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

CMC Markets vs Public.com 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In comparing CMC Markets and Public.com, the key difference lies in their market offerings and target clientele. CMC Markets, with its broad range of over 10,000 instruments including CFDs, forex, and commodities, appeals to experienced traders seeking comprehensive market exposure and advanced trading platforms. In contrast, Public.com caters to casual investors in the US, offering a user-friendly mobile platform focused on commission-free stock and crypto trading, enhanced by a social investing feature. While CMC Markets attracts those interested in leveraged trading and diverse asset classes, Public.com is ideal for beginners and those interested in community-driven investment approaches.

CMC Markets

Public.com

Higher ratedCMC Markets logo

CMC Markets

4.0/ 5
Visit CMC Markets →Full review
VS
CMC MarketsPublic.com
BrokerRank Score4.0/5 ✓3.0/5
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0.7 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:500 ✓1:1
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓SEC
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
CMC MarketsPublic.com
Best for Low Fees
Public.comCMC Markets
Best for Regulation
CMC MarketsPublic.com
Best Overall
CMC MarketsPublic.com
Quick Answer

CMC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Public.com offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

CMC Markets vs Public.com: Key Differences

Feature

CMC Markets

Winner

Public.com

Our Rating
4.0 / 5
3.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.7 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
SEC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Stocks, Crypto
Founded
1989
2019
Headquarters
London, UK
New York, USA
Score
2 / 3
1 / 3

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Fees Comparison

Fee

CMC Markets

Public.com

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

BrokerRank Verdict

CMC Markets is better suited for professional traders due to its advanced Next Generation platform, wide range of over 10,000 instruments, and high leverage up to 1:500. Public.com, with its user-friendly mobile app and social investing features, is more appropriate for beginners looking to invest in stocks and crypto with no commissions. In terms of fees, Public.com has an edge with its zero commission structure and absence of spreads on stocks, despite CMC Markets offering competitive spreads starting at 0.7 pips.

Who Should Choose Which?

CMC Markets

CMC Markets

4.0/5

Top pick

Choose CMC Markets if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (6)
Public.com

Public.com

3.0/5

Choose Public.com if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)

Also consider

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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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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is CMC Markets better than Public.com?

CMC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. CMC Markets holds a 4.0/5 rating vs Public.com'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, CMC Markets or Public.com?

CMC Markets offers spreads from 0.7 pips, while Public.com starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for CMC Markets vs Public.com?

CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0. Public.com requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, CMC Markets or Public.com?

CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while Public.com holds licences from SEC.

5

What trading platforms do CMC Markets and Public.com support?

CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. Public.com supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both CMC Markets and Public.com?

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

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