IQ Option is a top-tier online broker providing access to binary options, CFDs, cryptocurrencies, and forex trading.
In this comprehensive review, we explore the platform’s features in detail, assess the mobile app experience, and offer guidance on maximizing the demo account. You’ll also find helpful trading strategies and tips for using options effectively. Join millions of traders already using the platform — sign in and start trading today.
Trading Platform
To give clients direct access to financial markets and online trading, IQ Option developed its own custom-built trading platform and a wide range of instruments.
The platform’s interface and functionality differ from what many traders may be familiar with, as it’s designed to reflect the more advanced systems commonly used in spot forex trading.
IQ Option’s software includes key trading tools such as stop loss and take profit levels — features typically unavailable on standard digital option platforms.
In addition, to support better risk management and strategy flexibility, the platform offers a unique “Position Top-Up” feature, allowing traders to keep trades open beyond the initial stop loss limit.
Strategy Tools & Trading Platform
The IQ Option trading platform offers a clean, intuitive layout with clearly displayed strike prices, trading buttons, and interactive price charts. Navigation is seamless, allowing traders to easily switch between different assets and markets.
One standout feature is the high level of customization. Traders can rearrange charts, tools, and interface elements to create a workspace that fits their strategy and personal preferences — making this one of the most flexible and user-friendly platforms in the industry.
The platform is accessible via a web-based version, or as a downloadable desktop application for PC and Mac. While all versions are reliable, the desktop app offers faster execution speeds, ideal for active traders. A mobile app is also available for on-the-go trading, delivering full functionality in a responsive format.
Currently, MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is not supported, but the proprietary platform is still regarded as one of the most advanced in the OTC trading space.
The platform is available 24/7, though trading is only possible when the relevant markets are open.
For example:
- Forex pairs can be traded almost around the clock during weekdays
- US stocks are only available during NYSE trading hours
Charting & Technical Analysis Tools
IQ Option’s platform combines a modern, user-friendly interface with powerful charting capabilities. Traders can select from four different chart view types, making it easy to tailor the display to their preferences.
There are 18 time intervals available for candlestick and bar charts, allowing for in-depth analysis across multiple timeframes. Traders can also open and monitor multiple charts simultaneously, which is ideal for confirming trends and executing more complex strategies.
The platform also features a variety of drawing tools, such as trend lines, to help traders visually map out patterns and support/resistance levels in real-time.
Recent updates have introduced a robust suite of technical analysis tools, including popular indicators like:
- Bollinger Bands
- Moving Averages
- Relative Strength Index (RSI)
- And nearly 20 other indicators
This makes the platform a great fit for traders who rely on price action, trend confirmation, or indicator-based strategies.
One standout feature is the ability to place multiple trades on the same chart, which greatly enhances the execution of advanced strategies such as Martingale or Turbo trading — all while keeping a clear overview of open positions.
Trade sizes start from just $1, with a maximum limit of $20,000 per trade, making the platform suitable for both conservative and high-stakes traders.
Forex and Cryptocurrency Trading on IQ Option
IQ Option’s expanded offering now includes forex and cryptocurrency trading, each with market-specific features tailored to the asset class. For instance, when trading forex, traders gain access to tools such as leverage, stop loss, and take profit options to better manage risk and enhance strategy.
When trading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum—which are available through contracts for difference (CFDs)—there are no expiry times. However, traders still benefit from essential risk management tools like stop loss and take profit.
Another advantage of the platform’s updated forex offering is the ability to trade on weekends, providing greater flexibility for active traders.
Despite the differences in asset classes, the interface remains consistent across all markets. This ensures that traders familiar with binary options will find it easy to transition into forex or crypto trading, with all relevant information easily accessible within the same user-friendly platform.
IQ Option Mobile App
The IQ Option mobile trading app mirrors the design and functionality of the platform’s desktop and web versions, offering a seamless and consistent trading experience across all devices. The layout, buttons, and overall interface are nearly identical, making it easy for users to switch between devices without any learning curve.
