Interactive Brokers vs ThinkMarkets
Can't decide between Interactive Brokers 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
Interactive Brokers and ThinkMarkets are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. Interactive Brokers scores 98/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of ThinkMarkets's 85/100.
On pricing, both brokers offer competitive 0.1-pip EUR/USD spreads. Interactive Brokers supports TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs while ThinkMarkets offers ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5, giving Interactive Brokers an edge in platform diversity.
For regulation, Interactive Brokers holds licenses from SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI 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
Interactive Brokers scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (98/100) compared to ThinkMarkets (85/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
Both brokers offer extremely competitive pricing, tying with a 0.1 pip average on EUR/USD.
Best for Beginners
Both brokers require a $0 minimum deposit, making them equally accessible.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Interactive Brokers | ThinkMarkets |
|---|---|---|
Trust Score Our proprietary safety rating based on regulation and track record. | 98/100 ✓ | 85/100 |
Spreads From The lowest possible spread available on their premium accounts. | $0 commission (IBKR Lite) | 0.0 pips |
Avg EUR/USD Spread The typical spread experienced during normal market hours. | 0.1 pips | 0.1 pips |
| Commission | $0.20 min/order | $3.50/lot |
Execution Speed The average time it takes for an order to be filled. | < 10ms | < 12ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:50 | 1:500 |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Instruments | 10,000+ | 4,000+ |
| Account Types | IBKR Lite, IBKR Pro | Standard, ThinkZero |
| Platforms | TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs | ThinkTrader, MT4, MT5 |
| Top Regulators | SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI | 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. | $0 (Eliminated in 2021) | $30/quarter after 6 months |
| Customer Support | 24/6 Live Chat, Email, Phone, Ticket System | 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose Interactive Brokers if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓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
Interactive Brokers Overview
Advantages
- ✓ Access to 150+ markets in 34 countries — unmatched global reach
- ✓ Publicly traded on NASDAQ (IBKR) with $15B+ market cap — ultimate transparency
- ✓ Industry-lowest margin rates starting at 5.83% (Benchmark + 1.5%)
- ✓ Fractional shares, options, futures, bonds, and forex all in one account
- ✓ Advanced order types and algos via Trader Workstation (TWS)
- ✓ IBKR Lite offers $0 commissions on US stocks and ETFs
Drawbacks
- × TWS has a steep learning curve — intimidating for complete beginners
- × No MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5 support
- × Customer support can have long wait times during peak hours
- × Limited deposit methods — no e-wallet support (Skrill, Neteller, PayPal)
- × Currency conversion fee of 0.002% (min $2) for non-base currency trades
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✗✗
Interactive Brokers Execution
IBKR offers four platforms: the legendary Trader Workstation (TWS), the newer IBKR Desktop, the mobile app, and the web-based Client Portal. TWS remains the most powerful retail trading platform ever built — featuring 100+ order types, advanced algorithmic execution, real-time risk analytics, and options strategy builders. IBKR Desktop is a more modern, streamlined alternative that's easier to learn. Both performed flawlessly during our testing with sub-10ms execution speeds.
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: Interactive Brokers vs ThinkMarkets
- ✓ Global Market Access
- ✓ Low Margin Rates
- ✓ Professional Trading
- ✓ Multi-Asset Investing
- ✓ Institutional-Grade Execution
- ✓ Equally competitive EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips)
- ✓ No minimum deposit
- ✓ ThinkTrader Platform
- ✓ Fast Execution
- ✓ Social Trading (ThinkCopy)
- ✓ 24/7 Support
- ✓ ECN Scalping (ThinkZero)
- ✓ Equally competitive 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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