HTX (formerly Huobi) stands as one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, consistently ranking in the top 10 by trading volume. For anyone looking to enter the crypto trading world, HTX offers a robust platform with deep liquidity and a wide range of features.
But what exactly makes HTX stand out from other major exchanges? And more importantly, how do you get started? This guide walks you through everything from registration to your first trade.
HTX is a cryptocurrency exchange that originally launched as Huobi in 2013, making it one of the industry's longest-running platforms. Headquartered in Seychelles, HTX operates offices across Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and the United States.
With over a decade of operational experience, HTX has built a reputation for handling high trading volumes and offering diverse trading products including spot, margin, futures, and options trading.
If you're evaluating different platforms for crypto trading, understanding the full ecosystem matters. 👉 Explore HTX's complete trading features and competitive advantages to see how it compares with other major exchanges.
The platform's strengths include:
Over 10 years of operational experience in the crypto space
High liquidity across hundreds of trading pairs
Native HTX Token (HT) offering fee discounts and additional benefits
Comprehensive trading options: spot, margin, OTC, futures, and options
Mobile apps for both iOS and Android
Sub-account support for easier portfolio management
Multi-language interface supporting global users
What to be aware of:
The standard trading fee sits at 0.2%, which is slightly higher than some competitors. However, holding and using HT tokens can significantly reduce these fees based on your holdings and trading volume.
Trading Fees
Standard users pay 0.2% per trade. Heavy traders or HT holders can reduce this rate substantially. The fee structure rewards both volume and platform engagement.
Deposit and Withdrawal Fees
Deposits are free across all cryptocurrencies. Withdrawal fees vary by blockchain network and current network congestion—these cover the actual blockchain transaction costs rather than platform charges.
Additional Fees
Margin trading includes borrowing costs, while futures positions may incur funding rates depending on market conditions.
Before You Begin
Have these items ready to speed up registration:
An active email address
Government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID card)
A smartphone with Google Authenticator installed
Step 1: Create Your Account
Visit the HTX registration page and enter your email address and a secure password. Complete the email verification by entering the code sent to your inbox.
Step 2: Identity Verification (KYC)
KYC—Know Your Customer—is the industry standard for complying with financial regulations. The process collects identifying information to ensure platform security and regulatory compliance.
To complete KYC on HTX:
Navigate to your profile icon and select "Identification." Choose your country and document type (ID card, passport, or driver's license). Follow the prompts to upload clear photos of your document's front and back.
The verification process typically completes within minutes, though it may take longer during high-volume periods.
Step 3: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This critical security step protects your account from unauthorized access. Click your profile icon, select "Account & Security," then enable Google Authenticator.
Save the 16-digit backup key somewhere secure—you'll need it if you lose access to your phone. Enter the 6-digit code from Google Authenticator to complete setup.
From the main dashboard, select "Balance" then "Asset Overview." Click "Deposit" and choose your cryptocurrency and blockchain network.
Copy the deposit address carefully—sending funds to the wrong address or network can result in permanent loss. HTX may ask you to confirm the address via email on your first deposit as an additional security measure.
Access the trading interface by clicking "Market" or navigating to "Spot Trading" > "Exchange."
The trading interface includes several key areas:
Search and pair selection - Find your desired trading pair in the search box or browse by base currency (USDT, BTC, ETH, HT)
Price chart - Technical analysis tools and historical price data
Order placement - Buy and sell order forms with multiple order types
Order book - Real-time market depth showing current bids and asks
Limit Order - Set your desired buy or sell price. The order executes only when the market reaches your specified price.
Market Order - Execute immediately at the current market price. Best for entering positions quickly, though you'll pay the current spread.
Stop Limit - Combines a trigger price with a limit price. When the market hits your stop price, a limit order is placed at your specified limit price.
Stop Market - Similar to stop limit, but executes as a market order once triggered, guaranteeing execution but not price.
Trigger Order - Set up orders without locking funds immediately. The order activates only when your trigger conditions are met.
Margin Trading
Access leveraged trading through "Spot Trading" > "Margin." HTX offers both cross margin (using your entire account as collateral) and isolated margin (risk limited to specific positions).
Enable automatic loan repayment to simplify margin management, or manually control your borrowing for more precise risk management.
Futures Trading
Navigate to "Derivatives" > "Derivatives Overview" to access futures contracts. Note that futures trading requires completed KYC verification before activation.
For traders looking to maximize their strategies across multiple markets, HTX's integrated platform makes it simple. 👉 Start trading with HTX's comprehensive suite of products and access spot, margin, and derivatives from one account.
Is HTX safe to use?
Yes. With over 10 years of operation, HTX maintains industry-standard security practices including cold storage for the majority of user funds, mandatory 2FA options, and regular security audits.
What about trading fee discounts?
Holding HT tokens provides fee discounts ranging from 10% to 50% based on your holdings and 30-day trading volume. High-volume traders can apply for VIP status with even lower fees.
What if I lose my 2FA?
Use your 16-digit backup key to restore access via Google Authenticator on a new device. If you've lost the backup key, contact HTX support immediately through the website chat or official Telegram channel.
What are deposit and withdrawal limits?
Deposits are unlimited. Withdrawal limits depend on your KYC level—basic verified accounts have daily limits, while advanced verification removes most restrictions. Specific limits vary by cryptocurrency.
Does HTX have a native token?
HTX Token (HT) launched in January 2018 as an ERC-20 token. The token provides fee discounts, voting rights on platform decisions, and access to exclusive token sales through HTX's IEO platform.
HTX offers a comprehensive platform for both beginners and experienced traders. The registration process takes just minutes, and the interface design balances powerful features with accessibility.
Remember to start small as you learn the platform. Familiarize yourself with order types using small amounts before committing larger capital. Enable all security features immediately, and never share your passwords or 2FA codes with anyone.
The cryptocurrency market operates 24/7, so there's no rush—take time to understand each feature before moving to more advanced trading strategies.