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.

IG

Trust Score: 99

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ThinkMarkets

Trust Score: 85

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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

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

ThinkMarkets

With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, ThinkMarkets is the more accessible option for new traders.

Detailed Comparison

Feature	IG	ThinkMarkets
Trust Score	99/100	85/100
Spreads From	0.6 pips	0.0 pips
Avg EUR/USD Spread	0.7 pips	0.1 pips
Commission	$0	$3.50/lot
Execution Speed	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	1-3 business days	1-2 business days
Inactivity Fee	$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 Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ 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

Cons

× No MT5 platform available
× Spreads can be wider than raw ECN competitors
× High minimum deposit for bank transfers

ThinkMarkets Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ 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

Cons

× 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

The Bottom Line: IG vs ThinkMarkets

Choose IG if you want:

✓ Instrument Variety
✓ Regulatory Trust
✓ Research
✓ UK Traders

Choose ThinkMarkets if you want:

✓ 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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