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

AvaTrade vs Skilling 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the realm of online trading, AvaTrade and Skilling offer distinct experiences tailored to different types of traders. AvaTrade, established in 2006 and headquartered in Dublin, is well-suited for those prioritising regulatory oversight and comprehensive educational resources, with its regulation across six jurisdictions and robust educational content. Conversely, Skilling, founded in 2016 and based in Cyprus, appeals to traders seeking competitive spreads and a modern trading environment, featuring the popular cTrader platform and a wide range of over 900 instruments, including stocks and ETFs. While AvaTrade offers a high leverage of up to 1:400, ideal for experienced forex traders, Skilling provides a more conservative leverage of 1:30, aligning with EU regulatory standards and appealing to risk-averse traders.

AvaTrade

Skilling

Higher ratedAvaTrade logo

AvaTrade

4.0/ 5
Visit AvaTrade →Full review
VS
AvaTradeSkilling
BrokerRank Score4.0/5 ✓3.5/5
Min. Deposit$100$100
Spread from0.9 pips0.7 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:400 ✓1:30
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓CySEC, FSA
PlatformsMT4, MT5, Proprietary MobileSkilling Trader, cTrader, MT4
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
AvaTradeSkilling
Best for Low Fees
SkillingAvaTrade
Best for Regulation
AvaTradeSkilling
Best Overall
AvaTradeSkilling
Quick Answer

AvaTrade is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.5/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Skilling offers lower spreads (0.7 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

AvaTrade vs Skilling: Key Differences

Feature

AvaTrade

Winner

Skilling

Our Rating
4.0 / 5
3.5 / 5
Min. Deposit
$100
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.9 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Skilling Trader, cTrader, MT4, Skilling App
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Crypto, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Stocks, Etf, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
2006
2016
Headquarters
Dublin, Ireland
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
2 / 3
1 / 3

Fees Comparison

Fee

AvaTrade

Skilling

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

BrokerRank Verdict

AvaTrade is better suited for beginners due to its comprehensive educational content and support for copy trading via ZuluTrade and DupliTrade. Professional traders might prefer Skilling, given its access to the cTrader platform and competitive spreads on major pairs. When it comes to fees, Skilling takes the lead with tighter spreads starting from 0.7 pips, compared to AvaTrade's 0.9 pips, although both brokers offer commission-free trading.

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 established (est. 2006)
Skilling

Skilling

3.5/5

Choose Skilling if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0.7 pips)
  • 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.

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ForTrade
4.3
FCA
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#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
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#4Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both AvaTrade & Skilling are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is AvaTrade better than Skilling?

AvaTrade scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AvaTrade holds a 4.0/5 rating vs Skilling's 3.5/5. 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 Skilling?

AvaTrade offers spreads from 0.9 pips, while Skilling starts at 0.7 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for AvaTrade vs Skilling?

AvaTrade requires a minimum deposit of $100. Skilling requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, AvaTrade or Skilling?

AvaTrade is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while Skilling holds licences from CySEC, FSA.

5

What trading platforms do AvaTrade and Skilling support?

AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile. Skilling supports Skilling Trader, cTrader, MT4, Skilling App.

6

Can I use both AvaTrade and Skilling?

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

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