Broker comparison

FXCM vs Plus500 Comparison

Compare trading conditions, commissions and platforms of Forex brokers FXCM and Plus500. Find out which broker is best for you.

VS summaryScores and ranking at a glance
FXCM
Rating
4.3/5
Rank
#29
Register

67-72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker

Plus500Higher ranked
Rating
4.3/5
Rank
#3
Register

81% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

  • Conditions, fees and platforms compared
  • Ratings and ranking positions checked
  • Based on our review methodology
How we compare brokers
Updated
Author · Editor

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 - FXCM or Plus500?

Quick comparison

Key differences between the brokers

Below, we show only the differences in trading conditions covered in our reviews. These may include the minimum deposit, available markets, platforms and account types. Compare these details with your requirements.

Methodology

Ratings and ranks

Plus500 ranks higher in the editorial ranking.

Matching ratings can occupy different positions in the full ranking.

FXCM
Rating: 4.3/5Rank: #29
Plus500
Rating: 4.3/5Rank: #3

FXCM

Minimum deposit · USD
50 USD
Different platforms
  • MetaTrader 4
  • Trading Station
  • TradingView
Different markets
  • Cryptocurrency

Plus500

Minimum deposit · USD
100 USD
Different platforms
  • WebTrader
Different markets
None listed

This material is not personalized financial advice. Terms and service availability vary by country.

Full broker ranking

Comparison Table of FXCM and Plus500

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 7 of 7 parametersShowing 7 of 7 parameters

Overview: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Foundation Year
1999
2008
Regulated in Countries
United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Cyprus, United Kingdom, Australia, Seychelles, Estonia, Singapore, United States
Minimum Deposit
  • 50 USD
  • 100 AUD
  • 100 CAD
  • 100 CHF
  • 100 EUR
  • 100 GBP
  • 1000 NOK
  • 1000 SEK
  • 100 SGD
  • 100 USD
Spread
from 0 points
from 0.6 points
Max Leverage
1:1000
1:30
Trading Assets (CFDs)
  • Forex
  • Precious Metals
  • Energy Carriers
  • Soft Commodities
  • Indices
  • Stocks
  • ETF
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Forex
  • Precious Metals
  • Energy Carriers
  • Soft Commodities
  • Indices
  • Stocks
  • ETF
Trading Platforms
  • MetaTrader 4
  • Trading Station
  • TradingView
  • WebTrader
Review

FXCM Review

FXCM Logo
Register67-72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
Countries of registration:
Regulators:
Trading Assets
Forex Precious Metals Energy Carriers Soft Commodities Indices Stocks ETF Cryptocurrency
Trading Platforms
MetaTrader 4Trading StationTradingView

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

  1. Diverse methods for deposit and withdrawal.
  2. Wide range of markets and products for trading.
  3. A broad spectrum of trading platforms.
  4. Extensive and quality materials for making informed decisions.
  5. Quick and efficient help in solving emerging issues.

Cons

  1. Insufficient variety of trading accounts.
  2. Inactivity fees and commissions for bank transfer withdrawals.
  3. Protracted account opening and verification process.

Plus500 Review

Plus500 Logo
Register81% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Countries of registration:
Regulators:
Trading Assets (CFDs)
Forex Precious Metals Energy Carriers Soft Commodities Indices Stocks ETF
Trading Platforms
WebTrader

Plus500 is ideal for traders seeking a convenient and intuitive platform with a broad spectrum of trading instruments. It's particularly well-suited for those who value a diverse range of CFDs on stocks, indices, currencies, commodities, and ETFs. The built-in Insight+ analytics tool is a significant advantage for those keen on analyzing trends and activities based on real-time data.

Pros and Cons of Plus500

Pros

  1. Intuitive CFD trading platform.
  2. 24/7 support.
  3. Built-in analytics.
  4. Diversity of trading assets.

Cons

  1. Limited channels for communication with technical support.
  2. Limited choice of trading accounts.

Plus500 is in the top 10 of the following ratings:

Reliability

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 4 of 4 parametersShowing 4 of 4 parameters

Reliability: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Reliability
5/5
5/5
Foundation Year
1999
2008
Regulated in Countries
United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Cyprus, United Kingdom, Australia, Seychelles, Estonia, Singapore, United States
Regulators

FXCM

FXCM is a well-regulated broker with numerous licenses from various global organizations.

