TradeStation Review

TradeStation positions itself as the go-to platform for serious traders, especially those with a high net worth and a strong interest in active trading. With a “Born to Trade” philosophy, the firm has sharpened its focus on delivering sophisticated tools that meet the unique needs of experienced, well-capitalized traders.

However, the platform can be challenging for new users, as TradeStation’s complex functionality and segmented design can make navigation frustrating. While it's a powerhouse for those who can fully leverage its capabilities, casual or low-balance investors may find its structure and fees less appealing. Ultimately, TradeStation remains best suited for those who want full control, customization, and high-level support in their trading experience.

Pros & Cons

Overall summary

Range of investments

TradeStation caters to active traders with a variety of asset classes, including stocks, options, futures, futures options, ETFs, and mutual funds. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Stocks & ETFs: TradeStation offers a wide selection of stocks & ETFs with tools geared toward technical analysis, though fundamental insights are limited.

Options: A core focus at TradeStation, options trading is supported with advanced tools, multi-leg trading capabilities, and an Options Resource Center dedicated to strategy and risk management — ideal for active options traders.

Futures and futures options: TradeStation’s futures and futures options feature fast execution, real-time data, and deep market insights, enhancing complex strategies.

Commissions and fees

TradeStation offers multiple pricing plans suited for frequent traders, with some unique benefits:

TS Select: TradeStation’s main retail pricing plan, TS Select, includes $0 commissions on stock and ETF trades, options at $0.60 per contract, and futures at $1.50 per contract (per side). All three of TradeStation’s trading platforms are accessible under this plan, though traders may need to pay extra for certain market data subscriptions, depending on their needs.

TradeStation Salutes: Active military, veterans, and first responders can benefit from the TradeStation Salutes program, which waives commissions on stock, ETF, and options trades.

Penny stocks: For penny stocks, the first 10,000 shares trade commission-free, with a charge of $0.005 per share thereafter. Orders directed to specific venues incur an additional $0.005 per share.

Inactivity fees: A $10 monthly inactivity fee applies unless the account has an average balance of $5,000 or has seen 10 trades in the past 90 days.

Other fees: TradeStation’s incidental fees are varied. Notably, the account transfer fee is $125, with an annual IRA fee of $35 and a $50 IRA closure fee — higher than most competitors.

Mobile trading apps

TradeStation’s mobile app provides a streamlined experience for active traders, excelling in real-time data delivery, smooth trade execution, tools for monitoring positions and the market, tracking watch list stocks, and easy access to trading tools.

Monitoring the market

The app provides quick insights into market movers, with major indices, oil, and the VIX displayed at the top using spark charts (the name for the daily performance depicted on a small line chart). Below are details on sector performance, top analyst ratings, news, and an earnings calendar. The "Why is it moving?" tool, powered by Benzinga, offers concise explanations for stock movements, saving users from sifting through news feeds. Adding Treasurys and an economic calendar would make tracking markets on the app almost perfect.

Quotes and trading

The trade ticket is user-friendly, even for conditional orders. The options chain is convenient for on-the-go options trading, though it lacks some advanced features. Trade integration is seamless, and the watchlist includes basic data points from the desktop platform, though it would benefit from earnings date visibility.

Charting and analysis

Mobile charting includes four chart types, after-hours visibility, and key indicators. It may not match the desktop platform’s customization but offers enough features for casual and intermediate analysis. Predefined screeners in the “Hot Lists” section help traders quickly scan the market.

Other trading platforms and tools

TradeStation’s platforms serve seasoned traders with powerful tools for advanced analysis and customization, though some features are more complex to navigate.

Desktop platform

The desktop platform is TradeStation’s crown jewel, offering advanced tools like:

• Radar Screen: Real-time streaming watchlists.
• Matrix: A ladder trading tool for quick order execution.
• Walk-Forward Optimizer: For testing strategies under various conditions.
• EasyLanguage: Customizable coding for creating and sharing trading tools.

With over 30 years of historical data and nearly 300 customizable indicators, the desktop platform is perfect for backtesting and technical analysis. However, it’s only available on Windows or via emulators like Parallels for Mac.

Options and futures trading

Options traders benefit from OptionStation Pro, offering real-time Greeks, position grouping, and advanced analysis tools. Futures traders enjoy a seamless experience using many of the same tools available for equities, with Futures Plus available for browser and mobile access.

Web platform

The web platform provides a simpler experience for basic trading but lacks the depth and customization of the desktop platform. It’s best for quick trades rather than detailed analysis.

Portfolio tracking

Portfolio Maestro offers tools like Monte Carlo simulations and correlation analysis, ideal for managing risk and beta weighting. However, it lacks performance comparison features, making it a niche tool for hedging strategies.

Tax and account management

TradeStation simplifies taxes with features like default lot selection and displays of key tax dates. Adding beneficiaries requires a manual form, which feels outdated but is efficiently handled by customer support.

