XM's account types differ mainly in cost structure and who they're built for. Picking the wrong one at the start doesn't ruin anything, but it can mean paying more per trade than necessary. Here's how they stack up side by side.
Full Specification Comparison
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| Spec | Standard | Ultra Low | Shares |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $5 | $5 | $10,000 |
| Spread from | ~1 pip | ~0.6 pip | Variable |
| Commission | None | None | Applies |
| Maximum leverage | 1:1000* | 1:1000* | 1:1 |
| Lot size | Standard & Micro | Standard & Micro | Per share |
| Islamic (swap-free) | ✓ | ✓ (majors, gold, silver) | — |
| Bonus eligibility | ✓ Full | Varies, often excluded | Varies |
| Negative balance protection | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Best for | Beginners, swing/position traders | Scalpers, day traders, EA/algo trading | Long-term equity investors |
*Maximum leverage may be lower depending on your country of residence and applicable regulation. Spreads are floating and move with market liquidity — the figures above are typical starting points, not fixed values. Always check live conditions on the platform before trading.
Standard — Best for Getting Started
The Standard account is where most new traders begin. Spreads run slightly wider than on Ultra Low, but in exchange the account qualifies for XM's full range of promotions and loyalty programmes. It suits traders who don't open and close positions constantly — think swing or position trading.
Ultra Low — Built for Active Trading
Aimed at traders placing multiple trades a day — scalpers, day traders, or anyone running an Expert Advisor. Tighter spreads mean lower cost per trade, though it typically doesn't qualify for the full deposit bonus lineup.
Shares — For Equity Investors
Unlike the other two, the Shares account carries no leverage (1:1) because you're holding real equity, not a CFD — suited to investors who want direct exposure to global stocks along with dividend rights. The minimum deposit is significantly higher ($10,000) and per-trade commission applies.
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