Written by ForexBrokers.com
In this head to head comparison of XTB vs Trading 212, we will compare the trading platforms, mobile apps, range of investments, costs, market research, and more. Let's dive in.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 51% and 89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
XTB and Trading 212 are both established online brokers with XTB founded in 2002 and Trading 212 in 2004. While neither XTB nor Trading 212 operates as a bank, XTB holds the distinction of being publicly traded, a factor that may influence investor confidence. Additionally, XTB holds two Tier-1 licenses, which are considered highly trusted, and has a ForexBrokers.com Trust Score of 96, placing it in the bracket of brokers deemed highly trusted.
On the other hand, Trading 212, although not publicly traded, holds an impressive three Tier-1 licenses, attesting to its credibility in the trading community. Despite holding more Tier-1 licenses, Trading 212 does not possess any Tier-2 licenses and has a Trust Score of 80, suggesting it is a trusted broker but not as highly rated as XTB in terms of trust. Both companies offer their unique strengths and considerations for potential investors.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Year Founded | 2002 | 2004 |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | Yes | No |
| Bank | No | No |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 2 | 3 |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 2 | 0 |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 2 | 0 |
When it comes to commissions and fees, XTB and Trading 212 offer distinct options to cater to different types of traders. XTB provides two account types: the spread-only Standard account and a commission-based Professional account, which is primarily available to clients classified as elected Professionals in the UK and Europe. While XTB’s pricing aligns with the industry average, it falls short of the best brokers. With average spreads on the EUR/USD at 1 pip in Q4 2023, XTB's Standard account proves more economically appealing for retail forex traders due to its broader availability over the phasing-out Professional account. Notably, XTB has a tiered rebate program, XTB's Lower Spread Group, offering active traders in the EU rebates from 5% to 30% depending on their volume, a feature that enhances its competitive edge. XTB earns a commendable rating of 4.5 stars in commissions and fees and ranks #11 out of 63 brokers according to ForexBrokers.com.
On the other hand, Trading 212 caters to investors with its Invest account for stock trading and a CFD account for CFDs. The focus here is on their CFD account, which requires a modest minimum deposit of 10 euros. Trading 212 promotes zero-commission trading; however, a spread is still applied to CFDs and forex trades. For instance, April 2025 saw Trading 212's average spread for the EUR/USD at 2.7 pips, significantly above the industry norm, which can be less favorable for cost-conscious traders. Despite its efforts in improving pricing transparency, Trading 212's higher spreads place it at a disadvantage compared to leading forex and CFD brokers. Trading 212 is awarded a 4-star rating in the commissions and fees category and stands at rank #49 out of 63 brokers according to ForexBrokers.com.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | €1 |
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 1.00 | 2.7 |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 1.00 | 2.7 |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | No | No |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | No | Yes |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Low Spread Forex Brokers.
XTB and Trading 212 both present strong offerings in terms of the range of investments available to traders. XTB provides access to a diverse selection of 7,184 tradeable symbols, which includes 71 forex pairs as CFDs. On the other hand, Trading 212 boasts a slightly higher number of tradeable symbols at 7,868, including 146 forex pairs, also available as CFDs. Both platforms cater to investors looking to diversify globally, offering direct access to exchange-traded securities from U.S. and international markets, allowing the purchase of popular stocks like Apple and Vodafone.
Though neither XTB nor Trading 212 offer copy trading or the buying of actual cryptocurrencies, both provide the ability to invest in cryptocurrency derivatives, appealing to those interested in digital assets without owning the underlying cryptocurrencies. In independent assessments, both brokers are highly rated with 5 stars for their range of investments. On ForexBrokers.com, they are closely matched, with XTB securing the 14th spot out of 63 brokers and Trading 212 following closely at 15th place, reflecting their competitive offerings and appeal to a broad spectrum of investors.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 7184 | 7868 |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 71 | 146 |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | Yes |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | Yes |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | No | No |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
Dive deeper: Best Copy Trading Platforms.
When comparing the trading platforms and tools offered by XTB and Trading 212, both brokers cater to traders of all experience levels with some unique features. XTB provides its users with a comprehensive suite of tools, including a proprietary platform available as a Windows desktop download. Both brokers accommodate web-based trading and provide the opportunity for simulated trading through free virtual demo accounts. Though neither broker offers integrated platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5, XTB stands out with 32 charting drawing tools compared to Trading 212's 20, giving traders more flexibility in technical analysis. Additionally, XTB offers the convenience of executing trades directly from stock charts, which Trading 212 also supports.
In terms of rankings and user ratings, XTB is highly regarded, earning a 4.5-star rating for its trading platforms and tools, and it holds a respectable 9th place out of 63 on ForexBrokers.com's list. Trading 212, while respectable, scored slightly lower at 4 stars and is ranked 20th. Both brokers share a focus on user-friendly platforms, but XTB's extensive features, such as more watch list columns and a downloadable desktop platform, give it an edge for those seeking a richer trading experience. Therefore, for traders prioritizing a variety of tools and features, XTB might be the preferable choice. However, both platforms offer reliable options for online trading enthusiasts.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes |
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | No |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | No | No |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | No | No |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | No | No |
| DupliTrade | No | No |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 39 | 54 |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 32 | 20 |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 8 | 5 |
Dive deeper: Best MetaTrader 4 Brokers, Best MetaTrader 5 Brokers.
