Forex.com vs IC Markets
Can't decide between Forex.com 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
Forex.com and IC Markets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. Forex.com scores 97/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, matching IC Markets's 97/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 1.1 pips). Forex.com supports Advanced Trading Platform, Web Trader, MT4, MT5, TradingView while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, giving Forex.com an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, Forex.com holds licenses from CFTC, FCA, ASIC, CIRO, FSA 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
Both brokers scored a 97/100 in our trust ratings, indicating top-tier safety.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 1.1 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $100, Forex.com is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Forex.com | IC Markets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 97/100 | 97/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.8 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 1.1 pips | 0.02 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $0 | $7.00/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 28ms | 18ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:50 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 ✓ | $200 |
| Instruments | 5,500+ | 2,250+ |
| Account Types | Standard, RAW Pricing, MT4/MT5 | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw |
| Platforms | Advanced Trading Platform, Web Trader, MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Top Regulators | CFTC, FCA, ASIC, CIRO, FSA | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $15 per month (after 12 months) | $0 (No inactivity fee) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose Forex.com if...
- ✓You want to trade directly from TradingView charts
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
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
Forex.com Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Welcomes US traders with CFTC regulation
- ✓ Massive, publicly-traded parent company (StoneX)
- ✓ Excellent proprietary platform and TradingView integration
- ✓ Active Trader program offers significant cash rebates
Drawbacks
- × Complex account structures and pricing models
- × High inactivity fees after 12 months
- × Stock CFDs not available in the US
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✓✗
Forex.com Execution
Our testing of Forex.com'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: Forex.com vs IC Markets
- ✓ US Traders
- ✓ Institutional Backing
- ✓ Active Trader Rebates
- ✓ MT5
- ✓ 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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