IC Markets vs ThinkMarkets
Can't decide between IC Markets and ThinkMarkets? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Executive Summary
IC Markets and ThinkMarkets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IC Markets scores 97/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of ThinkMarkets's 85/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.1 pips). IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader while ThinkMarkets offers ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5.
For regulation, IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA while ThinkMarkets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA. 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 ThinkMarkets (85/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.1 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, ThinkMarkets is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IC Markets | ThinkMarkets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 97/100 ✓ | 85/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.02 pips ✓ | 0.1 pips |
| Commission | $7.00/lot | $3.50/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 18ms | < 12ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $0 ✓ |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 4,000+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw | Standard, ThinkZero |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5 |
| Top Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA |
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. | $0 (No inactivity fee) | $30/quarter after 6 months |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
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
Choose ThinkMarkets if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
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
ThinkMarkets Overview
Advantages
- ✓ ThinkTrader platform with 80+ indicators and multi-device sync
- ✓ ThinkZero account with 0.0 pip spreads and $3.50/lot commission
- ✓ ThinkCopy social trading feature built into the platform
- ✓ 24/7 customer support — one of few brokers offering true 24/7 help
- ✓ No minimum deposit requirement
Drawbacks
- × Smaller instrument range (4,000) compared to Saxo or CMC Markets
- × Brand recognition lower than tier-1 competitors
- × Research and analysis tools are basic compared to leaders
- × FSCA entity has weaker investor protection
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Aug 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✓✓
- MT5✓✓
- cTrader✓✗
- TradingView✗✗
IC Markets Execution
You get the standard suite: MT4, MT5, and cTrader. Our recommendation? Skip MetaTrader and use cTrader. The Level 2 pricing depth and advanced order management are vastly superior for scalping. We ran automated EAs 24/5 on MT5 without a single dropped connection or rejected order.
ThinkMarkets Execution
ThinkTrader is the standout experience here and the primary reason to consider ThinkMarkets over better-known competitors. The platform offers 80+ technical indicators, 50+ drawing tools, 12 chart types, and a unique multi-device sync system that seamlessly remembers your chart layouts, indicators, and watchlists across desktop, web, and mobile. We tested syncing between desktop and iPhone — opening a chart with Fibonacci levels on desktop and finding the exact same setup on mobile was genuinely impressive. MT4 and MT5 are also available for traders who prefer MetaTrader or need EA compatibility. The ThinkCopy social trading feature is well-integrated within ThinkTrader, allowing you to browse and copy signal providers without leaving the platform.
The Bottom Line: IC Markets vs ThinkMarkets
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
- ✓ ThinkTrader Platform
- ✓ Fast Execution
- ✓ Social Trading (ThinkCopy)
- ✓ 24/7 Support
- ✓ ECN Scalping (ThinkZero)
- ✓ No minimum deposit
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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