CMTrading
Deriv
CMTrading vs Deriv
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
CMTrading and Deriv are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. CMTrading, founded in 2012 and headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, is regulated by FSCA, FSC and offers spreads starting from 1.2 pips with a minimum deposit of $250. Deriv, established in 2000 in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, holds licenses from VFSC, FSC, LFSA with spreads from 0.5 pips and a $5 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, Deriv scored 7/10 overall compared to CMTrading's 6.9/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, CMTrading holds its own with stronger regulation and superior education resources, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
Deriv scores 7/10 overall vs 6.9/10 for CMTrading — a 0.1-point difference.
- 💵
Deriv requires just $5 to start, while CMTrading needs $250 — Deriv is 50x more accessible.
- 🛡️
CMTrading holds Tier 2 regulation (FSCA, FSC) offering stronger investor protection than Deriv's Tier 3 status.
- 📈
CMTrading offers 200+ instruments vs 150+ at Deriv — a notable difference in market coverage.
- 🖥️
CMTrading runs on MT4, Sirix, while Deriv uses DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Regulation & Trust: CMTrading scores 6.5 vs 5.5 for Deriv — a 1.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
CMTrading
Score: 6.9/10 · Wins 4 categories- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
Deriv
Score: 7.0/10 · Wins 3 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Fast and flexible deposits & withdrawals are important
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
Deriv takes the lead with an overall score of 7/10 compared to 6.9/10, winning in 3 out of 8 scoring categories. Deriv stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while CMTrading fights back with stronger regulation and superior education resources.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, Deriv comes out ahead with a 7/10 overall rating, winning 3 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Platforms & Tools where it scores 7.5/10. Deriv holds Tier 3 regulation, though traders should verify the specific entity and jurisdiction covering their account. CMTrading is not without merit — it scores 6.9/10 overall and excels in Education (7.5/10), winning 4 categories. Traders who value stronger regulation or superior education resources may find CMTrading the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full Deriv review and CMTrading review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
Deriv wins by 0.5 points
Deriv wins by 0.5 points
CMTrading wins by 1.0 points
CMTrading wins by 1.0 points
CMTrading wins by 0.5 points
CMTrading wins by 0.5 points
Deriv wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 6.9/10 | 7.0/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $250 | $5 ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:1000 |
| Spreads From | 1.2 pips | 0.5 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, Sirix | DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X |
| Regulation | FSCA, FSC | VFSC, FSC, LFSA |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2012 | 2000 ✓ |
| Markets | 200+ ✓ | 150+ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, Deriv has the edge with a score of 7/10 versus 6.5/10 for CMTrading. CMTrading offers spreads starting from 1.2 pips, while Deriv starts from 0.5 pips. The minimum deposit at CMTrading is $250, compared to $5 at Deriv. 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
Deriv scores 7.5/10 for platforms compared to 7/10 for CMTrading. CMTrading provides MT4, Sirix, while Deriv offers DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X. 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. CMTrading is regulated by FSCA, FSC (Tier 2), while Deriv holds licenses from VFSC, FSC, LFSA (Tier 3). CMTrading scores 6.5/10 and Deriv scores 5.5/10 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, CMTrading leads with 7.5/10 compared to 6.5/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. CMTrading and Deriv 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
CMTrading offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7.5/10, while Deriv provides 24/7 Live Chat, Email with a score of 7/10. 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
CMTrading scores 7/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while Deriv scores 7.5/10. CMTrading accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin, and Deriv supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, E-wallets. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. CMTrading requires a minimum deposit of $250 versus $5 for Deriv. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose CMTrading if you...
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- Responsive customer support matters to you
- You rely on in-depth research and analysis tools
Choose Deriv if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Fast and flexible deposits & withdrawals are important
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CMTrading better than Deriv?
Deriv scores higher overall (7/10 vs 6.9/10), winning 3 of 8 categories. However, CMTrading is stronger in stronger regulation and superior education resources. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, CMTrading or Deriv?
Deriv scores higher for trading costs. CMTrading offers spreads from 1.2 pips with a $250 minimum deposit, while Deriv starts from 0.5 pips with $5 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is CMTrading safe to trade with?
CMTrading is regulated by FSCA, FSC and scores 6.5/10 for regulation. Deriv is regulated by VFSC, FSC, LFSA with a score of 5.5/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, CMTrading or Deriv?
Deriv scores 7.5/10 for platforms. CMTrading offers MT4, Sirix, while Deriv provides DTrader, DBot, DMT5, Deriv X. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for CMTrading vs Deriv?
CMTrading requires a minimum deposit of $250, while Deriv requires $5. Deriv 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.