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XM vs FBS (2026): Which Broker Is Actually Better?
We compare XM against FBS across spreads, regulations, platforms, and trading costs. Read our algorithmic breakdown and expert verdict to find out which broker suits your trading style in 2026.
Verdict: XM Wins
After exhaustive side-by-side testing, **XM** emerges as the overall winner in this matchup. While FBS remains an excellent choice for beginners, bonus hunters & high-leverage traders, XM proves superior due to its outstanding daily webinars and educational courses and no deposit or withdrawal fees.
XM vs FBS: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 | 2009 |
| Overall Rating | 4.7/5.0 | 4.2/5.0 |
| Minimum Deposit | $5 | $5 |
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.6 pips (Ultra Low) | 1.6 pips (Standard) | 0.7 pips (Standard) |
| Maximum Leverage | 1:1000 | 1:3000 |
| MetaTrader 4 | Yes | Yes |
| MetaTrader 5 | Yes | Yes |
| cTrader | No | No |
| TradingView | No | No |
| Copy Trading | Yes | Yes |
| Forex Pairs | 55+ | 40+ |
| Deposit Methods | Bank, Card, Skrill, Neteller | Card, Bank, Skrill, Neteller, Local |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24 hours | 15-20 minutes |
| Execution Type | Market Execution | STP |
XM vs FBS: Fee Breakdown
When comparing the trading costs between XM and FBS, it's essential to look beyond just the advertised spreads. We must factor in commissions, swap rates, and non-trading fees like deposit or inactivity charges. XM offers pricing characterized by $0 (Spread only on most accounts) alongside 0.6 pips (Ultra Low) | 1.6 pips (Standard) spreads. In contrast, FBS utilizes a model with $0 (Spread only) and 0.7 pips (Standard) spreads. For active, high-volume traders, XM provides the superior cost-efficiency curve.
| Fee Type | XM | FBS |
|---|---|---|
| EUR/USD Spread | 0.6 pips (Ultra Low) | 1.6 pips (Standard) | 0.7 pips (Standard) |
| Commission Defaults | $0 (Spread only on most accounts) | $0 (Spread only) |
| Execution Model | Market Execution | STP |
| Deposit Fees | None | None |
| Withdrawal Speed | 24 hours | 15-20 minutes |
Safety & Regulation: Is XM or FBS Safer?
Trust is paramount in forex trading. Both XM and FBS are highly regulated entities, but their jurisdictional footprints differ. XM is armed with 2 Tier-1 licenses and has been securing client funds since 2009. FBS, licensed since 2009, counters with 2 Tier-1 regulatory bodies overseeing its operations. They are evenly matched in terms of top-tier trust metrics. Both brokers employ strict client fund segregation.
XM
Tier 1- Regulators:CySEC (Cyprus)ASIC (Australia)DFSA (Dubai)IFSC (Belize)
- Investor Protection: Up to €20,000 (EU ICF)
- Licensed Since: 2009
FBS
Tier 1- Regulators:ASIC (Australia)CySEC (Cyprus)IFSC (Belize)
- Investor Protection: Up to €20,000 (CySEC ICF)
- Licensed Since: 2009
Platform & Tools Comparison
The software you trade on dictates your execution speed and analytical depth. Both brokers provide industry stalwarts, but divergencies exist. XM equips its clients with MT4, MT5, XM App. FBS, on the other hand, grants access to MT4, MT5, FBS Trader App. If you rely on third-party EA automation, this section heavily dictates your broker choice.
| Feature | XM | FBS |
|---|---|---|
| MetaTrader 4 | ||
| MetaTrader 5 | ||
| cTrader | ||
| TradingView | ||
| Proprietary Environment | Yes (FBS Trader) | |
| Copy Trading Network |
Pros & Cons: XM vs FBS
XM
Pros
- Outstanding daily webinars and educational courses
- No deposit or withdrawal fees
- Strict no re-quotes policy with 99.35% execution in <1s
- Generous loyalty program and promotions
- Micro accounts available for low-risk testing
Cons
- Spreads on Standard account are wider than competitors
- No crypto trading on weekends
- Inactivity fee of $15 applies after 90 days
FBS
Pros
- Extremely high leverage up to 1:3000
- Low $5 minimum deposit
- Regular bonus promotions
- Cent accounts available
- Fast local bank deposits
Cons
- Offshore regulation for most clients
- Limited research tools
- Wider spreads on Standard accounts
Expert Verdict: XM vs FBS
When we place XM and FBS side-by-side, we observe two distinct philosophies in client servicing. XM, licensed since 2009, has carved out a massive niche focusing on beginners, education-focused traders & low deposit users. Their execution model heavily leans into Market Execution, and their platform environment highlights MT4.
Conversely, FBS, operational out of Belize, has architected its infrastructure predominantly for beginners, bonus hunters & high-leverage traders. Their $0 (Spread only) commission structure combined with 0.7 pips (Standard) spreads makes them a formidable competitor.
The Bottom Line: If your primary directive is outstanding daily webinars and educational courses, and you intend to start with a minimum of $5, XM is the logical path forward. If, however, you value extremely high leverage up to 1:3000 and require MT4, FBS edges out the competition and earns our recommendation.
XM vs FBS: Frequently Asked Questions
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Risk Warning: Forex and CFD trading involves significant risk of loss. 68–80% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.|Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation from the brokers listed on this page. This does not influence our rankings or reviews, which are based on independent analysis.
Comparison data updated February 2026. Broker terms, spreads, and conditions vary by region and account type. See our methodology | Full Disclaimer | Privacy Policy