Should you choose a broker that gives you a $30 bonus with 1.6 pip spreads, or a broker with 0.0 pip spreads and no bonus? This is one of the most asked questions in forex trading. We updated the math for 2026 with current spread data from XM and Exness to give you a definitive answer.
The Core Question
XM offers a $30 no deposit bonus with average 1.6 pip spread on EUR/USD. Exness offers no bonus but 0.6-1.0 pip spread on Standard and 0.0 pip + $7/lot commission on Raw Spread. Which puts more money in your pocket?
The Math: 100 Trades of 1 Standard Lot
| Factor | XM (with bonus) | Exness Standard | Exness Raw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonus Value | +$30 | $0 | $0 |
| Spread per Lot | $16 (1.6 pips) | $8 (0.8 pips) | $0 + $7 commission = $7 |
| 100 Lots Spread Cost | $1,600 | $800 | $700 |
| Net Cost After Bonus | $1,570 | $800 | $700 |
| Savings vs XM | — | $770 | $870 |
Break-Even Point
At what point does the spread difference overcome the $30 bonus?
Spread difference per lot (XM vs Exness Standard): $16 - $8 = $8 per lot
Break-even: $30 ÷ $8 = 3.75 lots
After just 4 trades of 1 standard lot, Exness has already saved you more than the $30 bonus. From trade 5 onwards, you are paying a premium at XM.
By Trading Volume
| Monthly Volume | XM Net Cost | Exness Net Cost | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 lot/month | -$30 + $16 = -$14 | $8 | XM (bonus value exceeds cost) |
| 5 lots/month | -$30 + $80 = $50 | $40 | Exness ($10 cheaper) |
| 20 lots/month | -$30 + $320 = $290 | $160 | Exness ($130 cheaper) |
| 100 lots/month | -$30 + $1,600 = $1,570 | $800 | Exness ($770 cheaper) |
The Answer
If you trade less than 4 standard lots per month: XM's $30 bonus provides more value than the spread difference. The bonus is worth claiming.
If you trade more than 4 standard lots per month: Exness's lower spreads save you more money than the bonus provides. The spread advantage compounds every month.
The real answer: use both. Claim XM's $30 free, trade it, withdraw the profit. Then use Exness for your main funded trading. You get the bonus AND the low spreads.
Why Not Both?
There is no rule that says you must pick one broker. The optimal approach:
- Claim XM's $30 bonus — takes 5-10 days to complete and withdraw
- Open an Exness account for your main trading — enjoy 0.0 pip spreads on every trade
- Total benefit: $30 free from XM + lowest spreads from Exness
Claim XM $30 free. Open Exness for 0.0 spreads. Get the bonus AND the savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a $30 bonus better than low spreads?
Only if you trade less than 4 standard lots per month. After 4 lots, the spread savings from Exness (0.6-1.0 pips vs XM 1.6 pips) exceed the $30 bonus value. For active traders, low spreads always win long-term.
Can I use both a bonus broker and a low-spread broker?
Yes, and we recommend it. Claim XM $30 free, complete requirements, withdraw profit. Then trade daily at Exness for the lowest spreads. There is no conflict — they are separate accounts at different brokers.
How many trades until low spreads beat the bonus?
At 1 standard lot per trade, Exness saves $8 per trade versus XM. After 4 trades ($32 saved), the spread savings exceed the $30 bonus. The break-even point is 3.75 standard lots.
Which is better for beginners: bonus or low spread?
The $30 no deposit bonus is better for absolute beginners because it provides zero-risk live trading experience. Once you are comfortable, switch to Exness for the lowest costs on funded trading.
Trading forex and CFDs involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. BonusForex100 contains affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.