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

Dukascopy vs Lightyear 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the "Dukascopy vs Lightyear" broker comparison, the key difference lies in their market offerings and target audiences. Dukascopy, established in 2004 in Geneva, Switzerland, offers a wide range of trading options including forex, CFDs, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, catering to experienced traders who prioritise deep liquidity and a variety of trading platforms. In contrast, Lightyear, a newer entrant founded in 2020 in London, UK, focuses solely on commission-free stock trading with a user-friendly mobile interface, appealing to beginner and cost-conscious traders seeking simplicity and competitive foreign exchange rates.

Dukascopy

Lightyear

Higher ratedDukascopy logo

Dukascopy

3.7/ 5
Visit Dukascopy →Full review
VS
DukascopyLightyear
BrokerRank Score3.7/5 ✓2.7/5
Min. Deposit$100$0 ✓
Spread from0.1 pips0 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:200 ✓1:1
RegulationFCA, MAS ✓FCA
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
LightyearDukascopy
Best for Low Fees
LightyearDukascopy
Best for Regulation
DukascopyLightyear
Best Overall
DukascopyLightyear
Quick Answer

Dukascopy is the better choice overall, scoring 3.7/5 vs 2.7/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Lightyear offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Dukascopy vs Lightyear: Key Differences

Feature

Dukascopy

Lightyear

Winner
Our Rating
3.7 / 5
2.7 / 5
Min. Deposit
$100
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.1 pips
0 pips
Commission
$3.5/lot
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Stocks
Founded
2004
2020
Headquarters
Geneva, Switzerland
London, UK
Score
2 / 5
3 / 5

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Fees Comparison

Fee

Dukascopy

Lightyear

Lower fees
Spread From
0.1 pips
0 pips
Commission
$3.5/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Lightyear is the more suitable choice due to its simple, modern interface and zero commission fees, making it easier for newcomers to navigate and invest without additional costs. Dukascopy, with its advanced trading tools, ECN model, and multiple asset classes, is better suited for professional traders who require deep liquidity and sophisticated platforms. In terms of fees, Lightyear has the advantage with its commission-free stock trading, whereas Dukascopy's higher commissions and required minimum deposit could be a barrier for cost-conscious traders.

Who Should Choose Which?

Dukascopy

Dukascopy

3.7/5

Top pick

Choose Dukascopy if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.7/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:200)
  • More regulatory licences (2)
  • More market types (6)
Lightyear

Lightyear

2.7/5

Choose Lightyear if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No per-trade commission
  • No minimum deposit

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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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both Dukascopy & Lightyear are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Dukascopy better than Lightyear?

Dukascopy scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Dukascopy holds a 3.7/5 rating vs Lightyear's 2.7/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, Dukascopy or Lightyear?

Dukascopy offers spreads from 0.1 pips, while Lightyear starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for Dukascopy vs Lightyear?

Dukascopy requires a minimum deposit of $100. Lightyear requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, Dukascopy or Lightyear?

Dukascopy is regulated by FCA, MAS, while Lightyear holds licences from FCA.

5

What trading platforms do Dukascopy and Lightyear support?

Dukascopy supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. Lightyear supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both Dukascopy and Lightyear?

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

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