Each version of the app is individually optimized for its operating system:
- The Android app is specifically developed for Android devices, ensuring smooth performance and full functionality.
- The iOS app is tailored for iPhone and iPad, making the most of Apple’s design and hardware capabilities.
IQ Option’s attention to detail in adapting to different systems sets it apart. When Apple updated its policies on finance-related apps, IQ Option responded swiftly by rebuilding the iOS app to comply with the new guidelines — a strong sign of the company’s commitment to adaptability and user trust.
The latest mobile app version supports forex and CFD trading, and cryptocurrency trading will be included soon after its full rollout.
In addition to the mobile versions, there’s also a Windows desktop app, offering the fastest trade execution for power users.
Download the latest version of the IQ Option app directly from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or via the official Windows download for the most up-to-date mobile trading experience.
Trading Options: CFD, Forex & Cryptocurrency
IQ Option continues to expand its offering, now providing access to all five major asset classes: forex, commodities, stocks, equities, and indices. In response to growing trader demand, the platform has also significantly increased its cryptocurrency offering, making it one of the more diverse selections available among online brokers.
💱 Forex Trading
Forex is a standout category on IQ Option, with a wide range of currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic options such as NOK, SEK, and TRY.
Popular pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY, and EUR/GBP remain the most actively traded, offering high liquidity and tighter spreads.
- Forex trades can be executed per pip, allowing precision control over position sizing.
- IQ Option has also introduced Forex Multipliers, offering up to 1:30 leverage — amplifying potential gains and risks based on market movement.
📈 CFD Trading
Contracts for Difference (CFDs) provide traders the ability to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying asset. IQ Option offers CFDs across a wide range of markets, including stocks and cryptocurrencies.
- CFD positions do not have expiry times, making them suitable for longer-term trading strategies.
🪙 Cryptocurrency CFDs
IQ Option has made notable strides in the crypto space, currently offering Bitcoin and six additional cryptocurrencies via CFDs. These contracts allow users to speculate on price movements without holding actual coins and without expiration.
⌛ Flexible Expiry Times
Originally focused on short-term binary options, IQ Option now provides a broader range of expiry options, including:
- Short-term trades
- End of Day
- End of Week
- End of Month
This variety allows traders to align their strategies with their preferred timeframes, whether scalping or planning long-term positions.
With an ever-expanding asset portfolio, enhanced expiry flexibility, forex leverage options, and growing cryptocurrency access, IQ Option gives traders the tools and freedom to execute virtually any strategy across global markets.
FX Options on IQ Option
IQ Option has introduced FX Options as a new trading product, offering a hybrid between binary options (fixed expiry and limited risk) and traditional forex trading (profit based on price movement). This product is particularly designed for EU traders as a compliant alternative to binary options, which have been restricted under ESMA regulations.
With FX Options, traders can select their own strike price and predict whether the market will move higher or lower from that point. The payout percentage depends on how far the price needs to move to finish “in the money.”
These options behave more like traditional financial options in that they:
- Can be closed at any time before expiry via the “Sell” price
- Are affected by market volatility and time remaining, which influence the current value of the trade as expiry approaches
Currently, IQ Option offers hourly expiries for FX Options. However, if the product proves popular, more expiry choices and asset types are expected to be added in the future.
The screenshot above displays the available strike price levels on the right-hand side, next to the trading buttons. A color-coded bar (red/green) indicates the potential payout for each level. These payouts are dynamic and adjust in real time based on factors such as the selected strike price, time remaining until expiry, and the current market price.
Cryptocurrency Multipliers
Alongside traditional crypto CFD and forex-style trading, IQ Option has introduced an innovative feature called Cryptocurrency Multipliers. These trades function similarly to leveraged positions, where the underlying asset price remains central, but the impact of price movement is amplified by a set multiplier.
