When it comes to choosing a reliable online trading platform, two names frequently rise to the top: Plus500 and eToro. Both are regulated, globally recognized brokers offering CFDs, forex, stocks, and cryptocurrencies — but they cater to different types of traders. Whether you're a beginner seeking an intuitive interface or an experienced trader looking for advanced tools, this in-depth comparison will help you decide which platform aligns best with your trading goals.
Key Differences at a Glance
While both Plus500 and eToro are FCA-regulated and offer commission-free trading on many assets, their core philosophies differ significantly. Plus500 focuses on simplicity and efficiency with its proprietary WebTrader platform, ideal for traders who prefer a streamlined experience. eToro, on the other hand, emphasizes social trading, community engagement, and educational resources, making it a top choice for newcomers and copy traders alike.
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Platform Overview
Plus500: A Streamlined CFD Trading Experience
Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Israel, Plus500 has built a reputation as a dependable CFD broker with over 25 million registered users across more than 50 countries. It operates under strict regulatory oversight from authorities including the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC.
The platform specializes in CFD trading across forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, and stocks. Its proprietary WebTrader is clean, fast, and optimized for both desktop and mobile use. In 2025, Plus500 expanded its stock CFD offerings to include high-growth sectors like AI and quantum computing, featuring companies such as IonQ, Rigetti, Duolingo, and Carvana.
One of its biggest advantages? Zero commissions on trades and no fees for deposits or withdrawals. Leverage is available up to 1:30 (for retail clients), enabling both long and short positions across volatile markets.
eToro: The Social Trading Powerhouse
Launched in 2007, eToro has evolved into a leading multi-asset investment platform, serving millions of active traders worldwide. It stands out with its innovative CopyTrader™ feature, allowing users to automatically replicate the trades of successful investors.
In 2025, eToro improved transparency by separating crypto trading fees from spreads — now shown as a distinct line item without increasing overall costs. The platform supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, including emerging tokens, and offers automated staking for passive income (Ethereum staking requires opt-in).
eToro also integrated sentiment data from over 10 million Stocktwits users, giving traders deeper insight into market trends. With accounts available in EUR, GBP, and support for BTC/ETH payments, conversion costs are minimized for international users.
Features & Functionality
Trading Instruments
Asset Class | Plus500 Offerings | eToro Offerings |
---|---|---|
CFDs | Yes – extensive selection | Yes – over 3,000 assets |
Stocks | Share CFDs only | Real stocks & CFDs |
Cryptocurrencies | Major coins via CFD | Over 100 cryptos + spot trading |
Commodities | Gold, oil, silver, agricultural goods | Broader range including lithium, cannabis, zinc |
Indices | Global indices | Full global coverage |
ETFs & Options | Yes | Smart Portfolios (automated baskets) |
eToro offers a wider variety of assets, especially in crypto and alternative commodities. Plus500 remains focused on core CFD markets with strong execution speed.
Mobile Experience
Both platforms offer iOS and Android apps with high user ratings:
- Plus500 App Ratings: iOS 4.1 ⭐ | Android 4.3 ⭐
- eToro App Ratings: iOS 4.0 ⭐ | Android 3.8 ⭐
While Plus500’s app mirrors its WebTrader seamlessly, eToro’s mobile experience shines with social features like community feeds, live trades, and real-time chat.
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Pros and Cons Summary
Plus500: Strengths and Limitations
Pros:
- Commission-free trading across all major markets
- User-friendly WebTrader with fast order execution
- Competitive spreads (e.g., ~0.6 pips on EUR/USD)
- 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, WhatsApp
- Expanded short-term instruments like VIX options
- Extended trading hours on select stock CFDs
Cons:
- No MetaTrader or cTrader integration
- Limited educational content compared to peers
- Lacks social or copy trading capabilities
- No algorithmic or scalping strategies allowed
- Fewer research tools than competitors like IG
eToro: Advantages and Drawbacks
Pros:
- Industry-leading social and copy trading ecosystem
- Free unlimited demo account with full functionality
- Low $50 minimum deposit
- Commission-free stock trading
- Robust charting powered by TradingView
- Over 10 million user-generated insights via Stocktwits
- Automated crypto staking for passive returns
- Recognized as Best Crypto Broker Runner-Up in 2025
Cons:
- No guaranteed stop-loss orders (a key risk management tool)
- $30 minimum withdrawal with $5 fee — may affect small traders
- Limited direct customer service beyond in-app chat
- No MT4/MT5 access for technical analysts reliant on those platforms
Regulation and Security
Both brokers are regulated by top-tier financial authorities:
- Plus500: FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), CySEC (Cyprus), MAS (Singapore), DFSA (Dubai), and others.
- eToro: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, CNMV (Spain), AMF (France), MFSA (Malta), FSRA (Abu Dhabi).
They both offer negative balance protection, ensuring traders cannot lose more than their deposited capital — a crucial safeguard for retail investors.
Pricing and Fees
Feature | Plus500 | eToro |
---|---|---|
Minimum Deposit | $100 | $50 |
Inactivity Fee | $10 after 3 months | $10 after 12 months |
Withdrawal Fee | None | $5 |
Minimum Withdrawal | Not specified | $30 |
Crypto Fees | Built into spread | Transparent commission added |
Leverage (Retail) | Up to 1:30 | Up to 1:30 |
eToro wins on accessibility with lower entry barriers, while Plus500 offers slightly better cost efficiency for frequent traders due to no withdrawal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I trade real stocks on Plus500?
A: No. Plus500 only offers stock CFDs, meaning you don’t own the underlying asset. If you're looking to buy actual shares, eToro allows real stock ownership in addition to CFDs.
Q: Is eToro safe for beginners?
A: Yes. eToro is one of the most beginner-friendly platforms thanks to its intuitive design, free educational courses through the eToro Academy, and a risk-free demo account. However, remember that 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money — always trade responsibly.
Q: Does Plus500 allow automated trading?
A: No. Plus500 does not support algorithmic trading, scalping, or bots. This makes it less suitable for advanced traders who rely on automated strategies.
Q: Can I copy other traders on Plus500?
A: Not directly. Unlike eToro’s CopyTrader system, Plus500 lacks any form of social or copy trading functionality.
Q: Are there Islamic accounts available?
A: Yes. Both brokers offer Islamic swap-free accounts compliant with Sharia law, available upon request.
Q: What happens if I don’t log in for several months?
A: Plus500 charges a $10 monthly inactivity fee after three months of dormancy. eToro applies the same fee but only after 12 months — giving users more flexibility.
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Final Verdict
Choosing between Plus500 and eToro ultimately depends on your trading style:
- Choose Plus500 if you want a no-frills, efficient CFD trading experience with tight spreads, zero commissions, and fast execution.
- Choose eToro if you value community-driven trading, educational support, copy trading, broader asset diversity, and crypto innovation.
Both platforms are secure, regulated, and suitable for modern traders — but eToro edges ahead for beginners and those interested in social investing.
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