Deriv vs ActivTrades 2026: Which Broker is Better?
Choosing between Deriv and ActivTrades depends on your trading style, preferred markets, and budget. Deriv is headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, while ActivTrades operates from London, UK. Deriv has the longer track record, established in 1999, 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.
Deriv
ActivTrades
| Deriv | ActivTrades | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 4.0/5 ✓ | 3.6/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $5 | $0 ✓ |
| Spread from | 0.5 pips | 0.5 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:1000 ✓ | 1:400 |
| Regulation | MFSA, Labuan FSA, BVI FSC ✓ | FCA, CySEC |
| Platforms | MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web |
Deriv is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Deriv offers lower spreads (0.5 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowDeriv vs ActivTrades: Key Differences
Deriv
ActivTrades
WinnerFees Comparison
Deriv
ActivTrades
Regulation & Trust
Deriv holds licences from FCA, MAS. ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC.
Markets & Assets
Both brokers offer access to Forex, Cfd, Indices, Commodities markets. Deriv additionally covers Crypto. ActivTrades adds Stocks.
Fees & Spreads
On spreads, Deriv is more competitive with EUR/USD spreads from 0.5 pips, compared to 0.5 pips at ActivTrades.
Trading Platforms
Deriv supports MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. ActivTrades offers MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. Both brokers are available on MT5, Proprietary Web.
Minimum Deposit
Deriv requires a minimum deposit of $5, while ActivTrades sets no minimum deposit. This makes ActivTrades accessible to traders with any budget.
Overall Ratings
BrokerRank scores Deriv at 3.77/5 and ActivTrades at 3.56/5, based on 50+ data points covering regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and user experience. Deriv leads overall with a clear advantage.
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
Deriv
4.0/5
Choose Deriv if you want…
- Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:1000)
- More regulatory licences (7)
- More established (est. 1999)
ActivTrades
3.6/5
Choose ActivTrades if you want…
- No minimum deposit
- More market types (6)
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 Deriv & ActivTrades are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is Deriv better than ActivTrades?
Deriv scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Deriv 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, Deriv or ActivTrades?
Deriv offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while ActivTrades starts at 0.5 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for Deriv vs ActivTrades?
Deriv requires a minimum deposit of $5. ActivTrades requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, Deriv or ActivTrades?
Deriv is regulated by MFSA, Labuan FSA, BVI FSC, VFSC, CIMA, FSC, CMA, while ActivTrades holds licences from FCA, CySEC.
5What trading platforms do Deriv and ActivTrades support?
Deriv supports MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web.
6Can I use both Deriv 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.
Higher Rated
Deriv
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