IC Markets vs ThinkMarkets 2026: Which Broker is Better?
When comparing IC Markets and ThinkMarkets, the key distinction lies in their regulatory environments and platform offerings. IC Markets, headquartered in Sydney and regulated by ASIC, appeals to traders seeking ultra-low spreads and fast execution times across platforms like MT4, MT5, and TradingView. In contrast, ThinkMarkets, based in London and regulated by the FCA, attracts traders with its proprietary ThinkTrader platform and the advantage of no minimum deposit requirement. While IC Markets excels in execution speed, ThinkMarkets offers innovative trading tools, making it suitable for traders who value advanced technology and flexibility.
IC Markets
ThinkMarkets
| IC Markets | ThinkMarkets | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.9/5 | 3.9/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $200 | $0 ✓ |
| Spread from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Regulation | ASIC, CySEC | FCA, ASIC |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web |
IC Markets (3.9/5) and ThinkMarkets (3.9/5) are closely matched. IC Markets has lower spreads; the better pick depends on your priorities.
See full side-by-side comparison belowIC Markets vs ThinkMarkets: Key Differences
IC Markets
ThinkMarkets
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Fees Comparison
IC Markets
ThinkMarkets
BrokerRank Verdict
Regulation & Safety
IC Markets is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). This dual regulation provides a robust level of oversight, ensuring compliance with international financial standards. Traders can be assured of fund safety through client money segregation, a practice mandated by both ASIC and CySEC.
ThinkMarkets operates under the regulatory authority of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and ASIC in Australia. The FCA is renowned for its stringent regulations, offering clients a high level of protection, including participation in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) which covers up to £85,000. This adds an extra layer of security compared to IC Markets' offerings.
Fees & Spreads
IC Markets offers ultra-low spreads starting from 0.0 pips, making it highly competitive for forex traders. The broker charges a commission of $3.5 per lot per side on its Raw Spread account, providing a cost-effective trading environment. The minimum deposit requirement is $200, and overnight fees may apply depending on the instrument traded and market conditions.
ThinkMarkets also provides spreads starting at 0.0 pips on its ThinkZero account, with a similar commission of $3.5 per lot per side. Notably, ThinkMarkets does not require a minimum deposit, making it accessible for traders with varying budget sizes. Like IC Markets, ThinkMarkets also applies overnight fees on positions held overnight.
Trading Platforms
IC Markets supports popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and TradingView, catering to traders looking for robust analytical tools and fast execution. ThinkMarkets offers MT4, MT5, and its proprietary ThinkTrader platform, which is designed with advanced trading tools and a user-friendly interface. Both brokers offer mobile trading solutions, though ThinkMarkets' proprietary platform is noted for its intuitive design.
Who Should Choose IC Markets?
- Traders seeking ultra-low spreads and fast execution.
- Experienced forex traders using MT4 or MT5.
- Traders interested in trading directly from TradingView.
- Individuals comfortable with a $200 minimum deposit.
Who Should Choose ThinkMarkets?
- Traders looking for FCA-regulated security.
- Individuals who prefer no minimum deposit requirements.
- Traders who value advanced tools on a proprietary platform.
- Mobile traders needing a robust, user-friendly app.
Our Verdict
For beginners, ThinkMarkets is recommended due to its no minimum deposit requirement and FCA regulation. Professional traders may prefer IC Markets for its ultra-low spreads and advanced platform support. On fees, both brokers offer similar competitive pricing, making them suitable for cost-conscious traders.
Who Should Choose Which?
IC Markets
3.9/5
Choose IC Markets if you want…
- More established (est. 2007)
ThinkMarkets
3.9/5
Choose ThinkMarkets if you want…
- No minimum deposit
Also consider
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Both IC Markets & ThinkMarkets are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is IC Markets better than ThinkMarkets?
IC Markets (3.9/5) and ThinkMarkets (3.9/5) are closely matched on our independent rating scale. The better choice depends on your priorities — fees, regulation, platforms, or available markets. See the full comparison above.
2Which has lower fees, IC Markets or ThinkMarkets?
IC Markets offers spreads from 0 pips, while ThinkMarkets starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for IC Markets vs ThinkMarkets?
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200. ThinkMarkets requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, IC Markets or ThinkMarkets?
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, while ThinkMarkets holds licences from FCA, ASIC.
5What trading platforms do IC Markets and ThinkMarkets support?
IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. ThinkMarkets supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both IC Markets 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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