Wikitoro author Nick Zelver Written by Nick Zelver
Wikitoro fact checker Mike Druttman Fact checked by Mike Druttman
Updated Aug, 2024

The Starting Point

Choosing the right brokerage can be a pivotal decision in your trading journey. eToro or AvaTrade? This is a question I once faced myself, and it led me to a thorough exploration of both platforms. In this detailed comparison, I share my insights on their services and features, aiming to provide you with a clear, experienced-based guide to make an informed decision.

Having personally navigated the nuances of both eToro and AvaTrade, I understand the factors that can swing your preference. If, after viewing our comprehensive comparison table, you find yourself leaning towards any of these two, you might be eager to dive in. To facilitate this, I've included a direct link to their registration page. This isn't just about presenting data; it's about sharing the experience and knowledge I've gained, ensuring you have the most current, reliable, and practical information at your fingertips.

 

Comparison Section

In the quest to help you discern the finer points between eToro and AvaTrade, I've compiled a side-by-side comparison table. This table showcases both the differences and similarities in their offerings, updated with the latest information obtained from these two prominent brokerages.

Side-by-side comparison of eToro vs. AvaTrade
  eToro AvaTrade
🏒 Founded 2007 2006
πŸ‘₯ Users 34,000,000+ 400,000+
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Accepts US Traders βœ”οΈ ❌
πŸ“Ÿ Demo Account βœ”οΈ βœ”οΈ
β˜ͺ️ Islamic Account βœ”οΈ βœ”οΈ
πŸ’° Minimum Deposit $50-$200 (depends on your country) $100
πŸ–₯️ Platforms Web Platform, iOS App, Android App WebTrader, MT4, MT5, AvaOptions, AvaTradeGO, Avasocial, Duplitrade
πŸ›οΈ Markets 5,000+ 1,200+
πŸ“ˆ Market Types Stocks, Commodities, Currencies, Indices, Crypto, ETFs Stocks, Commodities, Currencies, Indices, Crypto, ETFs, Options, Bonds
πŸ’± Spreads Variable Fixed
πŸ’³ Deposit Methods Credit/Debit Card, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Rapid Transfer, iDEAL, Klarna/Sofort Banking, Bank Transfer, Local Online Banking (Credit Cards and PayPal are not available for deposits for users under the FCA regulation) Credit Card, Wire Transfer, Skrill, WebMoney, Neteller
πŸ–₯️ Deposit Account Yes (Unlimited) Yes (21 Days)
πŸ›οΈ Regulation FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia), FinCEN (USA) CBI (Ireland), ASIC (Australia), FSCA (South Africa)
πŸ’ Customer Support Email, Live Chat Phone, Email, Live Chat
πŸ‘‘ Loyalty Program eToro Club ❌
πŸŽ“ Education eToro Academy AvaTrade Academy

 

 

Explore eToro!

51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

 

 

Account Types

A critical aspect of any brokerage is the types of accounts it offers. Both eToro and AvaTrade cater to their clients with two primary account categories: retail and professional. However, the similarities end there.

AvaTrade keeps it straightforward with just these two options. On the other hand, eToro introduces a more nuanced approach with its eToro Club. This tiered membership program offers additional benefits that are not solely dependent on the amount deposited but also on the equity size held by the user. The eToro Club tiers include:

  1. Silver
  2. Gold
  3. Platinum
  4. Platinum+
  5. Diamond

It's important to note, however, that the availability of the eToro Club memberships varies based on specific regulations and the platform languages offered. This distinction could be a significant deciding factor depending on your individual needs and trading style.

 

Demo Account Comparison

A key feature that many traders look for in a brokerage is the availability of a demo account. Fortunately, both eToro and AvaTrade offer this essential tool, allowing you to explore and understand their platforms without financial risk.

