity.
Customer support
HTX offers multiple support channels to assist its users:
- Live chat: Accessible through the HTX website and mobile applications, providing real-time assistance.
- Email support: Users can email at htxsupport@htx-inc.com for inquiries that may not require immediate attention.
- Help resources: Detailed guides, in addition to educational videos and tutorials, are available to help users navigate the platform and utilize its features effectively.
Additionally, a comprehensive FAQ section on the website addresses common questions and issues.
User feedback on HTX’s customer support is mixed. Some users highlight positives, such as responsive live chat and helpful educational resources. Securities.io points to the platform’s 24/7 availability as a plus, and the HTX mobile app holds a 3.4-star rating on Google Play, suggesting a decent mobile user experience.
However, several reviews raise concerns about delayed email responses, withdrawal issues and account access problems. On Trustpilot, HTX currently has a 1.5 out of 5-star rating based on 45 reviews, reflecting user frustrations. Sitejabber shows similar complaints.
CoinBureau gives HTX 3.5 out of 5 stars, noting that while the platform offers strong features, customer service and transparency still have room for improvement. Meanwhile, FXEmpire rates HTX 3.8 out of 5, highlighting a more balanced view of its offerings and limitations.
It’s important to keep in mind that online reviews often skew negative, as dissatisfied users are more likely to share their experiences. Nonetheless, consistent feedback patterns, especially regarding support, should be considered when evaluating the platform.
Additional services
HTX offers several unique services that distinguish it from other cryptocurrency exchanges:
- Crypto loans: HTX offers a flexible crypto loans service that allows users to pledge cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH or USDT as collateral to borrow other crypto assets. This service features dynamic interest rates, high loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, no loan limits and zero fees, providing users with a flexible and efficient borrowing experience. Additionally, HTX has introduced its "Borrow & Earn" campaign, offering a substantial prize pool to incentivize participation in its lending services.
- Launchpool with dual rewards: Introduced in December 2024, HTX's Launchpool allows users to stake $HTX tokens and earn dual rewards. This initiative, stemming from a DAO governance proposal, exemplifies community-driven innovation within the platform.
- Leveraged exchange-traded products (ETPs): HTX offers tokens with built-in 5x leverage on assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Chainlink. These ETPs provide traders with leveraged exposure without the complexities and risks associated with traditional margin trading.
- Advanced trading tools: The platform supports margin trading with up to 5x leverage on spot markets and up to 200x on certain derivatives products. HTX also integrates TradingView for advanced charting and technical analysis, catering to novice and experienced traders.
HTX: Pros and cons
Slick interface, shaky past – still a contender?
HTX has come a long way since its early days as Huobi. With a massive selection of cryptocurrencies, a user-friendly interface, advanced trading tools and a clear focus on security and regulatory compliance, it remains a major player in the global crypto exchange space. The platform has also embraced innovation through DAO governance and unique services like leveraged ETPs and dual-reward staking.
That said, HTX might not exactly butter the toast when compared to giants like Binance, Coinbase, or Kraken, especially when it comes to fiat on-ramps, regulatory accessibility and customer support satisfaction. It also carries baggage from past security breaches and a rebranding that raised more questions than answers.
Overall, HTX is a solid exchange with powerful tools and growing regulatory credibility, but its fit depends on your trading needs, location and tolerance for occasional bumps in support.
FAQ
1. What is HTX?
HTX, formerly known as Huobi, is a cryptocurrency exchange established in 2013. It offers a platform for buying, selling, and trading a wide range of digital assets. In 2023, the exchange rebranded to HTX to mark its 10th anniversary and to signify a new era in its global expansion.
2. How do I register an account on HTX?
To register:
- Visit the official HTX website.
- Click on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button.
- Provide a valid email address and create a strong password.
- Complete the email verification process.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for enhanced security.
- Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification by submitting personal information and documents.
For a detailed guide, refer to HTX's official registration process.
3. What cryptocurrencies can I trade on HTX?
HTX supports trading for over 700 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC), as well as a wide array of altcoins. The platform also offers more than 1,000 trading pairs, facilitating diverse trading strategies.
4. What are the trading fees on HTX?
HTX charges a base trading fee of 0.2% for both makers and takers. Users can reduce these fees to 0.15% by using the platform's native token, HT, for fee payments. Withdrawal fees vary depending on the specific cryptocurrency and network conditions.
5. Is HTX available in my country?
HTX operates in over 160 countries but is restricted in certain jurisdictions for regulatory reasons. Notably, it is unavailable to users in the United States, mainland China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
6. How secure is HTX?
HTX employs robust security measures, including:
- Cold Storage: Most user funds are stored in offline wallets to mitigate hacking risks.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Users are encouraged to enable 2FA to add an extra layer of account security.
Merkle tree proof of reserves: HTX publicly discloses its reserve data to ensure transparency and trust.
Despite these measures, HTX has experienced security breaches in the past but has addressed them promptly and assured users of asset security.
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