Choose IC Markets if you want…
Active scalpers, algorithmic traders, and high-volume traders who prioritise execution quality and tight raw spreads.
IC Markets
⭐ 4.7 / 5
VS
Tickmill
⭐ 4.5 / 5
IC Markets vs Tickmill — which broker is better in 2026?
We compared IC Markets and Tickmill across five core criteria: regulation, minimum deposit, spreads, platform choice, and overall user rating. The two brokers are evenly matched — your final choice depends on your specific trading style.
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| IC Markets | Tickmill | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | ⭐ 4.7 / 5 | ⭐ 4.5 / 5 | IC Markets |
| Regulators | ASIC, CySEC, FSA Seychelles, SCB Bahamas | FCA, CySEC, FSA Seychelles, FSCA, Labuan FSA | Tickmill |
| Min. deposit | $200 | $100 | Tickmill |
| Spreads from | 0.0 pips (Raw Spread) | 0.0 pips (Pro / Raw) | Tie |
| Max. leverage | Up to 1:30 (EU retail) / 1:500 (offshore) | Up to 1:30 (EU retail) / 1:500 (offshore) | — |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView | MT4, MT5, Tickmill Trader | IC Markets |
| Founded | 2007 | 2014 | — |
| HQ | Sydney, Australia | London, UK / Limassol, Cyprus | — |
Pros & cons compared
IC Markets pros
- ✓ Industry-leading raw spreads (0.0 pips on EUR/USD typical)
- ✓ Three platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader — one of few brokers offering cTrader
- ✓ Equinix NY4 server location — sub-millisecond execution for HFT/scalpers
- ✓ ASIC + CySEC dual-tier-1 regulation
- ✓ No restrictions on scalping, EAs, or hedging
Cons
- ✗ $200 minimum deposit — higher than budget brokers
- ✗ EU leverage capped at 1:30 retail (ESMA)
- ✗ Educational content thinner than XM / eToro
Tickmill pros
- ✓ FCA + CySEC + FSCA + Labuan tier-1 + tier-2 regulators
- ✓ Pro account spreads from 0.0 pips with $2/lot commission (lowest in industry)
- ✓ Extremely scalper-friendly — no restrictions, fast execution
- ✓ Negative balance protection across all entities
- ✓ ISO 27001 certified — strong information security
Cons
- ✗ Smaller instrument catalogue (~150 vs 2,000+ at peers)
- ✗ Limited educational content
- ✗ $100 minimum deposit higher than budget brokers
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Which one should you choose?
Choose Tickmill if you want…
Cost-sensitive scalpers and high-volume traders who prioritise the lowest commissions on FX majors.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better — IC Markets or Tickmill?
IC Markets and Tickmill are evenly matched on most measurable criteria. Your choice should depend on which specific features matter most — review the comparison table above and the "Pros & Cons" section.
Is IC Markets more regulated than Tickmill?
IC Markets holds licenses from: ASIC, CySEC, FSA Seychelles, SCB Bahamas. Tickmill holds licenses from: FCA, CySEC, FSA Seychelles, FSCA, Labuan FSA. Tickmill has more regulatory licenses, giving it broader geographic coverage.
What are the spreads at IC Markets vs Tickmill?
IC Markets spreads start from 0.0 pips (Raw Spread). Tickmill spreads start from 0.0 pips (Pro / Raw). Actual spreads vary by account type and market conditions.
Which has a lower minimum deposit, IC Markets or Tickmill?
IC Markets: $200. Tickmill: $100. Tickmill has the lower entry barrier.