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

E*TRADE vs Markets.com 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In comparing E*TRADE and Markets.com, a key distinction lies in their market offerings and geographical focus. E*TRADE, with a 3.6/5 rating, caters primarily to US-based traders interested in commission-free stock and ETF trading, with a strong emphasis on options and futures through its robust platform, Power E*TRADE. In contrast, Markets.com, rated 3.76/5, appeals to international traders seeking access to a broader range of instruments, including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, supported by its versatile MT4 and MT5 platforms. While E*TRADE is ideal for those focused on US markets and options, Markets.com suits traders looking for diverse global trading opportunities.

E*TRADE

Markets.com

Higher ratedMarkets.com logo

Markets.com

3.8/ 5
Visit Markets.com →Full review
VS
E*TRADEMarkets.com
BrokerRank Score3.6/53.8/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$100
Spread from0 pips ✓0.6 pips
Max Leverage1:41:300 ✓
RegulationSEC, CFTCCySEC, ASIC, FCA ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileMT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
E*TRADEMarkets.com
Best for Low Fees
E*TRADEMarkets.com
Best for Regulation
Markets.comE*TRADE
Best Overall
Markets.comE*TRADE
Quick Answer

Markets.com is the better choice overall, scoring 3.8/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, E*TRADE offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

E*TRADE vs Markets.com: Key Differences

Feature

E*TRADE

Markets.com

Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.8 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
SECCFTC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
Markets
Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1982
2008
Headquarters
Arlington, USA
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
2 / 4
2 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

E*TRADE

Lower fees

Markets.com

Spread From
0 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

E*TRADE is better suited for beginners due to its zero commission trading on stocks and ETFs, strong educational resources, and user-friendly proprietary platforms, although it is only available to US residents. Professional traders might favour Markets.com for its broader range of instruments, including forex and cryptocurrencies, and higher leverage options. Markets.com also wins on fees for non-US clients, given its competitive spread offerings across diverse markets and absence of commission, despite a higher minimum deposit requirement.

Who Should Choose Which?

E*TRADE

E*TRADE

3.6/5

Choose E*TRADE if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
  • More established (est. 1982)
Markets.com

Markets.com

3.8/5

Top pick

Choose Markets.com if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.8/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:300)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (6)

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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ForTrade
4.3
FCA
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#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
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#4AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
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#5Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is E*TRADE better than Markets.com?

Markets.com scores higher overall on our independent rating system. E*TRADE holds a 3.6/5 rating vs Markets.com's 3.8/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, E*TRADE or Markets.com?

E*TRADE offers spreads from 0 pips, while Markets.com starts at 0.6 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for E*TRADE vs Markets.com?

E*TRADE requires a minimum deposit of $0. Markets.com requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, E*TRADE or Markets.com?

E*TRADE is regulated by SEC, CFTC, while Markets.com holds licences from CySEC, ASIC, FCA.

5

What trading platforms do E*TRADE and Markets.com support?

E*TRADE supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Markets.com supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web.

6

Can I use both E*TRADE and Markets.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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