Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
The best brokers with mobile apps provide extra accessibility to the stock markets, which were once dominated by high net worth individuals and institutions. While online brokers helped improve this to some extent, the advent of mobile trading has really secured the transition. On these platforms, users can buy and sell almost any financial instruments with low commissions and favourable trading conditions from any location with internet access.
This tutorial will explore some of the advantages and drawbacks of using the top brokers with mobile apps, as well as how best to compare them.
Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
Our experts have tested hundreds of trading applications and these top the list of mobile trading brokers:
#1 - Forex.com
Forex.com boasts a global reputation with multiple awards and 20+ years experience. Regulated in the US, EU, UK and Canada they provide a huge range of markets, not just forex, and offer competitive fees on a cutting-edge platform. The brand also provides a suite of additional tools, from performance analytics and SMART Signals to advanced charts and strategy builders.
"Forex.com is an excellent broker for forex traders with over 80 currency pairs, tight spreads, low commissions and powerful platforms. The brand is also heavily regulated while its parent company is listed on the NASDAQ, giving it a high trust score."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, Spot Metals
- Regulator: NFA, CFTC
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
- Min. Deposit: $100
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:50
Forex Trading
Forex.com is a leading FX broker. The brand offers a wide range of currency pairs and some of the lowest fees in the industry. Spreads on the EUR/USD come in as low as 0.0 with a $7 commission per $100k.
Stocks Trading
Forex.com offers access to thousands of US, EU and UK stocks, with spreads of just 1 point. Speculate on household names as well as new IPOs. US stocks are available from just 1.8 cents per share.
Pros
- Free demo account for prospective traders
- Top-rated forex and CFD broker
- Up to 15% cashback rebates for active traders
Cons
- Investment offering varies between countries
- No copy trading platform
- $15 monthly inactivity fee
#2 - eToro USA
eToro is a social investing platform that offers stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto. The broker is well-known for its user-friendly community-centred platform and competitive fees. With FINRA and SIPC oversight and millions of users across the world, this brand is highly respected. eToro securities trading is offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc.
"eToro is a top pick for users looking for social investing and copy trading. With a low deposit, zero commissions and an intuitive platform, the broker will meet the needs of newer traders."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto
- Regulator: SEC, FINRA
- Platforms: Own
- Min. Deposit: $10
- Min. Trade: $10
Stocks Trading
Trade popular US stocks and ETFs with zero commissions while fractional shares and options are also available. The eToro Academy and excellent market research are also huge bonuses for newer investors.
Crypto Trading
eToro US leads the way in cryptocurrency trading. 1% fee for buying or selling crypto added to the spread (from 0.75% for BTC), with their own wallet service and the largest number of cryptos to trade in the market. eToro copy trading is only for cryptos. Crypto asset investing is highly volatile and unregulated. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
Pros
- The online broker offers an intuitive social investment network with straightforward copy trading on cryptos
- eToro USA Securities is a trustworthy, SEC-regulated broker that is a member of FINRA and SIPC
- The $10 minimum deposit and straightforward account opening process means beginners can get started quickly
Cons
- Narrower range of instruments than some competitors
- No MetaTrader 4 platform integration
#3 - NinjaTrader
NinjaTrader is a US-headquartered and regulated brokerage that specializes in futures trading. There are three pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets, as well as ultra-low margins on popular contracts. The brand's award-winning charting software and trading platform also offers a high-degree of customization and superb technical analysis features.
"We recommend NinjaTrader for high-volume futures traders looking for low fees and premium analysis tools."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto
- Regulator: NFA, CFTC
- Platforms: eSignal
- Min. Deposit: $50
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:50
Forex Trading
NinjaTrader supports the trading of popular currencies including the EUR/USD. The trading software also offers unique features tailored to forex trading, including specific order and market windows.
Stocks Trading
Stocks can be traded by connecting the NinjaTrader platform to supporting brokers. You can then take positions on large public companies and household names via advanced trading software.
Crypto Trading
Trade micro Bitcoin futures with low fees and leading charting tools. Get exposure to Bitcoin through CME Group's centralized exchange with robust risk management tools.
