Comparison of XTB vs TradeStation [ 2024 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

XTB

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

TradeStation

Main points

Fees

Low 4,7/5

Regulated

FCA, KNF

Demo account

Yes

Low 4,2/5

Fees

FINRA, SEC

Regulated

Yes

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Passive income

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

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 .

3.9 – TradeStation charges competitive volume-based fees starting at $2 + 0.65% for small trades. The complex fee structure and $10 monthly inactivity fee are notable drawbacks .

Level

Low 4,7/5

Low 4,2/5

Brief explanation

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 .

TradeStation charges competitive fees for cryptocurrency trading, though there are some costs to be aware of. Trading commissions are based on a tiered structure, starting at 0.30% per trade for monthly volumes up to $100,000 and decreasing to 0.20% for volumes above $1 million. This makes TradeStation suitable for both small and large traders. Additionally, there is a spread markup, which is the difference between the bid and ask prices, typically ranging from 0.5% to 1%. The platform also charges an inactivity fee of $50 if there is no trading activity for 12 months, and wire transfer withdrawal fees are $25 for US clients and $35 for international clients. These fees can add up, especially for infrequent traders. Despite these costs, TradeStation’s comprehensive tools and security measures can justify the expenses for those who prioritize advanced trading capabilities and regulatory compliance.

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.

TradeStation

Year Founded: Established in 1982, TradeStation has a long track record of stability and innovation in the brokerage industry.
Security Methods: TradeStation employs robust security measures, including two-factor authentication and encryption, to protect user data and assets.
Regulation and Licensing: TradeStation is regulated by top-tier US authorities such as the SEC and FINRA, ensuring compliance with strict financial standards.
Reputation and Reviews: TradeStation has consistently received positive reviews from users and industry experts for its advanced trading tools and comprehensive platform.
Transparency: As a subsidiary of Monex Group, a publicly listed company, TradeStation maintains a high level of transparency by regularly publishing financial statements and complying with rigorous disclosure requirements.

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Product selection

Native token

XTB does not have a native token.

TradeStation does not have a native token.

Earns

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

TradeStation does not provide staking or earning options with cryptocurrencies. The platform allows direct trading of certain cryptocurrencies .

NFT marketplace

XTB does not have an NFT marketplace.

TradeStation does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

XTB does not have a card for its clients .

TradeStation does not have a card for its clients .

Payment methods

Transfers

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

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

Mastercard

Yes, XTB accepts Mastercard for deposits.

No, TradeStation does not accept Mastercard for deposits.

Wire transfer

Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

Yes, XTB accepts credit/debit cards .

No, TradeStation does not accept credit/debit cards .

Comparative table

XTB	Features	TradeStation
Minimum trade size is flexible, starting at $1. This low threshold allows even small-scale investors to participate in cryptocurrency trading .	Minimum Trade	TradeStation allows for low minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners.
XTB charges spreads on crypto trades starting from 0.22% for Bitcoin. While competitive, additional fees apply for certain e-wallet deposits and withdrawals .	Trading and Transaction Fees	Fees are higher than some competitors, especially for withdrawals.
XTB offers trading on over 50 cryptocurrencies, including major coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, along with various crypto pairs .	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Only offers Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin.
The platform supports 16 intra-crypto pairs, allowing traders to speculate on the performance of one cryptocurrency against another .	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Limited to major coins, restricting diversification opportunities.
XTB provides comprehensive information about its services, fees, and regulations. However, some users may find the navigation slightly complex .	Website Transparency	TradeStation provides clear and detailed information about its services and fees.
XTB does not have a card for its clients .	Credit/Debit Card	TradeStation does not have a card for its clients .
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 .	Storage Offering	Utilizes secure storage solutions with BitGo for crypto assets.
XTB does not provide staking options or rewards programs for holding cryptocurrencies, which might be a drawback for some investors .	Staking and Rewards	No staking or rewards programs available.
The xStation platform is available on both mobile and desktop, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience with advanced trading tools .	Mobile App and Desktop	Both platforms are user-friendly and feature-rich, but the mobile app has fewer features.
XTB’s customer service is available 24/5, providing support via phone, live chat, and email. While generally responsive, some users report occasional delays .	Customer Service	Customer service is decent but has room for improvement in response times and support quality.
Deposits and withdrawals are mostly fee-free, except for small withdrawals under certain thresholds. The process is straightforward and quick .	Deposit and Withdraw	Limited methods and high fees for withdrawals, making it less user-friendly.

