FP Markets

FP Markets

🟢 Tier 1 Regulated
8.2
/ 10
vs
CMC Markets

CMC Markets

🟢 Tier 1 Regulated
8.8
/ 10

FP Markets vs CMC Markets

A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.

FP Markets and CMC Markets are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. FP Markets, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is regulated by ASIC, CySEC and offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips with a minimum deposit of $100. CMC Markets, established in 1989 in London, UK, holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, BaFin with spreads from 0.7 pips and a $0 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, CMC Markets scored 8.8/10 overall compared to FP Markets's 8.2/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, FP Markets holds its own with lower trading costs, 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 8.2/10 for FP Markets — a 0.6-point difference.

  • 💵

    CMC Markets requires just $0 to start, while FP Markets needs $100 — CMC Markets is 100x more accessible.

  • 🖥️

    FP Markets runs on MT4, MT5, cTrader, IRESS, while CMC Markets uses Next Generation, MT4 — different ecosystems for different trading styles.

  • The biggest gap is in Research & Analysis: CMC Markets scores 9.0 vs 7.5 for FP Markets — a 1.5-point difference.

Our Verdict

FP Markets

FP Markets

Score: 8.2/10 · Wins 1 categories
  • You want lower spreads and trading fees
  • You prefer FP Markets's trading environment overall
🏆 WINNER
CMC Markets

CMC Markets

Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 5 categories
  • You're a beginner who values learning resources
  • You need advanced trading platforms and tools
  • Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
  • You want access to a wider range of instruments

CMC Markets takes the lead with an overall score of 8.8/10 compared to 8.2/10, winning in 5 out of 8 scoring categories. CMC Markets stands out for better trading platforms and stronger regulation, while FP Markets fights back with lower trading costs.

Detailed Verdict

After testing both brokers with real accounts, CMC Markets comes out ahead with a 8.8/10 overall rating, winning 5 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. FP Markets is not without merit — it scores 8.2/10 overall and excels in Trading Costs (8.5/10), winning 1 category. Traders who value lower trading costs may find FP Markets the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full CMC Markets review and FP Markets review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.

Score Breakdown

FP Markets
CMC Markets
Trading Costs
8.5 8.0

FP Markets wins by 0.5 points

Platforms & Tools
8.5 9.5

CMC Markets wins by 1.0 points

Regulation & Trust
8.5 9.5

CMC Markets wins by 1.0 points

Education
7.0 8.0

CMC Markets wins by 1.0 points

Customer Service
8.0 8.0
Research & Analysis
7.5 9.0

CMC Markets wins by 1.5 points

Deposit & Withdrawal
8.0 8.0
Product Range
8.0 9.5

CMC Markets wins by 1.5 points

Full Feature Comparison

Structured broker facts pulled from the shared broker dataset.
Feature
Overall Score
8.2/10
8.8/10
Min Deposit
Lower is better
$100
$0
Max Leverage
1:500
1:500
Spreads From
0.0 pips
0.7 pips
Platforms
MT4, MT5, cTrader, IRESS
Next Generation, MT4
Regulation
ASIC, CySEC
FCA, ASIC, BaFin
Founded
Older track record highlighted
2005
1989
Markets
10,000+
10,000+
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 0
💰

Fees & Costs

🏅 Section Winner: FP Markets (8.5 vs 8.0)

When it comes to trading costs, FP Markets has the edge with a score of 8.5/10 versus 8/10 for CMC Markets. FP Markets offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while CMC Markets starts from 0.7 pips. The minimum deposit at FP Markets is $100, compared to $0 at CMC Markets. 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.

FP Markets
8.5
CMC Markets
8.0
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 1
🖥️

Trading Platforms

🏅 Section Winner: CMC Markets (8.5 vs 9.5)

CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 for platforms compared to 8.5/10 for FP Markets. FP Markets provides MT4, MT5, cTrader, IRESS, while CMC Markets offers Next Generation, MT4. 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.

FP Markets
8.5
CMC Markets
9.5
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 2
🛡️

Regulation & Safety

🏅 Section Winner: CMC Markets (8.5 vs 9.5)

Regulation is crucial for fund safety. FP Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC (Tier 1), while CMC Markets holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, BaFin (Tier 1). FP Markets scores 8.5/10 and CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 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.

FP Markets
8.5
CMC Markets
9.5
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 3
📚

Education & Research

🏅 Section Winner: CMC Markets (7.0 vs 8.0)

For learning resources, CMC Markets leads with 8/10 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. FP Markets and CMC Markets 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.

FP Markets
7.0
CMC Markets
8.0
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 3
🎧

Customer Support

FP Markets offers 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 8/10, while CMC Markets provides 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone with a score of 8/10. 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.

FP Markets
8.0
CMC Markets
8.0
FP Markets: 1 CMC Markets: 3
💳

Deposit & Withdrawal

FP Markets scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while CMC Markets scores 8/10. FP Markets accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and CMC Markets supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. FP Markets requires a minimum deposit of $100 versus $0 for CMC Markets. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.

FP Markets
8.0
CMC Markets
8.0

Which Broker Is Right for You?

FP Markets

Choose FP Markets if you...

  • You want lower spreads and trading fees
  • You prefer FP Markets's trading environment overall
Visit FP Markets
CMC Markets

Choose CMC Markets if you...

  • You're a beginner who values learning resources
  • You need advanced trading platforms and tools
  • Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
  • You want access to a wider range of instruments
Visit CMC Markets

🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?

Cast your vote — see what other traders think

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FP Markets better than CMC Markets?

CMC Markets scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 8.2/10), winning 5 of 8 categories. However, FP Markets is stronger in lower trading costs. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.

Which has lower fees, FP Markets or CMC Markets?

FP Markets scores higher for trading costs. FP Markets offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $100 minimum deposit, while CMC Markets starts from 0.7 pips with $0 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.

Is FP Markets safe to trade with?

FP Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC and scores 8.5/10 for regulation. CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, BaFin with a score of 9.5/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.

Which has better trading platforms, FP Markets or CMC Markets?

CMC Markets scores 9.5/10 for platforms. FP Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, IRESS, while CMC Markets provides Next Generation, MT4. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.

What's the minimum deposit for FP Markets vs CMC Markets?

FP Markets requires a minimum deposit of $100, while CMC Markets requires $0. 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.

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