Comparison of Interactive Brokers vs XTB [ 2024 ]

The best brokers to invest in cryptocurrencies compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is theInteractive Brokers vs XTB comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Interactive Brokers

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

XTB

Main points

Fees

Low 4,4/5

Regulated

SEC, FCA

Demo account

Yes

Low 4,7/5

Fees

FCA, KNF

Regulated

Yes

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Passive income

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.6 – Interactive Brokers charges low commissions (0.12% to 0.18% of trade value) with no added spreads or custody fees, making it one of the most cost-effective options for serious traders .

4.4 – XTB provides excellent value with no deposit or withdrawal fees for most methods and tight spreads. The inactivity fee after 12 months is the main additional cost .

Level

Low 4,4/5

Low 4,7/5

Brief explanation

Interactive Brokers offers a competitive and transparent commission structure for cryptocurrency trading. The commission rates range from 0.12% to 0.18% of the trade value, with a minimum fee of $1.75 per order, capped at 1% of the trade value. This fee structure is notably lower than many competitors, who may charge up to 2.00% or include additional spreads and markups. Trading cryptocurrencies on Interactive Brokers’ platform does not incur any added spreads, markups, or custody fees. This is facilitated through their partnerships with Paxos Trust Company and Zero Hash LLC, both of which are regulated entities, ensuring a secure trading environment. Furthermore, clients can trade cryptocurrencies 24/7 when funds are transferred to their dedicated Paxos or Zero Hash account during normal US banking hours.

XTB’s fee structure is primarily built around spreads, with no commissions for crypto trades. The spreads are competitive, starting from 0.22% for Bitcoin. Additionally, XTB does not charge deposit fees for bank transfers or credit/debit cards, although e-wallet deposits may incur fees ranging from 1% to 2%. Withdrawals are generally free unless the amount is below $50, in which case a $30 fee applies. An inactivity fee of $10 per month is charged after 12 months of inactivity. Overall, XTB’s fee structure is straightforward and relatively low-cost compared to other brokers .

Interactive Brokers

Year Founded: Established in 1978, Interactive Brokers has a long history of providing reliable and innovative trading solutions.
Security Methods: The platform uses top-tier security measures, including two-factor authentication and encryption, ensuring the safety of client assets and data.
Number of Users: Interactive Brokers boasts a large user base, serving over 1.6 million clients globally, which speaks to its reliability and popularity.
Regulation: The firm is regulated by major financial authorities, including the SEC, FINRA, and several international regulators, ensuring compliance with stringent financial laws.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: Interactive Brokers handles a high volume of trades daily, providing deep liquidity, which is crucial for effective trading execution and minimal slippage.

XTB

Year Founded: XTB was established in 2002, providing over two decades of experience in the financial trading industry. This longevity indicates a stable and reliable presence in the market.
Number of Users: XTB has a substantial client base, serving thousands of traders worldwide. This extensive user base reflects the trust and satisfaction of its clients.
Transparency: Being listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange adds to XTB's transparency. The company regularly publishes its financial statements, providing clients and investors with a clear view of its financial health and operations.
Security Methods: XTB is known for its robust security measures. It employs advanced encryption and offers negative balance protection, ensuring that clients' funds and data are secure.
Regulation: XTB is regulated by top-tier financial authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF). This high level of regulatory oversight ensures that XTB adheres to strict financial and operational standards.

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Product selection

Native token

Interactive Brokers does not have a native token.

XTB does not have a native token.

Earns

Interactive Brokers does not offer staking or similar earning options for cryptocurrencies. The platform allows trading and holding of cryptocurrencies .

XTB does not provide staking or earning options for cryptocurrencies. The platform offers trading in crypto CFDs .

NFT marketplace

Interactive Brokers does not have an NFT marketplace.

XTB does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

Interactive Brokers offers an IBKR debit card for US residents as part of their Integrated Investment Management accounts .

XTB does not have a card for its clients .

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes, Interactive Brokers accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Yes, XTB accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Mastercard

No, Interactive Brokers does not accept Mastercard for deposits.

Yes, XTB accepts Mastercard for deposits.

Wire transfer

Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

No, Interactive Brokers does not accept credit/debit cards .

Yes, XTB accepts credit/debit cards .

