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

City Index vs Skilling 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the dynamic world of online trading, City Index and Skilling present distinct offerings tailored to different trader profiles. City Index, with its long-standing reputation and regulation by top-tier authorities such as the FCA, appeals to experienced traders seeking access to over 13,500 markets with no minimum deposit requirement. In contrast, Skilling, established in 2016 and regulated by CySEC, attracts newer traders with its modern platform, competitive spreads, and the addition of cryptocurrency markets, despite a higher minimum deposit and limited availability in certain regions. The key difference lies in their market reach and technological approach, catering to traders prioritising either extensive market access or innovative trading tools.

City Index

Skilling

Higher ratedCity Index logo

City Index

4.1/ 5
Visit City Index →Full review
VS
City IndexSkilling
BrokerRank Score4.1/5 ✓3.5/5
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$100
Spread from0.5 pips ✓0.7 pips
Max Leverage1:200 ✓1:30
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓CySEC, FSA
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4Skilling Trader, cTrader, MT4
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
City IndexSkilling
Best for Low Fees
City IndexSkilling
Best for Regulation
City IndexSkilling
Best Overall
City IndexSkilling
Quick Answer

City Index is the better choice overall, scoring 4.1/5 vs 3.5/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, City Index offers lower spreads (0.5 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

City Index vs Skilling: Key Differences

Feature

City Index

Winner

Skilling

Our Rating
4.1 / 5
3.5 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Skilling Trader, cTrader, MT4, Skilling App
Markets
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Stocks, Etf, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1983
2016
Headquarters
London, UK
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
4 / 4
0 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

City Index

Lower fees

Skilling

Spread From
0.5 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

City Index is the better choice for beginners due to its long-standing reputation, no minimum deposit requirement, and extensive market offerings, making it accessible and reliable. Professional traders might prefer Skilling for its modern interface and availability of the cTrader platform, which can enhance trading strategies with advanced tools. In terms of fees, City Index has an edge with lower spreads starting from 0.5 pips compared to Skilling's 0.7 pips, making it more cost-effective for frequent traders.

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)
  • Tighter spreads (from 0.5 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:200)
Skilling

Skilling

3.5/5

Choose Skilling if you want…

  • More market types (6)
  • 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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4.3
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4.1
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Plus500
4.0
MAS
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AvaTrade
4.0
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Both City Index & Skilling are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is City Index better than Skilling?

City Index scores higher overall on our independent rating system. City Index holds a 4.1/5 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, City Index or Skilling?

City Index offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while Skilling starts at 0.7 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for City Index vs Skilling?

City Index requires a minimum deposit of $0. Skilling requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, City Index or Skilling?

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

5

What trading platforms do City Index and Skilling support?

City Index supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. Skilling supports Skilling Trader, cTrader, MT4, Skilling App.

6

Can I use both City Index 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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