Best Stock Trading Apps
The best stock trading apps may seem impossible to discern with the current market saturation. Like most things in today’s technology-absorbed world, trading and investments have become an everyday activity via mobile and portable devices. The top and safest stock trading apps in the world are easy to navigate, secure and offer the full experience found on desktop devices. This review will discuss some of the best stock trading apps, including those offering penny stocks and virtual trading options. We will also outline how to compare trading applications and the key differences vs desktop trading. Below is a list of our top-rated mobile stock trading apps.
Best Stock Trading Apps
These are the 5 top apps for stock traders based on our findings:
- AvaTrade - iOS & Android
- Deriv.com - iOS & Android
- Pepperstone - iOS & Android
- XM - iOS, Android & Windows
- IC Markets - iOS & Android
Best Stock Trading Apps Comparison
| Broker | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Minimum Deposit | Regulators | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
4.3 / 5 |
4 / 5 |
- | ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBol, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM | Visit |
|
4.2 / 5 |
4.5 / 5 |
$5 | MFSA, LFSA, VFSC, BFSC | Visit |
|
4.4 / 5 |
4.1 / 5 |
$0 | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB | Visit |
|
4.7 / 5 |
3.9 / 5 |
$5 | ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSC, FSCA | Visit |
|
3.1 / 5 |
4.2 / 5 |
$200 | ASIC, CySEC, FSA | Visit |
|
4.8 / 5 |
4.4 / 5 |
$100 | ASIC, FCA, xCySEC, SCB | Visit |
|
3.4 / 5 |
4.1 / 5 |
$50 | CySEC | Visit |
|
4.8 / 5 |
4.4 / 5 |
$100 | ASIC | Visit |
|
3.6 / 5 |
3.8 / 5 |
$100 | NFA, CFTC, CIRO, FCA, CYSEC, ASIC, SFC, FSA, MAS, CIMA | Visit |
|
4.8 / 5 |
4 / 5 |
$50 | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, FSRA, MFSA | Visit |
|
4.7 / 5 |
4.4 / 5 |
$10 | IFSC | Visit |
|
4.6 / 5 |
4 / 5 |
$0 | FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA | Visit |
|
4.2 / 5 |
4.1 / 5 |
$10 | - | Visit |
|
5 / 5 |
3.8 / 5 |
$10 | FSC, FSA | Visit |
|
3.6 / 5 |
3.9 / 5 |
$50 | FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC | Visit |
#1 - AvaTrade
Why We Chose AvaTrade
AvaTradeGO consistently impresses with its comprehensive mobile trading experience, boasting an interface that’s not just easy to use, but genuinely intuitive. Navigating the app is a breeze, ensuring fast access to hundreds of markets, including forex, stocks, indices, commodities, ETFs, and bonds. However, what sets AvaTradeGO apart is its AvaProtect™ feature, offering an unmatched level of risk protection that’s rare to find elsewhere.
"AvaTrade offers the full package for short-term traders. There is powerful charting software, reliable execution, transparent fees, and fast account opening with a low minimum deposit."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Mobile Apps: iOS & Android
- iOS App Rating: 4.3 / 5
- Android App Rating: 4 / 5
- Demo Account: Yes
- Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBol, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM
- Platforms: WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
- Automation: Yes
- Bonus: None
About AvaTrade
AvaTrade is a leading forex and CFD broker, established in 2006 and regulated across 9 jurisdictions. Over 400,000 users have signed up with the broker which processes over 2 million trades each month. The firm offers multiple trading platforms, including MT4, MT5, and a proprietary WebTrader. 1250+ financial instruments are available for day trading, alongside a comprehensive education center and multilingual customer support.
Pros
- WebTrader is well-suited to beginners and features a strong suite of technical analysis tools and market research for day traders
- The broker’s unique risk management tool, AvaProtect, protects against losses up to $1 million and is easy to activate in the platform
- There's a great range of fee-free deposit methods, including bank wire, credit cards and popular e-wallets like Skrill
Cons
- It’s a shame that there are no rebate schemes for serious traders looking for additional perks - CMC Markets would be a better choice here
- There is no ECN account with raw spreads
- A high $2000 minimum investment is required to use DupliTrade, which will be out of reach for many beginners
#2 - Deriv.com
Why We Chose Deriv.com
Deriv GO shines with its straightforward app design and diverse trading opportunities, from traditional markets to custom indices that simulate real-world markets and offer 24-hour trading, including on weekends. The in-app chat assistance, which can’t be found at many alternatives, is also fast and reliable, providing an important layer of support for new users.
