eToro vs IC Markets
Can't decide between eToro and IC Markets? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
eToro and IC Markets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. eToro scores 92/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IC Markets leads with 97/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 1 pips). eToro supports eToro Custom Platform while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, giving IC Markets more platform options.
For regulation, eToro holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FinCEN while IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
IC Markets scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (97/100) compared to eToro (92/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 1 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $100, eToro is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | eToro | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 92/100 | 97/100 ✓ |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 1.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 1 pips | 0.02 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $0 | $7.00/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 50ms | 18ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:30 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 ✓ | $200 |
| Instruments | 3,000+ | 2,250+ |
| Account Types | Retail, Professional | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw |
| Platforms | eToro Custom Platform | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FinCEN | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 2-5 business days | 1-2 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $10 per month (after 12 months) | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Ticketing System | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose eToro if...
- ✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
- ✓You value copy trading and social trading
Choose IC Markets if...
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You prefer cTrader's advanced order management
- ✓You are a scalper or algorithmic trader
eToro Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Incredible CopyTrader feature allows you to auto-copy top investors
- ✓ Commission-free real stock and ETF investing
- ✓ Extremely intuitive, user-friendly mobile app
- ✓ Huge community for social sentiment and discussion
Drawbacks
- × High forex spreads (EUR/USD starts at 1.0 pips)
- × $5 flat withdrawal fee
- × No MetaTrader or advanced charting software
- × Account currency is exclusively in USD (conversion fees apply)
IC Markets Overview
Advantages
- ✓ True 0.0 pip spreads during London and NY sessions
- ✓ Industry-leading 18ms execution speed
- ✓ Free Equinix NY4 VPS for active traders
- ✓ No trading restrictions (perfect for EAs)
- ✓ Transparent $6/lot commission on cTrader
Drawbacks
- × No proprietary trading platform or TradingView integration
- × Education section is basic compared to competitors
- × No deposit bonus or welcome offers
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Aug 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✗✓
- MT5✗✓
- cTrader✗✓
- TradingView✗✗
eToro Execution
Our testing of eToro's platform offerings confirmed stable performance with reliable execution speeds. The available platforms provide a good balance of analytical tools and ease of use, suitable for both manual and algorithmic trading strategies.
IC Markets Execution
IC Markets offers MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader. During our testing, the cTrader platform stood out for its clean interface, advanced order types, and full Depth of Market visibility. The MT5 offering is equally robust, with seamless EA integration and no restrictions on trading strategies. We experienced zero platform downtime during our entire testing period.
The Bottom Line: eToro vs IC Markets
- ✓ Copy Trading
- ✓ Social Trading
- ✓ Crypto Investing
- ✓ Passive Income
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($100)
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
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