This allows traders to magnify potential profits — but it also increases exposure to potential losses, making effective risk management essential when using this tool.
Trading Costs: Spreads, Commissions & Fees
When comparing brokers, transparency in trading costs is essential. IQ Option maintains a relatively straightforward fee structure, but traders should be aware of the following charges:
📉 Spreads
The spread is the difference between the buy and sell prices and acts as the primary trading cost on most instruments. Spreads vary depending on:
- Market volatility
- Asset type
- Liquidity
- Time of day (off-market hours may widen spreads)
💸 Withdrawal Fees
- The first withdrawal each month is free.
- A 2% commission is applied starting from the second withdrawal within the same calendar month.
🪙 Commission
- A 2.9% commission applies only to cryptocurrency trades.
- No commission is charged on forex, CFDs, or other asset classes.
🌙 Swap Fees
- For positions held overnight, swap/rollover fees may apply.
- These range from 0.01% to 0.5%, and are typically higher over the weekend.
💤 Dormant Account Fee
- If your account remains inactive for 90 consecutive days, a €10 monthly fee (or equivalent in account currency) will be charged until the balance reaches zero.
Deposits & Withdrawals
IQ Option supports a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, with available options varying by country. Popular funding methods include:
- Debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- E-wallets such as Skrill, Neteller, and Perfect Money
- Cryptocurrency payments, including Bitcoin and other major coins
- Bank transfers, often processed through linked debit cards
Among these, bank card deposits remain the most commonly used option due to their speed and simplicity.
Withdrawals are typically processed using the same method as the deposit, helping to ensure security and regulatory compliance.
Safety of Deposits & Withdrawals
Depositing funds with IQ Option is considered safe and reliable. Deposit errors are extremely rare, and in the event of any issues, the support team is responsive and ready to assist.
Withdrawals can be made using the same method as the original deposit, maintaining a secure and consistent transaction process. Before a withdrawal can be processed, account verification is typically required to comply with regulatory standards.
For added transparency, proof of all withdrawals is stored in the user’s account dashboard and remains accessible for the lifetime of the account, allowing users to track and audit their transaction history at any time.
Account Type
IQ Option offers a standard trading account with a low minimum deposit of just $10, making it highly accessible to new traders.
Despite the low entry requirement, the standard account provides full access to the platform’s features, including:
- All option types (binary, digital, FX options, CFDs, etc.)
- Full deposit and withdrawal functionality
- Access to the trading tools, charts, indicators, and strategies available to all users
There are no feature restrictions compared to higher-tier accounts, making the standard account a complete and functional solution for most traders.
Forex and CFD Trading
Payouts on Forex and CFD trades at IQ Option are determined by the performance of the underlying asset, offering traders a dynamic trading experience based on real market movement.
IQ Option provides a range of risk management tools commonly found at top-tier brokers, including:
- Customizable stop loss and take profit levels
- User-defined leverage, which can even be set to zero for full control over exposure
With the introduction of these products, IQ Option now rivals major global brokers, offering a feature-rich trading environment that supports both short-term and long-term strategies.
Notably, the platform also gives users direct access to trading popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum—something many larger brokers still don’t offer.
In addition, spreads on forex and CFD assets are competitive, ensuring that trading costs remain low and aligned with industry standards.
For those wanting to explore new asset types or fine-tune strategies, IQ Option’s free demo account provides a risk-free environment to practice and gain experience.
Is IQ Option a Scam?
No, IQ Option is not a scam. It is a legitimate and reliable online trading platform with a strong track record and global user base.
The company operates transparently and promotes responsible marketing practices through its affiliate network, ensuring that the risks and nature of trading are communicated clearly to potential users.
IQ Option complies with industry standards, implements secure transaction protocols, and provides risk management tools to support informed and responsible trading.
Company History & Reputation
Founded in mid-2013, IQ Option has grown into one of the most reliable and innovative binary options brokers in the industry. The brand is well-regarded for its commitment to transparency, user satisfaction, and platform innovation.
