IG Markets
Plus500
IG Markets and Plus500 are two of Europe's most popular CFD providers, both offering margin trading on thousands of instruments.
Category Breakdown
Instruments
🏆 IG Markets17,000+ vs 2,800+
Platform Features
🏆 IG MarketsMT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer
Spreads
🏆 IG MarketsGenerally tighter
Simplicity
🏆 Plus500Easier for beginners
Guaranteed Stops
🏆 Plus500Available on more instruments
Track Record
🏆 IG Markets50+ years vs 16 years
Education
🏆 IG MarketsMore comprehensive resources
Spread Betting
🏆 IG MarketsTax-free for UK residents
Detailed Analysis
💰 Fees
Both are spread-based with no commissions. IG generally offers tighter spreads, especially on popular instruments.
⚡ Leverage
Both offer the same leverage under EU/UK regulations (30x forex, 20x indices, etc.).
🖥️ Platform & Features
IG's platform is far more powerful with advanced charting, MT4 support, and ProRealTime. Plus500 is simpler.
🔒 Security
Both are publicly traded and well-regulated. IG has a much longer track record (1974 vs 2008).
🎓 For Beginners
Plus500 is simpler for absolute beginners. IG is better for those willing to learn.
🏆 Our Verdict
IG Markets is objectively the better platform with more instruments, better tools, and a longer track record. Plus500 is fine for casual traders who want maximum simplicity.