CMC Markets
IG
CMC Markets vs IG
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
CMC Markets and IG 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. IG, established in 1974 in London, UK, holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin with spreads from 0.6 pips and a $250 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, IG scored 9.2/10 overall compared to CMC Markets's 8.8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, CMC Markets holds its own with overall value, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
IG scores 9.2/10 overall vs 8.8/10 for CMC Markets — a 0.4-point difference.
- 💵
CMC Markets requires just $0 to start, while IG needs $250 — CMC Markets is 250x more accessible.
- 📈
IG offers 17,000+ instruments vs 10,000+ at CMC Markets — a notable difference in market coverage.
- 🖥️
CMC Markets runs on Next Generation, MT4, while IG uses IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Education: IG scores 9.0 vs 8.0 for CMC Markets — a 1.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
CMC Markets
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 0 categories- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
- You prefer CMC Markets's trading environment overall
IG
Score: 9.2/10 · Wins 5 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
IG takes the lead with an overall score of 9.2/10 compared to 8.8/10, winning in 5 out of 8 scoring categories. IG stands out for lower trading costs and stronger regulation, while CMC Markets remains a solid alternative.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, IG comes out ahead with a 9.2/10 overall rating, winning 5 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Regulation & Trust where it scores 10.0/10. IG holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. CMC Markets is not without merit — it scores 8.8/10 overall and excels in Platforms & Tools (9.5/10). For a complete breakdown, read our full IG review and CMC Markets review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
IG wins by 0.5 points
IG wins by 0.5 points
IG wins by 1.0 points
IG wins by 0.5 points
IG wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $0 ✓ | $250 |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:200 |
| Spreads From | 0.7 pips | 0.6 pips |
| Platforms | Next Generation, MT4 | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
| Regulation | FCA, ASIC, BaFin | FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 1989 | 1974 ✓ |
| Markets | 10,000+ | 17,000+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, IG has the edge with a score of 8.5/10 versus 8/10 for CMC Markets. CMC Markets offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips, while IG starts from 0.6 pips. The minimum deposit at CMC Markets is $0, compared to $250 at IG. 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 9.5/10 for IG. CMC Markets provides Next Generation, MT4, while IG offers IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer. 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 IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin (Tier 1). CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 and IG scores 10/10 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, IG leads with 9/10 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 IG 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 IG provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone with a score of 8.5/10. 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 IG scores 8/10. CMC Markets accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, and IG supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0 versus $250 for IG. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose CMC Markets if you...
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
- You prefer CMC Markets's trading environment overall
Choose IG if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- 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 IG?
IG scores higher overall (9.2/10 vs 8.8/10), winning 5 of 8 categories. However, CMC Markets remains competitive. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, CMC Markets or IG?
IG scores higher for trading costs. CMC Markets offers spreads from 0.7 pips with a $0 minimum deposit, while IG starts from 0.6 pips with $250 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. IG is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin with a score of 10/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, CMC Markets or IG?
CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 for platforms. CMC Markets offers Next Generation, MT4, while IG provides IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for CMC Markets vs IG?
CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0, while IG requires $250. 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.