"Deriv.com will suit day traders looking to make fast-paced trades using CFDs and multipliers with high leverage up to 1:1000. The broker is also the industry leader in synthetic indices, which simulate real market movements and are available around the clock. "
- DayTrading Review Team
- Mobile Apps: iOS & Android
- iOS App Rating: 4.2 / 5
- Android App Rating: 4.5 / 5
- Demo Account: Yes
- Regulator: MFSA, LFSA, VFSC, BFSC
- Platforms: Deriv Trader, MT5
- Minimum Deposit: $5
- Automation: Yes
- Bonus: None
About Deriv.com
Deriv.com is a low cost, multi-asset broker with over 2.5 million global clients. With just a $5 minimum deposit, the firm offers CFDs, multipliers and more recently accumulators, alongside proprietary synthetic products which can't be found elsewhere. Deriv provides both its own in-house charting software and the hugely popular MetaTrader 5.
Pros
- Beginners and experienced day traders can access a good range of 20+ technical indicators in Deriv Trader vs 30+ in MT5
- There's a good range of fast deposit and withdrawal methods with zero payment fees and low minimum deposits
- The free demo account is ideal for practicing short-term trading strategies and no registration is required
Cons
- There are limited copy trading tools and analysis features compared to alternatives like IQ Cent
- There's no loyalty program or rebate scheme for high volume traders
- The range of 100+ assets trails some competitors such as Quotex which offers 400+
#3 - Pepperstone
Why We Chose Pepperstone
Pepperstone excels for its excellent integration with the MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView apps, making it a standout option for day traders familiar with these leading third-party trading solutions. Despite the absence of a proprietary app, these platforms deliver a stable and reliable mobile trading experience, enhanced by Pepperstone’s almost unrivalled execution speeds and wide range of asset classes.
"Pepperstone stands out as a top choice for day trading, offering razor-sharp spreads, ultra-fast execution, and advanced charting platforms for experienced traders. New traders are also welcomed with no minimum deposit, extensive educational resources, and exceptional 24/7 support."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Mobile Apps: iOS & Android
- iOS App Rating: 4.4 / 5
- Android App Rating: 4.1 / 5
- Demo Account: Yes
- Regulator: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
- Minimum Deposit: $0
- Automation: Yes
- Bonus: None
About Pepperstone
Established in Australia in 2010, Pepperstone is a top-rated forex and CFD broker with over 400,000 clients worldwide. It offers access to 1,300+ instruments on leading platforms MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView, maintaining low, transparent fees. Pepperstone is also regulated by trusted authorities like the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC, ensuring a secure environment for day traders at all levels.
Pros
- Award-winning customer support is available via telephone, email or live chat with response times of <5 minutes during testing.
- Now offering spread betting through TradingView, Pepperstone provides a seamless, tax-efficient trading experience with advanced analysis tools.
- Pepperstone emerges as a low-cost broker, especially for serious day traders with spreads from 0.0 in the Razor account and rebates of 25%+ through the Active Trader program.
Cons
- Despite enhancements to its range of markets, crypto offerings are relatively limited compared to other brokers such as eToro, with no option to invest in real coins.
- Pepperstone does not support cTrader Copy, a popular copy trading feature built into the excellent cTrader platform and available at alternatives like IC Markets.
- Pepperstone’s demo accounts are active for only 30 days, which may not be not long enough to familiarize yourself with the different platforms and test trading strategies.
#4 - XM
Why We Chose XM
XM offer a mobile app for both Android and iOS that has been specifically tailored to each platform, maximizing the functionality of both. The app delivers the MT4 and MT5 software on the move, with full access to the broker’s 1000+ instruments. Where they shine is their dependability with minimal glitches and delays during testing. The built-in news, trading journal and push notifications also ensure you have everything you need to day trade from your hand.
