IC Markets vs XTrade 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 XTrade?
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 XTrade.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 3 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas XTrade has 3.3/5 and ranks 60.
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 XTrade suitable for?
Xtrade is suitable for traders who value a simple interface, bonus programs, and access to education and analytics.
Comparison Table of IC Markets and XTrade
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2003 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | Belize |
| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 1 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:400 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | IC Markets Review | XTrade 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:
XTrade Review
Xtrade offers a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, an extensive range of markets and trading products, and a variety of analytical tools. The broker is equipped with an extensive training center, which makes it attractive for novice traders who want to expand their knowledge and improve their trading skills. Responsive and feature-rich customer support enhances the usability of the broker's services.
Xtrade is suitable for novice traders, thanks to its accessible educational resources and wide range of trading products. However, potential clients should pay special attention to regulatory issues and trading costs before deciding to start working with this broker.
Pros and Cons of XTrade
Pros
- Wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods.
- Extensive selection of markets and products for trading.
- Diversity of analytical tools.
- Comprehensive educational center with various materials.
- Responsive and multifunctional technical support.
Cons
- Weak regulation may raise concerns about the security of client funds.
- Limited variety of accounts and services offered.
- Wide spreads, which can increase trading costs.
- Long processing time for withdrawal requests.
- Lack of alternatives to the offered trading platform, limiting traders' choices.
Reliability
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2007 | 2003 |
| Regulated in Countries | Seychelles, Australia, Cyprus, Kenya | Belize |
| Regulators | SFSA SFSA ASIC ASIC CySEC CySEC CMA CMA | - BFSC BFSC |
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.
XTrade
The reliability of Xtrade International Ltd is questionable due to the lack of licenses from strict regulators, despite having a license from the Belize FSC.
Pros
- Segregated client accounts.
- Investor compensation fund.
Cons
- Lack of licenses from strict regulators.
Account Opening
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
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|
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.
XTrade
Account opening at Xtrade is fairly standard and transparent.
Pros
- Free and fast account opening.
- Clear verification instructions.
Cons
- High minimum deposit.
- Verification can be lengthy.
Account Types
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 3.8/5 | 2.3/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
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| Minimum Deposit |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 1 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:400 |
| 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
XTrade
Xtrade offers a variety of accounts, but does not satisfy the needs of all categories of traders.
Pros
- Four types of accounts for different traders.
- Reduced spreads for Premium and VIP accounts.
Cons
- Absence of cent and Islamic accounts.
- No accounts with fixed spreads.
- Lack of copy trading service.
Commissions
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 4.5/5 | 2/5 |
| Spread | from 0 points | from 1 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 0.62 | 3 |
| 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.
XTrade
Commissions at Xtrade are relatively high, which can increase a trader's costs.
Pros
- No withdrawal fee.
Cons
- High spreads.
- Inactivity fee of 50 USD.
Deposit and Withdrawal
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| 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.
XTrade
Xtrade offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, but with lengthy processing times.
Pros
- Wide selection of payment systems.
- No fees on many methods.
Cons
- Long withdrawal processing time.
- Absence of cryptocurrencies.
Markets and Products
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Forex | 61 | 57 |
| Precious Metals | 7 | 9 |
| Energy Carriers | 5 | 5 |
| Soft Commodities | 8 | 7 |
| Indices | 25 | 25 |
| Stocks | 2175 | 300 |
| ETF | 38 | 13 |
| Bonds | 10 | 5 |
| Cryptocurrency | 21 | 52 |
IC Markets
IC Markets offers various trading instruments, including currency pairs, CFDs on metals, energy resources, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies.
XTrade
Xtrade offers an extensive selection of markets and products, meeting the needs of various traders.
Pros
- Wide range of currency pairs.
- Numerous CFDs on stocks from different countries.
- Availability of cryptocurrencies.
Trading Platforms
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
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IC Markets
IC Markets provides powerful and functional trading platforms suitable for various trader categories.
XTrade
Xtrade offers a functional and user-friendly platform.
Pros
- Web platform with no download required.
- Full-featured mobile application.
Cons
- Lack of popular platforms such as MT4 or MT5.
- Limited choice of platforms.
- No desktop version of the platform.
Analytics
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4/5 |
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.
XTrade
Xtrade's analytics are well-developed, providing traders with a variety of market analysis tools.
Pros
- Daily video analysis.
- Economic calendar and up-to-date news.
- Specialized calculators for technical analysis.
Cons
- Lack of regular reviews from experts.
- No trading signals.
Education
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 5/5 | 4/5 |
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.
XTrade
Xtrade provides extensive educational materials covering various levels of complexity.
Pros
- Wide range of topics.
- Materials for beginners and professionals.
- Availability of video tutorials and e-books.
Cons
- Lack of webinars.
- Some topics may require deeper study.
Customer Support
| Broker | IC Markets | XTrade |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4/5 |
| Email Support |
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| Hotline Phones |
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| Social Media |
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTubeIC 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
XTrade
Xtrade's customer support is responsive and diverse, but there are minor communication issues.
Pros
- Variety of communication channels.
- 24/5 availability during weekdays.
- Quick and professional response.
Cons
- Some reviews indicate problems with resolving disputes.
Comparisons of IC Markets and XTrade with other brokers
Conclusion
IC Markets stands out as the better overall pick, while XTrade trails on aggregate criteria.
IC Markets scored 4.7/5 and ranks 3 in our rating; XTrade has 3.3/5 and ranks 60.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: IC Markets or XTrade?
IC Markets comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.7/5, position 3) versus XTrade (score 3.3/5, position 60).
Which broker is better for beginners: IC Markets or XTrade?
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 XTrade?
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 XTrade?
IC Markets: MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, cTrader, TradingView. XTrade: xTrade. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with IC Markets and XTrade?
IC Markets: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Bonds, Cryptocurrency. XTrade: 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 XTrade?
IC Markets: Standard, Raw Spread cTrader, Raw Spread. XTrade: Standard, Platinum, Premium, VIP. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by IC Markets and XTrade?
IC Markets: PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Bpay, FasaPay, Klarna, Swift, SEPA, Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, POLi, Rapidpay. XTrade: Moneta.ru, Qiwi, WebMoney, YooMoney, VLoad, Alipay, AstroPay, Boleto, CashU, FasaPay, Jeton, Bpay, Swift, Sofort, Visa, Mastercard, JCB, EPS, Giropay, iDeal, Przelewy24, POLi. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — IC Markets or XTrade — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
