FreshForex 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 - FreshForex or FXCM?
Our pick: FXCM
Based on multiple factors - spreads and fees, available assets and instruments, execution quality, platform usability, support level, and educational resources - FXCM looks preferable to FreshForex.
FXCM scored 4.3/5 and ranks 27 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas FreshForex has 4.1/5 and ranks 35.
This is not financial advice. See the full comparison below.
Who is FreshForex suitable for?
FreshForex is suitable for beginners thanks to educational materials, a wide selection of instruments, and experienced traders looking for various accounts.
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 FreshForex and FXCM
| Broker | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2003 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:2000 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | FreshForex Review | FXCM Review |
FreshForex Review
FreshForex is a broker with a long history in the market, a wide selection of trading accounts, high leverage, and an affordable minimum deposit. It is suitable for active traders who value flexibility in choosing trading instruments, are interested in high-risk strategies, and are willing to work with an offshore company without licenses from leading global regulators. Thanks to the availability of a demo account, a variety of analytical materials, and training courses, FreshForex may also be of interest to novice traders who want to hone their skills without making large investments.
Pros and Cons of FreshForex
Pros
- Extensive experience (since 2004).
- Minimum deposit from $25.
- Wide selection of currencies and cryptocurrencies for accounts.
- Various analytical and educational materials.
Cons
- No licenses from reputable regulators.
- High spreads and commissions on a number of instruments.
- No PAMM accounts or copy trading.
- No online chat or support via messengers.
FreshForex 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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2003 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Regulators | SVGFSA SVGFSA | FCA FCA ASIC ASIC CySEC CySEC FSCA FSCA CIRO CIRO ISA ISA SVGFSA SVGFSA |
FreshForex
FreshForex does not have licenses from leading global regulators, which increases the risks for clients. It operates in an offshore jurisdiction, so the level of investor protection is limited.
Pros
- Long-standing presence on the market (since 2004)
Cons
- Lack of regulation by authoritative bodies
- Limited legal protection for clients
FXCM
FXCM is a well-regulated broker with numerous licenses from various global organizations.
Account Opening
| Broker | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
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FreshForex
Opening an account with FreshForex is quick, with detailed verification and a wide selection of currencies, including cryptocurrencies. The minimum deposit of $25 makes the broker accessible to most traders.
Pros
- Quick registration and verification
- Minimum deposit of $25
- Large selection of currencies and cryptocurrencies for accounts
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
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| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:2000 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Demo Account | ||
| Swap-free Account |
FreshForex
FreshForex offers a wide range of accounts, including ECN, cent, and Islamic accounts, as well as a demo account. However, the lack of PAMM and copy trading limits the options for passive investors.
Pros
- A variety of accounts for different levels of traders
- Islamic accounts and demo accounts are available
Cons
- No PAMM accounts or copy trading
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 3.2/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 1.8 | 1.2 |
| Commission per Lot | $3.3 |
FreshForex
FreshForex's commissions are above average, especially for certain currency pairs, but the absence of inactivity fees and a unique cashback program partially compensate for this drawback.
Pros
- No inactivity fees
- No deposit/withdrawal fees
- Cashback program with different refund schemes
Cons
- High spreads and swaps
- Commissions on some pairs are above average
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Account Funding Methods |
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FreshForex
FreshForex ensures fast and convenient account funding and withdrawals with more than 20 methods without broker commissions.
Pros
- No commission for deposits/withdrawals
- Support for cryptocurrencies and e-wallets
- Fast processing of requests
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 4/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Forex | 52 | 41 |
| Precious Metals | 13 | 3 |
| Energy Carriers | 3 | 7 |
| Indices | 12 | 15 |
| Stocks | 133 | 3512 |
| ETF | 7 | 280 |
| Cryptocurrency | 71 | 23 |
| Soft Commodities | - | 4 |
FreshForex
FreshForex offers an extensive selection of trading instruments, but with limitations such as the absence of soft commodities and an average number of CFDs.
Pros
- Large number of currency pairs
- Wide selection of cryptocurrencies
- High leverage up to 1:2000
Cons
- No soft commodities or bonds
- Average number of CFDs on stocks
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
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FreshForex
FreshForex offers reliable and popular MT4 and MT5 platforms with a variety of tools and versions for different devices.
Pros
- Access to MT4 and MT5, proven platforms.
- A large arsenal of indicators and tools.
- Versions for PC, MacOS, iPhone, Android, and Web.
Cons
- Lack of proprietary or alternative platforms.
- May be complex for beginner traders.
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
FreshForex
FreshForex offers comprehensive and timely analytics, including a variety of analysis methods and useful tools for traders.
Pros
- Daily forecasts and Forex analytics.
- A variety of analysis methods.
- Additional tools such as a calculator and economic calendar.
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4/5 |
FreshForex
FreshForex offers an extensive educational program, including webinars, consultations, and literature suitable for beginners.
Pros
- A variety of educational materials and courses.
- Free webinars and consultations with experts.
- A comprehensive glossary of Forex terms for beginners.
Cons
- Lack of advanced courses for experienced traders.
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 | FreshForex | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Email Support |
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| Hotline Phones |
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| Social Media |
Telegram
YouTube
Whatsapp
TwitterFreshForex
FreshForex's technical support is competent and responsive, but the lack of online chat and messengers slightly reduces the convenience of communication.
Pros
- Quick response to tickets and calls
- Polite and qualified staff
Cons
- No online chat
- No support via messengers
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 FreshForex and FXCM with other brokers
Conclusion
FXCM stands out as the better overall pick, while FreshForex trails on aggregate criteria.
FXCM scored 4.3/5 and ranks 27 in our rating; FreshForex has 4.1/5 and ranks 35.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: FreshForex or FXCM?
FXCM comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.3/5, position 27) versus FreshForex (score 4.1/5, position 35).
Which broker is better for beginners: FreshForex or FXCM?
FXCM 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) — FreshForex 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 FreshForex and FXCM?
FreshForex: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5. FXCM: MetaTrader 4, Trading Station, TradingView. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with FreshForex and FXCM?
FreshForex: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Indices, Stocks, ETF, 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 FreshForex and FXCM?
FreshForex: Classic, Market Pro, ECN, Classic.Cent. FXCM: Standard. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by FreshForex and FXCM?
FreshForex: WebMoney, Volet, SticPay, M-Pesa, Bank Transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Мир, Online banking. FXCM: Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Swift, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, UnionPay. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — FreshForex or FXCM — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
