ActivTrades vs FXCM Comparison: Which Is Better for Traders?
We test brokers on real accounts using our own methodology, evaluating the quality of order execution, trading conditions, platforms and customer support.
Who is better - ActivTrades or FXCM?
Our pick: ActivTrades
Based on multiple factors - spreads and fees, available assets and instruments, execution quality, platform usability, support level, and educational resources - ActivTrades looks preferable to FXCM.
ActivTrades scored 4.3/5 and ranks 25 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas FXCM has 4.3/5 and ranks 28.
This is not financial advice. See the full comparison below.
Who is ActivTrades suitable for?
ActivTrades is suitable for beginners who value simplicity and educational materials and experienced traders who prefer MetaTrader and a wide range of instruments.
Who is FXCM suitable for?
FXCM is suitable for traders of all levels. Beginners will find educational materials and helpful analytics, while experienced traders will appreciate various instruments and flexible platforms.
Comparison Table of ActivTrades and FXCM
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2000 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Bahamas, United Kingdom, Portugal, Luxembourg, Brazil | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
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| Spread | from 0.5 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:400 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | ActivTrades Review | FXCM Review |
ActivTrades Review
ActivTrades is suitable for beginner traders who value simplicity and intuitive trading platforms, as well as a variety of educational materials to improve their skills. Moreover, this broker can be a suitable option for experienced traders who prefer to trade various instruments and use the powerful features of the MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 and TradingView platforms.
However, for traders with more specific requirements, such as a variety of trading accounts or individual conditions for professional traders, ActivTrades may be less attractive.
Pros and Cons of ActivTrades
Pros
- Wide range of trading assets.
- A wide variety of trading platforms.
- Extensive training materials including webinars, videos, articles and guides.
- Professional Support Team.
Cons
- Lack of diversity in trading accounts.
ActivTrades is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
FXCM Review
FXCM represents a comprehensive solution that will benefit traders of all levels — from beginners to professionals. Beginners will appreciate the accessible educational materials and analytics, while experienced traders can use various instruments and flexible platform settings.
However, it's essential to consider drawbacks such as fees for account inactivity and the limited variety of trading accounts. These factors may be particularly significant for traders who do not plan to trade actively or are looking for more options for customization.
The broker offers a good balance between high-quality services and reasonable rates, making it an attractive choice for a broad spectrum of traders.
Pros and Cons of FXCM
Pros
- Diverse methods for deposit and withdrawal.
- Wide range of markets and products for trading.
- A broad spectrum of trading platforms.
- Extensive and quality materials for making informed decisions.
- Quick and efficient help in solving emerging issues.
Cons
- Insufficient variety of trading accounts.
- Inactivity fees and commissions for bank transfer withdrawals.
- Protracted account opening and verification process.
FXCM is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
Reliability
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2000 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Bahamas, United Kingdom, Portugal, Luxembourg, Brazil | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Regulators |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades - highly regulated, transparent broker with a good reputation. International regulation and client fund protection make it a reliable choice.
FXCM
FXCM is a well-regulated broker with numerous licenses from various global organizations.
Account Opening
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
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ActivTrades
The account opening process at ActivTrades is quite accessible for most traders, but verification can take a significant amount of time.
FXCM
The account opening process at FXCM is logically organized and efficient, providing clear steps for traders. The structured system and quick verification make this process convenient and straightforward.
Pros
- Clear and structured registration form.
Cons
- Verification waiting time can take up to 3 days.
Account Types
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 2/5 | 4/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
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| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0.5 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:400 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Demo Account | ||
| Swap-free Account |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers 2 trading accounts suitable for most traders, but some options are missing.
Pros
- Availability of an Islamic account.
Cons
- No STP/ECN accounts.
- Lack of fixed spread accounts.
- Investment accounts (PAMM, copy trading) are not offered.
FXCM
FXCM offers two types of accounts: Mini for beginners and Standard for experienced traders. Although the choice is not vast, both accounts are well adapted for their target audiences.
Pros
- Mini account available - akin to a cent account.
- Option for copy trading through ZuluTrade.
- Demo and Islamic accounts available.
Cons
- Limited selection of account types.
- No account with fixed spreads.
Commissions
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 3.7/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Spread | from 0.5 points | from 0 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 1 | 1.2 |
| Commission per Lot |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers average commissions with tight spreads, but high swap rates and inactivity fees.
FXCM
Commissions at FXCM are average. The broker offers favorable conditions for long-term trading thanks to competitive spreads and swaps. However, there is an inactivity fee and a fee for fund withdrawal.
Pros
- Competitive spreads and swaps.
- Rebate program for active traders.
Cons
- Inactivity fee.
- Fee for withdrawals via bank transfer.
Deposit and Withdrawal
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Account Funding Methods |
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ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers a variety of convenient methods for depositing and withdrawing funds.
