eTorovs
SkillingCrypto Exchange Comparison
Two regulated platforms square off in a clash between real crypto ownership and CFD-only trading. The choice hinges on asset access, platform depth, and regulatory protection.
Our Verdict
eToro winsClear Winner
eToro edges Skilling on the editorial score. It offers real crypto ownership across 100+ coins, while Skilling provides CFDs only.
eToro
4.4/5
Skilling
3.7/5
Key Differences
- 1Real crypto ownership on eToro vs CFDs on Skilling.
- 2eToro provides staking on ETH and other assets whereas Skilling does not.
- 3Advanced charting available on Skilling Trader with cTrader integration.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
Best for security
It’s a tie
Both equally suited
eToro wins for security due to segregated crypto custody and broad regulator coverage.
Best for low fees
Recommended
Skilling is better for low fees due to no inactivity fee and competitive crypto spreads.
eToro vs Skilling: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  eToro |  Skilling |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.4/ 5 | 3.7/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | $50 | $50 |
| Spreads From | 1 pips | 0.7 pips▼ lower |
| Taker Fee | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | $10/month (after 12 months) | $10/month (after 90 days) |
| Deposit Fee |
eToro vs Skilling Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- Real crypto ownership (not CFDs) for 100+ coins, a rare feature among regulated forex brokers
- Crypto staking available on ETH, ADA, and other eligible assets
- CopyTrader lets you mirror proven crypto portfolio strategies
- FCA, CySEC, and ASIC regulated with segregated crypto custody
Cons
- Crypto spreads average ~1% on BTC, expensive vs dedicated exchanges
eToro vs Skilling: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
eToro
criteria wins
1
Skilling
criteria win
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | eToro | Skilling |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Fail | Fail |
| Proof of reserves published | Fail | Fail |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Fail | Pass |
| Transparent pricing page | Fail | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Pass | Fail |
| DeFi integration | Fail | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Fail |
eToro vs Skilling: Frequently Asked Questions
eToro rates 4.4/5 versus 3.7/5 for Skilling. eToro edges ahead on our composite score, though both exchanges meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
Skilling lists a lower spread from 0.7, compared with eToro's 1. Crypto trading costs are typically quoted as a percentage of the trade value; check each exchange's full fee schedule, as maker/taker rates and volume discounts vary.
Both eToro and Skilling require a minimum deposit of $50 to start trading crypto.
Both eToro and Skilling hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each exchange's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, both exchanges provide negative balance protection. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each exchange's site before deciding.
eToro offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus Skilling's 2:1 cap. Margin and futures trading carry higher risk than spot crypto; confirm product availability and jurisdiction-specific limits on each exchange's website.
eToro supports Proprietary Web/Mobile, while Skilling supports cTrader, Skilling Trader, MetaTrader 4. eToro has exclusive access to Proprietary Web/Mobile. Skilling has exclusive access to cTrader and Skilling Trader and MetaTrader 4.
Skilling scores better on fee criteria (no deposit fee, no inactivity fee). Always check both exchanges' current fee schedules, as maker/taker rates and withdrawal fees vary and are subject to change.
eToro offers staking while Skilling does not according to our data. Staking lets you earn passive yield on your crypto holdings directly through the exchange. Check eToro's supported coins, lock-up terms, and estimated yields before committing.
