I am actually with oanda that have spread that goes from 1.8 to 20...(most of the time 2.8) on GBP/usd. which broker have the best spread on GBP/usd?
any ECN broker, they offer any where from 0 - 3 pips most of the time it range around 1-2 pips, but you do pay a comm, still better then dealing with a market maker.
During European and early US hours IB has almost always 1.5 spread - sometimes 1 when it's particularly active. When slow, it can be 2. After US close it's 2-2.5ish.
Yes, it is much better to pay both the spread and a commish, rather than just the spread alone. I have not found anyone to beat FXCM's micro spreads.
WSD offers 1-2 pips spread in GBP/USD depending on how active the market is at that time. You can experience the spreads they offer by downloading their demo account.
I should say, not only spreads but the execution is very efficient at FXCM. Very satisfied during the last one year I am trading with them. Vilas.