Pros
- Diversity of payment systems.
- Most transactions are commission-free.
- Fast processing of requests.
Cons
- No options for using cryptocurrencies.
FXCM
FXCM offers a wide range of methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, including cryptocurrencies.
Pros
- Variety of deposit methods.
- Fast processing of withdrawal requests.
- No broker commissions for depositing.
Cons
- Commission for withdrawals via bank transfer.
Markets and Products
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Forex | 49 | 41 |
| Precious Metals | 3 | 3 |
| Energy Carriers | 7 | 7 |
| Soft Commodities | 9 | 4 |
| Indices | 31 | 15 |
| Stocks | 1035 | 3512 |
| ETF | 75 | 280 |
| Bonds | 6 | - |
| Cryptocurrency | 12 | 23 |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers a wide range of trading instruments, providing access to all major markets, making it attractive to various traders.
FXCM
FXCM provides a wide range of trading instruments, making it attractive for various categories of traders. Different markets, from Forex to stocks and cryptocurrencies, are available.
Pros
- Good selection of markets and instruments.
Cons
- Some competitors have even more CFDs.
Trading Platforms
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
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ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers diverse trading platforms, each catering to different trading needs, combining efficiency, advanced features, and user-friendly interfaces.
Pros
- Multiple platforms including MT4, MT5, ActivTrader, and TradingView integration.
- Advanced tools and features for comprehensive market analysis.
- Customization options and social trading aspects in TradingView.
FXCM
FXCM offers a wide choice of trading platforms with high functionality, meeting the needs of different traders.
Pros
- Wide choice of platforms for different trading styles.
- Advanced analytical tools in Trading Station.
- Support for algorithmic and social trading through Capitalise AI and ZuluTrade.
Analytics
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades provides extensive analytical resources, including market analysis, economic calendar, technical analysis tools, trading signals, and ideas.
FXCM
FXCM offers comprehensive analytical tools, from trading signals to expert research. These resources not only simplify trading decisions but also help to improve strategy.
Pros
- Wide range of analytical tools.
- Professional signals and market analysis.
- Personalized trading applications.
Cons
- Some tools may require a subscription or active account.
- Lack of analytics localization in different languages.
Education
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4/5 |
ActivTrades
ActivTrades offers high-quality and diverse educational materials that will be useful for traders of any level.
FXCM
The broker offers quality webinars and helpful guides that make the learning process informative and interactive.
Pros
- Webinars with experts for direct interaction.
- Detailed Forex guides.
- Materials suitable for traders of all levels.
Cons
- Lack of video courses.
- No podcasts for audio learning.
Customer Support
| Broker | ActivTrades | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Email Support |
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| Hotline Phones |
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| Social Media |
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
LinkedIn
WhatsappActivTrades
ActivTrades' technical support is commendable for its professionalism, diverse communication channels, and 24/5 availability.
Pros
- Highly professional and knowledgeable staff.
- Multiple contact options including phone, chat, and email.
- 24/5 availability.
FXCM
FXCM's technical support is highly rated for its variety of communication channels and quick response. Customer reviews confirm the professionalism and efficiency of the staff.
Pros
- Multiple channels of communication, including WhatsApp and live chat.
- Available 24/5.
- High degree of customer satisfaction.
Cons
- There may be telephone charges for international calls.
Comparisons of ActivTrades and FXCM with other brokers
Conclusion
ActivTrades stands out as the better overall pick, while FXCM trails on aggregate criteria.
ActivTrades scored 4.3/5 and ranks 25 in our rating; FXCM has 4.3/5 and ranks 28.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: ActivTrades or FXCM?
ActivTrades comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.3/5, position 25) versus FXCM (score 4.3/5, position 28).
Which broker is better for beginners: ActivTrades or FXCM?
ActivTrades is often a smoother start thanks to simpler onboarding and stronger baseline metrics. Still, your tools and budget should drive the final choice.
Who has lower typical trading costs (spreads/commissions) — ActivTrades or FXCM?
It depends on the instrument and account type. Compare the live conditions in the “Commissions” section on this page — we break down the nuances category by category.
What trading platforms are available with ActivTrades and FXCM?
ActivTrades: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, ActivTrader, TradingView. FXCM: MetaTrader 4, Trading Station, TradingView. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with ActivTrades and FXCM?
ActivTrades: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Bonds, Cryptocurrency. FXCM: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Cryptocurrency. Full lists and differences are in the “Markets” section.
What account types are offered by ActivTrades and FXCM?
ActivTrades: Individual, Pro. FXCM: Standard. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by ActivTrades and FXCM?
ActivTrades: Neteller, Skrill, AstroPay, Bank Transfer, Visa, Mastercard. FXCM: Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Swift, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, UnionPay. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — ActivTrades or FXCM — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
