HTX Crypto Exchange Review 2025 - Fees, Security, Features & Verdict

HTX Crypto Exchange Review 2025 - Fees, Security, Features & Verdict Apr, 10 2025

HTX Fee Calculator

Calculate Your Trading Costs

See how HTX's fee structure compares to Binance and KuCoin for spot and futures trading.

Your Estimated Fees

HTX

Spot maker fee: 0.00%

Spot taker fee: 0.00%

Your discount: 25%

Binance

Maker fee: 0.00%

Taker fee: 0.00%

Your discount: Up to 40% (time-limited)

KuCoin

Maker fee: 0.00%

Taker fee: 0.00%

Your discount: Up to 20%

Key Advantage

HTX's discount is permanent (not time-limited like Binance), saving you $0.00 annually compared to Binance.

Why HTX Fees Matter

With HTX, holding 10,000+ HT tokens gives you the highest 25% fee discount that's permanent – not limited to temporary promotions. This makes HTX particularly attractive for high-volume traders who want predictable costs.

When you type "HTX crypto exchange review" into Google, you expect a no‑fluff rundown of what the platform actually delivers. That’s exactly what this guide gives you - a deep dive into HTX (formerly Huobi), its fee structure, security measures, product lineup, and who benefits most from using it in 2025.

What is HTX?

HTX is a global cryptocurrency exchange that rebranded from Huobi in October 2023 after being acquired by TRON founder Justin Sun. Founded in 2013 by Leon Li, HTX now serves over 50 million users from its Seychelles base and ranks among the top‑10 exchanges by 24‑hour volume.

Core Offering at a Glance

  • Spot trading - 600 + pairs (up to 900 + depending on market conditions)
  • Derivatives - perpetual futures with maker/taker fees as low as 0.02 %/0.04 %
  • Staking & Earn products - SmartEarn, Fixed‑term staking, and liquidity mining
  • Social tools - copy‑trading, bots, and a Telegram community of 85 k+
  • VIP tiers - institutional‑grade services for high‑volume traders

Fee Structure - How Cheap Is It Really?

Fees are the first thing traders compare, so here’s the breakdown:

  1. Spot maker/taker starts at 0.2 % for both sides.
  2. Futures maker begins at 0.02 % and taker at 0.04 % - among the lowest in the industry.
  3. Holding the native HT token unlocks up to a 25 % discount on those rates.

The discounts are permanent - unlike Binance’s time‑limited promos - which makes HTX attractive for long‑term, high‑frequency traders.

Security - Can You Trust Your Funds?

HTX employs a multi‑layered security stack:

  • Cold storage holds roughly 98 % of user assets.
  • Real‑time transaction monitoring and withdrawal address whitelisting.
  • The Investor Protection Fund allocates 20 % of quarterly profits to buy back HT tokens, providing a safety net in extreme events.

That said, a 2023 cross‑chain bridge hack cost about $85 million. HTX reimbursed affected hot‑wallet balances, but the incident still lingers in the community’s memory.

Vault with glowing HT tokens showing fee discount and cold‑storage security icons.

Product Depth - Spot, Futures, Staking, and More

The exchange excels in diversity:

  • Spot market: deep liquidity for BTC/USDT, ETH/USDT, and a sprawling altcoin list.
  • Futures: perpetual contracts on over 100 pairs, zero‑cost futures for selected assets (launched May 2025).
  • Earn suite: SmartEarn (auto‑compounding), fixed‑term staking, and a limited DeFi lending hub.
  • Social tools: copy‑trading, built‑in bots, and a vibrant Telegram group for real‑time signals.

Where HTX lags is the breadth of DeFi integrations - KuCoin and Binance still offer more native yield‑farm options.

HT Token - More Than Just a Discount

The HT token (formerly HT) powers a DAO that lets holders vote on new listings, fee‑discount tiers, and even platform roadmap items. Holding 10 k HT unlocks the highest 25 % fee rebate and grants access to exclusive VIP events.

User Experience - From Sign‑Up to Advanced Trading

Creating an account usually takes 15‑30 minutes. KYC can range from a few hours (EEA users) to a week (some jurisdictions). The interface is clean, with a “Beginner” tab that walks new users through their first spot trade.

Support is ticket‑based via Zendesk; response times average under 2 hours during Asian market hours, but the lack of live chat can be frustrating for urgent withdrawal issues.

Trader celebrating with rising chart, VIP badge, and HTX flag in minimalist style.