Pros
- Free platform access and trade simulation capabilities
- Widely respected and heavily authorized by the NFA and CFTC
- Thousands of add-ons and applications from developers in 150+ countries
Cons
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- Premium platform tools come with an extra charge
- Withdrawal fee on some funding methods
#4 - OANDA US
OANDA is a popular brand offering exceptional execution, low deposit requirements and advanced charting and trading platform features. The top-rated brand has over 25 years of experience and is regulated by trusted agencies, including the NFA/CFTC. Around the clock support is available, alongside flexible contract sizes and automated trade executions.
"We recommend OANDA for US traders seeking a user-friendly platform with premium market research and a straightforward joining process. OANDA is a particularly good pick if you want a heavily regulated broker with a secure trading environment."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Forex, Crypto
- Regulator: NFA, CFTC
- Platforms: MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist
- Min. Deposit: $0
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:50
Forex Trading
OANDA offers 68 forex pairs, more than many alternatives. The broker's in-house platform also offers impressive execution speeds and a suite of advanced charting and analysis tools.
Crypto Trading
Speculate on the world's biggest cryptos by market cap. Commissions are lower than many peers starting at 0.25%. Clients can spot trade cryptocurrencies on Paxos's itBit exchange through the OANDA platform via OANDA’s partnership with Paxos. Users can trade digital currencies in a few taps through the iOS and Android mobile app.
Pros
- Low minimum deposit for beginners
- Reliable, trustworthy and secure brand with authorization from tier-one regulators
- Feature-rich app with 50 indicators, 11 drawing tools and 9 charting styles
Cons
- Customer support not available on the weekend
#5 - Kwakol Markets
Kwakol Markets is a Nigerian headquartered broker with strong regulatory oversight in Australia and Canada. A great selection of asset classes are available, including synthetic products that simulate realistic market activity. Clients can trade on the MT4, MT5 and cTrader platforms, as well as a copy trading solution whereby a fee is only paid on profitable trades.
"Kwakol Markets is a good option for newer traders with a dedicated learning academy, copy trading and a choice of reliable platforms. New clients can also sign up and start trading in four straightforward steps."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
- Regulator: ASIC, FINTRAC
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, AutoChartist
- Min. Deposit: $1
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:1000
CFD Trading
CFDs are available on a breath of underlying assets, including stocks, indices, commodities, forex and cryptos. High leverage up to 1:500 is available alongside a 0.01 minimum lot size and award-winning software. For the tightest spreads from 0 pips, opt for the Premium account.
Forex Trading
Kwakol Markets offers a wider range of forex pairs than most competitors, with 90+ assets available. Users get fast execution speeds through the ECN model and competitive spreads. On the negative side, not all currency pairs are available on MT4.
Stocks Trading
Trade stocks with zero commissions and ultra-fast trade executions. Clients get exposure to US, EU, Asian and Russian stock markets on both the MT4 and MT5 platforms. Stocks are available as CFDs, so users will not own the underlying shares.
Crypto Trading
Trade cryptos against fiat currencies, other cryptocurrencies and metals like gold. This separates the broker from many alternatives that only offer cryptos paired with the USD. High leverage up to 1:20 on cryptos is available, plus support for Expert Advisors and copy trading.
Pros
- Easy account opening process
- 0.01 Lot trading
- Excellent market analysis tools
Cons
- The only base currency is USD
- High deposits for premium features
- Regional restrictions in certain countries
#6 - Webull
Webull is a US-regulated trading app that offers stocks, options, forex, cryptos, ETFs, fractional shares and more. The firm is authorized by the SEC and FINRA with a strong trust rating. Low fees, no minimum investment and generous bonuses have made the discount broker popular with online investors.
"Webull is best for traders looking to buy and sell stocks on a user-friendly app with zero commissions."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Stocks, ETFs, options, cryptos, forex, ADRs, fractional shares, OTCs
- Regulator: SEC, FINRA
- Platforms: Own
- Min. Deposit: $0
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:4
Forex Trading
Webull offers a modest collection of 17 currencies, including majors like EUR/USD. Forex can be traded on the feature-rich investing app with real-time quotes and low spreads.
Stocks Trading
Webull offers a fantastic list of 2000+ US stocks, fractional shares, options, ETFs, OTC, and ADRs. There is no commission on stocks, ETFs, and options. Full extended trading hours is available while custom screeners and watchlists aid the decision making process.
Crypto Trading
Webull offers trading on popular cryptos like Bitcoin against the US Dollar. With 35+ tokens and premium analysis tools, traders can review market trends and identify opportunities in a few taps.