IQ Option’s credibility is supported by numerous industry awards, which are listed on their official website. These recognitions come from trusted comparison sites and reviewers, further reinforcing the platform’s legitimacy. IQ Option is not a scam, and traders can feel confident using the service.
User Feedback & Reliability
- User satisfaction remains consistently high, with most traders using the platform for months or even years.
- Forum discussions and direct user reviews tend to be overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the platform’s usability and feature set.
- Reports of technical issues like “site not working” or “server down” are rare, and often stem from local internet or device-related problems rather than platform errors.
Transparency & Trader Confidence
IQ Option operates with a transparent business model, designed to build trust and retain long-term users. Key practices include:
- Free, Unlimited Demo Account
A parallel demo account runs alongside the real account and has no time restriction. Traders can practice indefinitely, and demo balances can be reset on request via customer support. The demo is available via web, mobile, or download. - No Deposit Bonuses
IQ Option has phased out deposit match bonuses, promoting more sustainable and risk-aware trading behavior. - Clear Hedging Policies
IQ Option is open about its risk management strategy, including how and when it hedges trades — a reassuring move for those wary of OTC (over-the-counter) brokers. - Multi-Language Support
Customer support is available in multiple languages and includes live chat for fast assistance. For account actions like unblocking, deleting, or closing an account, phone support is available. - Market Updates
The platform features an event calendar and brand updates within the user area, helping traders stay informed on important financial news and platform developments.
Regulation & Legal Information
According to the official IQ Option website, the platform is operated under the following entities:
- IQ Option Europe Ltd is managed by:
Infofield Premier Ltd – Registration Number: HE324593 - Additional operations are handled by:
Investlab Holdings Ltd – Registration Number: HE327751
These corporate entities are registered in accordance with applicable laws, and their details are available for public reference. This structure adds a layer of legal clarity and supports the platform’s commitment to transparency.
Demo Account
IQ Option offers one of the most flexible and beginner-friendly demo accounts in the industry. It is a no-deposit demo account, meaning you can sign up and start practicing immediately without funding a real account.
✅ Key Features:
- $10,000 virtual balance that can be replenished at any time
- No time restrictions – use it as long as you need
- Runs alongside a live account, allowing you to switch between real and virtual trading at will
- Ideal for testing new strategies or learning the platform without any financial risk
- Entirely risk-free, with full access to trading tools and features
This level of demo access reflects IQ Option’s confidence in its platform. It’s particularly attractive for new traders, offering a pressure-free environment to learn, explore, and grow.
Combined with the low $10 minimum deposit, the demo account is a major reason IQ Option continues to grow in popularity — especially among beginners who value a user-friendly and supportive entry point into trading.
Trading Strategies on IQ Option
Due to the wide variety of assets and timeframes available on IQ Option, there’s no single strategy that fits all scenarios. From rainbow strategies to technical indicators and price action methods, traders have endless strategic options to explore.
What works well for one market—such as EUR/USD forex trades—may not be effective when trading commodities like oil. Similarly, a strategy built for 60-second binary options might not perform the same for 5-minute or longer-term trades.
💡 Use the Demo Account to Develop Your Strategy
IQ Option’s unlimited demo account is one of the best tools for discovering what works. It provides traders with a risk-free environment to test and refine strategies across:
- Different markets (forex, crypto, stocks, commodities)
- Varying timeframes
- A wide range of indicators and tools
Compared to other brokers like Plus500, IQ Option gives traders a more flexible and forgiving space to build a personalized trading system through practice and experimentation.
Signals & Automated Trading
Currently, IQ Option does not provide automated trading signals to users. While the platform features sentiment indicators that offer insights into how other traders are positioning themselves, there are no direct trading signals or automated trade recommendations.
Unlike some other brokers, IQ Option does not offer expert advisor services (such as having a broker employee manage trades on a trader’s behalf). This is a deliberate choice, as such services may lack objectivity and may not always act in the trader’s best interest.
