XM
IC Markets
XM vs IC Markets
A detailed side-by-side comparison based on our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories.
XM and IC Markets are both popular choices for forex and CFD traders, but they cater to different needs and experience levels. XM, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, IFSC and offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips with a minimum deposit of $5. IC Markets, established in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA with spreads from 0.0 pips and a $200 minimum deposit. In our hands-on testing across 8 scoring categories, IC Markets scored 8.8/10 overall compared to XM's 8.5/10, making it the stronger pick for most traders. That said, XM 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
- 📊
IC Markets scores 8.8/10 overall vs 8.5/10 for XM — a 0.3-point difference.
- 💵
XM requires just $5 to start, while IC Markets needs $200 — XM is 40x more accessible.
- 📈
IC Markets offers 2,200+ instruments vs 1,000+ at XM — a massive gap in market coverage.
- 🖥️
XM runs on MT4, MT5, XM App, while IC Markets uses MT4, MT5, cTrader — different ecosystems for different trading styles.
- ⚡
The biggest gap is in Education: XM scores 9.5 vs 7.0 for IC Markets — a 2.5-point difference.
Our Verdict
XM
Score: 8.5/10 · Wins 1 categories- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
- You prefer XM's trading environment overall
IC Markets
Score: 8.8/10 · Wins 3 categories- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
IC Markets takes the lead with an overall score of 8.8/10 compared to 8.5/10, winning in 3 out of 8 scoring categories. IC Markets stands out for lower trading costs and better trading platforms, while XM fights back with superior education resources.
Detailed Verdict
After testing both brokers with real accounts, IC Markets comes out ahead with a 8.8/10 overall rating, winning 3 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. XM is not without merit — it scores 8.5/10 overall and excels in Education (9.5/10), winning 1 category. Traders who value superior education resources may find XM the better fit. For a complete breakdown, read our full IC Markets review and XM review — both include account opening walkthroughs, platform screenshots, and withdrawal test results.
Score Breakdown
IC Markets wins by 1.5 points
IC Markets wins by 0.5 points
XM wins by 2.5 points
IC Markets wins by 0.5 points
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ |
| Min Deposit Lower is better | $5 ✓ | $200 |
| Max Leverage | 1:1000 | 1:500 |
| Spreads From | 0.6 pips | 0.0 pips |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, XM App | MT4, MT5, cTrader |
| Regulation | CySEC, ASIC, IFSC | ASIC, CySEC, FSA |
| Founded Older track record highlighted | 2009 | 2007 ✓ |
| Markets | 1,000+ | 2,200+ ✓ |
Fees & Costs
When it comes to trading costs, IC Markets has the edge with a score of 9.5/10 versus 8/10 for XM. XM offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips, while IC Markets starts from 0.0 pips. The minimum deposit at XM is $5, compared to $200 at IC 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.
Trading Platforms
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms compared to 8.5/10 for XM. XM provides MT4, MT5, XM App, while IC Markets offers MT4, MT5, cTrader. 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. XM is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, IFSC (Tier 1), while IC Markets holds licenses from ASIC, CySEC, FSA (Tier 1). XM scores 9/10 and IC Markets 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, XM leads with 9.5/10 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. XM and IC 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.
Customer Support
XM offers 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone and scores 8/10, while IC Markets provides 24/7 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.
Deposit & Withdrawal
XM scores 8.5/10 for deposits and withdrawals, while IC Markets scores 8.5/10. XM accepts Bank Transfer, Credit Card, Skrill, Neteller, and IC Markets supports Bank Transfer, Credit Card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, UnionPay. Processing times, fees, and available currencies vary. XM requires a minimum deposit of $5 versus $200 for IC Markets. Always check withdrawal conditions and any potential fees before funding your account.
Which Broker Is Right for You?
Choose XM if you...
- You're a beginner who values learning resources
- You prefer a low minimum deposit ($5)
- You prefer XM's trading environment overall
Choose IC Markets if you...
- You want lower spreads and trading fees
- You need advanced trading platforms and tools
- You want access to a wider range of instruments
🗳️ Which Broker Do You Prefer?
Cast your vote — see what other traders think
Frequently Asked Questions
Is XM better than IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10), winning 3 of 8 categories. However, XM is stronger in superior education resources. The best choice depends on what matters most to your trading style.
Which has lower fees, XM or IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher for trading costs. XM offers spreads from 0.6 pips with a $5 minimum deposit, while IC Markets starts from 0.0 pips with $200 minimum. Actual trading costs depend on your instrument, volume, and account type.
Is XM safe to trade with?
XM is regulated by CySEC, ASIC, IFSC and scores 9/10 for regulation. IC Markets is regulated by ASIC, CySEC, FSA with a score of 9/10. Both hold recognized licenses, but verify the specific entity covering your region.
Which has better trading platforms, XM or IC Markets?
IC Markets scores 9/10 for platforms. XM offers MT4, MT5, XM App, while IC Markets provides MT4, MT5, cTrader. Your ideal platform depends on whether you prefer proprietary tools, MetaTrader, or third-party solutions.
What's the minimum deposit for XM vs IC Markets?
XM requires a minimum deposit of $5, while IC Markets requires $200. XM 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.