IG vs CMC Markets
IG is the stronger all-round UK broker for trading and investing, while CMC Markets appeals to serious active traders with advanced charting and competitive spreads.
Our Verdict
IG is the best all-round UK broker for combined trading and investing. CMC Markets is the stronger choice for dedicated active traders who prioritise advanced charting and tighter spreads. There is no universal winner — the right choice depends on how you trade.
Quick Verdict
Choose IG if…
- You want a broad, all-round UK broker combining CFDs, spread betting, and longer-term investing (shares, ISA/SIPP)
- You are a beginner looking for a gentler learning curve
- You want investing and trading in one place
Choose CMC Markets if…
- You are an active trader who values advanced charting and research tools
- You want a powerful proprietary platform for CFDs and spread betting
- You prioritise tighter spreads on core trading markets
At a Glance
Detailed Comparison
| Broker | Fees | Platforms | Markets | Regulation | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1IG | spread-only | Web, Mobile, MT4 | forex, indices, commodities, stocks | FCA | £0 |
| spread-only | Web, Mobile, MT4 | forex, indices, commodities, stocks | FCA | £0 |
Regulation & Safety
IG
- FCA authorised with segregated client funds
- Negative balance protection and FSCS protection on eligible cash
- Publicly listed company
CMC Markets
- FCA authorised with segregated client funds
- Negative balance protection and FSCS protection on eligible cash
- London-based with long operating history
Verdict: Regulatory protection is comparable. Safety is not a differentiator here.
Pricing & Costs
IG
- CFDs / Spread betting: spread-based pricing
- Shares & ETFs: commission-free online trades, but custody and FX fees may apply
- Overnight funding on leveraged positions
- Some advanced tools incur fees unless activity thresholds are met
CMC Markets
- Generally competitive spreads on FX and indices
- Commission applies on share CFDs
- Overnight funding on leveraged positions
- No minimum deposit
Verdict: CMC Markets often wins on pure trading costs. IG wins on product flexibility, not raw pricing.
Platforms & Tools
IG
- Web platform with advanced charting
- Mobile trading app
- ProRealTime (advanced charting — fee applies unless activity thresholds met)
- MetaTrader 4 (limited availability)
- Strength: breadth and stability. Limitation: tool ecosystem can feel fragmented
CMC Markets
- Next Generation platform (flagship) — highly advanced charting and technical tools
- MetaTrader 4 available
- Strong in-platform research and pattern recognition
- Strength: one of the strongest proprietary trading platforms in the UK. Limitation: can feel complex for beginners
Market & Product Coverage
IG
- Forex & CFDs, Spread Betting, Share CFDs
- Real Shares & ETFs — direct ownership available
- ISA / SIPP accounts available
CMC Markets
- Forex & CFDs, Spread Betting, Share CFDs
- No real shares or ETFs — trading-focused only
- No ISA / SIPP accounts
Verdict: IG offers broader product coverage. CMC is trading-focused, not investing-focused.
Fees Beyond Spreads
- Overnight financing on leveraged positions
- Currency conversion fees
- Inactivity fees after long dormancy
Verdict: IG has more moving parts due to investing products. CMC is simpler but narrower in scope.
Risks & Considerations
- CFDs and spread betting are leveraged — losses can exceed deposits
- Financing costs accumulate on longer holds
- Spread widening can occur in volatile markets
- Neither broker is suitable for passive buy-and-hold investing via CFDs
Trading Style Suitability
| Trader Type | Better Choice |
|---|---|
| Beginner | IG |
| Casual trader | IG |
| Active day trader | CMC Markets |
| Technical analyst | CMC Markets |
| Swing trader | Tie |
| Investor + trader | IG |
Strengths & Weaknesses
IG
Strengths
- Broad market access — forex, indices, CFDs, shares, ETFs
- FCA regulation with segregated client funds and potential FSCS protection
- ISA, GIA and SIPP support for long-term investing alongside derivatives
- Advanced platforms with charting, research tools and demo account
Weaknesses
- Customer service wait times and mixed support experiences reported
- Costs for some products are not the lowest on the market
- Platform complexity can feel overwhelming for absolute beginners
CMC Markets
Strengths
- FCA regulation with segregated client funds and potential FSCS protection
- Powerful 'Next Generation' platform with advanced charting and research
- Broad coverage — thousands of CFD instruments
- No minimum deposit requirement
Weaknesses
- Platform complexity may overwhelm beginners
- Costs on share CFDs and overnight financing can be above cheaper alternatives
- No direct ownership of real shares or ETFs via the CFD entity
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper: IG or CMC Markets?
For active CFD trading, CMC is often cheaper. For mixed investing and trading, IG may offer better overall value.
Which has the better trading platform?
CMC Markets' Next Generation platform is generally more advanced for technical traders.
Are both FCA regulated?
Yes — both are fully FCA regulated in the UK.
Can I invest long-term with CMC Markets?
Only via CFDs. IG supports real share investing, ISAs and SIPPs.
Which is better for beginners?
IG is usually easier to start with.
Methodology & Disclosure
This comparison is based on FCA regulatory status, public fee schedules, platform capabilities, product coverage, and consistent user-feedback themes. It is not financial advice. Affiliate relationships do not influence rankings.
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation when you click on links to brokers and products featured on this site. This compensation does not influence our rankings, reviews, or recommendations. We maintain editorial independence and provide objective comparisons. Read our full disclosure policy.
Risk Warning: This website does not provide financial, investment, or trading advice. All information is for educational purposes only. Trading and investing involve substantial risk of loss. You should carefully consider your financial situation and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions.
Last updated: 2026-01-15