Instead, IQ Option focuses on empowering traders by giving them the tools, resources, and education needed to make informed, independent trading decisions.
IQ Option – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum deposit to open a trading account?
The minimum deposit at IQ Option is €50, making it accessible for traders of all levels.
Is the IQ Option platform reliable?
Yes. The web platform, mobile app, and downloadable desktop version are all highly reliable. IQ Option recommends using the desktop software for the fastest trade execution times.
What trading platform does IQ Option use?
IQ Option uses a proprietary trading platform, developed in-house. It’s constantly updated with new features and markets, and includes advanced charting tools to support technical analysis.
Does IQ Option offer leverage?
Yes.
- For EEA traders, leverage is capped at 1:30, in line with ESMA regulations.
- Traders can apply for a professional account to access higher leverage.
- IQ Option also offers “Multipliers” on certain assets (mainly cryptocurrencies), functioning like high-leverage trades — up to 1:100.
How fast are withdrawal requests processed?
Withdrawals are typically processed within 1–3 business days. After processing, it may take another 2–3 business days for funds to reach your account, depending on the chosen withdrawal method.
Is IQ Option regulated?
Yes. IQ Option Europe Ltd is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).
Is IQ Option safe?
Yes. IQ Option is a legitimate and reputable broker, operating transparently and offering risk management tools to protect traders.
Does IQ Option accept PayPal?
Yes, IQ Option supports PayPal, along with other popular e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller.
IQ Option Review: Final Verdict
✅ Pros
- Low Minimum Deposit – Start trading with just €50
- Advanced Proprietary Platform – Fast, intuitive, and regularly updated
- Direct Crypto Market Access – Trade assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum via CFDs
- Secure Account Verification – Robust KYC process for added security
- Fast Withdrawals – Funds typically processed within 1–3 business days
⚠️ Cons
- Limited Market Coverage – Fewer forex and CFD assets compared to some major brokers
- No Automated Trading Tools – Custom robots and auto-trading features have been removed
- No MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Support – Traders seeking MT4 integration will need to look elsewhere
IQ Option remains a strong choice for beginner and intermediate traders, particularly those interested in binary options, cryptocurrencies, and a modern trading experience. While it lacks some advanced features found on other platforms, its ease of use, fast execution, and low barrier to entry make it a solid, trusted broker for those looking to get started.
IQ Option Broker Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Awards | Most Trusted Broker 2017–2020 (BinaryOptions.net), Best Binary Broker 2021 (DayTrading.com) |
| Instruments | CFD, Forex, Crypto, Stocks, Digital Options |
| Demo Account | Yes |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 |
| Minimum Trade | 0.001 Lots |
| Payout | 91% |
| Ladder Binary Options | Yes |
| Boundary Binary Options | Yes |
| Payment Methods | Alipay, Boleto, Credit Card, GlobePay, Maestro, MoneyGram, Perfect Money, QIWI, Skrill, Sofort, Vietcombank, Volet, Wire Transfer, Yandex Money |
| Mobile Apps | iOS, Android, Windows |
| Copy Trading | No |
| Social Trading | No |
| Margin Trading | Yes |
| Margin Rate | 0.2% |
| Negative Balance Protection | Yes |
| Market Maker | Yes |
| Tournaments | Yes |
| Islamic Account | Yes |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, ZAR |
| Stock Exchanges | ASX, CAC 40, DAX, Dow Jones, Euronext, FTSE, HKSE, IBEX 35, JPX, Nasdaq, S&P 500 |
| Commodities | Oil, Gold |
| CFD Trading | Yes |
| CFD Leverage | 1:500 |
| Forex Trading | Yes |
| Forex Assets | 60+ |
| Crypto Trading | Yes |
| Crypto Coins | BCH, BTC, DASH, EOS, ETC, ETH, LTC, OMG, QTUM, TRX, XRP, ZEC |