"XM is one of the best forex and CFD brokers we have tested. The flexible account types will suit a variety of short-term trading styles while the $5 minimum deposit and smooth sign-up process make it easy to start trading."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Mobile Apps: iOS, Android & Windows
- iOS App Rating: 4.7 / 5
- Android App Rating: 3.9 / 5
- Demo Account: Yes
- Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSC, FSCA
- Platforms: MT4, MT5
- Minimum Deposit: $5
- Automation: Yes
- Bonus: $30 No Deposit Bonus When You Register A Real Account
About XM
XM is a globally recognized forex and CFD broker with 10+ million clients in 190+ countries. Since 2009, this trusted broker has been known for its low fees on 1000+ instruments. XM is regulated by multiple financial bodies, including the ASIC and CySEC.
Pros
- Transparent and low fees with spreads from 0.0 pips that will help protect day trading profit margins
- XM is a hugely respected broker authorized by tier-one regulators
- Powerful MT4 and MT5 platforms are available with 60+ and 80+ technical charting tools
Cons
- There is weak regulatory oversight through the global entity
- PayPal deposits are not supported
- There's $5 inactivity fee after only 3 months, though this won't affect active traders
#5 - IC Markets
Why We Chose IC Markets
IC Markets deliver mobile apps for their cTrader, MT4, MT5 and TradingView platforms. They have been developed on Android and iOS separately, taking full advantage of the functionality available on each. With raw pricing, and spreads from 0.0, the apps deliver an excellent trading tool for all levels of trader. Yet what really stands out is how they’ve managed to maintain the lightning-fast execution speed IC Markets is known for, right within the apps. It’s a seamless trading experience that feels both professional and highly responsive.
"IC Markets offers superior pricing, exceptionally fast execution and seamless deposits. The introduction of advanced charting platforms, notably TradingView, and the Raw Trader Plus account, ensures it remains a top choice for intermediate to advanced day traders."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Mobile Apps: iOS & Android
- iOS App Rating: 3.1 / 5
- Android App Rating: 4.2 / 5
- Demo Account: Yes
- Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, FSA
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
- Minimum Deposit: $200
- Automation: Yes
- Bonus: None
About IC Markets
IC Markets is a globally recognized forex and CFD broker known for its excellent pricing, comprehensive range of trading instruments, and premium trading technology. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Australia, the brokerage is regulated by the ASIC, CySEC and FSA, and has attracted more than 180,000 clients from over 200 countries.
Pros
- You have access to over 2,250 CFDs across various markets, including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversified trading strategies.
- IC Markets offers among the tightest spreads in the industry, with 0.0-pip spreads on major currency pairs, making it especially cost-effective for day traders.
- As a tightly regulated and widely respected broker, IC Markets prioritizes client security and transparency, helping to ensure a reliable trading experience globally.
Cons
- There are fees for certain withdrawal methods, including a $20 wire charge, which can eat into profits, especially for frequent withdrawals.
- While IC Markets offers a selection of metals and cryptos for trading via CFDs, the range is not as extensive as brokers like eToro, limiting opportunities for traders interested in these asset classes.
- Interest isn't paid on unused cash, an increasingly popular feature found at alternatives like Interactive Brokers.
What Are Stock Trading Apps?
Before we can compare the best stock trading apps, we should discuss what they are. A stock trading app is a piece of computer software designed to run on a mobile or portable device, such as a phone or tablet. Applications allow users to perform specific tasks while on the go. Today, convenience and accessibility are paramount behind the introduction of apps to the online trading world, gone are the days that investors across the globe were reliant on desktop servers for the latest price movements.
Originating in the 19th century, traders were initially dependent on a printing telegraph using alphabetical characters. In 1867, a modification of the telegraph system was specifically modified for the stock market. This allowed investors access to recent price information without having to be present at a stock exchange. This so-called ‘stock ticker’ was used until the 1960s, before being replaced by computers and data networks.
The best apps today for daily stock trading allow investors to access direct-to-market information from devices wherever they are. Traders can access all education, news, transaction history, payment methods and more, directly from a portable device. All that is required is an internet connection. Today they have become an integral part of the modern-day investor. Even the most experienced traders have welcomed mobile trading to their everyday routines, with the latest information being accessible 24/7. The apps are generally a dialled down version of platforms found on desktop devices. Existing accounts can be connected and used interchangeably between desktops and applications.
