OKX vs HTX – which to choose in 2026

OKX

9.1

since 2017

VS

HTX

7.8

since 2013

Detailed comparison

What sets them apart

OKXBest Web3 ecosystem

Built-in Web3 wallet and decentralized exchange right in the app

Restricted in some regions

HTXMarket veteran

Formerly Huobi, operating since 2013. Popular in Asia, offers staking and crypto lending

Restricted in some regions

OKX and HTX – two exchanges that constantly come up in comparisons. And for good reason: both rank among the top ten platforms by trading volume, both support futures trading, both list hundreds of cryptocurrencies. But the devil is in the details. OKX built-in Web3 wallet and decentralized exchange right in the app. HTX formerly Huobi, operating since 2013. Popular in Asia, offers staking and crypto lending. We have traded on both – opened accounts, completed verification, placed orders, and withdrawn funds. In this breakdown we share our real experience: fees, security, interface usability, P2P options, and hidden pitfalls you will not find in ads.

A Quick Look at Each Exchange

OKX

OKX has been operating since 2017, registered in Seychelles. The platform lists 350+ cryptocurrencies. OKX is a crypto exchange founded in 2017 (formerly OKEx). Registered in the Seychelles. Beyond classic spot and futures trading, OKX offers a built-in Web3 wallet supporting dozens of blockchains, its own decentralized exchange (DEX), and an NFT marketplace. Our rating – 9.1/10.

HTX

HTX has been operating since 2013, registered in Seychelles. The platform lists 700+ cryptocurrencies. HTX is a centralized crypto exchange formerly known as Huobi. Founded in 2013 in China, it is now registered in the Seychelles. In 2023 the exchange rebranded and changed its name to HTX. Our rating – 7.8/10.

OKX vs HTX Fees – Who Is Cheaper

Fees are the first thing traders look at when choosing an exchange. A 0.05% difference may seem trivial, but on $10,000 in monthly volume that is already $5. And if you trade actively, it adds up fast. On spot, OKX charges 0.08%/0.1% (maker/taker), while HTX charges 0.2%/0.2%. In terms of spot fees, OKX is the better deal. On futures the picture is different. OKX charges 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. HTX – 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. On futures fees, both exchanges are equal. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: OKX charges 0.0004 BTC (~$28), HTX – 0.0005 BTC (~$35). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): OKX – 1 USDT (TRC-20), HTX – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. OKX offers a discount when paying fees with its OKB token. HTX – with its HT token. If you trade a lot, the discount is significant.

The trading fee is only part of the expense. The real cost of a trade is made up of five elements: spread (the difference between buy and sell price), trading fee, withdrawal fee, currency conversion, and slippage on order execution. On both exchanges, spreads depend on the liquidity of each pair. On major coins (BTC, ETH) spreads are minimal. On rare altcoins the gap between buy and sell price can be significant. Before buying an obscure token, check the order book – it will show the real cost of the trade. Our tip: for small transfers, use the TRC-20 network (USDT) – the fee is minimal. For larger amounts, compare withdrawal costs across different networks directly in the exchange interface.

Trading Tools and Features

Beyond fees, it is important to understand what you can actually do on each exchange. Spot trading is available on both platforms. In terms of coin count, HTX leads with 700+ cryptocurrencies. OKX offers 350+. If you are looking for a specific altcoin, check the listing catalog beforehand. Futures are available on both exchanges. These are leveraged contracts – you can earn (and lose) multiples of what you would in spot trading. Maximum leverage on major pairs: up to 100x–125x. We recommend starting at 2x–5x, especially if you are new to it. OKX offers a built-in Web3 wallet – you can interact with DeFi protocols directly from the exchange app, without external wallets. Staking is available on both platforms. You can earn passive income on crypto held on the exchange. Rates depend on the coin and the lock-up period.

P2P and Fiat Trading

P2P is a popular way to buy crypto with local currency. You trade directly with another user: send fiat payment and receive crypto. No intermediaries – the exchange acts as an escrow to protect both sides. OKX: OKX restricted access in some regions in 2024. P2P availability depends on where you are. Check the official site before signing up. HTX: P2P exchange supports multiple local currencies and payment methods. Liquidity is moderate. Some exchange services may have regional restrictions – check availability on the website. Important: OKX and HTX have restricted access in certain regions. Tip: when buying large amounts on P2P, split the transaction into several parts – this reduces risk and keeps things smooth.

Security and KYC

Security is something you do not think about until you run into a problem. Exchange hacks, frozen accounts, phishing emails – in crypto these are real risks. Here is what both platforms offer. OKX: OKX uses a multi-layered security system: cold storage, multi-signature wallets, 2FA, and anti-phishing codes. It publishes regular Proof of Reserves reports where users can verify that their funds are backed 1:1. HTX: HTX uses cold storage, multi-signature, 2FA, and anti-phishing codes. The exchange publishes Proof of Reserves reports. In 2023, there was an incident involving an $8M hot wallet leak, which was fully compensated. Security measures were strengthened after the management change. In terms of market tenure, HTX leads – it has been operating since 2013. The longer an exchange runs without major incidents, the greater the trust. Verification (KYC) on OKX: KYC verification is mandatory. Basic level: passport plus selfie. Extended: address confirmation. Processing usually takes 10–30 minutes. Verification (KYC) on HTX: KYC verification is mandatory. A passport or ID plus a selfie is required. Users in certain regions may face additional restrictions. Processing usually takes from 15 minutes to a few hours. Our advice: enable two-factor authentication (2FA) right after signing up. Set up an anti-phishing code – it appears in every email from the exchange and helps you tell genuine notifications from scams. For storing large amounts, use a hardware wallet – only keep on the exchange what you are actively trading.

Who Should You Choose

OKX

OKX is perfect for those who want to combine classic trading with DeFi. If you work with NFTs, farming, or cross-chain bridges – the OKX Web3 wallet saves a lot of time. Also a good choice for those who value transparency (Proof of Reserves). Note: access is restricted in some regions – check availability before signing up.

Open OKX

HTX

HTX suits traders who value liquidity in the Asian market. Staking and crypto lending are convenient tools for passive income. Some features may be restricted in certain regions – check availability before signing up. Note: access is restricted in some regions – check availability before signing up.

Open HTX

Pros and cons

OKX

+Built-in Web3 wallet – work with DeFi right from the app

+Native DEX aggregator – swap tokens without intermediaries

+Low fees: 0.08% maker on spot

+350+ coins and a wide range of trading tools

–Exited certain markets in 2024 – P2P restricted in some regions

–Web3 features can be complex for beginners

–Restricted in several jurisdictions

HTX

+Operating since 2013 – one of the oldest players on the market

+700+ cryptocurrencies and a wide range of trading tools

+Staking and crypto lending right on the platform

+Strong liquidity on major pairs thanks to the Asian market

–Restrictions in certain regions

–Standard spot fees – 0.1% without discounts

–Rebranding caused confusion and an outflow of some users

Our Verdict

Updated: April 2026

This article contains affiliate links. Not financial advice.