eSignal

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Jemma Grist
Jemma is a writer, editor and fact-checker focused on retail trading and investing. Jemma brings a unique perspective to the forex, stock, and cryptocurrency markets and works across several investment websites as a researcher and broker analyst.
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Tobias Robinson
Tobias is a partner at DayTrading.com, director of a UK limited company and active trader. He has over 25 years of experience in the financial industry and contributed via CySec to the regulatory response to digital options and CFD trading in Europe. Toby’s expertise and dedication to financial education make him a trusted voice in the industry, including a BBC investigation into digital options.
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William Berg
William contributes to several investment websites, leveraging his experience as a consultant for IPOs in the Nordic market and background providing localization for forex trading software. William has worked as a writer and fact-checker for a long row of financial publications.
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eSignal is a comprehensive charting platform, featuring hundreds of technical indicators and analysis tools. The software is also an intuitive trading platform that integrates with 50+ global brokers. Our eSignal review will discuss how to use the tools and features, download compatibility, a comparison of account types and how to make the most of the data manager tool. We also compare eSignal features vs alternatives in the market including Lightspeed, Thinkorswim (TOS), IQFeed, Trendspider and MetaTrader.

eSignal Brokers

Click a broker for details
  1. 1
    FOREX.com
    Active Trader Program With A 15% Reduction In Costs

    Ratings
    4.9 / 5
    4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.8 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    3.6 / 5
    3.8 / 5

    $100
    0.01 Lots
    1:50
    NFA, CFTC
    Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures Options
    MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
    Wire Transfer, Credit Card, Debit Card, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, ACH Transfer
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN
  2. 2
    NinjaTrader

    Ratings
    4.3 / 5
    2.8 / 5
    2.9 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5
    4 / 5
    4 / 5
    4 / 5
    3 / 5
    3.2 / 5

    $0
    0.01 Lots
    1:50
    NFA, CFTC
    Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto
    NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal
    ACH Transfer, Debit Card, Wire Transfer, Cheque
    USD
  3. 3
    Interactive Brokers

    Ratings
    4.5 / 5
    3.5 / 5
    4.6 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    3.3 / 5
    3 / 5
    4.4 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.3 / 5
    4.5 / 5

    $0
    $100
    1:50
    FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM
    Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies
    Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral
    Cheque, ACH Transfer, Wire Transfer, Automated Customer Account Transfer Service, TransferWise, Debit Card
    USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF

What Is eSignal?

eSignal is a charting and trading platform that allows subscribers to trade with real-time data. Users can access up-to–the-second market data from hundreds of global markets. You can follow trends, set your strategy, and execute the best trades without missing a beat.

Importantly, you can connect to dozens of brokers and execute trades directly from within the platform. The current version, eSignal 12, is a downloadable Windows-based software package.

Best alternatives to eSignal

Developed by Intercontinental Exchange, also known as ICE, the software sits under the Interactive Data division. The acquisition of the Interactive Data Corporation was completed in 2015, with an estimated valuation of $5.2 billion. Its latest web version 12 was released in 2019.

Other recognised products include eSignal Advanced GET and eSignal OnDemand. Today, the firm is a globally recognized financial tool provider with various awards under its belt, including:

Features

The functionality of eSignal is vast, and sometimes can feel overwhelming, particularly for new traders. Below we outline the key features of the program and software:

Charting

Charting features are fully customizable, with flexible scaling. This makes it easier to interpret information. Charts can also be linked to multiple windows and come in different intervals. This includes tick (trades executed), relative volume (quantity of shares) and time, a popular option being the 10-second replay chart.

Importantly, data can be viewed in many formats such as candlesticks, bar charts, price breaks and points and figures.

Technical Indicators

A full range of basic to advanced technical indicators are also available. Popular analysis tools include the Elliott Wave indicator, moving averages and the squeeze indicator. The software really standards out here. Unlike other platforms that bunch up indicators, eSignal allows for resizing and moveable charts so you can save time as you observe market movements.

Market Screener Plus+

Find new trading opportunities instantly without having to search through thousands of individual stocks. The scanner screens global index symbols using set criteria. Screening benchmarks can be fully customizable or selected from a preset library. Lookup features include broad or narrow gap scanner, multi timeframe analysis and 50+ fundamental data fields.

