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

ActivTrades vs ThinkMarkets 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the competitive landscape of online trading, ActivTrades and ThinkMarkets stand out with distinct offerings tailored to different trader profiles. ActivTrades, established in 2001 and regulated by FCA and CySEC, appeals to traders seeking a robust, versatile platform with no minimum deposit and comprehensive risk management tools, though it offers slightly wider spreads. In contrast, ThinkMarkets, founded in 2010 and also FCA regulated, targets traders looking for zero-spread options and a powerful mobile trading experience, albeit with commissions on ThinkZero accounts. Both brokers offer a solid range of trading instruments, but ThinkMarkets may attract those prioritising tighter spreads and advanced mobile capabilities, while ActivTrades suits those valuing risk management features and broader platform support.

ActivTrades

ThinkMarkets

Higher ratedThinkMarkets logo

ThinkMarkets

3.9/ 5
Visit ThinkMarkets →Full review
VS
ActivTradesThinkMarkets
BrokerRank Score3.6/53.9/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0.5 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:4001:500 ✓
RegulationFCA, CySECFCA, ASIC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary WebMT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
ActivTradesThinkMarkets
Best for Low Fees
ThinkMarketsActivTrades
Best for Regulation
ActivTradesThinkMarkets
Best Overall
ThinkMarketsActivTrades
Quick Answer

ThinkMarkets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, ThinkMarkets offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

ActivTrades vs ThinkMarkets: Key Differences

Feature

ActivTrades

ThinkMarkets

Winner
Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.9 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3.5/lot
Regulated By
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
2001
2010
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
1 / 4
3 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

ActivTrades

ThinkMarkets

Spread From
0.5 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3.5/lot
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

In the comparison between ActivTrades and ThinkMarkets, ThinkMarkets emerges as the superior choice for professional traders due to its tighter spreads starting from 0 pips and higher leverage of up to 1:500, despite the commission on ThinkZero accounts. Beginners may find ActivTrades more appealing with its commission-free trading and comprehensive risk management tools like SmartOrder. On fees, ThinkMarkets takes the lead with its competitive pricing structure, although it's worth noting that ActivTrades does not charge commissions, potentially benefiting certain trading styles.

Who Should Choose Which?

ActivTrades

ActivTrades

3.6/5

Choose ActivTrades if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • More established (est. 2001)
ThinkMarkets

ThinkMarkets

3.9/5

Top pick

Choose ThinkMarkets 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

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

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both ActivTrades & ThinkMarkets are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is ActivTrades better than ThinkMarkets?

ThinkMarkets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. ActivTrades holds a 3.6/5 rating vs ThinkMarkets's 3.9/5. 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 ThinkMarkets?

ActivTrades offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while ThinkMarkets starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for ActivTrades vs ThinkMarkets?

ActivTrades requires a minimum deposit of $0. ThinkMarkets requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, ActivTrades or ThinkMarkets?

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

5

What trading platforms do ActivTrades and ThinkMarkets support?

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

6

Can I use both ActivTrades and ThinkMarkets?

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

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