Global Prime
IG
Global Prime vs IG
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
Global Prime and IG are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. Global Prime, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, is regulated by ASIC, VFSC and offers spreads starting from 0.0 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 Global Prime's 7.9/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, Global Prime 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
- 📊
IG scores 9.2/10 overall vs 7.9/10 for Global Prime — a 1.3-point difference.
- 💵
Global Prime requires just $0 to start, while IG needs $250 — Global Prime is 250x more accessible.
- 📈
IG offers 17,000+ instruments vs 150+ at Global Prime — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
Global Prime runs on MT4, cTrader, 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 6.0 for Global Prime — a 3.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
Global Prime
Score: 7.9/10 · Wins 1 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
- You prefer Global Prime's trading environment overall
IG
Score: 9.2/10 · Wins 6 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
- Responsive customer support matters to you
IG takes the lead with an overall score of 9.2/10 compared to 7.9/10, winning in 6 out of 8 scoring categories. IG stands out for better trading platforms and stronger regulation, while Global Prime fights back with lower trading costs.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, IG comes out ahead with a 9.2/10 overall rating, winning 6 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. Global Prime is not without merit — it scores 7.9/10 overall and excels in Trading Costs (9.0/10), winning 1 category. Traders who value lower trading costs may find Global Prime the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full IG review and Global Prime review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
Global Prime wins by 0.5 points
IG wins by 2.0 points
IG wins by 2.5 points
IG wins by 3.0 points
IG wins by 0.5 points
IG wins by 3.0 points
IG wins by 3.0 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $0 ✓ | $250 |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:200 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.6 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, cTrader | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer |
| Regulation | ASIC, VFSC | FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2010 | 1974 ✓ |
| Markets | 150+ | 17,000+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, Global Prime has the edge with a score of 9/10 versus 8.5/10 for IG. Global Prime offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while IG starts from 0.6 pips. The minimum deposit at Global Prime 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
IG scores 9.5/10 for platforms compared to 7.5/10 for Global Prime. Global Prime provides MT4, cTrader, 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. Global Prime is regulated by ASIC, VFSC (Tier 1), while IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, MAS, BaFin (Tier 1). Global Prime scores 7.5/10 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 6/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. Global Prime 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
Global Prime 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
Global Prime scores 8/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while IG scores 8/10. Global Prime accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, and IG supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. Global Prime 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 Global Prime if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($0)
- You prefer Global Prime's trading environment overall
Choose IG 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
- Responsive customer support matters to you
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Global Prime better than IG?
IG scores higher overall (9.2/10 vs 7.9/10), winning 6 of 8 categories. However, Global Prime is stronger in lower trading costs. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, Global Prime or IG?
Global Prime scores higher for trading costs. Global Prime offers spreads from 0.0 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 Global Prime safe to trade with?
Global Prime is regulated by ASIC, VFSC and scores 7.5/10 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, Global Prime or IG?
IG scores 9.5/10 for platforms. Global Prime offers MT4, cTrader, 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 Global Prime vs IG?
Global Prime requires a minimum deposit of $0, while IG requires $250. Global Prime 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.