Plus500

Plus500 is registered and regulated in several jurisdictions by authoritative bodies. This means that the broker is required to adhere to strict financial standards and provide regular reports on its activities to regulators.

Account Opening

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 2 of 2 parametersShowing 2 of 2 parameters

Account Opening: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Account Opening
4/5
5/5
Minimum Deposit
  • 50 USD
  • 100 USD
  • 100 EUR
  • 100 GBP
  • 100 CHF
  • 100 AUD
  • 100 CAD
  • 100 SGD
  • 1000 NOK
  • 1000 SEK

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

  1. Clear and structured registration form.

Cons

  1. Verification waiting time can take up to 3 days.

Plus500

Opening an account with Plus500 is straightforward due to its fast registration and low minimum deposit. Beginners should use the demo account and Trading Academy to learn before real trading.

Account Types

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 9 of 9 parametersShowing 9 of 9 parameters

Account Types: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Account Types
4/5
2/5
Trading Accounts
  • Standard
  • Plus500
Minimum Deposit
  • 50 USD
  • 100 USD
  • 100 EUR
  • 100 GBP
  • 100 CHF
  • 100 AUD
  • 100 CAD
  • 100 SGD
  • 1000 NOK
  • 1000 SEK
Spread
from 0 points
from 0.6 points
Max Leverage
1:1000
1:30
Trading Assets (CFDs)
  • Forex
  • Precious Metals
  • Energy Carriers
  • Soft Commodities
  • Indices
  • Stocks
  • ETF
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Forex
  • Precious Metals
  • Energy Carriers
  • Soft Commodities
  • Indices
  • Stocks
  • ETF
Trading Platforms
  • MetaTrader 4
  • Trading Station
  • TradingView
  • WebTrader
Demo Account
Yes
Yes
Swap-free Account
Yes
No

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

  1. Mini account available - akin to a cent account.
  2. Option for copy trading through ZuluTrade.
  3. Demo and Islamic accounts available.

Cons

  1. Limited selection of account types.
  2. No account with fixed spreads.

Plus500

The lack of account diversity and market execution of orders at Plus500 significantly limits flexibility and opportunities for traders of various categories.

Commissions

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 4 of 4 parametersShowing 4 of 4 parameters

Commissions: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Commissions
3.2/5
3.5/5
Spread
from 0 points
from 0.6 points
Average Spread (EURUSD)
1.2
1.2
Commission
No data
No data

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

  1. Competitive spreads and swaps.
  2. Rebate program for active traders.

Cons

  1. Inactivity fee.
  2. Fee for withdrawals via bank transfer.

Plus500

Plus500 offers clients market average trading commissions.

Pros

  1. No commission for deposit or withdrawal.

Cons

  1. Inactivity account fee.

Deposit and Withdrawal

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 2 of 2 parametersShowing 2 of 2 parameters

Deposit and Withdrawal: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Rating
4.5/5
5/5
Account Funding Methods
  • Skrill
  • Neteller
  • PayPal
  • Swift
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Discover
  • UnionPay
  • PayPal
  • Skrill
  • Bank Transfer
  • Visa
  • Mastercard

FXCM

FXCM offers a wide range of methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, including cryptocurrencies.

Pros

  1. Variety of deposit methods.
  2. Fast processing of withdrawal requests.
  3. No broker commissions for depositing.

Cons

  1. Commission for withdrawals via bank transfer.

Plus500

Plus500 offers convenient and diverse methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, but processing requests may take up to 3 business days.

Pros

  1. Wide selection of payment systems.
  2. No commission for depositing and withdrawing.

Markets and Products

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 9 of 9 parametersShowing 9 of 9 parameters

Markets and Products: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Markets and Products
4.5/5
5/5
Forex
41
65
Precious Metals
3
5
Energy Carriers
7
7
Soft Commodities
4
10
Indices
15
36
Stocks
3512
1550
ETF
280
96
Cryptocurrency
23
-

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

  1. Good selection of markets and instruments.

Cons

  1. Some competitors have even more CFDs.

Plus500

Plus500 offers a deep diversity of products and markets, including CFDs on currencies, indices, commodities, stocks, and ETFs from various countries worldwide.