Alerts

The eSignal platform can be configured with user-defined alerts based on price, pattern, metrics, and various other parameters. It is a useful feature, reducing the time required to monitor price movements. Alerts can be set on the Watch List, Option Chain, Hot Lists, Detailed Quotes, and Market Depth windows. Integrate a detailed view of the markets such as NASDAQ or NSE, for example, and receive real-time alerts when price data hits a pre-set threshold.

Account Types

eSignal provides three different service levels, also known as plans; Classic, Signature and Pro. As well as varying in price, each online account offers different tools and analysis functionality. A simple step-by-step user guide and installation details are provided on the website. This includes how to log in for the first time and setting a new username and password with the random generator.

Note, that eSignal is only available for download to PC devices. There is no webtrader option. You will need a Windows operating system (e.g. Windows 11) – services are not compatible with MAC or Linux operating systems.

Below we outline the features of each profile:

Classic

Trading instruments available; stocks, futures and forex. Designed for the more casual day trader, executing a few trades per month.

Note, this basic service has a time delay of 15 minutes.

Signature

Trading instruments available; stocks, futures, forex and options. The most popular subscription with all data provided in real-time. Designed for more experienced investors, the profile provides the opportunity to improve skills and utilize the latest market reports.

Elite

Trading instruments available; stocks, futures, forex and options. This profile allows users to track the highest and the lowest stocks in several categories, chart projected earnings and perform their trades directly on the eSignal trading website.

Complete the online registration form on the service provider’s website to open a new account. Registration requirements include personal details, plus expected trading volume to determine eSignal profile eligibility.

Note, that the product does not support cryptocurrency trading such as Bitcoin.

Demo Account

All eSignal accounts offer a 30-day risk-free demo account option. This is similar vs competitors such as NinjaTrader, TradingView, Thinkorswim, Trade Ideas, and TC2000. Simply choose a plan and activate the free trial with a money-back guarantee. You will need to sign up for a specific eSignal plan before you can access the paper trading profile.

esignal.com login

Utilize real-time market conditions including data feeds, live pricing quotes, customizable charts, add ons and alerts. A unique Bar Replay tool allows customers to fine-tune strategies by using played-back historical data. You can watch how the indicators react and see if order flow trends play out as the chart steps forward.

Note, these features are only available to new account holders only.

Cost

The cost of eSignal varies by subscription profile. Essentially, access to more tools and features will come at a price. All versions do offer a 30-day money-back guarantee so it is worth trialing before committing to the full software fees. Additional tools and access to third-party functionality will come at a charge. We outline the main costs below:

Subscription Fees

Our review found the eSignal service provider is competitive when it comes to the basic profile, however, the Elite version is expensive.

Let’s also compare software prices for Trade Ideas, Das Trader for Interactive Brokers, TC2000 and TradingView vs eSignal:

Cost Comparison
Provider Standard Premium Pro
eSignal $58 per month $192 per month $391 per month
Trade Ideas $84 per month $167 per month N/A
TC2000 $9.99 per month $29.99 per month $89.98 per month
Trading View $14.95 per month $29.95 per month $59.95 per month
Das Trader $120 per month $150 per month $175 per month

Add Ons

Amplify the power of your eSignal profile with a wide variety of third-party apps and add-ons from established partners. Some software is also available as a free download to enhance your trading experience. Note these are not intended as an alternative, but rather as an enhancement to existing packages:

Pros Of Using eSignal

Cons Of Using eSignal

Regulation & Licensing

As a financial data services provider, eSignal is not directly regulated. Nevertheless, ICE works with regulators and policymakers around the world to ensure supervision, compliance and the reliable operation of financial markets. This includes adhering to the guidance and supervision of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Remember, the data extracted and interpreted from financial data providers does not guarantee profits. Trading signals, market data and economic charting should merely be used as investment support.

Note, that trading integration and broker plug-in services are not available to eSignal users in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region. This includes the UK, Germany and Dubai.

