Alpari Internationalvs
FXCMForex Broker Comparison
In a head-to-head comparison, both brokers provide MT4/MT5 and 24/5 support, but their regulatory regimes and platform ecosystems pull in different directions.
Our Verdict
FXCM winsby 0.2 pts
Alpari International and FXCM are closely matched overall. FXCM differentiates itself primarily through top-tier FCA regulation and a proprietary platform.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1Alpari offers raw spreads; FXCM does not.
- 2FXCM holds top-tier FCA regulation; Alpari operates FSC Mauritius.
- 3FXCM provides proprietary Trading Station; Alpari uses MT4/MT5.
Who should choose Alpari International vs FXCM?
Find out which broker best suits your trader profile.
Choose Alpari International if…
Choose Alpari International if you want raw spreads and no inactivity fee.
Choose FXCM if…
Choose FXCM if you want FCA regulation, a proprietary Trading Station, and strong APIs.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of trader, based on costs, safety, platforms, and editorial scoring.
Best for low cost trading
Recommended
Alpari International offers tighter spreads from 0.00 pips vs 0.40 pips for FXCM, reducing trading costs.
Best for safety & regulation
Recommended
Alpari International vs FXCM: Side-by-Side Forex Broker Comparison
Score
= highlighted score shows which broker leads in that category| Editorial score | 3.9/ 5 | 4.1/ 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Score Breakdown | ||
Trust & Regulation 40% weight | 3.7 / 5 | 4.1 / 5▲ |
Alpari International vs FXCM Forex Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
26-year brand history in retail forex
Mature PAMM investor platform, one of the originals
ECN accounts with $6 per-lot commission competitive with top ECN desks
Wide geographic reach across CIS, MENA, and Africa
Client funds held in segregated accounts
Alpari International vs FXCM: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
Alpari International
criteria wins
5
FXCM
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | Alpari International | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, CFTC, etc.) | Fail | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS) | Fail | Pass |
| Fees & Spreads | ||
| Raw/ECN spreads available | Pass | Fail |
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Fail |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Pass |
| Platforms & Tools | ||
| MT4/MT5 available | Pass | Pass |
| Proprietary platform | Fail | Pass |
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Fail | Pass |
| Customer Support | ||
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Pass |
| Multilingual support | Pass | Pass |
Alpari International vs FXCM: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: Alpari International rates 3.9/5 and FXCM rates 4.1/5. FXCM has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
Alpari International starts from 0 pips, tighter than FXCM's 0.4 pips. Tighter spreads lower the cost per trade, which matters most for high-frequency and scalping strategies.
Alpari International has $5, while FXCM requires at least $50. This makes Alpari International more accessible for traders with limited starting capital.
FXCM holds top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC), providing stronger investor protections. Alpari International may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
For beginners, two factors stand out: Alpari International requires a lower minimum deposit ($5), lowering the barrier to entry, and FXCM provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
Alpari International lists maximum leverage of 1000:1, while FXCM lists up to 400:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
Alpari International charges $6 per lot on commission-based accounts. Commission details for FXCM are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing.
Alpari International supports MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while FXCM supports ZuluTrade, Proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4, NinjaTrader. Both provide MetaTrader 4. Alpari International has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5. FXCM has exclusive access to ZuluTrade and Proprietary Web/Mobile and NinjaTrader.
