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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Mar 9, 2026

AvaTrade vs Lightyear 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the comparison of AvaTrade and Lightyear, traders will find that these two brokers cater to distinctly different trading preferences. AvaTrade, with its broad market offerings including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, appeals to experienced traders seeking diverse investment opportunities and robust trading platforms like MT4 and MT5. In contrast, Lightyear targets stock investors with its commission-free trading on US and EU stocks, ideal for beginners or those prioritising simplicity and cost efficiency. The key distinction lies in AvaTrade's comprehensive market range versus Lightyear's streamlined focus on stock trading via a mobile app.

AvaTrade

Lightyear

Higher ratedAvaTrade logo

AvaTrade

4.0/ 5
Visit AvaTrade →Full review
VS
AvaTradeLightyear
BrokerRank Score4.0/5 ✓2.7/5
Min. Deposit$100$0 ✓
Spread from0.9 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:400 ✓1:1
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓FCA
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary MobileProprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
LightyearAvaTrade
Best for Low Fees
LightyearAvaTrade
Best for Regulation
AvaTradeLightyear
Best Overall
AvaTradeLightyear
Quick Answer

AvaTrade is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 2.7/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Lightyear offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

AvaTrade vs Lightyear: Key Differences

Feature

AvaTrade

Lightyear

Our Rating
4.0 / 5
2.7 / 5
Min. Deposit
$100
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.9 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Crypto, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Stocks
Founded
2006
2020
Headquarters
Dublin, Ireland
London, UK
Score
2 / 4
2 / 4

Fees Comparison

Fee

AvaTrade

Lightyear

Lower fees
Spread From
0.9 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Lightyear is the preferable choice due to its user-friendly mobile interface and commission-free stock trading, making it accessible with a $0 minimum deposit. AvaTrade is better suited for professional traders, offering a wider range of markets including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, along with advanced platforms like MT4 and MT5. In terms of fees, Lightyear takes the lead with its commission-free trading on US and EU stocks.

Who Should Choose Which?

AvaTrade

AvaTrade

4.0/5

Top pick

Choose AvaTrade if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:400)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (6)
Lightyear

Lightyear

2.7/5

Choose Lightyear if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No minimum deposit

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
#4Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both AvaTrade & Lightyear are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is AvaTrade better than Lightyear?

AvaTrade scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AvaTrade holds a 4.0/5 rating vs Lightyear's 2.7/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, AvaTrade or Lightyear?

AvaTrade offers spreads from 0.9 pips, while Lightyear starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for AvaTrade vs Lightyear?

AvaTrade requires a minimum deposit of $100. Lightyear requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, AvaTrade or Lightyear?

AvaTrade is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while Lightyear holds licences from FCA.

5

What trading platforms do AvaTrade and Lightyear support?

AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile. Lightyear supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both AvaTrade and Lightyear?

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

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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.

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