Global Brokers Offering eSignal

eSignal services are currently integrated with 50+ global brokers. Additional services may also be limited by the hosting company. For example, ViraTech is India’s only authorized vendor of eSignal’s Advanced GET software. Below we list some of the recognized brokers that currently support the eSignal data feed and software integration:

Connecting eSignal to broker partners is relatively straightforward. Download links and installation information is provided for all third-party integration. We outline the setup requirements below to integrate Interactive Brokers Trade Workstation (TWS) with eSignal as an example. The same requirements will apply irrelevant of which broker you are using. You will need:

  1. An active subscription with eSignal (Classic, Signature or Elite)
  2. The latest version of eSignal
  3. A live and funded account with Interactive Brokers
  4. The latest version of the TWS platform
  5. A recent download of the Java plug-in
  6. The latest version of the Interactive Brokers plug-in pre-installed with eSignal

Education

eSignal provides substantial educational support, ideal for new investors. This includes an in-depth new user orientation to get you up and running in no time. Online webinars and video tutorials are also available, sub-sectioned into clear topics. A sense of community is established here with availability for file-sharing and peer dialogue platforms, similar to the MetaStock and MultiCharts discussion forums.

Support

The level of additional support integrated on the eSignal website is second to none. Covering everything in a convenient knowledge base hub; from initial sign-in, real-time exchange fees, to how to cancel a subscription, answers are available. These are consolidated into a user manual, tutorials, YouTube videos, online webinars and PDF glossaries. The support page is broken down into clear topics:

eSignal backtesting review

Security

Traders can feel assured that eSignal can be integrated into network environments without compromising security. Services require the use of specific configured ports for internet access through firewalls, as well as proxy servers. Look out for brokers that encrypt personal and financial data exchanges between eSignal and their platform interfaces. This is indicated by a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).

Two-factor authentication (2FA) can also be added to eSignal accounts. This added layer of security uses a verification code every time you log in to your online account via an authenticator app or email address prompts.

Reliability

eSignal offers a stable and reliable tool for all traders. Peer review sites including Wiki and Warrior Trading indicate customers are satisfied with the services and integration to existing brokerage accounts. With constant version releases, traders should feel assured of functionality upgrades, making it a supportive tool for various strategies and investing styles.

Essentially, the software can make trading and investments simpler, faster and thought-out. It takes the time off sometimes lengthy asset research and price quotes analysis. The online workspace and tools page is easy to navigate with an intuitive layout and access to real-time market data.

Customer Support

Access to responsive and non-automated customer service is important when trading, particularly when utilizing new software. eSignal provides various customer support solutions, available to contact six days a week. Service hours are Monday to Thursday (9 AM-3 AM GMT), Friday (9 AM-10 PM GMT) and Sunday (6 PM-3 AM GMT). Options include a phone number, email and live chat. Live chat services are typically the most convenient help method and often provide the fastest response times.

eSignal Verdict

So is eSignal worth it? We think so. eSignal offers a stable and reliable tool for traders of all experience levels. There is something for everyone, whether that be integrating technical indicators, utilizing advanced charting packages or simply viewing real-time market data trends. Using the service as a standalone product is ideal, with hundreds of additional add-ons to create a unique environment suited to your trading style. Developed by ICE, the service also maintains the highest quality data in the industry, an aspect often overlooked when comparing charting software.

Just make sure you aren’t paying above the odds. Keep an eye on your total package payments as these can quickly add up.

FAQs

What Is eSignal Software?

eSignal is an advanced charting platform aimed at active traders looking for real-time market data features. The software can be integrated across platforms at 50+ global brokers bringing extensive drawing tools, indicators and analysis displays. Understand past trends and identify profitable trading opportunities with infinite data for instant investment support.

Who Owns eSignal?

The eSignal software is owned by Intercontinental Exchange, otherwise known as ICE. This is the same company that operates the New York Stock Exchange and ICE futures exchanges, so you can be assured of the highest quality services and tools.

How Much Does eSignal Cost?

The cost of eSignal varies by subscription profile (Classic, Signature and Elite). This differs between $58 per month and $391 per month. Access to add-ons and third-party features come at an additional cost, though some free tools are offered.

Does eSignal Work On Mac?

No, eSignal is not currently compatible with Mac devices. PC devices are required to have a Windows Operating System.

How Does eSignal Work?

eSignal is an advanced charting platform designed to facilitate technical analysis. It can be layered on top of an existing brokerage account to create a powerful trading environment. Plug-in download links and video tutorials are available directly from the software provider.

Is eSignal Free?

Customers are required to sign up for a monthly subscription service. A 30-day free trial is available with guaranteed money-back if users don’t want to continue using the service. Some add-ons are also free although a subscription is required to utilize extra tools.