Pros
- Brokerage account plus IRA
- Respected brand with strong regulatory oversight
- Promotions with free stocks
Cons
- Sometimes sudden changes in trading conditions
- High deposit and withdrawal wire fees for non-US residents
- Day trading is limited for customers with less than $25,000 deposited
#7 - IG Group
IG is an award-winning broker that has an excellent reputation globally. The brand-US offers spread betting, CFD and forex trading across a comprehensive suite of markets. IG is also multi-regulated, provides a great trading app and has 50 years experience.
"IG offers a superb all-round package. Beginners will appreciate the user-friendly web platform and secure trading environment while established investors will rate the 17,000+ markets and top-tier market research."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting
- Regulator: FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA
- Platforms: MT4, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
- Min. Deposit: $0
- Min. Trade: 0.01 Lots
- Leverage: 1:30 (Retail), 1:250 (Pro)
CFD Trading
IG offers an impressive suite of 17,000+ CFD instruments. Negative balance protection ensures accounts cannot drop below zero while custom price alerts and the IG Academy enhance the trading experience.
Forex Trading
IG offers currency trading on its award-winning web platform and mobile app. Comprehensive charts and forex analysis tools are also available through ProRealTime.
Stocks Trading
IG offers 13,000+ shares, with more listed firms than most competitors. Fees are low with no commission on US stocks. Extended hours trading is also available alongside ultra-fast execution speeds of 0.014 seconds.
Crypto Trading
11 popular cryptos are available, plus two crypto crosses. A crypto index is also offered, following the value of the top 10 digital currencies by market cap. All cryptos are available via CFDs.
Pros
- Opening an account takes less than 5 minutes
- IG offers great educational materials including an extensive library of training and support on how to day trade successfully
- Users have access to a comprehensive range of charts, market news, client sentiment data, and analysis tools
Cons
- No copy trading platform
- Inactivity charge
#8 - Pocket Option
Founded in 2017, Pocket Option is a binary options broker offering up/down contracts on forex, stocks and cryptocurrencies. With over 100,000 active users and a global reach, the brand has proven popular with budding traders. Pocket Option also supports dozens of payment methods and has a low minimum trade of just $1.
"We recommend Pocket Option for aspiring binary options traders looking for copy trading services and a low minimum investment."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Binary Options, Currencies, Commodities, Stocks, Indices
- Regulator: IFMRRC
- Platforms: MT5
- Min. Deposit: $50
- Min. Trade: $1
Forex Trading
Binary and OTC options can be purchased on over 40 foreign exchange pairs. Typical payouts are also decent at 81% and users can trade forex binary options in just a couple of clicks.
Stocks Trading
Trade 30 of the most popular American multinational stocks including Microsoft and Google. Payouts on big brands come in at a decent 92% while indices are available up to 67%.
Crypto Trading
Pocket Option supports major cryptocurrencies on a beginner-friendly app. Over 10 leading cryptocurrencies are available with very high leverage up to 1:1000.
Pros
- Welcome bonuses and coupon codes
- Turbo binary options
- Live signals
Cons
- The expiration time is limited on trades
- IFMRRC is not a reputable regulator
- No MT4 trading platform
#9 - IQCent
IQCent is an offshore binary options and CFD broker based in the Marshall Islands with 10+ payment methods and a low $50 starting deposit. With 100+ assets, around the clock trading and high payouts the brand is popular with aspiring traders.
"IQCent will appeal to newer traders who want a platform where they can trade both binary options and CFDs with copy trading support and regular contests."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Binary Options, CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
- Regulator: IFMRRC
- Platforms: TradingView
- Min. Deposit: $250
- Min. Trade: $0.01
- Leverage: 1:500
CFD Trading
IQCent CFDs are available on forex, stocks, indices, commodities and cryptos with leverage variable by asset to a maximum of 1:500, which is higher than many alternatives. 24/7 customer support is also available to assist new users.
Forex Trading
IQCent traders can access CFDs or binary options on 40+ forex pairs, including majors, minors and exotics. CFD spreads start from 0.7 pips and binary options payouts are decent up to 95%. Trading takes place through the broker's proprietary platform with advanced analysis tools.
Stocks Trading
IQCent offers CFDs and binaries on four German stocks: Lufthansa, Deutsche, Daimler and BMW. Traders can also speculate on stock markets via seven leading indices including US30, S&P500 and FTSE100.
