IC Markets vs XTB
Can't decide between IC Markets and XTB? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Executive Summary
IC Markets and XTB 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 XTB's 95/100.
On pricing, IC Markets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips vs 0.9 pips). IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, cTrader while XTB offers xStation 5, xStation Mobile, giving IC Markets an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA while XTB is regulated by FCA, KNF, CySEC, FSC. 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 XTB (95/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IC Markets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.02 pips, beating the 0.9 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, XTB is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 97/100 ✓ | 95/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.0 pips | 0.5 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.02 pips ✓ | 0.9 pips |
| Commission | $7.00/lot | $0 |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 18ms | 40ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $0 ✓ |
| Instruments | 2,250+ | 5,800+ |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw Spread, cTrader Raw | Standard |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | xStation 5, xStation Mobile |
| Top Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | FCA, KNF, CySEC, FSC |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-2 business days | 1 business day |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $0 (No inactivity fee) | €10 per month (after 12 months) |
| Customer Support | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone, Dedicated Account Manager |
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 XTB if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓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
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
XTB Overview
Advantages
- ✓ xStation 5 is arguably the best proprietary web platform in the industry
- ✓ 0% commission on real stocks and ETFs (up to €100k/month)
- ✓ Publicly traded company with complete financial transparency
- ✓ Every client gets a dedicated account manager
Drawbacks
- × No MetaTrader 4 or 5 available (xStation only)
- × Forex spreads are slightly wider than raw ECN competitors
- × Crypto trading carries relatively high spreads
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
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.
XTB Execution
Our testing of XTB'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.
The Bottom Line: IC Markets vs XTB
- ✓ Scalping
- ✓ Algorithmic Trading
- ✓ Low Spreads
- ✓ ECN Trading
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.02 pips)
- ✓ xStation Platform
- ✓ Stock Investing
- ✓ European Traders
- ✓ Beginners
- ✓ 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.
Related Articles
IC Markets vs Pepperstone: The Ultimate Comparison 2026
Choosing between the two biggest brokers? We compare IC Markets and Pepperstone across spreads, execution speed, platforms, and regulation.
IC Markets Review 2026 — The World's Largest ECN Broker Tested
We tested IC Markets for 30 days with a live Raw Spread account. Full analysis of 0.0 pip spreads, 18ms execution, cTrader vs MT4, and server infrastructure.
IC Markets Review: The Absolute Best True ECN Broker?
If you are trading with a standard B-Book broker, you are trading against the house. We break down why institutional traders only use True ECN brokers like IC Markets.
Funded Engineer Shut Down: What Happened and Best Alternatives
A complete breakdown of why Funded Engineer shut down its operations, what happened to payouts, and the most reliable alternative prop firms for traders.