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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 29, 2026

Firstrade vs CMC Markets 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Compare Firstrade and CMC Markets side by side on fees, regulation, platforms and our expert ratings. Find out which broker suits your needs.

Firstrade

CMC Markets

Higher ratedCMC Markets logo

CMC Markets

4.0/ 5
Visit CMC Markets →Full review
VS
FirstradeCMC Markets
BrokerRank Score3.4/54.0/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0 pips ✓0.7 pips
Max Leverage1:21:500 ✓
RegulationSEC, CFTCFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
FirstradeCMC Markets
Best for Low Fees
FirstradeCMC Markets
Best for Regulation
CMC MarketsFirstrade
Best Overall
CMC MarketsFirstrade
Quick Answer

CMC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.4/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Firstrade offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Firstrade vs CMC Markets: Key Differences

Feature

Firstrade

CMC Markets

Winner
Our Rating
3.4 / 5
4.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
SECCFTC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Markets
Stocks, Indices
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1985
1989
Headquarters
New York, USA
London, UK
Score
1 / 3
2 / 3

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Fees Comparison

Fee

Firstrade

Lower fees

CMC Markets

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

BrokerRank Verdict

Firstrade scores 3.41/5 while CMC Markets scores 4.04/5 in our independent rating.

CMC Markets edges ahead overall, but Firstrade may suit traders who prioritise different features. Read our full reviews for a detailed breakdown. Scores are based on our transparent methodology.

Who Should Choose Which?

Firstrade

Firstrade

3.4/5

Choose Firstrade if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • More established (est. 1985)
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)

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.

Both Firstrade & CMC Markets are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Firstrade better than CMC Markets?

CMC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Firstrade holds a 3.4/5 rating vs CMC Markets's 4.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, Firstrade or CMC Markets?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for Firstrade vs CMC Markets?

Firstrade requires a minimum deposit of $0. CMC Markets requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, Firstrade or CMC Markets?

Firstrade is regulated by SEC, CFTC, while CMC Markets holds licences from FCA, ASIC, MAS.

5

What trading platforms do Firstrade and CMC Markets support?

Firstrade supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4.

6

Can I use both Firstrade and CMC Markets?

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

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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.

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