CMC Markets
eToro
CMC Markets vs eToro
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
CMC Markets and eToro are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. CMC Markets, founded in 1989 and headquartered in London, UK, is regulated by FCA, ASIC, BaFin and offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips with a minimum deposit of $0. eToro, established in 2007 in Tel Aviv, Israel, holds licenses from FCA, CySEC, ASIC with spreads from 1.0 pips and a $50 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, CMC Markets scored 8.8/10 overall compared to eToro's 7.8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, eToro holds its own with overall value, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
CMC Markets scores 8.8/10 overall vs 7.8/10 for eToro — a 1.0-point difference.
- 💵
CMC Markets requires just $0 to start, while eToro needs $50 — CMC Markets is 50x more accessible.
- 📈
CMC Markets offers 10,000+ instruments vs 3,400+ at eToro — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
CMC Markets runs on Next Generation, MT4, while eToro uses eToro Platform, eToro App — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Trading Costs: CMC Markets scores 8.0 vs 6.0 for eToro — a 2.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
CMC Markets
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 7 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
eToro
Score: 7.8/10 · Wins 0 categories- You prefer eToro's trading environment overall
CMC Markets takes the lead with an overall score of 8.8/10 compared to 7.8/10, winning in 7 out of 8 scoring categories. CMC Markets stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while eToro remains a solid alternative.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, CMC Markets comes out ahead with a 8.8/10 overall rating, winning 7 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Platforms & Tools where it scores 9.5/10. CMC Markets holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. eToro is not without merit — it scores 7.8/10 overall and excels in Regulation & Trust (9.0/10). For a complete breakdown, read our full CMC Markets review and eToro review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
CMC Markets wins by 2.0 points
CMC Markets wins by 1.0 points
CMC Markets wins by 0.5 points
CMC Markets wins by 1.5 points
CMC Markets wins by 1.5 points
CMC Markets wins by 1.0 points
CMC Markets wins by 1.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.8/10 ✓ | 7.8/10 |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $0 ✓ | $50 |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:30 |
| Spreads From | 0.7 pips | 1.0 pips |
| Platforms | Next Generation, MT4 | eToro Platform, eToro App |
| Regulation | FCA, ASIC, BaFin | FCA, CySEC, ASIC |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 1989 ✓ | 2007 |
| Markets | 10,000+ ✓ | 3,400+ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, CMC Markets has the edge with a score of 8/10 versus 6/10 for eToro. CMC Markets offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips, while eToro starts from 1.0 pips. The minimum deposit at CMC Markets is $0, compared to $50 at eToro. 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
CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 for platforms compared to 8.5/10 for eToro. CMC Markets provides Next Generation, MT4, while eToro offers eToro Platform, eToro App. 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. CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, BaFin (Tier 1), while eToro holds licenses from FCA, CySEC, ASIC (Tier 1). CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 and eToro scores 9/10 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, CMC Markets leads with 8/10 compared to 8/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. CMC Markets and eToro 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
CMC Markets offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 8/10, while eToro provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Ticket System with a score of 6.5/10. 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
CMC Markets scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while eToro scores 7/10. CMC Markets accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, and eToro supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0 versus $50 for eToro. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose CMC Markets if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CMC Markets better than eToro?
CMC Markets scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 7.8/10), winning 7 of 8 categories. However, eToro remains competitive. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, CMC Markets or eToro?
CMC Markets scores higher for trading costs. CMC Markets offers spreads from 0.7 pips with a $0 minimum deposit, while eToro starts from 1.0 pips with $50 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is CMC Markets safe to trade with?
CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, BaFin and scores 9.5/10 for regulation. eToro is regulated by FCA, CySEC, ASIC with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, CMC Markets or eToro?
CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 for platforms. CMC Markets offers Next Generation, MT4, while eToro provides eToro Platform, eToro App. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for CMC Markets vs eToro?
CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0, while eToro requires $50. CMC Markets 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.