IG vs Interactive Brokers
Can't decide between IG and Interactive Brokers? We've put both brokers head-to-head. Compare their spreads, regulation, platforms, and fees below.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Executive Summary
IG and Interactive Brokers are both well-established forex brokers, but they serve different types of traders. IG scores 99/100 in our TrustMetrics™ system, edging ahead of Interactive Brokers's 98/100.
On pricing, Interactive Brokers offers tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips vs 0.7 pips). IG supports IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer while Interactive Brokers offers TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs, giving Interactive Brokers more platform options.
For regulation, IG holds licenses from FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS while Interactive Brokers is regulated by SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI. Both brokers offer segregated client funds and are considered safe for retail trading.
The Verdicts
Most Trusted
IG scores higher in our TrustMetrics system (99/100) compared to Interactive Brokers (98/100), making it the safer choice.
Lowest Spreads
Interactive Brokers offers better pricing with an average EUR/USD spread of 0.1 pips, beating the 0.7 pip average of its competitor.
Best for Beginners
With a lower minimum deposit requirement of $0, Interactive Brokers is the more accessible option for new traders.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | IG | Interactive Brokers |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 99/100 | 98/100 |
| Spreads From | 0.6 pips | $0 commission (IBKR Lite) |
| Avg EUR/USD Spread | 0.7 pips | 0.1 pips |
| Commission | $0 | $0.20 min/order |
| Execution Speed | 22ms | < 10ms |
| Max Leverage | 1:200 | 1:50 |
| Minimum Deposit | $250 | $0 |
| Instruments | 17,000+ | 10,000+ |
| Account Types | CFD, Spread Betting, DMA | IBKR Lite, IBKR Pro |
| Platforms | IG Platform, MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer | TWS, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal, IBKR APIs |
| Top Regulators | FCA, ASIC, CFTC, MAS | SEC, FCA, SFC, MAS, CIRO, CBI |
| Withdrawal Speed | 1-3 business days | 1-3 business days |
| Inactivity Fee | $18 per month (after 24 months) | $0 (Eliminated in 2021) |
| Customer Support | 24/5 Live Chat, Email, Phone | 24/6 Live Chat, Email, Phone, Ticket System |
Which Broker Should You Choose?
Choose IG if...
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓You are a beginner and value education and simplicity
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
Choose Interactive Brokers if...
- ✓You want to start with a very low minimum deposit
- ✓You need the tightest possible spreads for scalping
- ✓You need access to a massive range of instruments
- ✓Maximum regulatory protection is your top priority
IG Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unmatched regulatory trust with 6+ Tier-1 licenses
- ✓ Massive selection of 17,000+ tradable instruments
- ✓ World-class educational resources (IG Academy)
- ✓ Premium proprietary trading platform with guaranteed stops
Cons
- × No MT5 platform available
- × Spreads can be wider than raw ECN competitors
- × High minimum deposit for bank transfers
Interactive Brokers Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Access to 150+ markets in 34 countries — unmatched global reach
- ✓ Publicly traded on NASDAQ (IBKR) with $15B+ market cap — ultimate transparency
- ✓ Industry-lowest margin rates starting at 5.83% (Benchmark + 1.5%)
- ✓ Fractional shares, options, futures, bonds, and forex all in one account
- ✓ Advanced order types and algos via Trader Workstation (TWS)
- ✓ IBKR Lite offers $0 commissions on US stocks and ETFs
Cons
- × TWS has a steep learning curve — intimidating for complete beginners
- × No MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5 support
- × Customer support can have long wait times during peak hours
- × Limited deposit methods — no e-wallet support (Skrill, Neteller, PayPal)
- × Currency conversion fee of 0.002% (min $2) for non-base currency trades
The Bottom Line: IG vs Interactive Brokers
- ✓ Instrument Variety
- ✓ Regulatory Trust
- ✓ Research
- ✓ UK Traders
- ✓ Global Market Access
- ✓ Low Margin Rates
- ✓ Professional Trading
- ✓ Multi-Asset Investing
- ✓ Institutional-Grade Execution
- ✓ Tighter EUR/USD spreads (0.1 pips)
- ✓ No minimum deposit
Both brokers are featured in our top broker rankings. Your choice should depend on your specific trading style, preferred platform, and geographical location.
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