WhichBrokerHead to head · data verified August 2026
XTB vs Interactive Brokers
A close call — 0.2 points apart. The winner depends on what you trade.
Pillar scores
Side by side
| Criterion | XTB | Interactive Brokers |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 8.8 | 9.0 |
| Founded | 2002 | 1978 |
| Regulation | FCA (UK), KNF (PL), CySEC (EU), DFSA (AE) | SEC/FINRA (US), FCA (UK), CBI (IE), ASIC (AU), MAS (SG) |
| Min. deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Fees | 0% commission on stocks/ETFs up to €100k monthly volume; forex spreads from 0.5 pips | Stocks from $0.0005/share (Pro) or 0 commission (Lite, US); tiny FX conversion costs |
| Platforms | xStation 5, xStation mobile | Trader Workstation, IBKR Desktop, IBKR Mobile, Client Portal |
| Markets | 6,700+ instruments: real stocks & ETFs, forex, indices, commodities CFDs | 150 markets in 34 countries: stocks, options, futures, forex, bonds, funds |
| Demo account | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Beginners, European stock investors, Forex traders | Advanced investors, Global market access, Low margin rates |
Our verdict
Choose XTB if you want beginners · european stock investors · forex traders.
Choose Interactive Brokers if you want advanced investors · global market access · low margin rates — its standout pillar in our scoring is market range.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, XTB or Interactive Brokers?
It's close: XTB scores 8.8/10 and Interactive Brokers 9.0/10 in our methodology. The right choice depends on your profile — XTB is strongest for beginners, while Interactive Brokers leads for advanced investors.
Is XTB safe?
XTB is overseen by FCA (UK), KNF (PL), CySEC (EU), DFSA (AE). Our trust score for it is 9.0/10 — see the full XTB review for the reasoning.
Is Interactive Brokers safe?
Interactive Brokers is overseen by SEC/FINRA (US), FCA (UK), CBI (IE), ASIC (AU), MAS (SG). Our trust score for it is 9.6/10 — see the full Interactive Brokers review for the reasoning.