IG vs XTB
Can't decide between IG 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
IG and XTB are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IG scores 99/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of XTB's 95/100.
On pricing, IG offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 pips vs 0.9 pips). IG supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer while XTB offers xStation 5, xStation Mobile, giving IG an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS 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
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to XTB (95/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
IG offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.7 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 | IG | XTB |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 99/100 ✓ | 95/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | 0.6 pips | 0.5 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.7 pips ✓ | 0.9 pips |
| Commission | $0 | $0 |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | 22ms | 40ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 | $0 ✓ |
| Instruments | 17,000+ | 5,800+ |
| Account Types | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA | Standard |
| Platforms | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | xStation 5, xStation Mobile |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS | FCA, KNF, CySEC, FSC |
Withdrawal Speed The average processing time before funds hit your account. | 1-3 business days | 1 business day |
Inactivity Fee Fees charged if you do not place any trades for a specific period. | $18 per month (after 24 months) | €10 per month (after 12 months) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone, Dedicated Account Manager |
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 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
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
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: 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.
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: IG vs XTB
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.7 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.
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