FBS vs IG
Can't decide between FBS and IG? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
Executive Summary
FBS and IG are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. FBS scores 78/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, while IG leads with 99/100.
On pricing, IG offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips vs 0.9 pips). FBS supports MT4, MT5, FBS Trader while IG offers IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, giving IG more platform options.
For regulation, FBS holds licenses from CySEC, FSC, ASIC while IG is regulated by FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to FBS (78/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IG offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.7 pips, beating the 0.9 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $1, FBS is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | FBS | IG |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 78/100 | 99/100 ✓ |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.5 pips | 0.6 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.9 pips | 0.7 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $20/lot (Zero Spread) | $0 |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | < 40ms | 22ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:3000 | 1:200 |
| Minimum Deposit | $1 ✓ | $250 |
| Instruments | 250+ | 17,000+ |
| Account Types | Cent, Standard, Zero Spread | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, FBS Trader | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
| Top Regulators | CySEC, FSC, ASIC | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 2-4 hours via local banks | 1-3 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $5/month after 180 days | $18 per month (after 24 months) |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose FBS if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You value high leverage and cent accounts
Choose IG if...
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
FBS Overview
Advantages
- ✓ 1:3000 maximum leverage
- ✓ Cent accounts from $1
- ✓ Excellent local payment options
- ✓ Frequent deposit bonuses
Drawbacks
- × Very high commission on Zero Spread account ($20/lot)
- × Complex bonus terms
IG Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Unmatched regulatory trust with 6+ Tier-1 licenses
- ✓ Massive selection of 17,000+ tradable instruments
- ✓ World-class educational resources (IG Academy)
- ✓ Premium proprietary trading platform with guaranteed stops
Drawbacks
- × No MT5 platform available
- × Spreads can be wider than raw ECN competitors
- × High minimum deposit for bank transfers
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Aug 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✓✓
- MT5✓✗
- cTrader✗✗
- TradingView✗✗
FBS Execution
Standard MT4/MT5 offering alongside their proprietary FBS Trader mobile app.
IG Execution
Their proprietary web platform is exceptional. We used it exclusively for a month and found its charting tools and guaranteed stop-loss features (which protect you from catastrophic slippage) to be industry-leading. If you prefer MetaTrader, MT4 is available, though oddly, MT5 is missing from their lineup.
The Bottom Line: FBS vs IG
- ✓ High Leverage
- ✓ Cent Accounts
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($1)
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 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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