HTX Review: A Comprehensive Look at the Crypto Exchange

Discover HTX, a top cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2013, now with enhanced security, user-friendly features, and a wide range of trading options.

Key Takeaways

HTX supports a wide range of over 700 cryptocurrencies and offers more than 1,000 trading pairs with competitive fees.
The exchange prioritizes user security with features like cold storage and Merkle tree proof of reserves.
HTX has encountered security breaches but has handled incidents with transparency and user compensation.
Certain regions, including the US and China, currently cannot access HTX, limiting its global reach.

HTX Review: A Comprehensive Look at the Crypto Exchange

HTX, formerly known as Huobi, is a prominent cryptocurrency exchange that was established in 2013. Founded by Leon Li, a former engineer at Oracle and a Tsinghua University graduate, the platform originally operated out of Beijing before relocating its headquarters to the Seychelles to expand its international presence. In September 2023, HTX celebrated its 10th anniversary by rebranding from Huobi, signaling a new phase in its global expansion efforts.

As of March 2025, HTX has established itself as one of the top exchanges in the cryptocurrency market, supporting over 700 digital assets and boasting a user base exceeding 45 million. The platform’s daily trading volumes exceed $4 billion, and it operates in more than 160 countries, though it is not available in key markets like mainland China, the United States, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

User Experience

HTX provides a versatile trading platform that users can access through various channels:

Web Platform: A comprehensive web interface offers a full suite of trading tools and account management features.
Mobile Applications: HTX has developed mobile apps for iOS and Android, enabling users to manage their portfolios on the go.
API Access: Advanced users and developers can utilize API access for custom integrations and automated trading.

The user interface is designed to accommodate both novice and experienced traders. Its intuitive layout makes it easy for users to quickly navigate trading options, manage their accounts, and access customer support.

For advanced traders, HTX offers a suite of powerful tools including customizable charting, technical indicators, and multiple order types, suited for various trading strategies.

Trading Experience

HTX provides a vast selection of cryptocurrencies for trading, with over 700 options available, including major players like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, as well as numerous altcoins. This extensive portfolio allows for significant diversification in trading strategies.

The exchange features more than 1,000 trading pairs and supports multiple fiat currencies for deposits and withdrawals, such as USD, EUR, and GBP.

Trading Fees: HTX charges a base fee of 0.2% for both makers and takers. Users can lower their fees to 0.15% by using the native token HT for payments.
Withdrawal Fees: Fees for withdrawals vary by cryptocurrency and network conditions, so users should consult the fee schedule for specifics.
Other Charges: There are no fees for cryptocurrency deposits, though fiat transactions may incur charges depending on the payment method.

HTX is recognized for its high liquidity and efficient trade execution, making it a solid choice for day traders and long-term investors alike.

Security Measures

HTX prioritizes the security of user funds, with a majority stored in cold wallets to minimize hacking risks. To enhance transparency, HTX has implemented Merkle tree proof of reserves and has publicly shared its reserve data for 29 months as of March 2025.

Account Security: The platform encourages users to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security and allows for withdrawal whitelists that limit withdrawals to approved wallet addresses.
Phishing Prevention: HTX actively combats phishing attempts by identifying and closing fraudulent websites and counterfeit app download pages.

Regarding regulatory compliance, HTX is working to align its operations with the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA), which provides a unified regulatory framework across 27 EU member states.

However, HTX has faced notable security incidents:

September 2023 Hack: The platform experienced a breach resulting in a loss of approximately $7.9 million. HTX quickly compensated affected users to secure their assets.
November 2023 Hack: Shortly after, HTX and its Heco Chain protocol suffered another attack, this time costing $115 million. The exchange suspended withdrawals during the investigation but assured users of full compensation for losses.

Despite these breaches, HTX’s prompt and transparent responses have earned recognition in the crypto industry, with Forbes naming it one of the "Top 25 World's Most Trustworthy Crypto Exchanges of 2025.”

Insight: Understanding the importance of transparency in exchanges can help users gauge the level of trust they can place in them. While past breaches can be alarming, how a platform responds can significantly impact its reputation.

Customer Support

HTX offers multiple avenues for user support:

Live Chat: Immediate assistance is available through the website and mobile apps.
Email Support: Users can reach out via email for less urgent inquiries.
Help Resources: Comprehensive guides, tutorials, and an FAQ section help users navigate the platform.

While many users appreciate HTX’s responsive live chat and educational resources, feedback on email support has been mixed. Some users report delays in response times and issues regarding account access, as evidenced by low ratings on sites like Trustpilot and Sitejabber.

Expert Note: User feedback often highlights the vital role customer support plays in the overall experience, especially in the fast-paced crypto environment.

Additional Services

HTX distinguishes itself from competitors with several unique features:

Crypto Loans: Users can pledge cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, or USDT to borrow other crypto assets with dynamic interest rates and no fees.
Launchpool: This program allows users to stake HTX tokens and earn dual rewards, fostering community involvement.
Leveraged ETPs: HTX offers tokens that provide 5x leverage on assets, enabling users to trade with heightened exposure without the complexities of traditional margin trading.

The exchange also supports margin trading, allowing up to 5x leverage on spot markets and 200x on specific derivatives products.

HTX: Pros and Cons

HTX's pros and cons

Is HTX still a Major Contender?

HTX has made significant progress since its inception as Huobi. With a vast selection of cryptocurrencies, a user-friendly interface, and advanced trading tools, it remains a strong player in the global exchange market. Its commitment to security and regulatory compliance also adds to its credibility.

However, compared to larger exchanges like Binance or Coinbase, HTX may fall short in fiat on-ramps, accessibility, and customer support satisfaction. Furthermore, its history of security breaches and rebranding efforts raise important questions about its overall stability.

In conclusion, while HTX presents powerful trading tools and growing regulatory adherence, each trader should consider their individual trading needs and comfort with any potential service fluctuations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is HTX? HTX is a cryptocurrency exchange established in 2013, rebranded from Huobi in 2023.
How do I register? Users can register by visiting the HTX website, clicking "Sign Up," and following the verification steps.
Which cryptocurrencies does HTX support? HTX supports over 700 cryptocurrencies and more than 1,000 trading pairs.
What are the trading fees? HTX charges a base trading fee of 0.2%, which can be reduced to 0.15% by using HT tokens.
In which regions is HTX available? HTX operates in over 160 countries but is restricted in key areas, including the US and mainland China.
What security measures does HTX implement? HTX uses cold storage for funds, 2FA for account security, and Merkle tree proof of reserves to enhance transparency.