Markets.com
XTB
Markets.com vs XTB
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
Markets.com and XTB are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. Markets.com, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA and offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips with a minimum deposit of $100. XTB, established in 2002 in Warsaw, Poland, holds licenses from FCA, CySEC, KNF with spreads from 0.5 pips and a $0 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, XTB scored 8.6/10 overall compared to Markets.com's 7.8/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, Markets.com holds its own with overall value, so your ideal broker depends on what you prioritize in a trading partner.
Key Differences at a Glance
- 📊
XTB scores 8.6/10 overall vs 7.8/10 for Markets.com — a 0.8-point difference.
- 💵
XTB requires just $0 to start, while Markets.com needs $100 — XTB is 100x more accessible.
- 📈
XTB offers 5,800+ instruments vs 2,500+ at Markets.com — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
Markets.com runs on Markets.com Platform, MT4, MT5, while XTB uses xStation 5, xStation Mobile — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Education: XTB scores 9.5 vs 7.5 for Markets.com — a 2.0-point difference.
Our Verdict
Markets.com
Score: 7.8/10 · Wins 0 categories- You prefer Markets.com's trading environment overall
XTB
Score: 8.6/10 · Wins 6 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Responsive customer support matters to you
XTB takes the lead with an overall score of 8.6/10 compared to 7.8/10, winning in 6 out of 8 scoring categories. XTB stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while Markets.com remains a solid alternative.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, XTB comes out ahead with a 8.6/10 overall rating, winning 6 out of 8 categories. Its strongest area is Education where it scores 9.5/10. XTB holds Tier 1 regulation, meaning your funds benefit from top-level investor protection including segregated accounts and compensation schemes. Markets.com is not without merit — it scores 7.8/10 overall and excels in Regulation & Trust (9.0/10). For a complete breakdown, read our full XTB review and Markets.com review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
XTB wins by 1.5 points
XTB wins by 1.0 points
XTB wins by 2.0 points
XTB wins by 1.0 points
XTB wins by 0.5 points
XTB wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $100 | $0 ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:300 | 1:500 |
| Spreads From | 0.6 pips | 0.5 pips |
| Platforms | Markets.com Platform, MT4, MT5 | xStation 5, xStation Mobile |
| Regulation | CySEC, FCA, FSCA | FCA, CySEC, KNF |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2008 | 2002 ✓ |
| Markets | 2,500+ | 5,800+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, XTB has the edge with a score of 8.5/10 versus 7/10 for Markets.com. Markets.com offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips, while XTB starts from 0.5 pips. The minimum deposit at Markets.com is $100, compared to $0 at XTB. 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
XTB scores 9/10 for platforms compared to 8/10 for Markets.com. Markets.com provides Markets.com Platform, MT4, MT5, while XTB offers xStation 5, xStation Mobile. 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. Markets.com is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA (Tier 1), while XTB holds licenses from FCA, CySEC, KNF (Tier 1). Markets.com scores 9/10 and XTB 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, XTB leads with 9.5/10 compared to 7.5/10. Quality education materials can shorten your learning curve significantly. Look for brokers offering structured courses, live webinars, and practice demo accounts. Markets.com and XTB 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
Markets.com offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 7.5/10, while XTB 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
Markets.com scores 7.5/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while XTB scores 8/10. Markets.com accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, and XTB supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. Markets.com requires a minimum deposit of $100 versus $0 for XTB. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose XTB if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- Responsive customer support matters to you
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Markets.com better than XTB?
XTB scores higher overall (8.6/10 vs 7.8/10), winning 6 of 8 categories. However, Markets.com remains competitive. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, Markets.com or XTB?
XTB scores higher for trading costs. Markets.com offers spreads from 0.6 pips with a $100 minimum deposit, while XTB starts from 0.5 pips with $0 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is Markets.com safe to trade with?
Markets.com is regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA and scores 9/10 for regulation. XTB is regulated by FCA, CySEC, KNF with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, Markets.com or XTB?
XTB scores 9/10 for platforms. Markets.com offers Markets.com Platform, MT4, MT5, while XTB provides xStation 5, xStation Mobile. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for Markets.com vs XTB?
Markets.com requires a minimum deposit of $100, while XTB requires $0. XTB 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.