FBS
Tickmill
FBS vs Tickmill
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
FBS and Tickmill are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. FBS, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Belize City, Belize, is regulated by IFSC, CySEC and offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips with a minimum deposit of $5. Tickmill, established in 2014 in Limassol, Cyprus, holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSA with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $100 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, Tickmill scored 8.2/10 overall compared to FBS's 7.2/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, FBS holds its own with superior education resources, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
Tickmill scores 8.2/10 overall vs 7.2/10 for FBS — a 1.0-point difference.
- 💵
FBS requires just $5 to start, while Tickmill needs $100 — FBS is 20x more accessible.
- 📈
Tickmill offers 500+ instruments vs 250+ at FBS — a notable difference in market coverage.
- 🖥️
FBS runs on MT4, MT5, FBS Trader App, while Tickmill uses MT4, MT5 — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Regulation & Trust: Tickmill scores 9.0 vs 6.5 for FBS — a 2.5-point difference.
Our Verdict
FBS
Score: 7.2/10 · Wins 1 categories- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
- You prefer FBS's trading environment overall
Tickmill
Score: 8.2/10 · Wins 6 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
Tickmill takes the lead with an overall score of 8.2/10 compared to 7.2/10, winning in 6 out of 8 scoring categories. Tickmill stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while FBS fights back with superior education resources.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, Tickmill comes out ahead with a 8.2/10 overall rating, winning 6 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Trading Costs where it scores 9.0/10. Tickmill holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. FBS is not without merit — it scores 7.2/10 overall and excels in Deposit & Withdrawal (8.0/10), winning 1 category. Traders who value superior education resources may find FBS the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full Tickmill review and FBS review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
Tickmill wins by 2.0 points
Tickmill wins by 0.5 points
Tickmill wins by 2.5 points
FBS wins by 0.5 points
Tickmill wins by 0.5 points
Tickmill wins by 0.5 points
Tickmill wins by 1.0 points
Full Feature Comparison
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, Tickmill has the edge with a score of 9/10 versus 7/10 for FBS. FBS offers spreads starting from 0.7 pips, while Tickmill starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at FBS is $5, compared to $100 at Tickmill. 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
Tickmill scores 7.5/10 for platforms compared to 7/10 for FBS. FBS provides MT4, MT5, FBS Trader App, while Tickmill offers MT4, MT5. 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. FBS is regulated by IFSC, CySEC (Tier 1), while Tickmill holds licenses from CySEC, FCA, FSA (Tier 1). FBS scores 6.5/10 and Tickmill 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, FBS leads with 7.5/10 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. FBS and Tickmill 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
FBS offers 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7/10, while Tickmill provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone 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
FBS scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while Tickmill scores 8/10. FBS accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, Sticpay, and Tickmill supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. FBS requires a minimum deposit of $5 versus $100 for Tickmill. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose FBS if you...
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
- You prefer FBS's trading environment overall
Choose Tickmill 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 FBS better than Tickmill?
Tickmill scores higher overall (8.2/10 vs 7.2/10), winning 6 of 8 categories. However, FBS is stronger in superior education resources. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, FBS or Tickmill?
Tickmill scores higher for trading costs. FBS offers spreads from 0.7 pips with a $5 minimum deposit, while Tickmill starts from 0.0 pips with $100 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is FBS safe to trade with?
FBS is regulated by IFSC, CySEC and scores 6.5/10 for regulation. Tickmill is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSA with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, FBS or Tickmill?
Tickmill scores 7.5/10 for platforms. FBS offers MT4, MT5, FBS Trader App, while Tickmill provides MT4, MT5. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for FBS vs Tickmill?
FBS requires a minimum deposit of $5, while Tickmill requires $100. FBS 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.