Pros & Cons - Quick Verdict

  • Pros:
    • Competitive, permanent fee discounts for HT holders.
    • Wide range of spot and futures pairs.
    • Strong security with a dedicated protection fund.
    • Institution‑grade VIP tiers.
  • Cons:
    • KYC delays in certain regions.
    • Earn products less extensive than top rivals.
    • Reputation still affected by the 2023 hack.
    • No live chat support.

How HTX Stacks Up - Comparison Table

HTX vs. Binance vs. KuCoin (2025 snapshot)
Feature HTX Binance KuCoin
Spot pairs ~720 ~1,500 ~900
Futures maker fee 0.02 % 0.02 % 0.03 %
Fee discount for native token Up to 25 % Up to 40 % (time‑bound) Up to 20 %
Cold‑storage coverage 98 % 96 % 97 %
24‑h volume (May 2025) $18.7 B $87 B $16 B
Customer support channels Ticket + Telegram Live chat, ticket, phone Ticket + Discord

Who Should Consider HTX?

If you’re a trader who values deep liquidity for a broad set of altcoins and wants a permanent fee discount without chasing promo periods, HTX is a solid pick. Institutional clients will also appreciate the VIP tier and the Investor Protection Fund.

On the flip side, if you chase the newest DeFi yields or need instant live‑chat support, Binance or KuCoin might feel more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

HTX has turned a controversial rebrand into a growth story, posting a 210 % surge in net deposits in Q1 2025 while many rivals flat‑lined. Its fee model, token‑driven discounts, and robust security give it a distinct edge for serious traders. Still, the platform must keep expanding its earn suite and streamline KYC to close the gap with the market leaders.

Bottom line: the HTX crypto exchange review shows a platform that’s earning its place in the top‑10, especially for users who prioritize fee savings and a wide altcoin menu over deep DeFi integration.

Is HTX safe after the 2023 hack?

HTX reimbursed all affected hot‑wallet balances and has since moved 98 % of assets to cold storage. The Investor Protection Fund adds an extra safety net, but no exchange is 100 % hack‑proof.

How do I qualify for the 25 % fee discount?

Hold at least 10 k HT tokens in your HTX wallet. The discount applies automatically to both spot and futures trades.

What’s the typical KYC turnaround time?

For users in the European Economic Area it’s usually 24‑72 hours. In some regions verification can take up to a week.

Does HTX support fiat deposits?

Yes, HTX offers fiat on‑ramps for USD, EUR, and a handful of Asian currencies via partner banks.

Are there any hidden charges?

Withdrawal fees vary by blockchain but are clearly listed on the fee page. The only “hidden” cost could be the opportunity cost of holding HT tokens versus other assets.

Tags:

20 Comments

  • Image placeholder

    Derajanique Mckinney

    October 24, 2025 AT 13:45
    HTX? More like HTX-tract my money lol 🤡
  • Image placeholder

    Saurav Deshpande

    October 24, 2025 AT 19:39
    98% cold storage? Cute. They still lost $85M. The real question is who's really pulling the strings behind Justin Sun's empire. This isn't decentralization-it's rebranded surveillance capitalism.
  • Image placeholder

    Paul Lyman

    October 24, 2025 AT 22:07
    Yo if you're new to crypto and thinking HTX is your gateway-DO IT. The spot pairs are insane, the HT discount is forever, and the Telegram group has legit signals. I started with $200 and now I'm trading full-time. No cap. Just hold your HT and let the algo do the work 💪🔥
  • Image placeholder

    Herbert Ruiz

    October 25, 2025 AT 07:15
    The fee structure is misleading. 0.02% maker fee only applies to VIPs with 10k HT. Most users pay 0.04% or higher. This is bait-and-switch marketing disguised as transparency.
  • Image placeholder

    Sheetal Tolambe

    October 25, 2025 AT 13:45
    I've been using HTX for over a year now and honestly, it's grown on me. The interface is clean, the customer support replies within hours if you're in Asia, and the copy-trading feature saved me during my first bear market. Don't overthink it-just start small and learn.
  • Image placeholder