Key features

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 .

TradeStation provides a powerful desktop trading platform with customizable sophisticated analysis tools, custom charts, and a detailed order book for crypto trading. They also offer mobile app trading with improved charting capabilities .

Mobile APP

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

Yes, TradeStation offers a mobile app that includes advanced charting, trading, and analysis tools .

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.

TradeStation is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing high investor protection levels. They offer SIPC insurance but do not provide negative balance protection. Their parent company is publicly listed, enhancing transparency.

Additional features

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 .

TradeStation offers direct cryptocurrency trading for a limited selection of coins, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin. Their platform includes advanced features like strategy development and technical analysis through the TradeStation Master Class. They also support crypto trading in IRAs and provide competitive volume-based fees. However, their crypto offerings have decreased in recent years .

Anonymity

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

Anonymous accounts are not supported on TradeStation. Personal and financial information along with verification documents are required.

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

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.

TradeStation offers trading in a few cryptocurrencies. The supported cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USD Coin (USDC) .

User-friendliness

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 .

TradeStation provides a powerful and intuitive platform for trading cryptocurrencies. The platform is designed to cater to both novice and experienced traders, with a range of tools and features that enhance the trading experience. While the selection of cryptocurrencies is limited, the platform’s overall usability and support make it a solid choice for crypto trading.

Value for money

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.

TradeStation offers good value with competitive volume-based fees and a range of trading tools. Its inactivity fee of $10 per month and the administrative fee for IRAs might be less attractive for occasional traders.

Countries of operation

United Kingdom, European Union, Dubai, Belize .

United States, available to most other countries except restricted regions like North Korea and Sudan .

Best for

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.

TradeStation is suited for experienced traders who value advanced trading tools and direct access to crypto trading. Its detailed order book and professional-grade platform make it ideal for those who want to trade and analyze cryptocurrencies deeply.

Account

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.

TradeStation offers a limited selection of cryptocurrencies but provides a powerful trading platform with advanced tools and features. It is suitable for traders who want to integrate crypto trading with other financial products.

Deposit and withdrawal

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.

TradeStation supports deposits and withdrawals primarily via bank transfers. While the process is secure, it can be slower and more expensive compared to other brokers, with fees for wire transfers.

Account opening process

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.

Opening an account with TradeStation is fully digital and user-friendly. Users need to provide personal and financial information and submit verification documents. The process usually takes one to two business days for approval.

KYC required?

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

TradeStation requires KYC verification. Users need to provide personal identification documents and proof of address before they can start trading.

Customer Service

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.

TradeStation provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat. The support is available during market hours and is generally responsive, though some users find the service to be slower during peak times.

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, 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.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert in the crypto market, I find TradeStation to be a solid platform for those who prioritize security and advanced trading tools. While its cryptocurrency offerings are limited to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin, the platform excels in providing a highly regulated environment and robust trading features. TradeStation’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive educational resources make it a suitable choice for both seasoned traders and those looking to gain deeper insights into crypto trading. However, the high withdrawal fees and limited deposit options are areas that could be improved to enhance the overall user experience.

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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 XTB vs TradeStation [ 2024 ]

XTB

TradeStation

Main points

Recommended for

Comparison of fees

Rating

Level

Brief explanation

XTB

TradeStation

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 XTB and TradeStation