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

City Index vs Freetrade 2026: Which Broker is Better?

When comparing City Index and Freetrade, the key difference lies in the breadth of markets and trading options each broker offers. City Index, with its focus on CFDs, forex, and commodities, appeals to experienced traders seeking a comprehensive range of markets and advanced trading tools. In contrast, Freetrade is tailored for beginners and long-term investors interested in commission-free stock and ETF trading through a user-friendly mobile app. Each platform serves distinct trading needs, with City Index catering to those who require extensive market access and Freetrade appealing to cost-conscious investors prioritising simplicity.

City Index

Freetrade

Higher ratedCity Index logo

City Index

4.1/ 5
Visit City Index →Full review
VS
City IndexFreetrade
BrokerRank Score4.1/5 ✓3.0/5
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0.5 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:200 ✓1:1
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓FCA
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
City IndexFreetrade
Best for Low Fees
FreetradeCity Index
Best for Regulation
City IndexFreetrade
Best Overall
City IndexFreetrade
Quick Answer

City Index is the better choice overall, scoring 4.1/5 vs 3.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Freetrade offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

City Index vs Freetrade: Key Differences

Feature

City Index

Winner

Freetrade

Our Rating
4.1 / 5
3.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Stocks, Etf
Founded
1983
2016
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
2 / 3
1 / 3

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Fees Comparison

Fee

City Index

Freetrade

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

BrokerRank Verdict

In the "City Index vs Freetrade" comparison, City Index emerges as the better choice for professional traders due to its comprehensive market offerings, including CFDs, forex, and commodities, along with advanced trading platforms like MT4. Beginners may find Freetrade more appealing thanks to its user-friendly mobile app and commission-free stock trading, making it ideal for those focused on long-term investing in equities. When it comes to fees, both brokers offer competitive pricing with zero commissions, but Freetrade gains an edge for stock trading with its straightforward zero-commission structure and absence of an inactivity fee.

Who Should Choose Which?

City Index

City Index

4.1/5

Top pick

Choose City Index if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.1/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:200)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (5)
Freetrade

Freetrade

3.0/5

Choose Freetrade if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)

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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4.3
FCA
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FxPro
4.1
FCA
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#3AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
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Plus500
4.0
MAS
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

#6XM logo
XM
3.9
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Both City Index & Freetrade are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is City Index better than Freetrade?

City Index scores higher overall on our independent rating system. City Index holds a 4.1/5 rating vs Freetrade's 3.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, City Index or Freetrade?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for City Index vs Freetrade?

City Index requires a minimum deposit of $0. Freetrade requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, City Index or Freetrade?

City Index is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while Freetrade holds licences from FCA.

5

What trading platforms do City Index and Freetrade support?

City Index supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. Freetrade supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both City Index and Freetrade?

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

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