Research

TradeStation will appeal to traders who prefer to generate their own ideas through technical analysis but will fall short for those seeking rigorous fundamental research or external analyst opinions. Active traders with a focus on options and technical signals will find the platform highly valuable, while those seeking a holistic market view may be better served elsewhere.

Stock and fund research

TradeStation offers comprehensive stock screening and equity backtesting tools, with technical analysis driven by price, volume, time, and volatility. However, fundamental data is limited, with details like earnings history and dividends buried in the interface. This makes TradeStation less ideal for those relying on deep, fundamental insights. Research for funds is very minimal.

Options research

Options traders will appreciate TradeStation’s inclusion of delta beta weighting on the options chain, a critical metric for analyzing portfolio risk and aligning strategies with market movements. However, not all the greeks are netted for multi-leg strategies — only delta and theta are available. As an avid options trader myself, I find that this omission significantly limits the platform’s usability for complex multi-leg options strategies, making it fully usable for single-leg trading only.

Macro research

TradeStation offers heatmaps showing sector and industry performance, useful for identifying market leaders. However, it lacks major event tracking, Treasury data, and a cohesive economic calendar, which limits you from having a comprehensive view of the market. But from a technical analysis perspective, you will find everything you need.

Market commentary and opinion research

In-house content under the Learn tab provides news-driven insights, with a blog offering weekly updates and links to attend live webinars.

Education

TradeStation’s education is tailored for already experienced investors, and I have to say, the focus on options trading is impressive. The materials are designed to help you master advanced strategies while navigating the platform with confidence. That said, if you’re just starting out, you might feel a bit lost — the basics are definitely not the priority here.

Options education

The Options Resource Center is one of the best I’ve seen. It combines strategy-focused articles, polished videos, and platform tutorials into a cohesive learning experience. I really appreciate how everything — outcomes, risk management, and platform examples — is laid out in a way that makes sense. The biweekly market updates and in-person events available to clients add a real-world touch that’s invaluable.

Stocks and funds

The education here seems designed to fast-track you into becoming a day trader. Education starts with the basics — like explaining what stocks or funds are — then, it jumps straight into margin and day trading concepts. ETFs are grouped in with stocks, so they don’t get a focused overview either. If you’re looking for foundational knowledge before diving into more advanced strategies, you may find this approach a bit overwhelming.

Contextual education

One thing I appreciated was the contextual guidance built into the platform. It’s great to see little descriptions and tooltips as you navigate — it makes using the platform feel a touch more intuitive.

Webinars

Webinars are seamlessly integrated into TradeStation’s educational offerings, with a dedicated space for accessing them. Topics cover technical analysis, market trends, and options-specific strategies.

TradeStation customer service

To score Customer Service, StockBrokers.com partners with customer experience research firm Confero to conduct phone tests from locations throughout the United States. For this year's testing, 130 customer service tests were conducted over six weeks, with wait times logged for each call.

Customer service representatives were asked for assistance or details for prospective customers in several areas of broker services, including account opening, trading tools, apps, rollovers, active trading, and more. Here are the results for TradeStation's customer service ranking.

• Average Connection Time: 2-3 minutes
• Average Net Promoter Score: 8.0 / 10
• Average Professionalism Score: 6.4 / 10
• Overall Score: 7.30 / 10
• Ranking: 10th of 13 brokers

Final thoughts

TradeStation is a platform built for serious traders who thrive on customization and advanced tools. The desktop platform is excellent for rules-based and technical trading, offering powerful features like its proprietary EasyLanguage scripting feature that allows traders to develop fully customized, automated trading strategies.

Another great selling point is TradeStation's Private Brokerage service, which offers a concierge-level experience catering to high-net-worth clients with exclusive features, including direct access to a representative and bespoke research resources.

However, TradeStation's platform does require a time investment to fully unlock its potential, making it better suited for experienced traders or those ready to commit to learning. TradeStation’s focus on active trading might also leave long-term investors or beginners wanting more in terms of foundational education and broad market insights.

Here are my three top takeaways for TradeStation in 2025:

1. TradeStation’s desktop platform is a powerhouse for traders who want complete control, but it comes with a steep learning curve.
2. TradeStation distinguishes itself with its comprehensive options offering, including top-tier tools, education, and ongoing support, making it a clear choice for single-legged options traders.
3. If you’re a long-term investor or rely heavily on research and planning tools, other brokers may fit your needs better.

Read next

• Best Futures Trading Platforms for 2025
• Best Brokers for Penny Stock Trading of 2025
• Best Paper Trading Platforms for 2025
• Best Options Trading Platforms for 2025
• Best Stock Trading Platforms for Beginners of 2025
• Best Stock Brokers & Trading Platforms for 2025
• Best Day Trading Platforms for 2025
• Best Stock Trading Apps for 2025

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Can TradeStation be trusted?

