Broker Alarab
Detailed Trading Account Comparison

Trading Account Comparison: IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader)vs XM Zero

Explore differences in spreads, commissions, deposits and trading conditions, alongside a detailed review of each account's advantages and limitations.

ACCOUNT OVERVIEW

What Makes IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) Different from XM Zero?

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 Zero

The XM Zero account targets traders who prioritize tight spreads and are comfortable with a separate commission-based pricing model. Based on Broker Alarab account data, spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips, commission is $7 per lot, the minimum deposit is $5 and orders use Market Execution, making Zero distinctly different from XM Standard and Ultra Low.

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
Zero

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
Zero

Account Type

IC Markets
raw
XM
raw

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
0.0 – 0.3

Minimum Recorded Spread

Based on the available account information.

IC Markets
0
XM
0

Average Recorded Spread

IC Markets
0.1
XM
0.2

Advertised Commission

IC Markets
Not specified
XM
Not specified

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

Information is based on records available to Broker Alarab. Trading conditions may vary by account, country and legal entity.

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 logo

IC Markets

Raw Spread (cTrader)

XM logo

XM

Zero

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 XM Zero as particularly relevant to active and spread-sensitive traders rather than those simply looking for the easiest pricing model. Its 0.0–0.3 pip range is the tightest among the XM accounts in our data, but the $7-per-lot commission means the real comparison should be based on total cost versus Ultra Low and Standard.

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

  • ✓Displayed spread range of 0.0–0.3 pips based on Broker Alarab data
  • ✓Tightest displayed spread range among the XM accounts in our dataset
  • ✓Can suit active and spread-sensitive traders
  • ✓Minimum deposit starts from $5
  • ✓Separates part of the trading cost into a clearly stated per-lot commission

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

  • !Carries a $7-per-lot trading commission according to our account data
  • !Tighter spreads do not guarantee the lowest total cost on every trade
  • !Its pricing model requires traders to evaluate spread and commission together
  • !Ultra Low may be simpler for traders who prefer no separate commission

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?

  • •Traders who place a high priority on tight spreads
  • •Active traders comparing execution costs across a larger number of trades
  • •Users comfortable with part of their trading cost being charged as a defined per-lot commission
  • •Traders directly comparing XM’s tighter-spread Zero account with Ultra Low

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 Zero vs Ultra Low: Which Account Has Lower Trading Costs?

This is the key comparison when evaluating XM Zero. Broker Alarab data lists Zero spreads at 0.0–0.3 pips with a $7-per-lot commission, while Ultra Low is listed at 0.6–1.0 pips with no separate commission. Zero therefore has a clear advantage in displayed spread range, but that does not prove it is cheaper overall. Traders should add the Zero commission to the spread cost and compare the result with Ultra Low according to instrument, trade size and trading frequency.

XM Zero vs Standard: Is the Lower Spread Worth the Commission?

The two accounts use clearly different pricing models. Our data lists Standard at 1.0–1.5 pips with no separate trading commission, compared with 0.0–0.3 pips and a $7-per-lot commission for Zero. Looking at spread alone favors Zero, but a proper cost comparison must include commission. Standard provides simpler commission-free pricing, while Zero gives spread-sensitive traders a tighter displayed range in exchange for a separate and measurable trading charge.

Is the XM Zero Account Good for Scalping and Active Trading?

The tighter displayed spread range makes XM Zero worth evaluating for active traders and strategies that are particularly sensitive to entry and exit costs. Suitability cannot be determined from spread alone, however. As trading frequency and volume increase, the $7-per-lot commission becomes an increasingly important part of total cost. Active traders should therefore compare the effective cost of Zero with Ultra Low using their own position sizes and trading frequency.

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 Zero account

Zero does not mean zero trading cost

The account name and tight spread range do not mean trading is free. Our data lists spreads of 0.0–0.3 pips together with a $7-per-lot commission, so both components need to be included when evaluating cost.

The lowest spread does not always mean the cheapest account

Zero has the tightest displayed spread range among the XM accounts in our data, but Ultra Low has no separate trading commission. Total cost can therefore differ according to trade size, instrument and trading frequency.

Minimum deposit does not define suitable trading capital

Our data lists a $5 minimum deposit for XM Zero, but this is an account requirement rather than a recommended trading balance. Capital and position size should reflect strategy, leverage and acceptable risk.

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 Zero shows 0.0 – 0.3. 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 Zero. 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 Zero

Answers to common questions about account comparisons, trading costs and account conditions.

What is the difference between IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) and XM Zero?+
The recorded spread for IC Markets Raw Spread (cTrader) is 0.0 - 0.3, compared with 0.0 – 0.3 for XM Zero. The advertised commissions are Not specified and Not specified, 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 Zero account?+
The XM Zero account uses a low-spread pricing model with a separate per-lot commission. According to Broker Alarab account data, XM Zero spreads range from 0.0–0.3 pips, commission is $7 per lot, the minimum deposit is $5 and orders use Market Execution. This distinguishes Zero from Standard and Ultra Low, which have no separate trading commission in our data.
What is the XM Zero spread and commission?+
Broker Alarab data lists the XM Zero spread at 0.0–0.3 pips with a $7-per-lot commission. This is the tightest displayed spread range among the XM accounts in our dataset, but the commission needs to be included when comparing total trading cost with XM Ultra Low or Standard rather than judging the account by spread alone.

Explore Both Trading Accounts in Detail

Review the full account information, compare trading conditions and verify the broker's requirements before opening an account.