IC Markets vs ThinkMarkets: Which One Is Best?

2. Better Trading Platform – A Tie

A quality forex trading platform is crucial. IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide advanced charting, real-time data, and fast execution. An ideal platform is user-friendly, customizable, and secure, featuring automated and social trading options for flexibility. This review compares their platforms to determine which broker offers the best trading experience.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets are both prominent forex and CFD brokers, each boasting distinctive features and benefits. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Australia, IC Markets is celebrated for its competitive pricing, diverse selection of trading instruments, and cutting-edge trading technology. Meanwhile, ThinkMarkets, established in 2010, is a respected broker regulated by prestigious authorities like the FCA and ASIC, offering a comprehensive range of assets and a customizable trading platform tailored to individual needs.

We have created a software questionnaire if you are unsure what platform best suits your trading style. Based on six simple questions, we can recommend the best trading software for your trading needs.

MetaTrader

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is offered by both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets, making it one of the most widely used trading platforms globally. It stands out with the highest number of traders and brokers utilizing its comprehensive features. MT4 provides essential trading tools vital for forex success, including nine chart timeframes, thirty technical indicators, and four types of pending orders. Additionally, the platform features an extensive library of Expert Advisors (EAs) for automated trading, charting indicators, and signal trading, enhancing the trading experience significantly. While both brokers allow you to access the full functionality of MT4, IC Markets stands out for the following reasons:

• Larger range of instruments: IC Markets provides 61 forex pairs, compared to ThinkMarkets’ 46 pairs.
• MT4 Advanced Trader Tools: A suite of 28 EA and Indicator apps to enhance MetaTrader 4.
• Social trading options: IC Markets supports Myfxbook and ZuluTrade for copy-trading, whereas ThinkMarkets only offers
• MetaTrader Signals.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide three trading platforms each, as users have varied preferences despite needing only one quality platform.

Advanced Platforms

MetaTrader 5 (MT5) is a significant enhancement over its predecessor, MT4, featuring an expanded array of 38 technical indicators compared to 30, 68 analytical tools versus 33, and 21 timeframes as opposed to 9. Both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets offer unrestricted access to MT5, which supports scalping, hedging, and automated trading through Expert Advisors. While IC Markets enjoys a slight edge with its MT4 Advanced Trader Tools—compatible with MT5—ThinkMarkets stands out by offering an impressive selection of over 1,500 international shares and over 3,100 Australian shares, compared to the 1,600 shares available through IC Markets. Furthermore, ThinkMarkets provides access to 21 cryptocurrency CFDs, while IC Markets has 18. Additionally, ThinkMarkets enhances the trading experience with its Trading Central service, delivering an array of technical, analytical, and sentiment tools to support traders in making informed decisions.

Copy Trading

IC Markets stands out for its exceptional social trading capabilities, offering robust support for copy trading through Myfxbook and ZuluTrade. In contrast, ThinkMarkets lacks dedicated social trading tools but provides access to MetaTrader Signals via its MetaTrader trading platforms. Additionally, traders have the flexibility to incorporate their own social trading tools if they wish. With a wider array of instruments and an enhanced selection of trading tools, IC Markets emerges as the premier choice for those seeking effective copy trading solutions.

Both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets present compelling advantages. IC Markets stands out with its narrow spreads, competitive pricing, and a rich array of social trading options, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious traders. On the other hand, ThinkMarkets impresses with its lower minimum deposit, a tailored trading platform, and a wider selection of shares and cryptocurrency CFDs, appealing to those in search of flexibility and sophisticated tools. Both brokers are well-regulated and offer a variety of features designed to satisfy the diverse needs of traders in 2025.

Our Better Trading Platform Verdict

We have a deadlock in this niche coming from both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets.  This is due to both brokers better trading platform.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

3. Superior Accounts And Features – ThinkMarkets

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide trading accounts suited for various styles, with tight spreads, low commissions, and advanced tools for all levels. Both offer demo accounts, swap-free options, and a range of instruments, plus features like social and automated trading. This review will compare their offerings to determine which broker is better.

For those who practice the Islamic faith and adhere to Sharia law, engaging in swap fees is prohibited as it is deemed riba. Fortunately, numerous brokers cater to Islamic traders by offering swap-free accounts. Notably, both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide these options for their Standard and commission accounts. Instead of implementing swap fees, they impose an administration fee. IC Markets applies this fee anytime you hold a position overnight, while ThinkMarkets charges it only if a position is maintained for seven consecutive days or longer.

Both brokers offer comparable fees, charging $5 per lot for most major and minor currency pairs on a daily basis and $10 for most exotic pairs. However, ThinkMarkets may be the more cost-effective option, as they apply the administration fee only every eighth day. This means that if you close your position within the first four days, you can avoid the admin fee altogether. Additionally, ThinkMarkets provides a broader selection of products, including cryptocurrency trading, available through their Islamic account options.

Stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of forex trading with the latest trends and insights from leading brokers. IC Markets and ThinkMarkets are keeping pace with industry advancements, offering competitive spreads, state-of-the-art trading platforms, and a diverse array of trading instruments. As we move into 2025, these brokers emerge as top contenders for traders. Whether you’re dealing in EUR, USD, or AUD, both brokers provide robust swap-free account options to meet your trading needs.

Our Superior Accounts and Features Verdict

Without a doubt, ThinkMarkets outperforms the contender in this category owing it to their superior accounts and features.

ThinkMarkets ReviewVisit ThinkMarkets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.55% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

4. Best Trading Experience And Ease – IC Markets

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets strive to offer a smooth trading experience with advanced platforms, fast execution, and competitive spreads. Their user-friendly interfaces, educational resources, and excellent customer support facilitate trading for all levels. This review will compare their features to determine which broker excels in the forex market.

After examining both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets, it is evident that the trading experience is significantly shaped by the platforms they provide and their overall user-friendliness. Each broker offers three distinct trading platforms, accommodating a wide variety of traders. Based on our research and testing:

IC Markets stands out with its impressive MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform, renowned for its sophisticated technical indicators and analytical tools. In contrast, ThinkMarkets impresses with its ThinkTrader app, delivering a flawless mobile trading experience. Both brokers offer support for MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the world’s leading trading platform, yet IC Markets provides a wider array of trading instruments. Furthermore, IC Markets holds an advantage with its standard account, offering competitive spreads and unmatched transparency.

Stay ahead in the forex trading landscape with the latest trends and insights from two leading brokers: IC Markets and ThinkMarkets. Both firms are adapting to the evolving market by offering competitive spreads, cutting-edge trading platforms, and a diverse range of trading instruments. As we look toward 2025, these brokers stand out as excellent choices for traders. Whether you’re dealing in EUR, USD, or AUD, their swap-free account options ensure that you have all your trading needs met. However, only will stand out as a result of our in-depth research.

Our Best Trading Experience and Ease Verdict

Evidently, IC Markets outshines the other in this niche thanks to their best trading experience and ease.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

5. Stronger Trust And Regulation – A Tie

In forex trading, trust is crucial. A regulated broker provides security and transparency, protecting against fraud and enhancing trader confidence. Trustworthy brokers attract more traders, improving their reputation. This review compares the regulatory frameworks and security measures of IC Markets and ThinkMarkets to identify the safest option.

ThinkMarkets Trust Score

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IC Markets Trust Score

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It is evident that ThinkMarkets outperforms IC Markets in terms of trust scores. However, trust scores alone are not sufficient; we must also examine their features and platform functionalities to ensure an optimal trading experience for users.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets both boast a distinguished history and are globally regulated, establishing themselves as highly reputable brokers worth considering. Founded in May 2007 and June 2010 respectively, IC Markets and ThinkMarkets were among the early pioneers of online forex trading in Australia. While IC Markets may have greater recognition, both brokers provide powerful trading platforms and exceptional services.

IC Markets significantly outshines ThinkMarkets in popularity, attracting 3.2 million visits in January 2022 compared to ThinkMarkets’ 460,600 visits. This trend is mirrored in their Trustpilot ratings: IC Markets enjoys approximately 20,000 reviews with an impressive 4.9-star rating, while ThinkMarkets has garnered 159 reviews and holds a commendable 4.6-star rating. Both brokers are recognized as excellent by Trustpilot.

ThinkMarkets stands out with its broad regulatory reach, offering services in more regions than its competitors. Both ThinkMarkets and IC Markets are regulated by ASIC in Australia, enabling them to provide trading services in Europe. However, IC Markets is overseen by CySEC, while ThinkMarkets is regulated by the FCA. Additionally, ThinkMarkets holds regulation from the FSCA in South Africa. For traders outside these jurisdictions, both brokers operate under the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (SCB). As a result, UK and South African traders may prefer ThinkMarkets, whereas European traders might favor IC Markets. Traders in Australia and beyond have the flexibility to choose either broker based on their individual requirements.

Our Stronger Trust and Regulation Verdict

It’s a neck to neck for both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets by the reason that both have stronger trust and regulation.

ThinkMarkets ReviewVisit ThinkMarkets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.55% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

6. Top Product Range And CFD Markets – IC Markets

A great broker goes beyond low spreads and fast execution; it provides a wide array of trading options. IC Markets and ThinkMarkets both offer various CFDs for forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to profit and adapt to market changes. A diverse portfolio benefits both short-term and long-term strategies. This review will compare their market offerings to determine which broker provides the best selection for traders. Let’s dive in!