XTB and Trading 212 both deliver powerful mobile trading apps for iPhone and Android users, equipped with the ability to generate stock and forex price alerts. They support trendline drawing and various time frames like daily or weekly charts for an enhanced trading experience. Real-time quote watchlists can be created on both platforms, empowering users to track market movements effectively. However, Trading 212 stands out by offering watchlist symbol syncing, enabling seamless synchronization between the mobile app and the client's online account. In terms of technical studies available for charting, Trading 212 offers a broader range with 104 options compared to XTB's 39.
When it comes to user reviews and ratings in the mobile trading app category, XTB edges ahead with 4.5 stars, placing it at the 8th position out of 63 brokers assessed by ForexBrokers.com. Trading 212, while still offering solid features, receives a slightly lower rating of 4 stars, ranking it at 17th place. These rankings highlight the higher satisfaction levels of users with XTB's app, likely attributed to its diverse functionalities and overall user experience. Although both apps cater to mobile trading needs efficiently, XTB seems to have a competitive advantage in terms of overall rank and user rating.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes |
| Watchlist Syncing | No | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 39 | 104 |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Trading Apps.
When comparing the market research capabilities of XTB and Trading 212, several distinctions emerge that highlight the strengths of each platform. XTB excels with its daily market commentary, providing users with regular insights into market movements, an advantage not available with Trading 212. Both platforms deliver forex news from top-tier sources such as Bloomberg and Reuters, ensuring traders have access to critical information. Although neither broker offers tools from Autochartist or Trading Central, both provide sentiment-based trading tools that help users gauge market trends by showing the ratio of long or short positions across different currency pairs or other instruments.
For traders interested in global economic events, both XTB and Trading 212 offer comprehensive economic calendars. However, when it comes to research prowess, XTB is rated higher at five stars compared to Trading 212’s 3.5-star rating. This reflects in their rankings on ForexBrokers.com, where XTB holds the 7th position out of 63 brokers, while Trading 212 is ranked at 44th. In summary, XTB appears well-suited for traders seeking more frequent commentary and top-rated research support, whereas Trading 212 presents a solid option with access to valuable forex news and sentiment tools.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | No |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | Yes |
| Autochartist | No | No |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | Yes |
| TipRanks | No | No |
| Signal Centre (Acuity Trading) | No | No |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Brokers for Forex Research.
When comparing the educational resources offered by XTB and Trading 212, XTB stands out as a top choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of forex and CFDs. Both platforms provide more than ten educational pieces focused on these trading areas, making them suitable for beginners. However, XTB takes it a step further by offering monthly online webinars, creating a great opportunity for interactive learning that Trading 212 doesn't match. Plus, XTB has a searchable archive of recorded webinars alongside a range of beginner and advanced trading videos, helping traders of varying expertise deepen their knowledge.
While Trading 212 does offer a comprehensive investor dictionary with over 50 investing terms, it falls short of XTB regarding interactive learning opportunities like webinars. As a result, XTB receives a stellar 5-star rating for its educational offerings, ranking 11th out of 63 brokers by ForexBrokers.com. In comparison, Trading 212 earns a 3.5-star rating, placing it at 20th among its peers. For those new to trading, XTB provides a more encompassing educational experience, making it a preferred choice for those eager to enhance their trading skills from the ground up.
| Feature |
XTB
|
Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| Client Webinars | Yes | No |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | Yes |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | No | Yes |
Dive deeper: Best Forex Brokers for Beginners.
After testing 63 of the best forex brokers, our research and account testing finds that XTB is better than Trading 212. XTB finished with an overall rank of #7, while Trading 212 finished with an overall rank of #31.
As a trusted multi-asset broker, XTB offers outstanding customer service, a wide variety of forex and CFDs, and an excellent overall trading experience. Its xStation 5 trading platform is well-designed and packed with innovative features, and XTB’s offers comprehensive educational content and market research.
| Feature |
XTB
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Trading 212
|
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating |
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| Trust Score | 96 | 80 |
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Both XTB and Trading 212 allow users to buy cryptocurrency derivatives but do not offer the ability to purchase actual cryptocurrencies directly.
When comparing online brokers XTB and Trading 212, XTB does not support ACH or SEPA transfers but does offer PayPal, Skrill, Visa/Mastercard, and bank wire options, while Trading 212 provides ACH and SEPA transfers, supports PayPal, Visa/Mastercard, and bank wires, but does not offer Skrill as a transaction option.
Please note:
We review each broker’s overall global offering – a “Yes” checkmark in our Compare Tool does not guarantee the availability of any specific features in your country of residence. To verify the availability of any features within your country of residence, please contact the broker directly.