Practical Use of Demo Accounts

These demo accounts are invaluable for gaining hands-on experience with each platform. They enable you to conduct test trades and familiarize yourself with the interface, all while using virtual funds. This means there's no risk to your actual capital.

eToro’s Demo Account: Unlimited Access

What sets eToro apart is the unlimited duration of its demo account. Once you have an active account with them, you can use the demo account indefinitely. This feature is particularly beneficial for continuous learning and practice, as it allows you to return to the virtual trading environment anytime, without any time constraints.

AvaTrade’s Demo Account: Time-Limited

In contrast, AvaTrade's demo account comes with a 21-day validity period. This limited timeframe of just three weeks might be restrictive if you prefer a more relaxed, pressure-free learning environment. The time limitation means you need to make the most of the demo period quickly, which might not suit everyone's learning pace.

The Convenience of a Lifetime Demo Account

A lifetime demo account, like eToro’s, offers greater flexibility. It's always available for risk-free trading whenever you wish to experiment with new strategies or revisit the platform's features.

 

Registration Process

The process of registering for a trading account is a critical step in your journey with any brokerage. Both eToro and AvaTrade offer straightforward registration methods that can be completed either through a web browser, which is often the most convenient option, or via their respective platforms.

eToro Registration: Quick and Simple

When signing up with eToro, the initial step is quite simple. You'll be prompted to provide a username, password, and email address. This ease of entry makes the process quick and user-friendly.

AvaTrade Registration: A Bit More Detailed

In contrast, AvaTrade requires a bit more information upfront. The registration form asks for your first name, last name, email address, and phone number. Interestingly, AvaTrade defers the setting of a password until after you confirm your account registration via email. This additional step, while slightly more time-consuming, is part of their process to enhance security and user verification.

Completing and Verifying Your Profile

It's important to note that the initial registration is just the beginning. Like all licensed and regulated brokerages, eToro and AvaTrade are required to ensure the complete and verified profiles of their clients. This means you'll need to provide further personal details and proof of identity. This step is crucial for security purposes and compliance with financial regulations.

Convenient Registration via Social Media

Both eToro and AvaTrade offer the option to register using your Facebook or Google accounts. If you're comfortable linking your social media or Google account with your trading profile, this can be a quick and efficient way to get started. It streamlines the process, especially if you already have existing accounts with these services.

In summary, while both platforms aim for a smooth registration process, the specifics differ slightly, catering to various preferences and requirements for security and user verification.

 

Minimum Deposit Requirements

eToro's minimum deposit starts from $50 (depending on the user’s regions) and $100 for UK and US users. 

 

Platforms Overview

Selecting the right trading platform is a crucial part of your trading experience. Both eToro and AvaTrade offer multiple platform options, catering to various preferences and device compatibilities.

eToro: Web and Mobile Platforms

eToro keeps it straightforward with two main platform choices:

  1. Web-Based Platform: Accessible directly through any standard web browser like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. This user-friendly interface requires no downloads or installations. Whether you are using a computer or smartphone, simply visit www.etoro.com to start trading.
  2. Mobile App: For traders who prefer on-the-go trading, eToro offers a mobile app optimized for touchscreen devices, compatible with both Android and iOS systems. The app maintains the functionality of the web platform, adapted for a mobile experience.

AvaTrade: A Variety of Platforms

AvaTrade, on the other hand, offers a wider range of platform options, each tailored to different trading styles and market needs:

  1. AvaSocial
  2. Web Trading
  3. AvaTradeGO
  4. MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
  5. MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
  6. AvaOptions
  7. Automated Trading
  8. Mac Trading

Each platform has its unique features and tools, designed to cater to diverse trading preferences.

Platform Accessibility and Asset Availability

It's important to note that not all assets are available across all AvaTrade platforms. For instance, certain instruments that are accessible on the Web Trading platform might not be available on MetaTrader 4. This is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the platform, as it may impact your access to specific markets or trading instruments.

In summary, while eToro offers simplicity and ease of use with its web and mobile platforms, AvaTrade provides a broader selection, each with distinct features and functionalities, accommodating a wider range of trading needs and preferences.