Comparative table

Interactive Brokers	Features	XTB
Interactive Brokers offers a low minimum trade amount, making it accessible for both small and large investors. This encourages new traders to start without significant capital.	Minimum Trade	Minimum trade size is flexible, starting at $1. This low threshold allows even small-scale investors to participate in cryptocurrency trading .
The platform’s fees are among the lowest in the industry, which is a major advantage for frequent traders.	Trading and Transaction Fees	XTB charges spreads on crypto trades starting from 0.22% for Bitcoin. While competitive, additional fees apply for certain e-wallet deposits and withdrawals .
Currently, only eight cryptocurrencies are available, which limits options for traders looking for a diverse portfolio.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	XTB offers trading on over 50 cryptocurrencies, including major coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, along with various crypto pairs .
The platform offers limited crypto-to-crypto pairs, which restricts trading strategies for users looking to trade beyond major cryptocurrencies.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	The platform supports 16 intra-crypto pairs, allowing traders to speculate on the performance of one cryptocurrency against another .
Interactive Brokers provides clear and comprehensive information about their services and fees. However, the site could be more intuitive for beginners.	Website Transparency	XTB provides comprehensive information about its services, fees, and regulations. However, some users may find the navigation slightly complex .
Interactive Brokers offers an IBKR debit card for US residents as part of their Integrated Investment Management accounts .	Credit/Debit Card	XTB does not have a card for its clients .
The platform offers secure storage solutions through partnerships with regulated entities, ensuring the safety of users’ digital assets.	Storage Offering	As a CFD provider, XTB does not offer dedicated crypto wallet services. Traders need to use external wallets if they wish to own actual cryptocurrencies .
Interactive Brokers does not currently offer staking or rewards programs, which could be a drawback for users looking for passive income opportunities.	Staking and Rewards	XTB does not provide staking options or rewards programs for holding cryptocurrencies, which might be a drawback for some investors .
The mobile and desktop platforms are highly rated for their functionality and user-friendly design, catering to both novice and experienced traders.	Mobile App and Desktop	The xStation platform is available on both mobile and desktop, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience with advanced trading tools .
The customer service is generally responsive and helpful. However, the complex account setup process can be a barrier for new users.	Customer Service	XTB’s customer service is available 24/5, providing support via phone, live chat, and email. While generally responsive, some users report occasional delays .
The platform provides efficient deposit and withdrawal processes with multiple options, although there is room for improvement in speeding up withdrawal times.	Deposit and Withdraw	Deposits and withdrawals are mostly fee-free, except for small withdrawals under certain thresholds. The process is straightforward and quick .

Key features

Analysis tools

Interactive Brokers offers the Trader Workstation (TWS) platform, which includes powerful trading tools and advanced charting capabilities. They also provide comprehensive market data and analysis tools .

XTB offers the xStation platform with advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and intra-crypto pairs for detailed analysis. They also provide educational resources and market analysis tools .

Mobile APP

Yes, Interactive Brokers offers the IBKR Mobile app for iOS and Android devices, providing comprehensive trading tools and account management features .

Yes, XTB provides the xStation mobile app, which includes advanced trading and charting tools

Security

Interactive Brokers is regulated by top-tier US authorities like the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of security and transparency. They offer SIPC insurance, protecting clients’ securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit.

XTB is regulated by top-tier authorities, including the FCA and CySEC. They provide negative balance protection and are listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, enhancing transparency and security.

Additional features

Interactive Brokers allows clients to trade cryptocurrencies through Paxos or Zero Hash, offering a low commission rate of 0.12% to 0.18% of the trade value. They support a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, and provide advanced trading tools through their Trader Workstation platform. Interactive Brokers also offer features like holding USD in crypto accounts and 24/7 trading .

XTB provides trading on over 50 cryptocurrencies with tight spreads and leverage up to 1:5. Their xStation platform offers intra-crypto pairs and 24/7 trading. XTB is known for its secure environment and transparent accounts, but crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from the UK .

Anonymity

Anonymous accounts are not available. Interactive Brokers requires detailed personal information and identity verification .

Anonymous accounts are not available with XTB. The account opening process requires personal information and identity verification .

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

Interactive Brokers allows both direct trading and CFDs for cryptocurrencies. The available cryptocurrencies for direct trading are Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). Additional coins are available through CFDs.

XTB offers trading in cryptocurrency CFDs. The supported cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Stellar (XLM), Dogecoin (DOGE), and others, totaling 50 major coins and 16 crypto pairs.

User-friendliness

Interactive Brokers integrates cryptocurrency trading into its existing platform, allowing users to trade crypto alongside other asset classes. The platform offers low commissions and a professional-grade trading environment. However, the setup process might be more complex compared to dedicated crypto exchanges, which could be a drawback for less experienced users .

XTB’s platform is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. The platform supports a variety of cryptocurrencies and offers competitive spreads. XTB’s strong regulatory framework and educational resources also contribute to a positive user experience .