Stock Trading Apps Vs Desktop Clients
It is becoming increasingly important for day traders to be continuously active and present, particularly when trading in a highly volatile market. Because of this, there is a growing need for constant access to live investment accounts, 24/7. So, let us understand the main differences between trading with desktop clients vs the best stock trading apps.
Visual Limitations
A desktop monitor will always be the first choice to view technical analysis tools and charts. Subtle details may be more difficult to observe on a stock trading app, particularly when viewing on a smaller smartphone. Interactive charting will be important here. Ensure that the mobile stock trading app of choice allows for zooming, scrolling and resizing where necessary.
Always On
The best stock trading apps allow for complete account management, wherever you are in the world. Gone are the days that trading can only take place whilst sitting at a desk in front of a monitor. Stock trading apps have allowed traders to connect wherever and whenever with just a requirement of a stable internet connection. Set price alerts or notifications to ensure you never miss out on an opportunity again.
Execution
Technology advancements have allowed global brokerages to employ the best server systems. Traders can now access almost instant trade execution speeds from a desktop device. This is not always the case for mobile clients, even on the best stock trading apps, due to the parameters required to select and execute investment orders.
How To Compare The Best Stock Trading Apps
There is an abundance of mobile trading applications available. Choosing the right one can be difficult and there are many factors to consider. Check out the top parameters we recommend comparing below.
Chart Types
Access to mobile charting is vital to succeeding with online stock trading via apps. Those that provide virtual charts with the same level of customisation offered on desktop devices will be superior. The three main types of technical analysis charts are; bar, line and candlestick. These will help you make informed decisions across forex, commodities, stocks and indices markets. Watch out for those apps that provide interactive charting with the ability to drill into information.
Security Technology
Downloading a stock day or long-term trading app adds a security layer as personal details must be registered, reducing the likelihood of hackers. The best stock trading apps use additional password protection options, such as two-factor authentication (2FA). Login options with fingerprints or face identification also provide an additional step to enhance the safety of trading via an app. This is particularly important on a portable device with the additional risk of theft or data privacy hacking. Always log out of trading accounts at the end of a session on a mobile app.
Sophistication
The best stock trading apps will enhance your overall experience, supporting decision-making and guiding informed choices. Mobile trading applications should not bombard traders with information, yet provide easy navigation to materials and data like market updates, trends, news updates and price tickets. App interfaces should offer clear navigation tools with digestible information. It should be simple to trade and view technical analysis tools.
Accessibility
The majority of the popular app providers grant access to both iOS and Android users. Nevertheless, some apps will differ in terms of interfaces. The TD Ameritrade mobile app, for example, has been recognised as falling short of expectations with its inferior APK interface and functionality. It is worth checking reviews to make sure your choice of device won’t impact your access to all the features.
Assets
The best mobile trading apps will provide a variety of tradable instruments and assets across several markets. Being able to access varied trading instruments within one application will be advantageous vs several apps or accounts with different brokers to create a diversified portfolio. Assets may include stock trading, crypto, penny stocks, commodities and more.
Safety
Cybersecurity vulnerabilities are a major concern when using even the best stock trading apps. The safety of the app will be determined by where it is downloaded and the developing institution. Always download applications from recognised names such as Google Play or the Apple App Store. Look out for strong app source characteristics, including well-developed terms of service, a comprehensive troubleshooting FAQs section and easy-to-find contact information. Some of the most secure stock trading apps today include Robinhood and Acorns.
Regulation
As with stock market trading via an online broker, it is best practice to ensure that a mobile app is authorised and regulated by an established financial body. The best stock trading apps in the UK will be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Under this authorisation, traders can be assured of negative balance protection, access to compensation schemes and data privacy via AML and KYC protocols. Other well-regarded regulators across the world include CySEC, ASX, and FINRA. To qualify for a regulatory license, mobile trading apps must follow stringent security measures aimed at keeping client funds safe.