Yes, TradeStation is a well-established broker with roots dating back to 1982. It is regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), ensuring compliance with industry standards and investor protection measures.

Is TradeStation good for beginners?

TradeStation is better suited for active traders than beginners. Its platform is complex, with limited educational content for novices, and it charges inactivity fees for low balances or infrequent trading.

Is TradeStation easy to use?

TradeStation’s web trading platform and mobile app are easy enough to use. The desktop application has a learning curve, due to sophisticated tools and a less intuitive user interface. There is, however, a host of tutorials for the desktop app.

Is TradeStation really free?

TS Select, the broker’s most commonly used retail pricing plan, offers $0 stock and ETF trades, up to 10,000 shares, on all platforms. Options and futures contracts do carry fees. Regulatory bodies and exchanges add on small costs, but that’s true for all brokers. Small and infrequent investors should be wary of a steep $10 per month inactivity fee, which is waived under certain conditions.

How much does TradeStation cost per month?

TradeStation recently simplified its commission structure. Retail clients pay $0.00 commissions on ETF and stock trades up to 10,000 shares. The mobile, web and downloadable trading platform are free and there are no minimum deposits. Military personnel and veterans can get a unique pricing plan, TS Salutes.

What is the minimum deposit for TradeStation?

There is no minimum deposit at TradeStation to open an account or use its trading platforms. You will need $2,000 to use a margin account, but that’s a regulatory requirement that applies to all U.S. brokers. Maintaining a trailing 30-day average equity of $5,000 avoids inactivity fees.

Does TradeStation have withdrawal fees?

Outgoing wires are $25 at TradeStation. There is no fee for an ACH withdrawal. Paper checks are not available.

Can I day trade at TradeStation?

TradeStation is an excellent choice for day traders, thanks to its sophisticated downloadable trading platform and day trading minimum margin requirements of 25% on equities.

Can you trade crypto with TradeStation?

While TradeStation discontinued regular crypto trading in 2024 (formerly on its TradeStation Crypto account), the broker still offers crypto futures and ETFs.

About TradeStation

Headquartered in Plantation, Florida, TradeStation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Monex Group, Inc. (TOKYO: 8698). TradeStation's roots date back to 1982, when the company was formed under the name Omega Research. The company's flagship TradeStation platform was launched in 1991, and TradeStation Group was a Nasdaq-listed company from 1997 until 2011, at which point it was acquired by Monex Group.

TradeStation 2025 Results

For the StockBrokers.com 2025 Annual Awards, announced on Jan. 28, 2025, all U.S. equity brokers we reviewed were assessed on over 200 different variables across seven areas: Range of Investments, Platforms & Tools, Research, Mobile Trading, Education, Ease of Use, and Overall.

StockBrokers.com also presented “Best in Class” awards to brokers in the following additional categories: Active Traders, Bank Brokerage, Beginners, Casual Investors, Customer Service, Futures Trading, High Net Worth Investors, Investor Community, Options Trading, Passive Investors, Retirement Accounts. A “Best in Class” designation means finishing in the top five brokers for that category.

For more information, see how we test. New to investing? Check out our beginner's guide on how to invest.

Category awards

StockBrokers.com Review Methodology

Our mission at StockBrokers.com is simple: provide thorough and unbiased reviews of online brokers, based on an extraordinary level of hands-on testing and data collection. Our ratings and awards are based on this data and our in-house experts’ deep authority in the field; brokers cannot pay for preferential treatment. Here’s more about trustworthiness at StockBrokers.com.

Our research team conducts thorough testing on a wide range of features, products, services, and tools for U.S. investors, collecting and validating thousands of data points in the process; this makes StockBrokers.com home to the largest independent database on the web covering the online broker industry. We test all available trading platforms for each broker and evaluate them based on a host of data-driven variables.

As part of our process, all brokers had the annual opportunity to provide updates and key milestones and complete an in-depth data profile, which we hand-checked for accuracy. Brokers also were offered the opportunity to provide executive time for an annual update meeting.

Our rigorous data validation process yields an error rate of less than .001% each year, providing site visitors quality data they can trust. Learn more about how we test or about StockBrokers.com.

TradeStation fees and features data

The data collection efforts at StockBrokers.com are unmatched in the industry. The following tables show a deeper dive into the offerings available at this broker. You can also compare its offerings side-by-side with those of other brokers using our Comparison Tool.

In addition to meticulous annual data collection by our in-house analyst, every broker that participates in our review is afforded the opportunity to complete an in-depth data profile. We then audit each data point to ensure its accuracy.

Trading fees

Account fees

Margin rates

Investment options

Order types

Beginners

Stock trading apps

Stock app features

Stock app charting

Trading platforms overview

Trading platform stock chart features

Day trading features

Investment research overview

Stock research features

ETF research features

Mutual fund research features

Options trading overview

Banking features

Customer service options

References

TradeStation's Wikipedia

About the Editorial Team