 

Assets Available for Trading

The range of assets available through a broker is a key factor in diversifying your investment portfolio. While the average brokerage offers between 100 to 500 tradable assets, both eToro and AvaTrade surpass this range, offering a broader spectrum of trading opportunities.

eToro: A Wealth of Choices

eToro stands out with an impressive array of over 5000 instruments. This vast selection is continuously expanding, providing traders with an extensive array of choices. The diversity in eToro's offerings allows traders to explore various markets, from popular stocks and currencies to more niche options.

AvaTrade: Significant Growth in Asset Options

AvaTrade, meanwhile, currently offers around 1000 assets. This marks a substantial increase from their previous portfolio of around 250 options. This growth reflects AvaTrade's commitment to providing traders with a varied and comprehensive trading experience.

Benefits of a Diverse Asset Portfolio

Having access to a wider range of assets is crucial for several reasons:

  • Portfolio Diversification: More assets mean more opportunities to spread your investments across different markets, reducing risk and potentially increasing returns.
  • Flexibility and Control: A diverse asset range gives you the flexibility to tailor your investment strategy. You’re not limited to popular stocks or currency pairs; you can also explore other markets that might align better with your trading goals.
  • Expanding Your Trading Horizons: Access to a broad range of assets can be particularly advantageous if you're looking to explore emerging markets or less conventional investment options.

In summary, the substantial number of tradable assets offered by eToro and AvaTrade not only allows for significant diversification but also provides a platform for traders to have more control over their investment choices and explore new trading frontiers.

 

Spreads and Their Types

Understanding the types of spreads offered by a broker is crucial for traders, as it directly impacts trading costs. There are two primary types of spreads: fixed and variable.

  1. Fixed Spreads:  As the name suggests, fixed spreads remain constant regardless of market conditions. They are predetermined and do not fluctuate with market volatility. This type of spread can be beneficial for traders who prefer stability and predictability in their trading costs.
  2. Variable Spreads: On the other hand, variable spreads change in response to market conditions. They can widen or narrow based on the current performance of the market, often reflecting the level of volatility and liquidity.

eToro: Variable Spreads

eToro offers variable spreads. This means that the spreads will fluctuate based on market dynamics. For instruments prone to high volatility, like cryptocurrencies, the spreads will generally be wider compared to more stable asset classes. This variability can be advantageous for traders looking to capitalize on market movements but also requires a readiness to adapt to changing trading costs.

AvaTrade: Fixed Spreads

In contrast, AvaTrade operates with fixed spreads. These spreads are set at a fixed rate and do not change in response to market conditions. Whether the market is experiencing a downturn or an upswing, AvaTrade's spreads remain constant. This consistency can be appealing to traders who value predictability in their transaction costs.

Choosing the Right Spread Type

Both fixed and variable spreads have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice largely depends on your individual trading strategy and risk tolerance. Fixed spreads offer certainty in cost calculations, while variable spreads can offer lower average costs but with higher risk during volatile market conditions. It’s essential to understand your own trading needs and preferences when choosing a broker based on their spread type.

 

Deposit Options

The ease of funding your trading account is a significant factor in your overall experience with a brokerage. More deposit options equate to greater convenience, offering flexibility to choose the method that best suits your needs.

eToro: A Wide Array of Deposit Methods

eToro account provides its traders with a diverse range of deposit methods, catering to various preferences and needs. These options include:

  1. Credit/Debit Cards
  2. PayPal
  3. Neteller
  4. Skrill
  5. Rapid Transfer
  6. iDEAL
  7. Klarna/Sofort Banking
  8. Bank Transfer
  9. Local Online Banking

It's important to note that the availability of certain payment gateways may vary depending on your country of residence and the regulatory body overseeing your account. This breadth of options ensures that most traders will find a convenient method to fund their accounts.