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets both excel in providing a diverse array of products and CFD markets. Renowned for their comprehensive selection of instruments, these brokers cater to a wide variety of traders. Whether your interests lie in forex, commodities, indices, or other financial instruments, you will find plenty of options with them.

IC Markets distinguishes itself with the cutting-edge MetaTrader 5 platform, featuring robust technical indicators and analytical tools. Meanwhile, ThinkMarkets excels with its ThinkTrader app, ensuring a smooth mobile trading experience. Both brokers support MetaTrader 4, the globe’s leading trading platform, but IC Markets boasts a more extensive array of trading instruments. For traders operating in EUR, USD, or AUD, these brokers offer competitive spreads, sophisticated trading platforms, and a diverse selection of trading instruments, establishing them as outstanding options for 2025.

Here’s a comparative table showcasing the range of CFDs, products, and markets available with both brokers:

Our Top Product Range and CFD Markets Verdict

Clearly, IC Markets excels in this section on the account of their top product range and CFD markets.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

7. Superior Educational Resources – IC Markets

Knowledge is crucial in forex trading, and IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide various educational resources like webinars, video tutorials, and articles. Access to quality materials enhances traders’ skills and confidence. This review compares their educational offerings to determine which broker better supports long-term success. Let’s explore!

Staying Ahead in Forex: The Power of Education

Forex trading is undergoing a significant transformation, influenced by AI-driven analysis, algorithmic trading, and heightened market volatility. In 2024, traders are increasingly prioritizing data-driven strategies and ongoing education to maintain a competitive edge. Establishing a robust educational foundation has transitioned from an option to a necessity. This is where brokers like IC Markets and ThinkMarkets play a crucial role, providing exceptional resources to empower traders in honing their skills and successfully navigating the dynamic forex landscape.

IC Markets boasts a comprehensive educational platform that includes webinars, video tutorials, and detailed articles. New traders can benefit from a demo account, access a trading glossary, and explore a frequently updated blog that delivers valuable market insights. Additionally, live webinars led by industry experts ensure that traders stay informed about the latest trends in the market.

In contrast, ThinkMarkets features a comprehensive ‘Learn to Trade’ section designed specifically for beginners. They offer a wealth of resources, including eBooks, videos, and articles, to enhance your trading knowledge. Their blog delivers insightful market analysis to keep traders informed, and their seminars and workshops offer valuable hands-on learning experiences.

So, which broker has the coolest educational stuff? Using this list, we’ll know more of their learning resources to see which one fits your trading vibe the best. Let’s jump in!

IC Markets:

• Offers a comprehensive educational section with webinars, video tutorials, and articles.
• Provides a dedicated FAQ section addressing common trading queries.
• Features a trading glossary to help beginners understand complex trading terms.
• Regularly updates its blog with market analysis and trading insights.
• Offers demo accounts for beginners to practice trading without risking real money.
• Hosts live webinars with industry experts discussing current market trends.

ThinkMarkets:

• Provides a wide range of educational materials, including eBooks, videos, and articles.
• Features a ‘Learn to Trade’ section specifically designed for beginners.
• Offers a trading glossary and FAQ section for quick reference.
• Regularly publishes market news and analysis on its blog.
• Provides demo accounts for hands-on practice and learning.
• Organises trading seminars and workshops for its users.

Our Superior Educational Resources Verdict

Based on our team’s testing, IC Markets rides high in this category because of their superior educational resources.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

8. Superior Customer Service – IC Markets

Great customer service is vital for a trader’s experience. IC Markets and ThinkMarkets offer quick, reliable support via live chat, phone, or email, available 24/7 with multilingual assistance. This strong support fosters trust and encourages traders to stay. This review will compare their service quality to identify which broker excels in customer support.

In the world of online trading, customer service is truly essential. Traders frequently encounter situations requiring immediate assistance, whether it’s technical issues, account queries, or market insights. Both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets recognize this necessity and have made substantial investments in their customer support infrastructure.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets stand out in delivering exceptional customer service, guaranteeing a smooth experience for traders. IC Markets, in particular, is renowned for its responsive and knowledgeable support team, available around the clock to address any inquiries. Clients value the swift resolution of issues, frequently praising the professionalism and efficiency exhibited by the support staff. The broker’s dedication to customer satisfaction is clearly reflected in its impressive Trustpilot rating and numerous positive reviews.

ThinkMarkets distinguishes itself through exceptional customer service, featuring a dedicated support team that responds swiftly and effectively to inquiries. Traders consistently praise the attentive and resourceful staff, who go the extra mile to address any issues that arise. With multiple channels for assistance, including live chat, email, and phone, ThinkMarkets ensures that traders receive prompt support whenever needed. The commitment of both brokers to delivering outstanding customer service positions them as reliable options for traders in 2025.

