AvaTrade vs ThinkMarkets 2026: Which Broker is Better?
In the comparison of AvaTrade and ThinkMarkets, key differences emerge in their market approach and trader appeal. AvaTrade, with its headquarters in Dublin and regulation across six jurisdictions, is ideal for beginners and intermediate traders seeking a commission-free trading environment with robust educational resources and copy trading options. In contrast, ThinkMarkets, based in London, attracts more advanced traders with its zero minimum deposit, tighter spreads starting from 0 pips, and advanced tools on the ThinkTrader platform, although it charges a commission on ThinkZero accounts. Each broker offers a unique set of features, catering to distinct trading preferences and strategies.
AvaTrade
ThinkMarkets
| AvaTrade | ThinkMarkets | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 4.0/5 ✓ | 3.9/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $100 | $0 ✓ |
| Spread from | 0.9 pips | 0 pips ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:400 | 1:500 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA, ASIC, MAS ✓ | FCA, ASIC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web |
AvaTrade is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.9/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, ThinkMarkets offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowAvaTrade vs ThinkMarkets: Key Differences
AvaTrade
WinnerThinkMarkets
Fees Comparison
AvaTrade
ThinkMarkets
BrokerRank Verdict
Regulation & Safety
AvaTrade, established in 2006 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is regulated by a variety of respected bodies including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), among others. This multi-jurisdictional regulation offers traders a high degree of confidence and safety, ensuring compliance with international standards and offering protection schemes such as segregated client funds.
ThinkMarkets, founded in 2010 and based in London, UK, is similarly regulated by the FCA and ASIC, providing a robust level of safety for traders. While both brokers offer substantial regulatory oversight, AvaTrade's presence in six different jurisdictions gives it a slight edge in terms of global reach and regulatory diversity, potentially offering more comprehensive client protection and safety assurances.
Fees & Spreads
When it comes to fees, AvaTrade provides competitive spreads starting from 0.9 pips with zero commissions, making it an attractive option for traders looking to minimise costs. However, traders should be aware of an inactivity fee of $50 which is charged after three months of inactivity. AvaTrade's minimum deposit requirement is $100, and it offers a maximum leverage of 1:400, making it accessible yet powerful for traders looking to maximise their potential returns.
ThinkMarkets offers spreads starting from 0 pips but charges a commission of $3.5 per trade on its ThinkZero accounts, potentially increasing costs for high-frequency traders. However, it stands out with no minimum deposit and a higher maximum leverage of 1:500, appealing to more aggressive trading strategies. For traders who prioritise low entry barriers and higher leverage, ThinkMarkets presents a compelling option, albeit with additional costs through commissions.
Trading Platforms
AvaTrade provides a range of trading platforms including MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and its proprietary mobile platform, offering flexibility and advanced features suitable for a variety of trading styles. ThinkMarkets offers a similar platform suite with MT4, MT5, and its proprietary ThinkTrader platform, which includes advanced trading tools and a strong mobile application. Both brokers provide robust platform choices, but ThinkMarkets' proprietary platform may appeal to traders seeking advanced tools and a seamless mobile experience.
Who Should Choose AvaTrade?
- Traders prioritising a well-regulated broker with global reach.
- Beginners seeking educational resources and copy trading functionality.
- Forex traders looking for commission-free trading.
- Investors interested in a diversified range of CFDs.
Who Should Choose ThinkMarkets?
- Traders interested in low or zero minimum deposit requirements.
- Advanced traders seeking higher leverage options up to 1:500.
- Mobile-first traders looking for a robust app experience.
- Traders who prefer trading with precise spreads, despite commissions.
Our Verdict
For beginners, AvaTrade edges out as the preferable choice due to its comprehensive educational resources and commission-free trading. For professional traders, ThinkMarkets is more appealing due to its advanced tools and higher leverage. On fees, AvaTrade offers a simpler structure with no commissions, though ThinkMarkets provides more precise spreads.
Who Should Choose Which?
AvaTrade
4.0/5
Choose AvaTrade if you want…
- Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
- No per-trade commission
- More regulatory licences (3)
- More established (est. 2006)
ThinkMarkets
3.9/5
Choose ThinkMarkets if you want…
- Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
- No minimum deposit
- Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
- More platforms (4 supported)
Also consider
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.
Both AvaTrade & ThinkMarkets are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is AvaTrade better than ThinkMarkets?
AvaTrade scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AvaTrade holds a 4.0/5 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.
2Which has lower fees, AvaTrade or ThinkMarkets?
AvaTrade offers spreads from 0.9 pips, while ThinkMarkets starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for AvaTrade vs ThinkMarkets?
AvaTrade requires a minimum deposit of $100. ThinkMarkets requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, AvaTrade or ThinkMarkets?
AvaTrade is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while ThinkMarkets holds licences from FCA, ASIC.
5What trading platforms do AvaTrade and ThinkMarkets support?
AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile. ThinkMarkets supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both AvaTrade and ThinkMarkets?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
Key Trading Terms
Related Guides
More Comparisons
BrokerRank Research
Only 26% of Brokers Are Truly Fee-Free
BrokerRank Research — Hidden costs across our broker database
58% of Brokers Hold a Single Licence
BrokerRank Research — Regulation quality analysis
71% of Retail Traders Lose Money
BrokerRank Research — Loss rates across 50 EU brokers
76% of Brokers Use Proprietary Platforms
BrokerRank Research — MT4 vs MT5 vs proprietary
Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.
Higher Rated
AvaTrade
Capital at risk · T&Cs apply