IC Markets vs XTB 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 - IC Markets or XTB?
Our pick: IC Markets
Based on multiple factors - spreads and fees, available assets and instruments, execution quality, platform usability, support level, and educational resources - IC Markets looks preferable to XTB.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 4 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas XTB has 4.2/5 and ranks 31.
This is not financial advice. See the full comparison below.
Who is IC Markets suitable for?
IC Markets is suitable for traders looking for low spreads and ECN accounts and the ability to scalp and use expert advisors.
Who is XTB suitable for?
XTB suits experienced traders looking for a reliable broker with a wide selection of instruments and high-quality analytics.
Comparison Table of IC Markets and XTB
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2001 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | Belize, Poland, United Kingdom, Spain, United Arab Emirates, Germany |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.5 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | IC Markets Review | XTB Review |
IC Markets Review
IC Markets is a reliable and versatile broker that offers a wide range of services and tools for trading in the financial markets. The company provides impressive trading instruments, high-quality trading platforms, advanced analytical tools, and valuable education for traders of all levels.
IC Markets is likely most suitable for experienced traders who value deep liquidity, tight spreads, and advanced trading tools. Beginner traders can also benefit from the educational materials offered by the company, but they should be prepared for some additional expenses and a higher minimum deposit requirement.
Pros and Cons of IC Markets
Pros
- A wide range of trading assets.
- Low spreads.
- Variety of trading platforms.
- Quality educational materials.
- Efficient customer support service.
Cons
- High minimum deposit.
IC Markets is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
XTB Review
XTB is a highly regulated broker with licenses from leading bodies such as the FCA, reinforcing its reliability and transparency. This broker offers a wide range of trading products, including currencies, indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, making it a flexible choice for traders of different levels and interests. Various deposit options and advanced analytical support further enhance its appeal against competitors.
XTB suits traders who value regulation and security, those looking for various trading tools, and those who want access to extensive analytical resources. The broker will especially suit active traders who maximize low spreads and product diversity.
Pros and Cons of XTB
Pros
- Regulated by several leading financial authorities.
- Variety of methods to deposit funds.
- Wide range of trading assets.
- Extensive analytical tools and resources.
Cons
- Withdrawal methods are limited.
- Lack of educational materials.
Reliability
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2001 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | Belize, Poland, United Kingdom, Spain, United Arab Emirates, Germany |
| Regulators |
IC Markets
IC Markets operates under the regulation of several jurisdictions, including ASIC in Australia, CySEC in Cyprus, and SFSA in the Seychelles, indicating a high degree of regulation.
XTB
XTB is quite reliable, considering regulation in several authoritative jurisdictions.
Account Opening
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
|
IC Markets
The account opening process at IC Markets is well-thought-out, transparent, and detailed, ensuring convenience and ease for clients. However, the high minimum deposit may deter many beginners.
XTB
The account opening process at XTB is simple and clear, but takes some time.
Pros
- Easy registration and data verification.
- Flexibility regarding the minimum deposit.
- Adherence to KYC and AML standards.
Cons
- Verification can take time.
- Need to provide a large volume of personal data.
Account Types
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 3.8/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
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| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.5 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Demo Account | ||
| Swap-free Account |
IC Markets
IC Markets' accounts are mainly aimed at experienced and professional traders.
Pros
- ECN accounts
- Ability to copy trades
- Access to VPS
Cons
- No cent accounts
- No fixed spread accounts
XTB
XTB’s account types cover the core needs of most traders and investors: a Standard and Swap-Free account for CFD trading plus a separate investment account for real stocks and ETFs, though the overall choice is less diverse than some rivals.
Pros
- Simple lineup: Standard, Swap-Free and Investment account.
- Access to real stocks and ETFs with one broker.
- Unified xStation platform for trading and investing.
Cons
- Fewer account types than some competitors.
- No specialized “pro” accounts for niche strategies.
Commissions
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.5 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 0.62 | 1.4 |
| Commission per Lot | $3.5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets has low commissions. Fees for transactions on ECN accounts and spreads are acceptable to most traders, and the absence of charges for deposits/withdrawals and account inactivity is a significant advantage.
XTB
XTB offers an average level of commissions.
Pros
- Cashback system helps to offset some of the commissions.
