IG vs ThinkMarkets
Can't decide between IG 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
IG and ThinkMarkets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IG scores 99/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of ThinkMarkets's 85/100.
On pricing, ThinkMarkets offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips vs 0.7 pips). IG supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer while ThinkMarkets offers ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5, giving IG an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS 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
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to ThinkMarkets (85/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
ThinkMarkets offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.1 pips, beating the 0.7 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 | IG | ThinkMarkets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 99/100 ✓ | 85/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.6 pips | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.7 pips | 0.1 pips ✓ |
| Commission | $0 | $3.50/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 22ms | < 12ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 | $0 ✓ |
| Instruments | 17,000+ | 4,000+ |
| Account Types | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA | Standard, ThinkZero |
| Platforms | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5 |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSCA |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-3 business days | 1-2 business days |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $18 per month (after 24 months) | $30/quarter after 6 months |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
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 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
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
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✗✗
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.
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: IG vs ThinkMarkets
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ ThinkTrader Platform
- ✓ Fast Execution
- ✓ Social Trading (ThinkCopy)
- ✓ 24/7 Support
- ✓ ECN Scalping (ThinkZero)
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips)
- ✓ 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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