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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

ActivTrades vs FXCM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the ActivTrades vs FXCM broker comparison, both firms offer robust trading platforms and are regulated by the FCA, yet they cater to different trader profiles. ActivTrades appeals to traders seeking a diverse market selection with no minimum deposit requirement, making it ideal for beginners and those prioritising regulatory protection. Conversely, FXCM attracts traders focused on forex and CFDs who value lower spreads and benefit from extensive educational resources and automated trading support. The key distinction lies in ActivTrades' broader market offerings versus FXCM's emphasis on competitive spreads and trading tools.

ActivTrades

FXCM

VS
ActivTradesFXCM
BrokerRank Score3.6/53.7/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$50
Spread from0.5 pips0.2 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:4001:400
RegulationFCA, CySECFCA, ASIC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary WebMT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
ActivTradesFXCM
Best for Low Fees
FXCMActivTrades
Best for Regulation
ActivTradesFXCM
Best Overall
FXCMActivTrades
Quick Answer

FXCM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.7/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, FXCM offers lower spreads (0.2 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

ActivTrades vs FXCM: Key Differences

Feature

ActivTrades

FXCM

Winner
Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.7 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$50
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Forex, Cfd, Indices, Commodities
Founded
2001
1999
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
1 / 4
3 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

ActivTrades

FXCM

Lower fees
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, ActivTrades is a more suitable choice due to its user-friendly interfaces and £0 minimum deposit, allowing newcomers to start trading without financial pressure. Professional traders might prefer FXCM, thanks to its lower spreads starting at 0.2 pips and extensive market experience, making it ideal for cost-effective trading on major pairs. In terms of fees, FXCM has an edge with its generally lower spreads, though both brokers offer commission-free trading.

Who Should Choose Which?

ActivTrades

ActivTrades

3.6/5

Choose ActivTrades if you want…

  • No minimum deposit
  • More market types (6)
FXCM

FXCM

3.7/5

Top pick

Choose FXCM if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.7/5)
  • Tighter spreads (from 0.2 pips)
  • More established (est. 1999)

Also consider

View all rankings

We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.

#1ForTrade logo
ForTrade
4.3
FCA
Visit
#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
Visit
#4AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
Visit
#5Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both ActivTrades & FXCM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is ActivTrades better than FXCM?

FXCM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. ActivTrades holds a 3.6/5 rating vs FXCM's 3.7/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, ActivTrades or FXCM?

ActivTrades offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while FXCM starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for ActivTrades vs FXCM?

ActivTrades requires a minimum deposit of $0. FXCM requires $50.

4

Which broker is safer, ActivTrades or FXCM?

ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC, while FXCM holds licences from FCA, ASIC.

5

What trading platforms do ActivTrades and FXCM support?

ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. FXCM supports MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both ActivTrades and FXCM?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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