XM Account Types 2026: Which Is Best for You?
XM offers four main account types — Micro, Standard, Ultra Low, and Zero — plus a Shares account. Each differs in lot size, spread, commission, and minimum deposit. This guide helps you pick the right one for your trading style and budget.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Micro | Standard | Ultra Low | Zero |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $5 | $5 | $5 | $100 |
| Lot size | 1 lot = 1,000 units | 1 lot = 100,000 units | 1 lot = 100,000 units (Std) / 1,000 (Micro) | 1 lot = 100,000 units |
| Pip value (1 lot EUR/USD) | ~$0.10 | ~$10 | ~$10 / ~$0.10 | ~$10 |
| Spreads from | 1.0 pip | 1.0 pip | 0.6 pip | 0.0 pip |
| Commission | None | None | None | $3.50/lot/side |
| Max leverage | 1:1000 | 1:1000 | 1:1000 | 1:500 |
| Swap-free option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| $30 bonus eligible | Yes | Yes | Varies | No |
| Best for | Beginners, small budgets | Intermediate traders | Cost-conscious traders | Scalpers, pros |
Leverage limits vary by regulatory entity. EU-regulated clients (CySEC) are limited to 1:30 under ESMA rules. Non-EU clients may access up to 1:1000.
Micro Account — Best for Beginners
The Micro account uses micro lots (1,000 units), meaning each pip move on EUR/USD is worth approximately $0.10 instead of $10. This dramatically reduces the dollar risk per trade, making it ideal for:
- First-time traders learning position sizing
- Traders with a small starting budget ($5–$100)
- Testing strategies on a live account with minimal risk
Spreads start from 1.0 pip with no commission. The $30 no-deposit bonus is available on this account type.
Standard Account — The All-Rounder
The Standard account uses full-size lots (100,000 units). Same spreads as Micro (from 1.0 pip), no commission, $5 minimum deposit. The key difference is that each pip is worth $10 on a standard lot of EUR/USD — so position sizing becomes more important.
Best for intermediate traders who understand lot sizes and risk management, and want access to a wider range of instruments.
Ultra Low Account — Tighter Spreads, No Commission
The Ultra Low accounts (available in both Micro and Standard lot sizes) offer spreads starting from 0.6 pips — tighter than the standard 1.0 pip — with no commission. The $5 minimum deposit remains.
Best for traders who are cost-sensitive and want better spread pricing without paying per-trade commissions. A good middle ground between Micro/Standard and Zero.
Zero Account — For Scalpers and Active Traders
The Zero account offers spreads from 0.0 pips on the most popular instruments, but charges a $3.50 commission per lot per side (i.e., $7 round-trip). This is cost-effective for larger volume traders but may be more expensive for small or infrequent trades.
Requires a $100 minimum deposit. Not eligible for the $30 welcome bonus. Best for:
- Scalpers who need near-zero spreads
- Algorithmic traders (EAs) placing many trades per day
- Experienced traders comfortable calculating commission into their strategy
Which Account Should You Open?
| Your situation | Recommended account |
|---|---|
| First time trading, small budget | Micro |
| Want the $30 no-deposit bonus | Micro or Standard |
| Active trader, want lower spreads | Ultra Low |
| Scalper or EA trader | Zero |
| Need swap-free (Islamic) account | Any (request conversion after opening) |
| Just want to practise first | Demo account (free) |
Open Your XM Account — Choose Your Type
$5 minimum · MT4 & MT5 · $30 bonus available on Micro & Standard
Open Account Now →