Here’s a comparative table showcasing the key customer service features of both brokers:

Amid the ever-changing and often unpredictable market dynamics, both IC Markets and ThinkMarkets have garnered noteworthy recognition for their exceptional customer support services. Traders can rest assured that they will receive timely and professional assistance through multiple channels such as live chat, phone, or email, which is particularly vital during moments of market volatility. This level of support ensures that traders can navigate their trading experiences more effectively, minimizing disruptions and enhancing their overall confidence in their trading strategies. Ultimately, the commitment to high-quality customer service by these brokers significantly contributes to a seamless trading experience, allowing traders to focus on their investment goals.

Our Superior Customer Service Verdict

Our team can surmise that IC Markets ranks highest in this section by the reason of their superior customer service.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

9. Better Funding Options – IC Markets

Flexible funding options are essential for traders, providing both convenience and efficiency in account management. As of February 20, 2025, IC Markets stands out with over 15 funding methods across 10 base currencies, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and digital wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. Importantly, IC Markets does not impose additional fees for deposits or withdrawals, although individual banking institutions may charge their own fees.

While the specifics around ThinkMarkets’ funding options aren’t readily available, traders should confidently consult their official website or reach out to their support team for the latest information.

In the current forex landscape, the EUR/USD pair has recently stalled ahead of the January high of 1.0533, signaling potential resistance at this level.

Meanwhile, the AUD/USD pair is facing downward pressure, influenced by recent interest rate cuts and its economic ties to China.

By providing multiple funding methods with minimal or no fees, traders can efficiently manage their accounts, significantly enhancing their overall trading experience.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets provide various funding methods for their global clients, including bank transfers and e-wallets. However, availability may vary by region and broker policies.

IC Markets and ThinkMarkets both offer many funding methods, but differ in specific options and fees. Traders should be aware of potential charges or limitations that could affect their trading experience.

Our Better Funding Options Verdict

Our team can easily surmise that IC Markets steals the show in this field due to their better funding options.

IC Markets ReviewVisit IC Markets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.53% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

10. Lower Minimum Deposit – ThinkMarkets

Lowering the minimum deposit in forex trading significantly expands the pool of potential traders, particularly empowering newcomers and those with limited funds. It allows individuals to dive into trading with a manageable investment, effectively dismantling financial barriers and fostering inclusivity. This strategy not only boosts market participation but also enables traders to gain valuable hands-on experience and refine their skills without the burden of hefty upfront costs.

As of February 20, 2025, IC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $200 to open a live account, which applies to their Standard, Raw, and cTrader accounts. This amount is easily accessible, enabling traders to confidently engage with the market without needing substantial initial capital. While specific minimum deposit information for ThinkMarkets isn’t readily available, I strongly recommend potential traders consult their official website or reach out to their support team for the most up-to-date details.

The EUR/USD pair is currently consolidating after a recent decline, facing resistance near the 1.0440 level. Meanwhile, the AUD/USD has recorded a modest increase, driven by Australia’s recent monetary policy decisions and overarching global market trends. For traders, staying updated on these developments is essential for effectively navigating the forex landscape.

Brokers like IC Markets and ThinkMarkets empower forex trading by providing reasonable minimum deposits. This accessibility allows a diverse range of participants to explore trading opportunities and enhance their expertise in a dynamic market environment.

ThinkMarkets Standard Account has a lower minimum deposit of $0 compared to the $200 minimum imposed by IC Markets. However, if you want to open a ThinkZero Account (ThinkMarkets’ STP account), you will need to deposit at least $500.

The table below ssummarise the required and recommended deposits of both brokers.

Our Lower Minimum Deposit Verdict

Undeniably, ThinkMarkets is having its moment in the spotlight by the reason of their lower minimum deposit.

ThinkMarkets ReviewVisit ThinkMarkets

*Your capital is at risk ‘72.55% of retail CFD accounts lose money’

So Is ThinkMarkets or IC Markets The Best Broker?

Based on the comprehensive analysis and comparison on the provided page, IC Markets emerges as the winner in most categories. Here’s a summary:

IC Markets is the winner because it outperforms ThinkMarkets in a majority of the categories. The table above summarises the key information leading to this verdict.

IC Markets: Best For Beginner Traders

For those who are just starting out in the world of trading, IC Markets is the better choice. Their comprehensive educational resources, combined with a user-friendly platform, make it an ideal choice for those new to the forex market.

IC Markets: Best For Experienced Traders

For seasoned traders looking for advanced tools, tight spreads, and a wide range of CFD markets, IC Markets stands out as the superior choice. Their offerings cater to the needs of high-volume traders and those seeking more sophisticated trading strategies.