    Pranav Shimpi

    October 26, 2025 AT 00:40
    FYI-HT token isn't just for discounts. It's the backbone of their DAO voting system. You can literally vote on new coin listings. I voted for $PEPE to be listed last month and it went live in 3 days. That's power. Most exchanges don't even let you know they're doing this.
  • Image placeholder

    jummy santh

    October 26, 2025 AT 19:13
    In Nigeria, HTX remains one of the few reliable platforms for dollar on-ramps. The withdrawal fees are reasonable, and the KYC, while slow, is actually secure. I've sent over $12,000 through them without issue. Many local traders are switching from Binance due to their recent restrictions. HTX is quietly becoming the African gateway.
  • Image placeholder

    Will Barnwell

    October 27, 2025 AT 01:14
    They say 'permanent discount' but they also quietly de-list tokens you're holding if they don't meet their new 'liquidity threshold.' Last quarter they removed 17 altcoins overnight. No warning. No notice. Just gone. So yeah, 'permanent' until they change their mind.
  • Image placeholder

    james mason

    October 27, 2025 AT 05:42
    I used to trade on Binance. Then I realized HTX’s futures interface is actually better designed. Less clutter, cleaner charts, no ads. And the 0.02% maker fee? Real. I don’t need a 40% discount that expires next Tuesday. This is for adults who trade like professionals.
  • Image placeholder

    Kirsten McCallum

    October 27, 2025 AT 16:43
    The Investor Protection Fund is just a PR stunt. It’s funded by profits from your trades. You’re paying for your own safety net. That’s not security-that’s circular accounting.
  • Image placeholder

    Rosanna Gulisano

    October 28, 2025 AT 04:00
    No live chat? Then you don't deserve to trade
  • Image placeholder

    Henry Gómez Lascarro

    October 28, 2025 AT 15:08
    Let’s be real. HTX is just a rebrand of Huobi, which was already borderline sketchy. The 2023 hack wasn’t an accident-it was a controlled exit for insiders. They reimbursed hot wallets because they had already moved the real funds out. Look at the volume drop after the hack. Then the sudden 210% surge in Q1 2025? Coincidence? Or did they pump it with their own liquidity? The numbers don’t lie. They’re gaming the system, and you’re the patsy.
  • Image placeholder

    gurmukh bhambra

    October 28, 2025 AT 20:14
    I'm from India and HTX is the only one that lets me deposit INR without third-party gateways. Binance blocked us, KuCoin is too slow. HTX works. Yeah they had a hack but they paid up. And their bot is actually good for swing trading. Stop hating.
  • Image placeholder

    Lawrence rajini

    October 29, 2025 AT 14:41
    Just started with HTX last week and already made 15% on a small trade 🚀 love the copy trading feature and the community vibes are legit. No cap, just grind 🙌
  • Image placeholder

    Frech Patz

    October 30, 2025 AT 04:31
    The comparison table omits a critical metric: on-chain transparency. HTX does not publish proof-of-reserves on a regular basis. Binance does, albeit inconsistently. KuCoin publishes monthly. HTX has never published a single attestation. Without this, the 98% cold storage claim remains unverified.
  • Image placeholder

    Matt Zara

    October 30, 2025 AT 15:56
    I get why people are skeptical, but if you’re not trying to max out DeFi yields and just want a solid place to trade altcoins without getting scammed, HTX is actually one of the better options. I used to hate their KYC, but now it’s smoother than Binance’s. And the HT discount? Worth it if you trade even a little.
  • Image placeholder

    Jean Manel

    October 31, 2025 AT 09:33
    This review is sponsored. The 210% deposit surge? All of it came from their own market-making bots. The Telegram group? Staffed by paid shills. The 'VIP events'? Just Zoom calls with Justin Sun’s face on a screen. Don’t be fooled by polished marketing. This isn’t a crypto exchange-it’s a pyramid scheme with better UI.
  • Image placeholder

    Sunny Kashyap

    October 31, 2025 AT 21:02
    HTX? Indian exchange. Why you trust foreign site? We have WazirX. Better for us.
  • Image placeholder

    William P. Barrett

    November 1, 2025 AT 07:18
    There’s a deeper philosophical question here: is trust in a centralized exchange even possible in a decentralized world? HTX offers efficiency, liquidity, and convenience-but at the cost of sovereignty. We trade on it because we’re lazy, not because it’s ideal. The real innovation isn’t in the fee structure-it’s in whether we’re willing to give up control for comfort.
  • Image placeholder

    Anna Mitchell

    November 1, 2025 AT 16:04
    I was nervous at first but HTX has been great for me. I'm not a pro trader, just someone trying to learn. The beginner tab helped me so much. Keep going, you got this!

Write a comment