CMC Markets vs ActivTrades 2026: Which Broker is Better?
Choosing between CMC Markets and ActivTrades depends on your trading style, preferred markets, and budget. CMC Markets is headquartered in London, UK. CMC Markets has the longer track record, established in 1989, compared to ActivTrades which was founded in 2001. This in-depth comparison covers regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and overall ratings to help you decide which broker is the better fit in 2026.
CMC Markets
ActivTrades
| CMC Markets | ActivTrades | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 4.0/5 ✓ | 3.6/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Spread from | 0.7 pips | 0.5 pips ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 ✓ | 1:400 |
| Regulation | FCA, ASIC, MAS ✓ | FCA, CySEC |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4 | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web |
CMC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, ActivTrades offers lower spreads (0.5 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowCMC Markets vs ActivTrades: Key Differences
CMC Markets
WinnerActivTrades
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Fees Comparison
CMC Markets
ActivTrades
Lower feesRegulation & Trust
CMC Markets holds licences from FCA, ASIC, MAS. ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC.
Markets & Assets
Both brokers offer access to Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities markets.
Fees & Spreads
On spreads, ActivTrades is more competitive with EUR/USD spreads from 0.5 pips, compared to 0.7 pips at CMC Markets.
Trading Platforms
CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. ActivTrades offers MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. Both brokers are available on Proprietary Web, MT4.
Minimum Deposit
CMC Markets requires no minimum deposit, while ActivTrades sets no minimum deposit. This makes CMC Markets accessible to traders with any budget.
Overall Ratings
BrokerRank scores CMC Markets at 4.04/5 and ActivTrades at 3.56/5, based on 50+ data points covering regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and user experience. CMC Markets leads overall with a clear advantage.
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
CMC Markets
4.0/5
Choose CMC Markets if you want…
- Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
- More regulatory licences (3)
- More established (est. 1989)
ActivTrades
3.6/5
Choose ActivTrades if you want…
- Tighter spreads (from 0.5 pips)
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 CMC Markets & ActivTrades are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is CMC Markets better than ActivTrades?
CMC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. CMC Markets holds a 4.0/5 rating vs ActivTrades's 3.6/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, CMC Markets or ActivTrades?
CMC Markets offers spreads from 0.7 pips, while ActivTrades starts at 0.5 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for CMC Markets vs ActivTrades?
CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0. ActivTrades requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, CMC Markets or ActivTrades?
CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while ActivTrades holds licences from FCA, CySEC.
5What trading platforms do CMC Markets and ActivTrades support?
CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web.
6Can I use both CMC Markets and ActivTrades?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
Key Trading Terms
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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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