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0 of 5| Overall Rating | XTB | Trading 212 | |
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| Trust Score | 96 | 80 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | XTB Review | Trading 212 Review |
| Broker Screenshots | XTB | Trading 212 | |
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| Regulation | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trust Score | 96 | 80 | |
| Year Founded | 2002 | 2004 | |
| Publicly Traded (Listed) | Yes | No | |
| Bank | No | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | Yes | |
| Tier-1 Licenses | 2 | 3 | |
| Tier-2 Licenses | 2 | 0 | |
| Tier-3 Licenses | 0 | 0 | |
| Tier-4 Licenses | 2 | 0 |
| Tier-1 Licenses (Highly Trusted) | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia (ASIC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Canada (CIRO Authorised) | No | No | |
| Hong Kong (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Japan (SFC Authorised) | No | No | |
| Singapore (MAS Authorised) | No | No | |
| Switzerland (FINMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| United Kingdom (U.K.) (FCA Authorised) | Yes | Yes | |
| USA (CFTC Authorized) | No | No | |
| New Zealand (FMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| Regulated in one or more EU or EEA countries (MiFID). | Yes | Yes |
| Tier-2 Licenses (Trusted) | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya (CMA Authorised) | No | No | |
| Israel (ISA Authorised) | No | No | |
| South Africa (FSCA Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| UAE (DFSA/Central Bank Authorised) | Yes | No | |
| India (SEBI Authorised) | No | No | |
| Jordan (JSC Authorised) | No | No |
| Investments | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex Trading (Spot or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Tradeable Symbols (Total) | 7184 | 7868 | |
| Forex Pairs (Total) | 71 | 146 | |
| U.S. Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | Yes | |
| Int'l Stock Trading (Non CFD) | Yes | Yes | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | No | No | |
| Cryptocurrency (Physical) | No | No | |
| Cryptocurrency (Derivative) | Yes | Yes | |
| Disclaimers | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). | Note: Crypto CFDs are not available to retail traders from any broker's U.K. entity, nor to U.K. residents (except to Professional clients). |
| Cost | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Spread EUR/USD - Standard | 1.00 | 2.7 | |
| All-in Cost EUR/USD - Active | 1.00 | 2.7 | |
| Active Trader or VIP Discounts | No | No | |
| Inactivity Fee | Yes | No | |
| Execution: Agency Broker | Yes | Yes | |
| Execution: Market Maker | Yes | Yes |
| Funding | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $0 | €1 | |
| PayPal (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes | |
| Skrill (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | No | |
| Visa/Mastercard (Credit/Debit) | Yes | Yes | |
| Bank Wire (Deposit/Withdraw) | Yes | Yes | |
| ACH or SEPA Transfers | No | Yes |
| Trading Platforms | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proprietary Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Desktop Platform (Windows) | Yes | No | |
| Web Platform | Yes | Yes | |
| Social Trading / Copy Trading | No | No | |
| MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | No | No | |
| MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | No | No | |
| cTrader | No | No | |
| DupliTrade | No | No | |
| ZuluTrade | No | No |
| Trading Tools | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Trading (Demo) | Yes | Yes | |
| Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlists - Total Fields | 8 | 5 | |
| Charting - Indicators / Studies (Total) | 39 | 54 | |
| Charting - Drawing Tools (Total) | 32 | 20 | |
| Charting - Trade From Chart | Yes | Yes | |
| Charts can be saved | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Trading | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android App | Yes | Yes | |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Alerts - Basic Fields | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Watchlist | Yes | Yes | |
| Watchlist Syncing | No | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Indicators / Studies | 39 | 104 | |
| Mobile Charting - Draw Trendlines | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Multiple Time Frames | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Charting - Drawings Autosave | Yes | Yes | |
| Mobile Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Research | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Market Commentary | Yes | No | |
| Forex News (Top-Tier Sources) | Yes | Yes | |
| Autochartist | No | No | |
| Trading Central (Recognia) | No | No | |
| TipRanks | No | No | |
| Social Sentiment - Currency Pairs | Yes | Yes | |
| Economic Calendar | Yes | Yes |
| Education | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education (Forex or CFDs) | Yes | Yes | |
| Client Webinars | Yes | No | |
| Client Webinars (Archived) | Yes | Yes | |
| Videos - Beginner Trading Videos | Yes | Yes | |
| Videos - Advanced Trading Videos | Yes | Yes | |
| Investor Dictionary (Glossary) | No | Yes |
| Major Forex Pairs | XTB | Trading 212 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| GBP/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/JPY | Yes | Yes | |
| EUR/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CHF | Yes | Yes | |
| USD/CAD | Yes | Yes | |
| NZD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| AUD/USD | Yes | Yes | |
| Review | XTB Review | Trading 212 Review |
| Overall | XTB | Trading 212 | |
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| Trust Score | 96 | 80 | |
| Winner | check_circle | ||
| Review | XTB Review | Trading 212 Review |
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