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

E*TRADE vs ThinkMarkets 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the broker comparison between E*TRADE and ThinkMarkets, the primary distinction lies in their market offerings and target audience. E*TRADE, with a rating of 3.6/5, is ideal for US-based traders interested in stocks, ETFs, and options, offering zero commission trading and robust educational resources. Conversely, ThinkMarkets, rated 3.92/5, appeals to a more global audience, especially forex and CFD traders, offering a wider range of markets and higher leverage up to 1:500. While E*TRADE excels with its options trading platform, ThinkMarkets provides advanced tools through its ThinkTrader platform, catering to traders seeking comprehensive market access.

E*TRADE

ThinkMarkets

Higher ratedThinkMarkets logo

ThinkMarkets

3.9/ 5
Visit ThinkMarkets →Full review
VS
E*TRADEThinkMarkets
BrokerRank Score3.6/53.9/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:41:500 ✓
RegulationSEC, CFTCFCA, ASIC
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileMT4, MT5, Proprietary Web
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
E*TRADEThinkMarkets
Best for Low Fees
E*TRADEThinkMarkets
Best for Regulation
E*TRADEThinkMarkets
Best Overall
ThinkMarketsE*TRADE
Quick Answer

ThinkMarkets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 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 ThinkMarkets: Key Differences

Feature

E*TRADE

ThinkMarkets

Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.9 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
$3.5/lot
Regulated By
SECCFTC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1982
2010
Headquarters
Arlington, USA
London, UK
Score
1 / 2
1 / 2

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Fees Comparison

Fee

E*TRADE

Lower fees

ThinkMarkets

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

BrokerRank Verdict

E*TRADE is better suited for beginners due to its zero commission stock and ETF trading, along with strong educational resources backed by Morgan Stanley. Professional traders may find ThinkMarkets more appealing, given its wider range of markets, including forex and CFDs, and the advanced tools available on its ThinkTrader platform. In terms of fees, E*TRADE takes the lead with its commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, whereas ThinkMarkets imposes a commission on ThinkZero accounts.

Who Should Choose Which?

E*TRADE

E*TRADE

3.6/5

Choose E*TRADE if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • More established (est. 1982)
ThinkMarkets

ThinkMarkets

3.9/5

Top pick

Choose ThinkMarkets if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More market types (6)
  • More platforms (4 supported)

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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4.3
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4.1
FCA
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AvaTrade
4.0
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Plus500
4.0
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is E*TRADE better than ThinkMarkets?

ThinkMarkets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. E*TRADE holds a 3.6/5 rating vs ThinkMarkets's 3.9/5. 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 ThinkMarkets?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for E*TRADE vs ThinkMarkets?

E*TRADE requires a minimum deposit of $0. ThinkMarkets requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, E*TRADE or ThinkMarkets?

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

5

What trading platforms do E*TRADE and ThinkMarkets support?

E*TRADE supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. ThinkMarkets supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both E*TRADE and ThinkMarkets?

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

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