AvaTrade: Fewer, But Popular Methods

AvaTrade, in comparison, offers a more limited selection of banking methods. These include:

  1. Visa or MasterCard Credit and Debit Cards
  2. Skrill
  3. Wire Transfer
  4. PayPal

While this list is shorter, it includes some of the most commonly used payment services. However, the limited number of options might pose a challenge if your preferred method is unavailable or encounter issues. For example, if your payment service provider faces technical difficulties or imposes restrictions on using their services for online trading, your alternative choices with AvaTrade are limited.

Adapting to Payment Options

The key is to consider your habitual payment methods and the likelihood of needing alternatives. If you typically use a method offered by both brokerages, the number of additional options may not be as crucial. However, if you prefer having a variety of backup methods or relying on less common payment services, eToro’s wider range of options might be more appealing.

In summary, both eToro and AvaTrade offer reliable and secure methods for depositing funds, with eToro providing a broader selection for enhanced convenience.

 

Withdrawals Process

Withdrawing funds is a key aspect of your trading experience, and understanding the processing times for withdrawals is essential. Both eToro and AvaTrade have distinct timeframes for handling withdrawal requests.

eToro: Swift Withdrawal Processing

eToro is known for its efficiency in processing withdrawal requests. Typically, it takes up to 1 business day for eToro to process a withdrawal, provided all necessary documentation has been submitted and verified. This quick turnaround is a significant advantage for traders who prioritize rapid access to their funds.

AvaTrade: Slightly Longer Processing Time

In comparison, AvaTrade may take up to 2 business days to process withdrawal requests. While this is still within a reasonable timeframe, it's slightly longer than eToro. This difference could be a consideration for traders who need quicker access to their funds.

Understanding Withdrawal Processing Time

It's important to note that the withdrawal processing time refers to the period it takes for the broker to handle and approve your request to withdraw funds. This is not the same as the time it will take for the funds to appear in your bank account or the chosen payment method. The latter depends largely on your payment service provider and typically ranges from 3 to 8 business days under normal circumstances.

Both eToro and AvaTrade strive to process withdrawals promptly, but the actual time to receive funds will also depend on external factors like the efficiency of your bank or payment service. As a trader, it's important to consider both the processing time of the brokerage and the typical transaction time of your chosen withdrawal method.

 

Customer Service Options

Effective customer service is a vital component of your experience with a brokerage. Both eToro and AvaTrade offer specific channels for customer support, catering to the digital preferences of modern traders.

Common Channels: Email and Live Chat

Both eToro and AvaTrade provide customer support through email and live chat. These online methods have become increasingly popular in the brokerage industry, offering quick and convenient ways for traders to get assistance.

eToro: Additional Support Resources

eToro distinguishes itself with additional support resources:

  1. Ticket System: This allows for a more organized way of handling inquiries, where you can track the progress of your queries.
  2. Help Center: eToro's Help Center is a significant resource, offering a comprehensive library of information. This can be incredibly useful for answering common questions and providing guidance on using the platform.

AvaTrade: A Basic FAQ Page

AvaTrade, in comparison, offers a basic FAQ page. While this may cover common questions and issues, it might not be as extensive as eToro's Help Center in terms of depth and breadth of information.

Both Lack of Phone Support

It’s important to note that neither eToro nor AvaTrade offers phone support. This trend is common among many online brokerages, as they shift towards more digitally-oriented support methods.

Choosing the Right Support Channel

When selecting a brokerage, consider how you prefer to receive support. If you value comprehensive online resources and the ability to track your support requests formally, eToro’s approach may be more appealing. On the other hand, if your focus is on basic, direct communication, AvaTrade’s simpler approach might suffice.

In conclusion, both eToro and AvaTrade offer efficient digital channels for customer support, with eToro providing additional resources for self-help and query tracking. Your choice will depend on your preference for support style and the complexity of the issues you anticipate encountering.