Execution Speed
The best stock trading apps will provide instant action to allow investors to enter a trade. The execution should be as efficient as trading on a PC device such as a Mac. The payment collection should also be prompt, with instant fund clearance for electronic payments. The fastest trading platforms include TradeStation, Interactive Brokers and TD Ameritrade.
Fees
The top brokers tend to offer a commission-free trading environment. This is great for traders wishing to execute regular investments. The best free stock trading apps for beginners and experienced traders will also not charge non-trading fees. This includes inactivity charges, account maintenance, deposit and withdrawal fees, or an app download charge.
Pros Of Stock Trading Apps
- Accessibility – Using a mobile application only requires an internet connection. Online trading apps allow users to invest, research and analyse while on the go. There is now no need for investors to stay by a PC device for notifications on trade portfolio performance.
- Secure – Downloading the best stock trading apps adds a layer of security. The best stock day trading apps use additional password protection. This can include 2-factor authentication to log in to accounts. Login protection by way of fingerprints or face identification also provides an additional step to enhance the safety of trading via an app.
- Understanding – With a hands-on approach to trading, users of an investment app can access education and analysis details 24/7. Online trading apps reduce the reliance on a broker, meaning investors have full control over decision making. This is a great way for beginners to get learning in the UK and beyond.
- Transaction Speed – The best virtual stock buying and selling apps in the UK and globally often provide instant action to allow investors to enter trades. The payment collection is also prompt, ideal for beginners and experienced traders who are after a quick entry to a trade. Online deposits and withdrawals are available instantly via several payment methods.
Cons Of Stock Trading Apps
- Internet-Dependent – Even the best stock trading apps for mobile devices are fully reliant on an internet connection. If the connection is slow or interrupted for your iPhone or Android device, you could potentially miss out on a significant or lucrative trade
- Security – Trading apps process billions of transactions each year and have access to personal data and payment details. This can make them an attractive proposition to hackers. Check reviews for past security breaches before putting your capital at risk.
- No Break – Having 24/7 access to an online trading platform can also be negative. Some would argue that applications can cause addictive behaviour, similar to gambling. Having a mobile application with live streaming price movements and news bulletins can make it difficult to find the right balance.
- Risk Exposure – There can be a lack of risk management when investing in a mobile app. A feeling of disconnect from advisors, brokers or even other experienced investors is apparent on mobile apps. This is particularly risky when trading with leverage. Increasing trading volume without the guidance or expertise of professionals could lead to increased losses.
- Size Limitations – A desktop monitor will always be the best choice from a size limitation perspective. Even the best stock trading platform apps may still be hindered by screen sizes on mobile or tablet devices. It may prove difficult to learn and practise stock trading on a mobile application if analysing price movements from unmagnified charts and graphs. The best stock trading apps to use in this instance would offer interactive charting with personalised viewing options.
Final Word On The Best Stock Trading Apps
Although the best stock trading apps have significant advantages, including constant accessibility, there is a complementary relationship between desktop and mobile platforms. Both offer favourable trading conditions which will result in a better trading environment for certain markets, strategies and users. Be sure to check out our list of 2024‘s best stock trading apps, here.
FAQs
What Are The Best European Stock Trading Apps?
The best stock trading apps for residents in Europe include Saxo Bank and Degiro. Both apps are user-friendly, offer 2-factor authentication and technical analysis tools. These are both available to traders from Germany, UK, Ireland and more in 2024. Global reach includes Australia, Malaysia and UAE.
What Are The Best Stock Trading Apps For Beginners?
The best stock apps for beginners include Webull, SoFi and Robinhood. All offer a basic investing option with self-directed navigation and automated options.
What Are The Best Apps For Stock Market Trading In India?
The best stock trading and virtual stock option trading apps available to traders in India include Zerodha KITE, Upstox Pro and Angel Broking. These have positive customer reviews logged throughout 2024.
What Are The Best Stock Trading Apps With No Fees?
Recognised stock trading apps with commission-free trading options include E*Trade, eToro, Robinhood and Firstrade. Although these offer no trading fees, it is important to understand and compare the other features available.
What Are The Best Stock Trading Apps Available In The USA?
Top-rated trading applications available in the USA include Robinhood, Fidelity and Webull. All offer advanced search functionalities, login security and user-friendly interfaces and navigation systems.