Comparison · updated July 2026
Manifold Markets vs ForecastEx
Manifold Markets and ForecastEx are two of the most discussed prediction market platforms in the US. Here's a side-by-side look at how they compare on the factors that actually matter for traders.
Manifold Markets
Play-money prediction market platform with real communities and calibration data.
ForecastEx
An exchange-grade forecast market owned by Interactive Brokers.
Rating
Manifold Markets
4.3
ForecastEx
4.4
Best for
Manifold Markets
Forecasters and researchers
ForecastEx
Brokerage-grade access via Interactive Brokers
Regulation
Manifold Markets
Play-money / sweepstakes
ForecastEx
CFTC-regulated
US availability
Manifold Markets
Available
ForecastEx
Available
Fees
Manifold Markets
Free (play-money)
ForecastEx
1 cent per contract
Mobile
Manifold Markets
Good
ForecastEx
Good
Markets
Manifold Markets
Politics, AI, Culture, Sports, Economy
ForecastEx
Economy, Climate, Politics, Financial events
Payment
Manifold Markets
ForecastEx
Bank transfer, IBKR funding
Founded
Manifold Markets
ForecastEx
2023
Verdicts
Who wins, category by category
Best for beginners
Manifold Markets
Cleaner onboarding and a more polished consumer experience.
Final take
Should you choose Manifold Markets or ForecastEx?
ForecastEx comes out narrowly ahead in our methodology, but both platforms have a clear lane. Choose Manifold Markets for forecasters and researchers, and ForecastEx for brokerage-grade access via interactive brokers.