IC Markets vs ActivTrades 2026: Which Broker is Better?
Choosing between IC Markets and ActivTrades depends on your trading style, preferred markets, and budget. IC Markets is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, while ActivTrades operates from London, UK. ActivTrades has the longer track record, established in 2001, compared to IC Markets which was founded in 2007. This in-depth comparison covers regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and overall ratings to help you decide which broker is the better fit in 2026.
IC Markets
ActivTrades
| IC Markets | ActivTrades | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.9/5 ✓ | 3.6/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $200 | $0 ✓ |
| Spread from | 0 pips ✓ | 0.5 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 ✓ | 1:400 |
| Regulation | ASIC, CySEC | FCA, CySEC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web |
IC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, IC Markets offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowIC Markets vs ActivTrades: Key Differences
IC Markets
ActivTrades
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Fees Comparison
IC Markets
ActivTrades
Regulation & Trust
IC Markets holds licences from ASIC, CySEC. ActivTrades is regulated by FCA, CySEC.
Markets & Assets
Both brokers offer access to Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices markets. IC Markets additionally covers Crypto. ActivTrades adds Commodities.
Fees & Spreads
On spreads, IC Markets is more competitive with EUR/USD spreads from 0.0 pips, compared to 0.5 pips at ActivTrades.
Trading Platforms
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. ActivTrades offers MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web. Both brokers are available on MT4, MT5.
Minimum Deposit
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200, while ActivTrades sets no minimum deposit. This makes ActivTrades accessible to traders with any budget.
Overall Ratings
BrokerRank scores IC Markets at 3.87/5 and ActivTrades at 3.56/5, based on 50+ data points covering regulation, fees, platforms, markets, and user experience. IC Markets leads overall with a clear advantage.
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
IC Markets
3.9/5
Choose IC Markets if you want…
- Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
- Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
- More platforms (4 supported)
ActivTrades
3.6/5
Choose ActivTrades if you want…
- No per-trade commission
- No minimum deposit
- More established (est. 2001)
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 IC Markets & ActivTrades are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is IC Markets better than ActivTrades?
IC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. IC Markets holds a 3.9/5 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, IC Markets or ActivTrades?
IC Markets offers spreads from 0 pips, while ActivTrades starts at 0.5 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for IC Markets vs ActivTrades?
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200. ActivTrades requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, IC Markets or ActivTrades?
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, while ActivTrades holds licences from FCA, CySEC.
5What trading platforms do IC Markets and ActivTrades support?
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. ActivTrades supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web.
6Can I use both IC Markets 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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