ActivTrades vs IC Markets 2026: Which Broker is Better?
In the competitive landscape of online trading, ActivTrades and IC Markets stand out as two prominent brokers catering to different types of traders. ActivTrades, with its headquarters in London and regulation by the FCA and CySEC, appeals to traders prioritising security and advanced risk management tools, offering a broad range of markets including forex, CFDs, and stocks without a minimum deposit requirement. Conversely, IC Markets, based in Sydney and regulated by ASIC and CySEC, is tailored for those seeking ultra-low spreads and fast execution, making it ideal for high-frequency traders despite its $200 minimum deposit. The critical distinction lies in their trading costs and platform offerings, with ActivTrades focusing on comprehensive trading tools and IC Markets excelling in cost-effectiveness and execution speed.
ActivTrades
IC Markets
| ActivTrades | IC Markets | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.6/5 | 3.9/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $0 ✓ | $200 |
| Spread from | 0.5 pips | 0 pips ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:400 | 1:500 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA, CySEC | ASIC, CySEC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web | MT4, MT5, TradingView |
IC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, IC Markets offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowActivTrades vs IC Markets: Key Differences
ActivTrades
IC Markets
Still deciding between ActivTrades and IC Markets?
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Fees Comparison
ActivTrades
IC Markets
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
ActivTrades
3.6/5
Choose ActivTrades if you want…
- No per-trade commission
- No minimum deposit
- More established (est. 2001)
IC Markets
3.9/5
Choose IC Markets if you want…
- Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
- Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
- More platforms (4 supported)
Also consider
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Both ActivTrades & IC Markets are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is ActivTrades better than IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. ActivTrades holds a 3.6/5 rating vs IC Markets's 3.9/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, ActivTrades or IC Markets?
ActivTrades offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while IC Markets starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for ActivTrades vs IC Markets?
ActivTrades requires a minimum deposit of $0. IC Markets requires $200.
4Which broker is safer, ActivTrades or IC Markets?
ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC, while IC Markets holds licences from ASIC, CySEC.
5What trading platforms do ActivTrades and IC Markets support?
ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both ActivTrades and IC Markets?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
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