Account One01
Raw Spread (cTrader)
Advertised Spread
0.0 - 0.3
Commission
Not specified
Minimum Deposit
$200
Detailed Trading Account Comparison
Trading Account Comparison: IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader)vs XM Micro
Explore differences in spreads, commissions, deposits and trading conditions, alongside a detailed review of each account's advantages and limitations.
Account Two02
Micro
Advertised Spread
1.0 – 1.5
Commission
$0
Minimum Deposit
$5
ACCOUNT OVERVIEW
What Makes IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) Different from XM Micro?
Before comparing the numbers, it is important to understand the purpose of each account and the conditions that may make it suitable for different traders.
IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader)
The IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) account is the Raw option categorized by Broker Alarab for advanced traders seeking a cTrader-focused account with tight spreads and separate commission pricing. Spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips, commission is $3 per lot, the minimum deposit is $200 and orders use Market Execution, giving it a distinct position versus the regular Raw Spread and Standard accounts.
XM Micro
The XM Micro account is designed for traders who want to trade with smaller position sizes while using a live trading environment. Based on our account data, it has spreads of 1.0–1.5 pips, no separate trading commission and a $5 minimum deposit, making it worth considering for beginners and traders focused on controlling position size and risk.
SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON
Compare Trading Accounts, Spreads, Commissions and Platforms
Review spreads, commissions, minimum deposits, trading platforms, execution methods and broker-level regulatory information.
IC Markets
Raw Spread (cTrader)
XM
Micro
01 — Basic Account Information
Compare the broker, account name, account classification and regulatory information.
Broker
IC Markets
IC Markets
XM
XM
Account Name
IC Markets
Raw Spread (cTrader)
XM
Micro
Account Type
IC Markets
raw
XM
cent
Broker Regulatory Licenses
Broker-level regulatory information. Verify which legal entity serves your country.
IC Markets
ASIC | CySEC | FSA | SCB
XM
CySEC | ASIC | DFSA | FSCA | FSC
02 — Spreads and Trading Costs
Compare the recorded trading costs without assuming undocumented pricing.
Advertised Spread Range
IC Markets
0.0 - 0.3
XM
1.0 – 1.5
Minimum Recorded Spread
Based on the available account information.
IC Markets
0
XM
1
Average Recorded Spread
IC Markets
0.1
XM
1.2
Advertised Commission
IC Markets
Not specified
XM
$0
03 — Deposits and Execution
Review account funding requirements and order execution characteristics.
Minimum Deposit
IC Markets
$200
XM
$5
Order Execution Method
IC Markets
Market Execution
XM
Market Execution
Trading Platforms
Available platforms may differ by account type.
IC Markets
MT4 | MT5 | cTrader | TradingView
XM
MT4 | MT5
04 — Account Features and Conditions
Review relevant account characteristics and trading suitability.
Scalping Suitability
An internal classification, not a guarantee of suitability.
IC Markets
Classified as suitable for scalping
XM
Not classified in this category
05 — Broker Information and Regulation
Broker-level information does not guarantee that every license applies to the selected account.
Listed Regulatory Licenses
IC Markets
ASIC | CySEC | FSA | SCB
XM
CySEC | ASIC | DFSA | FSCA | FSC
Broker Maximum Leverage
Actual leverage may depend on the account, jurisdiction and legal entity.
IC Markets
1:500
XM
1:1000
Open a Trading Account
IC Markets
Open Account ↗Information is based on records available to Broker Alarab. Trading conditions may vary by account, country and legal entity.