Value for money

Interactive Brokers is known for its low commissions and transparent pricing, making it a cost-effective choice for crypto trading. Its professional-grade trading tools add significant value, though the platform might be too complex for beginners.

XTB offers excellent value with tight spreads and no deposit or withdrawal fees for most methods. Its comprehensive educational resources and transparent fee structure enhance its attractiveness, although inactivity fees apply after 12 months.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Hungary, Australia, India, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore .

United Kingdom, European Union, Dubai, Belize .

Best for

Interactive Brokers is ideal for professional and experienced traders who want to trade cryptocurrencies alongside other asset classes. Its low commissions and professional-grade trading tools make it a strong choice for serious investors.

XTB is suitable for both beginners and advanced traders who want to trade a wide range of cryptocurrencies with tight spreads. Its comprehensive educational resources and strong regulatory framework make it a reliable choice for crypto trading.

Account

Trading

Interactive Brokers offers limited direct cryptocurrency trading but provides access to crypto-related financial products. It is more focused on traditional investment products, making it less ideal for pure crypto trading.

XTB provides extensive crypto CFD trading options with over 50 cryptocurrencies available. The platform is known for its tight spreads and leverage options, making it suitable for active crypto traders.

Deposit and withdrawal

Interactive Brokers allows deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers and wire transfers. The process is secure but can be slower, especially for international transfers. Fees may apply for withdrawals.

XTB offers free deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. The process is efficient, with most transactions processed quickly, though small fees may apply for low withdrawal amounts.

Account opening process

The account opening process at Interactive Brokers is detailed and thorough. Users must provide extensive personal and financial information, and submit various verification documents. The process is fully digital but can take a few days for approval due to the comprehensive requirements.

XTB offers a hassle-free and fully digital account opening process. Users need to fill out an online form with personal and financial information, and submit verification documents. Accounts are usually approved within one business day.

KYC required?

Yes, KYC is required at Interactive Brokers. The account opening process includes submitting personal identification documents and proof of address.

Yes, KYC is required at XTB. Users need to submit identification documents and proof of address during the account opening process.

Customer Service

Interactive Brokers provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat. The support is available 24/5 and is generally responsive, though some users find the service to be slower during peak times due to high demand.

XTB offers comprehensive customer support available 24/5 through phone, email, and live chat. The support team is known for being efficient and knowledgeable, ensuring users get the help they need promptly.

Security

XTB is regulated by top-tier authorities, including the FCA and CySEC. They provide negative balance protection and are listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, enhancing transparency and security.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

As an expert on our website, I highly recommend Interactive Brokers for those interested in integrating cryptocurrency trading with traditional financial instruments. The platform offers competitive fees, robust security, and seamless integration with other asset classes, making it an excellent choice for experienced traders looking to diversify their portfolios. While the account setup process can be complex, the advanced trading features and reliable customer support make it worth the effort. If you’re seeking a secure and cost-effective way to trade cryptocurrencies, Interactive Brokers is a solid option.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert, I find XTB to be a robust choice for cryptocurrency traders, especially those interested in CFDs. The platform offers a broad range of over 50 cryptocurrencies and 16 intra-crypto pairs, providing ample opportunities for diversified trading strategies. The xStation platform is particularly user-friendly, equipped with advanced charting tools and quick execution times, which enhances the overall trading experience. Furthermore, XTB’s strong regulatory oversight by entities like the FCA, CySEC, and KNF, coupled with its transparency as a publicly listed company, ensures a high level of trust and security for traders. However, the lack of support for MetaTrader 4 and 5 and the exclusive focus on CFDs might be limiting for some users. Overall, XTB is highly suitable for both novice and experienced traders looking for a reliable and transparent platform for crypto trading.

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How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).

For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.

Comparison of Interactive Brokers vs XTB [ 2024 ]

Interactive Brokers

XTB

Main points

Recommended for

Comparison of fees

Rating

Level

Brief explanation

Interactive Brokers

XTB

Product selection

Native token

Earns

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Company information

Full name

Regulation

Year founded

Founder

Payment methods

Transfers

Mastercard

Wire transfer

Card

Comparative table

Key features

Analysis tools

Mobile APP

Security

Additional features

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

User-friendliness

Value for money

Countries of operation

Best for

Account

Trading

Deposit and withdrawal

Account opening process

KYC required?

Customer Service

Security

Which of these exchanges is for you?

How do we review crypto exchanges?

Risk Disclaimer

More comparatives Interactive Brokers and XTB