IG vs Kraken
Can't decide between IG and Kraken? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Executive Summary
IG and Kraken are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IG scores 99/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of Kraken's 94/100.
On pricing, Kraken offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0 pips vs 0.7 pips). IG supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer while Kraken offers Kraken Pro, Kraken App, Web, giving IG an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS while Kraken is regulated by FinCEN, FCA. 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 Kraken (94/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
Kraken offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0 pips, beating the 0.7 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $10, Kraken is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IG | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 99/100 ✓ | 94/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.6 pips | 0.0 pips (Crypto) |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.7 pips | 0 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $0 | 0.16% / 0.26% |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 22ms | Fast |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:5 |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 | $10 ✓ |
| Instruments | 17,000+ | 200+ |
| Account Types | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA | Starter, Intermediate, Pro |
| Platforms | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | Kraken Pro, Kraken App, Web |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS | FinCEN, FCA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-3 business days | 0-1 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $18 per month (after 24 months) | $0 |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
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
Choose Kraken if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You value crypto trading and staking
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
Kraken Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Extremely deep liquidity for major cryptocurrencies
- ✓ Kraken Pro offers very low maker/taker fees
- ✓ Industry-leading security with never having been fully hacked
- ✓ Staking rewards available for various assets
Drawbacks
- × No traditional forex or stock CFDs
- × Not compatible with MetaTrader or cTrader
Algorithmic Deep Dive
Data Updated: Sep 2026🛡️ Safety & Regulation
Tier-1 Licenses
💸 Pricing Economics
⚡ Technical Capabilities & Execution
Platform Support
- MT4✓✗
- MT5✗✗
- cTrader✗✗
- TradingView✗✗
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.
Kraken Execution
Kraken Pro provides a robust, professional trading interface with TradingView charts.
The Bottom Line: IG vs Kraken
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ Crypto Trading
- ✓ Staking
- ✓ High Liquidity
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0 pips)
- ✓ Lower minimum deposit ($10)
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
Related Content
InstaForex Broker Review 2026: Account Types, Spreads, and Features
A comprehensive review of InstaForex detailing their Cent accounts, high leverage options, and cryptocurrency funding capabilities.
Broker Match Quiz
Find the perfect forex broker based on your trading style and preferences.
FTMO Futures Launch (Beta): Growth vs Pro Accounts Explained
FTMO has officially entered the futures market. We breakdown the new Growth and Pro accounts, EOD trailing drawdowns, and payout rules in 2026.
FundedNext Labs FNL:003: Instant Futures Funding Review
FundedNext's FNL:003 offers instant futures funding with no evaluation. Learn how the EOD trailing drawdown and 20% consistency rule work before you buy.