| Comparison Criteria | IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) | XM Micro |
|---|---|---|
01 — Basic Account Information Compare the broker, account name, account classification and regulatory information. | ||
| Broker | IC Markets | XM |
| Account Name | Raw Spread (cTrader) | Micro |
| Account Type | raw | cent |
| Broker Regulatory Licenses Broker-level regulatory information. Verify which legal entity serves your country. | ASIC | CySEC | FSA | SCB | CySEC | ASIC | DFSA | FSCA | FSC |
02 — Spreads and Trading Costs Compare the recorded trading costs without assuming undocumented pricing. | ||
| Advertised Spread Range | 0.0 - 0.3 | 1.0 – 1.5 |
| Minimum Recorded Spread Based on the available account information. | 0 | 1 |
| Average Recorded Spread | 0.1 | 1.2 |
| Advertised Commission | Not specified | $0 |
03 — Deposits and Execution Review account funding requirements and order execution characteristics. | ||
| Minimum Deposit | $200 | $5 |
| Order Execution Method | Market Execution | Market Execution |
| Trading Platforms Available platforms may differ by account type. | MT4 | MT5 | cTrader | TradingView | MT4 | MT5 |
04 — Account Features and Conditions Review relevant account characteristics and trading suitability. | ||
| Scalping Suitability An internal classification, not a guarantee of suitability. | Classified as suitable for scalping | Not classified in this category |
05 — Broker Information and Regulation Broker-level information does not guarantee that every license applies to the selected account. | ||
| Listed Regulatory Licenses | ASIC | CySEC | FSA | SCB | CySEC | ASIC | DFSA | FSCA | FSC |
| Broker Maximum Leverage Actual leverage may depend on the account, jurisdiction and legal entity. | 1:500 | 1:1000 |
| Open a Trading Account | Open Account ↗ | Open Account ↗ |
Information is presented as recorded by Broker Alarab. Spread and commission figures should not be treated as directly comparable without verifying the instrument, pricing units and fee structure.
EXPERT ANALYSIS
Broker Alarab's Assessment of Both Accounts
We review each account independently, highlighting strengths, limitations and the types of traders it may suit, without declaring an unsupported winner.
IC Markets
Raw Spread (cTrader)
XM
Micro
Broker Alarab's Assessment
We see IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) as an account that should be evaluated through both cTrader preference and Raw pricing rather than as another version of Raw Spread. Our data lists the same 0.0–0.3 pip range but a $3-per-lot commission compared with $7 on Raw Spread. Platform preference, commission and trading volume can therefore become decisive factors.
Broker Alarab's Assessment
We see the XM Micro account as most relevant to beginners and traders who prioritize smaller position sizing over finding the tightest possible spread. Its $5 minimum deposit and commission-free structure are straightforward, but spread-sensitive or more active traders should compare Micro directly with XM Ultra Low and Zero before choosing an account.
Account Advantages
- ✓Spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips according to Broker Alarab data
- ✓Commission is $3 per lot according to our data
- ✓The cTrader-focused Raw option within our IC Markets account lineup
- ✓Categorized for advanced traders
- ✓Listed commission is lower than Raw Spread while sharing the same spread range in our table
Account Advantages
- ✓Supports smaller trade sizing and more gradual control of market exposure
- ✓No separate trading commission based on our account data
- ✓Minimum deposit starts from $5
- ✓Can suit traders moving from demo to live trading
- ✓Provides a practical way to learn position sizing and risk control
Disadvantages and Considerations
- !Carries a separate $3-per-lot commission
- !A spread starting at 0.0 does not represent the complete transaction cost
- !May be less relevant to traders who do not prioritize cTrader
- !Should be compared with Raw Spread, Standard and the other Raw accounts before choosing
Disadvantages and Considerations
- !The 1.0–1.5 pip spread is not the lowest available across XM account types
- !May be less attractive to active traders focused primarily on transaction costs
- !Smaller position sizes do not remove leverage or market risk
- !Should be compared with Ultra Low and Zero when tighter spreads are the priority
Who Is This Account Suitable For?
- •Advanced traders who prefer cTrader within the IC Markets account options
- •Traders seeking to combine cTrader with a tight spread range
- •Users comparing cTrader account commission with the regular Raw Spread account
- •Traders who evaluate both spread and commission when choosing an account
Who Is This Account Suitable For?
