IC Markets
LMAX
IC Markets vs LMAX
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
IC Markets and LMAX are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. IC Markets, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Sydney, Australia, is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA and offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips with a minimum deposit of $200. LMAX, established in 2010 in London, UK, holds licenses from FCA with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $1000 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, IC Markets scored 8.8/10 overall compared to LMAX's 8.8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, LMAX holds its own with stronger regulation, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
IC Markets scores 8.8/10 overall vs 8.8/10 for LMAX — a 0.0-point difference.
- 💵
IC Markets requires just $200 to start, while LMAX needs $1000 — IC Markets is 5x more accessible.
- 📈
IC Markets offers 2,200+ instruments vs 100+ at LMAX — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
IC Markets runs on MT4, MT5, cTrader, while LMAX uses LMAX Global — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Product Range: IC Markets scores 8.5 vs 6.5 for LMAX — a 2.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
IC Markets
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 5 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
LMAX
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 1 categories- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- You prefer LMAX's trading environment overall
IC Markets takes the lead with an overall score of 8.8/10 compared to 8.8/10, winning in 5 out of 8 scoring categories. IC Markets stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while LMAX fights back with stronger regulation.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, IC Markets comes out ahead with a 8.8/10 overall rating, winning 5 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Trading Costs where it scores 9.5/10. IC Markets holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. LMAX is not without merit — it scores 8.8/10 overall and excels in Regulation & Trust (9.5/10), winning 1 category. Traders who value stronger regulation may find LMAX the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full IC Markets review and LMAX review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
IC Markets wins by 0.5 points
IC Markets wins by 1.0 points
LMAX wins by 0.5 points
IC Markets wins by 1.0 points
IC Markets wins by 1.5 points
IC Markets wins by 2.0 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.8/10 ✓ | 8.8/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $200 ✓ | $1000 |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:100 |
| Spreads From | 0.0 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader | LMAX Global |
| Regulation | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | FCA |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2007 ✓ | 2010 |
| Markets | 2,200+ ✓ | 100+ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, IC Markets has the edge with a score of 9.5/10 versus 9/10 for LMAX. IC Markets offers spreads starting from 0.0 pips, while LMAX starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at IC Markets is $200, compared to $1000 at LMAX. 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
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms compared to 8/10 for LMAX. IC Markets provides MT4, MT5, cTrader, while LMAX offers LMAX Global. 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. IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA (Tier 1), while LMAX holds licenses from FCA (Tier 1). IC Markets scores 9/10 and LMAX 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.
Education & Research
For learning resources, IC Markets leads with 7/10 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. IC Markets and LMAX 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
IC Markets offers 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 8/10, while LMAX provides 24/5 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.
Deposit & Withdrawal
IC Markets scores 8.5/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while LMAX scores 7/10. IC Markets accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay, and LMAX supports Bank Transfer. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200 versus $1000 for LMAX. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose IC Markets if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
Choose LMAX if you...
- Top-tier regulation and fund safety are your priority
- You prefer LMAX's trading environment overall
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is IC Markets better than LMAX?
IC Markets scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 8.8/10), winning 5 of 8 categories. However, LMAX is stronger in stronger regulation. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, IC Markets or LMAX?
IC Markets scores higher for trading costs. IC Markets offers spreads from 0.0 pips with a $200 minimum deposit, while LMAX starts from 0.0 pips with $1000 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is IC Markets safe to trade with?
IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA and scores 9/10 for regulation. LMAX is regulated by FCA with a score of 9.5/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, IC Markets or LMAX?
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms. IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader, while LMAX provides LMAX Global. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for IC Markets vs LMAX?
IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200, while LMAX requires $1000. IC 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.