Trading Platforms

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 2 of 2 parametersShowing 2 of 2 parameters

Trading Platforms: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Rating
5/5
4.2/5
Trading Platforms
  • MetaTrader 4
  • Trading Station
  • TradingView
  • WebTrader

FXCM

FXCM offers a wide choice of trading platforms with high functionality, meeting the needs of different traders.

Pros

  1. Wide choice of platforms for different trading styles.
  2. Advanced analytical tools in Trading Station.
  3. Support for algorithmic and social trading through Capitalise AI and ZuluTrade.

Plus500

Plus500 offers an efficient, user-friendly platform, however, there is no choice between platforms.

Pros

  1. Proprietary platform
  2. Available on mobile devices.

Cons

  1. No choice between platforms.

Analytics

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 1 of 1 parametersShowing 1 of 1 parameters

Analytics: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Rating
5/5
5/5

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

  1. Wide range of analytical tools.
  2. Professional signals and market analysis.
  3. Personalized trading applications.

Cons

  1. Some tools may require a subscription or active account.
  2. Lack of analytics localization in different languages.

Plus500

Plus500 offers good analytical tools and useful services.

Pros

  1. Insights+
  2. ESG scoring
  3. Convenient risk management tools

Education

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 1 of 1 parametersShowing 1 of 1 parameters

Education: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Rating
4/5
5/5

FXCM

The broker offers quality webinars and helpful guides that make the learning process informative and interactive.

Pros

  1. Webinars with experts for direct interaction.
  2. Detailed Forex guides.
  3. Materials suitable for traders of all levels.

Cons

  1. Lack of video courses.
  2. No podcasts for audio learning.

Plus500

Plus500 offers its users quality training through webinars, interactive materials and e-books. This allows traders to gain comprehensive knowledge for a successful start and effective trading.

Pros

  1. Quality and detailed video lessons
  2. Free webinars from independent experts
  3. Interactive guides and e-books

Customer Support

Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.

Swipe the table left or right to view all data.

Showing 4 of 4 parametersShowing 4 of 4 parameters

Customer Support: comparison of FXCM, Plus500
BrokerFXCMPlus500
Rating
5/5
3.7/5
Email Support
Hotline Phones
—
Social Media

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

  1. Multiple channels of communication, including WhatsApp and live chat.
  2. Available 24/5.
  3. High degree of customer satisfaction.

Cons

  1. There may be telephone charges for international calls.

Plus500

The Plus500 customer support is limited and not ideal, although it provides support in multiple languages 24/7.

Pros

  1. Support in many languages.
  2. Operates around the clock.

Cons

  1. Lack of direct communication channels (e.g., telephone).
  2. Potential delays in responses due to limited communication channels.

Comparisons of FXCM and Plus500 with other brokers

Conclusion

When choosing between Plus500 and FXCM, match their platforms, markets, account types and funding terms to your needs.

Before opening an account, verify fees, regulation, support and service availability for your country in the sections above.

FAQ

Which broker is better: FXCM or Plus500?

Plus500 ranks higher than FXCM in our editorial ranking. That does not make it a universal choice: compare fees, markets, platforms, account types and support.

Which broker is better for beginners: FXCM or Plus500?

Beginners should compare availability in their country, account types, minimum deposit, trading platforms and customer support.

Who has lower typical trading costs (spreads/commissions) — FXCM or Plus500?

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 FXCM and Plus500?

FXCM: MetaTrader 4, Trading Station, TradingView. Plus500: WebTrader. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.

What markets can you trade with FXCM and Plus500?

FXCM: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Cryptocurrency. Plus500: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF. Full lists and differences are in the “Markets” section.

What account types are offered by FXCM and Plus500?

FXCM: Standard. Plus500: Plus500. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.

What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by FXCM and Plus500?

FXCM: Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Swift, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, UnionPay. Plus500: PayPal, Skrill, Bank Transfer, Visa, Mastercard. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.

Which broker is safer — FXCM or Plus500 — and how was this assessed?

We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.

Nikolay is an experienced specialist in financial markets and co-founder of IamForexTrader. He has been successfully trading Forex since 2014 and has been actively involved in the cryptocurrency market since 2017.

He develops investment strategies adaptable to any level of experience and has been actively investing in stocks, bonds and ETFs since 2018.