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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Mar 9, 2026

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

In the realm of online trading, Public.com and XM cater to distinctly different audiences with their unique offerings. Public.com, founded in 2019, is ideal for novice traders in the United States who are interested in commission-free stocks, ETFs, and crypto, with a focus on social investing through its proprietary mobile app. In contrast, XM, established in 2009, appeals to global traders seeking a broader range of markets, including forex and commodities, supported by platforms like MT4 and MT5, and offers the advantage of very low minimum deposits and high leverage options. While Public.com is restricted to US users and focuses on a straightforward mobile experience, XM provides a more comprehensive trading environment with educational resources and negative balance protection.

Public.com

XM

VS
Public.comXM
BrokerRank Score3.0/53.9/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$5
Spread from0 pips ✓0.6 pips
Max Leverage1:11:1000 ✓
RegulationSECCySEC, DFSA, FSC ✓
PlatformsProprietary MobileMT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
Public.comXM
Best for Low Fees
Public.comXM
Best for Regulation
XMPublic.com
Best Overall
XMPublic.com
Quick Answer

XM is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 3.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Public.com offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Public.com vs XM: Key Differences

Feature

Public.com

XM

Our Rating
3.0 / 5
3.9 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$5
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
SEC
CySECDFSAFSCFSCAFSA
Platforms
Proprietary Mobile
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Stocks, Crypto
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Founded
2019
2009
Headquarters
New York, USA
Limassol, Cyprus
Score
2 / 4
2 / 4

Fees Comparison

Fee

Public.com

Lower fees

XM

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

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Public.com is the better choice due to its user-friendly mobile platform, commission-free trading, and social investing features, making it ideal for those new to investing. Professional traders may find XM more appealing, given its comprehensive range of markets, advanced MT4 and MT5 platforms, and high leverage options, which provide greater flexibility for sophisticated trading strategies. When it comes to fees, Public.com has the edge with commission-free transactions, although its services are limited to the US market.

Who Should Choose Which?

Public.com

Public.com

3.0/5

Choose Public.com if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
XM

XM

3.9/5

Top pick

Choose XM if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:1000)
  • More regulatory licences (5)
  • More market types (5)

Also consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Public.com better than XM?

XM scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Public.com holds a 3.0/5 rating vs XM'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, Public.com or XM?

Public.com offers spreads from 0 pips, while XM starts at 0.6 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

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

Public.com requires a minimum deposit of $0. XM requires $5.

4

Which broker is safer, Public.com or XM?

Public.com is regulated by SEC, while XM holds licences from CySEC, DFSA, FSC, FSCA, FSA.

5

What trading platforms do Public.com and XM support?

Public.com supports Proprietary Mobile. XM supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both Public.com and XM?

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

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Higher Rated

XM

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