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

Pepperstone vs Public.com 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In this broker comparison, we delve into the distinct offerings of Pepperstone and Public.com, highlighting their key differences and target clientele. Pepperstone, established in 2010 and regulated by top-tier authorities like the FCA and ASIC, caters primarily to forex and CFD traders seeking advanced platforms such as MT4 and MT5, with competitive spreads from 0 pips and high leverage up to 1:500. In contrast, Public.com, founded in 2019 and SEC-regulated, appeals to traders interested in commission-free stock and ETF trading, offering a social investing experience via its proprietary mobile app, with no minimum deposit requirement. While Pepperstone suits experienced traders looking for comprehensive tools and leverage, Public.com is ideal for newer investors seeking a user-friendly, community-focused approach to trading.

Pepperstone

Public.com

Higher ratedPepperstone logo

Pepperstone

4.1/ 5
Visit Pepperstone →Full review
VS
PepperstonePublic.com
BrokerRank Score4.1/5 ✓3.0/5
Min. Deposit$200$0 ✓
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:500 ✓1:1
RegulationASIC, FCA, CySEC ✓SEC
PlatformsMT4, MT5, TradingViewProprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
Public.comPepperstone
Best for Low Fees
PepperstonePublic.com
Best for Regulation
PepperstonePublic.com
Best Overall
PepperstonePublic.com
Quick Answer

Pepperstone is the better choice overall, scoring 4.1/5 vs 3.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Pepperstone offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Pepperstone vs Public.com: Key Differences

Feature

Pepperstone

Public.com

Our Rating
4.1 / 5
3.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$200
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
$3.5/lot
None
Regulated By
SEC
Platforms
MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Forex, Cfd, Crypto, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Stocks, Crypto
Founded
2010
2019
Headquarters
Melbourne, Australia
New York, USA
Score
2 / 4
2 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

Pepperstone

Public.com

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

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Public.com is the better choice due to its commission-free trading, user-friendly mobile app, and social investing features, making it accessible and easy to understand. For professional traders, Pepperstone stands out with its advanced platforms like MT4 and MT5, top-tier regulation, and high leverage options up to 1:500. In terms of fees, Public.com takes the lead with its zero commission on stocks and ETFs, while Pepperstone charges a commission and has a minimum deposit requirement.

Who Should Choose Which?

Pepperstone

Pepperstone

4.1/5

Top pick

Choose Pepperstone if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.1/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (6)
Public.com

Public.com

3.0/5

Choose Public.com if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • No minimum deposit

Also consider

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Pepperstone better than Public.com?

Pepperstone scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Pepperstone holds a 4.1/5 rating vs Public.com's 3.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, Pepperstone or Public.com?

Pepperstone offers spreads from 0 pips, while Public.com starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for Pepperstone vs Public.com?

Pepperstone requires a minimum deposit of $200. Public.com requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, Pepperstone or Public.com?

Pepperstone is regulated by ASIC, FCA, CySEC, while Public.com holds licences from SEC.

5

What trading platforms do Pepperstone and Public.com support?

Pepperstone supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile. Public.com supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both Pepperstone and Public.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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