AvaTrade vs EasyMarkets – UK Trader Comparison 2026

For United Kingdom traders, trading costs directly impact profitability. AvaTrade offers variable spreads starting from 0.9 pips on EUR/USD with no commission on standard accounts, making it cost-effective for higher volume traders. EasyMarkets uses fixed spreads (e.g., 1.2 pips on EUR/USD) with no commission, which is predictable but often wider than AvaTrade’s variable spreads during liquid market hours. On GBP pairs, AvaTrade’s spreads are typically 0.5–1.0 pips tighter than EasyMarkets. However, EasyMarkets has no hidden fees for inactivity or account maintenance, while AvaTrade charges a $50 quarterly inactivity fee after three months. Professional UK traders who trade in high volumes will find AvaTrade’s lower spreads more beneficial, while casual traders may prefer EasyMarkets’ fixed cost structure.

AvaTrade offers a broader selection of trading platforms tailored to UK traders: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, AvaTradeGO (mobile), and DupliTrade for copy trading. EasyMarkets provides only its proprietary web platform and a mobile app, which are user-friendly but lack advanced charting and automation features. UK traders who rely on expert advisors (EAs) or custom indicators will prefer AvaTrade’s MT4/MT5 compatibility. EasyMarkets’ platform has built-in risk management tools like deal cancellation (for a fee) and guaranteed stop-loss, which can appeal to less experienced traders. Both platforms are available on desktop and mobile, but AvaTrade’s ecosystem is more versatile for active and algorithmic traders.

AvaTrade uses straight-through processing (STP) execution on its MT4/MT5 platforms, with no dealing desk intervention, resulting in average execution speeds of under 50ms. EasyMarkets acts as market maker with its proprietary platform, offering instant execution but with the potential for requotes during volatile markets. For day traders and scalpers, AvaTrade’s execution is more reliable and faster, while EasyMarkets’ execution is suitable for longer-term positions. Slippage is minimal at both, though EasyMarkets’ guaranteed stop-loss feature eliminates slippage on stop orders for a small premium. UK traders should note that no broker can guarantee zero slippage during news events.

Both AvaTrade and EasyMarkets are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom, providing a high level of client protection. The FCA imposes strict rules including negative balance protection, segregation of client funds, and leverage limits of 1:30 for retail clients (1:50 on major forex for professionals with eligibility). AvaTrade operates under FCA reference number 504688, while EasyMarkets holds FCA number 553814. UK traders can verify both licences on the FCA register. Importantly, both firms must adhere to the FCA’s principles for businesses, ensuring fair treatment and transparent communication. Professional clients at AvaTrade can request higher leverage after meeting criteria, whereas EasyMarkets offers a fixed maximum of 1:30 for all retail accounts without a professional option.

United Kingdom traders benefit from multiple deposit and withdrawal methods at both brokers. AvaTrade supports Bank Transfer, Faster Payments, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and major credit/debit cards. EasyMarkets accepts Bank Transfer, Faster Payments, PayPal, Skrill, and cards. Funds deposited via Faster Payments, PayPal, or Skrill are credited instantly, with no fees from either broker (though third-party charges may apply). Withdrawals are processed within 1-2 business days at both; AvaTrade forwards withdrawals via the same method used for deposit where possible, while EasyMarkets charges a £3 fee for bank withdrawals. Minimum deposits are similar: AvaTrade requires £100 (or equivalent), EasyMarkets requires £50. Both brokers offer GBP account support, so UK traders avoid currency conversion fees. For high-volume traders, AvaTrade offers more deposit options, including cryptocurrencies, but for most UK users, the core methods are equally convenient.

Muslim traders in the United Kingdom can open Islamic (swap-free) accounts at both AvaTrade and EasyMarkets. These accounts comply with Sharia law by not charging or paying overnight interest on positions. UK traders must apply via customer support and typically sign a declaration confirming they are Muslim. AvaTrade offers Islamic accounts for all account types including Standard and ECN, with no additional fees. EasyMarkets provides Islamic accounts on request but applies a small administrative fee for positions held beyond one day, which is less transparent. AvaTrade’s Islamic account offers a wider range of instruments without extra costs. Both brokers require that Islamic accounts are not used for pure hedging or long-term swaps in a non-compliant manner. For UK Muslim traders, AvaTrade’s Islamic offering is more flexible and cost-effective.

Customer support for United Kingdom traders is available via live chat, email, and phone from both brokers. AvaTrade offers 24/5 support with a dedicated UK phone number and an email response within 4 hours. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 live chat and phone support with a local UK line, plus 24/7 email support. In terms of language, both offer English support. EasyMarkets is slightly faster on live chat response times (under 30 seconds), while AvaTrade’s phone support is more comprehensive for technical issues. Neither broker offers weekend phone support, but AvaTrade’s FAQ and knowledge base are more extensive for self-help.