 

Regulation and Licensing

Regulatory compliance is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a brokerage, as it significantly impacts the safety and reliability of your trading experience. Both eToro and AvaTrade are licensed and regulated by multiple reputable financial authorities, indicating a high level of trustworthiness and regulatory adherence.

eToro's Licenses

eToro operates under several regulatory bodies:

  1. Cyprus Securities & Exchange Commission (CySEC): eToro (Europe) Ltd. is licensed with company registration # HE20058.
  2. Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): eToro (UK) Ltd. is authorised and regulated with company registration # 7973792.
  3. Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC): eToro AUS Capital Pty Ltd. holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) 491139.

AvaTrade's Licenses

AvaTrade is similarly regulated by a range of authorities:

  1. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI): AVA Trade EU Ltd is regulated with license # C53877.
  2. British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC): AVA Trade Ltd is the regulated entity.
  3. Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC): Ava Capital Markets Australia Pty Ltd is regulated with license # 406684.
  4. South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA): Ava Capital Markets Pty is regulated with license # 45984.
  5. Financial Services Agency (FSA) and Financial Futures Association of Japan (FFAJ): Ava Trade Japan K.K. holds licenses # 1662 (FSA) and 1574 (FFAJ).
  6. Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM) and Financial Regulatory Services Authority (FRSA): Ava Trade Middle East Ltd is regulated with license # 190018.
  7. Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC): DT Direct Investment Hub Ltd. is regulated with license # 347/17.
  8. Israel Securities Authority (ISA): ATrade Ltd is regulated in Israel with license # 514666577.

Comparison and Implications

In terms of regulatory compliance, it’s a tie between eToro and AvaTrade. Both brokerages demonstrate a strong commitment to regulatory standards, holding licenses from various respected financial authorities globally. This wide range of regulatory oversight ensures that they adhere to the highest standards of financial conduct and client protection.

For traders, this means that both eToro and AvaTrade are reliable and secure platforms for trading, each backed by a robust framework of regulatory compliance. The choice between the two would then depend on other factors such as platform features, asset availability, and personal preferences.

 

End of the Line

In summarizing my comparative analysis of eToro and AvaTrade, it's evident that each brokerage brings its unique strengths to the table, rooted in my firsthand experience and thorough exploration of their offerings. Both platforms are commendably licensed and regulated by trusted financial authorities, ensuring a secure trading environment. Their diverse range of tradable assets and variety of platforms cater to a broad spectrum of traders' needs.

From my experience, eToro's edge lies in its vast array of tradable instruments, offering nearly three times as many options as AvaTrade. This diversity can be a game-changer for traders seeking a wide range of investment opportunities. Additionally, eToro's expedited withdrawal processing significantly enhances the trading experience, offering quick and efficient access to funds.

AvaTrade, on the other hand, distinguishes itself with a more extensive selection of trading platforms. This variety affords traders the flexibility to choose a platform that aligns best with their trading style and preferences. While AvaTrade doesn’t offer phone support, its commitment to providing diverse platform options is noteworthy.

In conclusion, both eToro and AvaTrade excel in different areas, and the choice between them would depend on what aspects of trading are most critical to you. Whether it's the breadth of trading instruments with eToro or the platform diversity of AvaTrade, each has its unique offerings. As someone who has engaged with both platforms, I can affirm that your decision should align with your specific trading goals, strategies, and preferences.

eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks, as well as trading CFDs.

Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

This communication is intended for information and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or investment recommendation. Past performance is not an indication of future results.

Copy Trading does not amount to investment advice. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.

eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs and makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication, which has been prepared by our partner utilizing publicly available non-entity specific information about eToro.

Wikitoro author Nick Zelver About Nick Zelver

Nick is the Senior Content Editor at Wikitoro.org with over 15 years in online marketing. A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, he has strategized for More Sales Inc. and led online sales at GlassesUSA.com. His journey through digital marketing, e-commerce, and account management has equipped him with a unique perspective. Every article he pens is infused with his real-world experiences, aiming to guide and inform readers.

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