Discover our detailed comparison of Interactive Brokers and StockCharts 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 Interactive Brokers and StockCharts across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
Key Characteristics of Interactive Brokers and StockCharts
| Provider | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers Visit Site | Brokerage Platform | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Futures, Futures Options, Crypto, Bonds | Downloadable desktop platforms, web platform, mobile app | Must buy real-time data | No premium features |
| StockCharts Learn More | Charting Software | Not a broker, but you can chart stocks & ETFs | Web-based charting platform with access to several chart types and indicators | Daily, weekly, and monthly time frames are free, but you must purchase the ability to use intra-day data | $19-$50 per month |
Overview of Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a well-established brokerage firm founded in 1978, known for providing advanced trading and investing services to a diverse clientele, including individual investors, institutions, and professional traders. IBKR offers competitive pricing for options and futures, but lacks when it comes to charting and ease of use.
Overview of StockCharts
StockCharts is a stock charting platform that is great for technical analysis since it allows you to use various indicators. However, the platform looks a bit dated, especially compared to platforms like TradingView and TrendSpider. It is also lacking in some fundamental data features, and does not provide free intra-day charting like TradingView.
Who is Interactive Brokers Best For?
Interactive Brokers is best for advanced traders who prefer to automate their trading strategies. IBKR is far from beginner-friendly, as the platforms are advanced and require some technical knowledge to utilize effectively. If you are looking for a modern, easy-to-use investing platform, IBKR is not your best option.
Who is StockCharts Best For?
StockCharts is best for swing traders who want a free charting platform for daily time frames and longer. You can access intra-day with a paid subscription, but there are many platforms that offer more features like TradingView and Finviz.
Trading Features and Tools
| Provider | DRIP | Margin Trading | Insurance | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers Visit Site | Yes, but with fees | Yes | SIPC Insured | Yes |
| StockCharts Learn More | Not a broker | Not a broker | Not a broker | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
| Fee Type | Interactive Brokers Visit Site | StockCharts Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Commission | Free | Not a broker |
| Option Commission | $0.65 per contract | Not a broker |
| Futures Commission | $0.85 per contract, $0.25 micro | Not a broker |
| Futures Options Commission | $0.85 per contract, $0.25 micro | Not a broker |
| Option Exercise Fee | None | Not a broker |
Interactive Brokers vs StockCharts – Bottom Line
Choosing between Interactive Brokers and StockCharts 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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