Cons
- Fee for account inactivity.
Deposit and Withdrawal
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Account Funding Methods |
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IC Markets
IC Markets offers multiple options for depositing and withdrawing funds, but possible fees from banks and payment systems should be considered, along with some restrictions on withdrawal methods.
XTB
XTB provides convenient methods for depositing funds without a commission, but has limited withdrawal options.
Pros
- Wide selection of deposit methods.
- No commission for depositing funds.
- No commission for withdrawals over $50.
Cons
- The only available withdrawal method is bank transfer.
- Commission of $30 for withdrawals less than $50.
Markets and Products
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Forex | 61 | 57 |
| Precious Metals | 7 | 9 |
| Energy Carriers | 5 | 5 |
| Soft Commodities | 8 | 10 |
| Indices | 25 | 35 |
| Stocks | 2175 | 1997 |
| ETF | 38 | 177 |
| Bonds | 10 | 3 |
| Cryptocurrency | 21 | 41 |
IC Markets
IC Markets offers various trading instruments, including currency pairs, CFDs on metals, energy resources, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies.
XTB
XTB offers an extensive range of markets and products for trading, including currency pairs, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies.
Trading Platforms
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
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IC Markets
IC Markets provides powerful and functional trading platforms suitable for various trader categories.
XTB
XTB offers its functional and user-friendly trading platform xStation 5, well-suited for market analysis.
Pros
- A multitude of analytical tools.
- Customizable terminal interface.
- Android mobile app available.
Cons
- Lack of choice between different trading platforms.
- No platform version for iOS devices.
- No desktop version of the platform.
Analytics
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 5/5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets provides its clients with an extensive set of analytical tools and materials, which can assist them in successful trading in the financial markets.
XTB
XTB offers superior analytics with a rich set of tools available to all users, making them one of the leaders in this area.
Pros
- In-depth analytics, including forecasts from experts and news.
- A wide range of analysis tools, including an economic calendar and trading schedules.
- Analytics available to all users, not only company clients.
Education
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 3/5 |
IC Markets
IC Markets offers a wide range of educational resources, from interactive video lessons to webinars and podcasts, demonstrating care for their clients and a commitment to providing all the necessary resources for successful trading.
XTB
XTB's educational materials are limited.
Pros
- Basic trading information is provided.
Cons
- Lack of webinars and detailed video tutorials.
- Not suitable for beginners seeking comprehensive education.
Customer Support
| Broker | IC Markets | XTB |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Email Support |
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| Hotline Phones |
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| Social Media | — |
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedInIC Markets
IC Markets provides a variety of communication channels, ensuring support service accessibility for clients. Numerous client reviews indicate the support team's quick response and high professionalism.
Pros
- Positive reviews about professional support
- Multiple channels for support communication
- Support is available 24/7
Cons
- Only international call option is available
XTB
XTB's technical support is generally good, available 24/5.
Pros
- Operates 24/5.
- Contact options include phone and email.
- Responses to inquiries are received within a reasonable timeframe.
Cons
- Lack of messaging channels for communication.
Comparisons of IC Markets and XTB with other brokers
Conclusion
IC Markets stands out as the better overall pick, while XTB trails on aggregate criteria.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 4 in our rating; XTB has 4.2/5 and ranks 31.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: IC Markets or XTB?
IC Markets comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.7/5, position 4) versus XTB (score 4.2/5, position 31).
Which broker is better for beginners: IC Markets or XTB?
IC Markets 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) — IC Markets or XTB?
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 IC Markets and XTB?
IC Markets: MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, cTrader, TradingView. XTB: xStation. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with IC Markets and XTB?
IC Markets: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Bonds, Cryptocurrency. XTB: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Bonds, Cryptocurrency. Full lists and differences are in the “Markets” section.
What account types are offered by IC Markets and XTB?
IC Markets: Standard, Raw Spread cTrader, Raw Spread. XTB: Standard, Swap Free. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by IC Markets and XTB?
IC Markets: PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Bpay, FasaPay, Klarna, Swift, SEPA, Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, POLi, Rapidpay. XTB: Neteller, Skrill, PaySafeCard, Bank Transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Maestro. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — IC Markets or XTB — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
