We tested execution speed, slippage, and scalping restrictions at 20+ brokers. Only brokers with genuine sub-50ms execution, raw spreads, and no scalping restrictions made this list.
Pepperstone consistently delivers the fastest execution speeds of any broker we've tested — averaging 30ms on cTrader and 40ms on MT4 during the London session. Raw spreads on EUR/USD average 0.09 pips with a $3.50/side commission. We detected zero requotes across 2,000+ test trades. Scalping is explicitly permitted and even encouraged — the broker markets itself to high-frequency retail traders.
IC Markets is the world's largest True ECN broker by volume and a favourite among professional scalpers. Their NY4 and LD4 server co-location provides institutional-grade latency. Raw spreads average 0.0–0.1 pips on EUR/USD with a $3.50/lot commission. No restrictions on scalping, hedging, or EA use.
FP Markets is an underrated option for scalpers, particularly those who prefer the Iress platform for direct market access. ECN spreads from 0.0 pips on the Raw account, $3.00 commission per lot, and no restrictions on trade frequency or holding time.
For scalpers, every millisecond matters. Look for brokers with server co-location at NY4 or LD4 data centres, and average fill times under 50ms. We measure this using automated scripts, not marketing claims.
Standard accounts with wide built-in spreads are unsuitable for scalping. You need a raw/ECN account with spreads starting from 0.0 pips plus a per-lot commission. The total cost per round trip should be under 0.5 pips equivalent.
Some brokers prohibit scalping in their terms — holding trades under 2 minutes, or placing too many trades per day, can result in account closure. Verify explicitly before depositing. All brokers on this list explicitly permit scalping.