- •Beginners who want to start live trading with smaller position sizes
- •Traders learning practical position sizing and money management
- •Users who prefer an account without a separate trading commission
- •Traders looking for an XM account with a $5 minimum deposit
Detailed Account Analysis
IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) vs Raw Spread: What Is the Difference?
According to Broker Alarab data, both accounts share 0.0–0.3 pip spreads, a $200 minimum deposit and Market Execution. The clear difference in our table is commission alongside the cTrader focus of this account. Raw Spread (cTrader) carries a $3-per-lot commission, while Raw Spread carries $7 per lot. Traders should therefore compare their preferred platform and total trading cost rather than assuming the accounts are identical because both carry the Raw Spread name.
Who Is the IC Markets cTrader Account For?
Broker Alarab categorizes Raw Spread (cTrader) for advanced traders. The account becomes particularly relevant to users specifically seeking a cTrader experience while also wanting tight Raw pricing. Platform choice alone does not determine suitability, however. Traders should also consider the $3-per-lot commission, 0.0–0.3 pip spread range and expected trading volume, allowing the account to be evaluated as a complete combination of trading workflow and cost.
IC Markets cTrader vs Standard: Which Account Fits Your Trading Style?
The pricing structures differ clearly in our data. Raw Spread (cTrader) uses 0.0–0.3 pip spreads with a $3-per-lot commission, while Standard uses 0.8–1.0 pips with no separate commission. Both have a $200 minimum deposit. Traders seeking simpler pricing may consider Standard, while those prioritizing cTrader and tighter spreads should evaluate the cTrader account after including commission in the total transaction cost.
Detailed Account Analysis
XM Micro vs Standard: What Is the Important Difference?
Micro and Standard have similar headline costs in our account data: both show spreads of 1.0–1.5 pips, no separate trading commission and a $5 minimum deposit. The more meaningful distinction is how the account is used and the position sizes it supports. Micro is more relevant to traders who want smaller sizing and gradual control over exposure, while Standard is closer to conventional standard-lot trading. The decision should therefore be based on the position-sizing structure you actually need rather than simply assuming Micro is only a beginner account.
XM Micro vs Ultra Low: Is the Lower Spread Better?
Our account data shows Micro at 1.0–1.5 pips and Ultra Low at 0.6–1.0 pips, with both accounts carrying no separate trading commission and a $5 minimum deposit. Ultra Low can therefore look more attractive when spread is the main consideration, but Micro serves a different purpose through smaller trade sizing. Traders focused on controlling position size may still prefer Micro, while those becoming more sensitive to transaction costs should compare the effective cost of both accounts.
XM Micro vs Zero: Position Size or Pricing Model?
The difference between Micro and Zero goes beyond the account names. Micro uses a commission-free pricing structure with spreads of 1.0–1.5 pips, while our data lists Zero at 0.0–0.3 pips with a $7-per-lot commission. They therefore target different priorities. Micro can make more sense for traders focused on smaller sizing and simple pricing, whereas Zero becomes more relevant to spread-sensitive traders who are comfortable evaluating total transaction cost after commission.
Important details about the IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) account
The cTrader account commission is $3 per lot in our data
Broker Alarab data lists a $3-per-lot commission for Raw Spread (cTrader). This should be considered alongside the spread when comparing trading costs.
Raw Spread and Raw Spread (cTrader) are not identical
Although their spread ranges and minimum deposits match in our data, commission differs and this account has a cTrader focus, so the two should be evaluated separately.
Choosing cTrader does not remove the importance of cost
Platform preference matters, but spread, commission and trading volume remain important factors when determining whether the account fits a trader.
Important details about the XM Micro account
A Micro account does not make trading low risk
The ability to use smaller trade sizes can help control exposure, but it does not prevent losses. Position size should still reflect account equity, leverage and the amount of capital a trader is prepared to risk.
Micro does not have the lowest XM spread in our data
Broker Alarab data lists Micro spreads at 1.0–1.5 pips. Ultra Low has a tighter displayed range, while Zero combines lower spreads with a commission, so pricing should be compared according to trading style.
