Axi
Skilling
Axi vs Skilling
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
Axi and Skilling are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. Axi, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is regulated by ASIC, FCA, DFSA and offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips with a minimum deposit of $0. Skilling, established in 2016 in Limassol, Cyprus, holds licenses from CySEC with spreads from 0.1 pips and a $100 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, Axi scored 8/10 overall compared to Skilling's 7.8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, Skilling holds its own with better trading platforms and more research tools, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
Axi scores 8/10 overall vs 7.8/10 for Skilling — a 0.2-point difference.
- 💵
Axi requires just $0 to start, while Skilling needs $100 — Axi is 100x more accessible.
- 📈
Skilling offers 800+ instruments vs 300+ at Axi — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
Axi runs on MT4, Axi Copy Trading App, while Skilling uses Skilling Trader, MT4, cTrader — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Regulation & Trust: Axi scores 9.0 vs 7.0 for Skilling — a 2.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
Axi
Score: 8.0/10 · Wins 2 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
Skilling
Score: 7.8/10 · Wins 3 categories- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
Axi takes the lead with an overall score of 8/10 compared to 7.8/10, winning in 2 out of 8 scoring categories. Axi stands out for lower trading costs and stronger regulation, while Skilling fights back with better trading platforms and more research tools.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, Axi comes out ahead with a 8/10 overall rating, winning 2 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Regulation & Trust where it scores 9.0/10. Axi holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. Skilling is not without merit — it scores 7.8/10 overall and excels in Trading Costs (8.0/10), winning 3 categories. Traders who value better trading platforms or more research tools may find Skilling the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full Axi review and Skilling review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
Axi wins by 0.5 points
Skilling wins by 1.0 points
Axi wins by 2.0 points
Skilling wins by 0.5 points
Skilling wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.0/10 ✓ | 7.8/10 |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $0 ✓ | $100 |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:500 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.1 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, Axi Copy Trading App | Skilling Trader, MT4, cTrader |
| Regulation | ASIC, FCA, DFSA | CySEC |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2007 ✓ | 2016 |
| Markets | 300+ | 800+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, Axi has the edge with a score of 8.5/10 versus 8/10 for Skilling. Axi offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while Skilling starts from 0.1 pips. The minimum deposit at Axi is $0, compared to $100 at Skilling. Both brokers operate primarily on a spread-based pricing model, though actual costs vary by account type and instrument. For high-volume traders, even small spread differences add up significantly over time, making this an important category to weigh carefully.
Trading Platforms
Skilling scores 8/10 for platforms compared to 7/10 for Axi. Axi provides MT4, Axi Copy Trading App, while Skilling offers Skilling Trader, MT4, cTrader. The choice of platform affects your charting, order execution speed, and available technical indicators. Traders who rely on MetaTrader's algorithmic trading capabilities should check which MT4/MT5 features each broker supports, including custom indicators and expert advisors.
Regulation & Safety
Regulation is crucial for fund safety. Axi is regulated by ASIC, FCA, DFSA (Tier 1), while Skilling holds licenses from CySEC (Tier 1). Axi scores 9/10 and Skilling scores 7/10 in this category. Tier 1 regulators like FCA, ASIC, and CySEC offer the strongest investor protection, including segregated client funds and compensation schemes. Always verify your broker's specific license for your jurisdiction before opening an account.
Education & Research
For learning resources, Axi leads with 7/10 compared to 7/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. Axi and Skilling both provide demo accounts for risk-free practice, but the depth of educational content varies. Beginners should prioritize this category when choosing between the two.
Customer Support
Axi offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7.5/10, while Skilling provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email with a score of 7.5/10. Reliable support becomes critical during market volatility or when you encounter account issues. Look for brokers with 24/5 or 24/7 availability, multiple contact channels, and support in your preferred language.
Deposit & Withdrawal
Axi scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while Skilling scores 8/10. Axi accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, POLi, and Skilling supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Klarna. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. Axi requires a minimum deposit of $0 versus $100 for Skilling. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose Axi if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
Choose Skilling if you...
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Axi better than Skilling?
Axi scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7.8/10), winning 2 of 8 categories. However, Skilling is stronger in better trading platforms and more research tools. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, Axi or Skilling?
Axi scores higher for trading costs. Axi offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $0 minimum deposit, while Skilling starts from 0.1 pips with $100 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is Axi safe to trade with?
Axi is regulated by ASIC, FCA, DFSA and scores 9/10 for regulation. Skilling is regulated by CySEC with a score of 7/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, Axi or Skilling?
Skilling scores 8/10 for platforms. Axi offers MT4, Axi Copy Trading App, while Skilling provides Skilling Trader, MT4, cTrader. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for Axi vs Skilling?
Axi requires a minimum deposit of $0, while Skilling requires $100. Axi has the lower entry barrier, making it more accessible for beginners or those testing with smaller amounts.
Ready to Start Trading?
Open a free account with either broker and start trading today.