Discover our detailed comparison of Barchart and thinkorswim to help determine which is best for you. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, choosing the right platform can significantly impact your trading experience.
To make your research easier, we manually found key data for Barchart and thinkorswim across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
Key Characteristics of Barchart and thinkorswim
Provider | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Barchart Visit Site | Charting Software | Not a broker, but you can chart stocks, ETFs, futures, & forex | Downloadable desktop platform and web app with access to indicators and drawing tools for free | Use any time frame for free, but real-time data requires a paid subscription | $89-$140 per month |
thinkorswim Learn More | Trading Platform (Schwab) | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Index Options, Futures, Futures Options, Bonds | Downloadable desktop platform and web app | Real-time data with funded account | No premium features |
Overview of Barchart
Barchart is a charting platform that allows you to analyze stocks, ETFs, currencies, and futures. You get access to indicators, drawing tools, and all time frames for free, but you must pay for real-time data and other advanced features.
Overview of thinkorswim
thinkorswim was founded by Tom Sosnoff in the late 90s, and is one of the most popular trading platforms today. thinkorswim allows you to use advanced charting tools, custom indicators, screeners, trade options, and more! thinkorswim itself is not a brokerage, but is compatible with Schwab and TD Ameritrade customers.
Who is Barchart Best For?
Barchart is best for swing traders and investors who want free access to a decent charting platform. If you are an active trader, the pricing is quite expensive for real-time data, and the charting isn’t as good as competitors like TradingView and TrendSpider.
![](https://www.financialtechwiz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/barchartplatformimage.jpg)
Who is thinkorswim Best For?
thinkorswim is best for traders who already use Schwab or TD Ameritrade, and want an excellent trading platform for technical analysis, options trading, news, and more!
![](https://www.financialtechwiz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/thinkorswimplatformimage.jpg)
Trading Features and Tools
Provider | DRIP | Margin Trading | Insurance | Mobile App |
---|---|---|---|---|
Barchart Visit Site | Not a broker | Not a broker | Not a broker | Yes |
thinkorswim Learn More | Yes, no fees | Yes | Not a broker | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
Fee Type | Barchart Visit Site | thinkorswim Learn More |
---|---|---|
Equity Commission | Not a broker | Free |
Option Commission | Not a broker | $0.65 per contract |
Futures Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
Futures Options Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
Option Exercise Fee | Not a broker | None |
Barchart vs thinkorswim – Bottom Line
Choosing between Barchart and thinkorswim depends on your specific trading needs, preferred trading tools, and the type of assets you’re interested in.
Both platforms offer distinct advantages, but by considering the detailed comparison above, you can select the one that aligns best with your trading strategy and goals.
For more detailed reviews and comparisons, continue exploring our other articles on brokerage platform comparisons.
What is the Overall Best Charting Software?
I have reviewed and used nearly every trading platform available, and I believe that TradingView is the best overall charting software available. Here are some reasons why:
- All of TradingView’s key features are free to use
- TradingView provides real-time data for free whenever possible
- You are not tied to a single broker and can use whichever you want while charting on TradingView
- You can track all markets on a single platform, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, and futures.
- TradingView has an excellent economic calendar and various screeners
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