Minimum deposit is not the same as suitable trading capital
Our data lists a $5 minimum deposit for XM Micro. That figure represents the account entry requirement and should not be interpreted as the amount of capital appropriate for every strategy or risk level.
DECISION GUIDE
How to Choose the Right Trading Account
Numbers alone are not enough. Account suitability depends on your trading strategy, capital, financial instruments and the conditions applicable to you.
01
Compare Spreads and Commissions Together
The recorded spread for IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) is 0.0 - 0.3, while XM Micro shows 1.0 – 1.5. Evaluating overall trading costs also requires checking commission rates, pricing units, instruments and position sizes.
02
Review Minimum Deposit Requirements
The recorded minimum deposit for IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) is $200, compared with $5 for XM Micro. A lower deposit requirement may provide more flexibility, but it does not automatically make an account better.
03
Compare Trading Platforms and Execution
Check which trading platforms each broker actually offers for the selected account, including MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5 where supported. Also review execution policies and potential slippage. Availability and conditions may vary by account and country.
04
Verify Regulation and Eligibility
Confirm the legal entity that will serve your account, the regulatory framework applicable to that entity, and whether the selected account is available in your country.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs About IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) vs XM Micro
Answers to common questions about account comparisons, trading costs and account conditions.
What is the difference between IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) and XM Micro?+
The recorded spread for IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) is 0.0 - 0.3, compared with 1.0 – 1.5 for XM Micro. The advertised commissions are Not specified and $0, respectively. You should also consider execution conditions, deposit requirements and account availability.
Is the account with the lowest spread always better?+
Not necessarily. Trading costs should be evaluated using both spreads and commissions, while considering the financial instrument, position size and execution conditions.
Can I compare two accounts from the same broker?+
Yes. Broker Alarab allows traders to compare accounts from the same broker or from different brokers.
How can I verify the trading conditions?+
Review the broker's official account specifications, applicable legal entity and trading conditions. Spreads, commissions and leverage may vary by instrument, account and jurisdiction.
What is the IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) account?+
The IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) account is the cTrader-focused Raw option and is categorized by Broker Alarab for advanced traders. According to our data, spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips, commission is $3 per lot, the minimum deposit is $200 and orders use Market Execution. It differs from the regular Raw Spread account in our table through its commission and cTrader focus.
What is the IC Markets cTrader spread and commission?+
According to Broker Alarab data, Raw Spread (cTrader) spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips and commission is $3 per lot. A spread starting at 0.0 does not mean trading is cost-free because commission must be included when evaluating each transaction. Traders should therefore consider both components, particularly when operating at greater volume or frequency.
What is the IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) minimum deposit?+
The IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) minimum deposit listed in Broker Alarab data is $200. This matches the minimum currently stored for the other IC Markets accounts in our table. The amount represents the account requirement in our database and should not be interpreted as a recommendation for suitable trading capital or risk.
What is the difference between IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) and Raw Spread?+
According to our data, both accounts use 0.0–0.3 pip spreads, a $200 minimum deposit and Market Execution. Raw Spread (cTrader) carries a $3-per-lot commission, while Raw Spread carries a $7-per-lot commission. The cTrader account is also categorized for advanced traders in our data, making both platform preference and trading cost important comparison factors.
What is the XM Micro account?+
The XM Micro account is a trading account built around smaller position sizing compared with conventional standard-lot trading. Broker Alarab data lists spreads of 1.0–1.5 pips, no separate trading commission and a $5 minimum deposit. This can make the account relevant to beginners and traders who want more granular control over market exposure.
What is the XM Micro account minimum deposit?+
The minimum deposit listed in our data for the XM Micro account is $5. The minimum deposit is an account requirement rather than a recommendation for suitable trading capital. The amount actually used for trading should reflect position size, leverage, strategy and the level of risk the trader is prepared to accept.
Explore Both Trading Accounts in Detail
Review the full account information, compare trading conditions and verify the broker's requirements before opening an account.