Crypto Trading
IQCent offers 17 crypto assets through its own platform, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. Leverage on crypto CFDs is limited to 1:10 while binary options payouts vary by token but are competitive.
Pros
- Copy trading service
- Binary options with 98% payouts
- Bonuses available up to 100% for Gold account members
Cons
- A short period before an inactivity fee is charged
- Poor selection of stocks with just four equities
- No MetaTrader 4 platform
#10 - Moomoo
Moomoo is an SEC-regulated app-based investment platform that offers a straightforward and affordable way to invest in Chinese, Hong Kong and US stocks, ETFs and other assets. Margin trading is available and the brand accepts low minimum deposits while also decent several bonuses.
"Moomoo will appeal to stock traders who want to build an investment portfolio through a user-friendly app with low to zero commissions."
- DayTrading Review Team
- Instruments: Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs
- Regulator: SEC, FINRA, MAS
- Platforms: Own
- Min. Deposit: $0
- Min. Trade: $0
Stocks Trading
Moomoo offers online US and Hong Kong stocks, and China-A shares trading across options, ETFs, ADRs, OTC, plus IPOs on a proprietary trading platform. The zero commissions, no account minimum and free level 2 data are standout features.
Pros
- Attractive bonuses and financial incentives
- Regulated by US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)
- Member of FINRA and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC)
Cons
- No 2 factor authentication (2FA)
- High margin rate fees
- No negative balance protection
What Is Mobile Trading?
Almost every major online brokerage firm, not just the best brokers with mobile apps, has introduced a mobile platform in addition to their desktop or web-based clients. Brokers with mobile apps usually allow their clients to view their accounts and execute orders in the market via a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. This has made trading incredibly easy to access: clients can now trade at home, at work or even while travelling. On top of this, many brokers with mobile apps offer commission-free trading, meaning that mobile trading is not only convenient but cheap.
Mobile trading apps can often be downloaded onto both Android (APK) and Apple (iOS) devices, though it is worth double-checking to see which options are available. The mobile trading experience has improved greatly in recent years but still varies from broker to broker. It is important, therefore, to take into consideration the usability, convenience and security of brokers’ mobile platforms before entering the market.
Mobile Apps Vs Desktop Clients
Most of the best brokers with mobile apps also offer a desktop version of their platform. Generally speaking, due to the limitations imposed by mobile technology, mobile apps offer a simpler, paired-down version of the desktop client. However, for some brokers, the mobile app was designed first and offers a better experience.
The major difference between mobile apps and desktop clients is the size of the screen. This can have a big impact on the trading experience as users need to be able to detect small movements in price action. Desktop clients also let users view multiple charts at once, alongside other features like news feeds, which may not be possible on a mobile app. It may be helpful, therefore, to choose a broker with a mobile app that has interactive charting capabilities, which allow traders to resize, zoom in on and personalise charts.
The other big difference between mobile and desktop trading is the speed at which trades are executed. When using a desktop platform, orders are usually placed in less than a few seconds. Mobile apps tend to be slightly slower than this. However, the speed of mobile trading apps is continually improving as software is optimised. It should be noted that the speed at which mobile apps execute orders depends heavily on the users’ connection to a phone or WiFi network.
Traditionally, it was said that desktop clients were more suited to executing orders, whereas mobile apps were better for monitoring trades. Mobile platforms, however, have improved dramatically in the past few years in terms of user experience. Most of the major online brokers’ mobile apps now offer almost all of the same features as their desktop equivalents. Indeed, as of 2023, mobile trading may well be more popular than desktop trading. In short, traders looking to use mobile apps are in a better position than ever before and should not be discouraged.
How To Compare The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
Charting Capabilities
Due to the smaller screen size, mobile trading has often lagged behind desktop trading in terms of charting capabilities. However, many of the best brokers with mobile apps now have sophisticated interactive charting features. Interactivity allows users to zoom in on and resize charts, which is crucial for traders looking to pay attention to small price movements. Data streaming has made it possible for mobile platforms to offer accurate live charting and advanced analytics. The best mobile apps have charting capabilities that match those of any desktop client, so don’t settle for second best.
Integration With Web Clients
The rise of cloud storage technology has made it easier for online brokers with mobile apps to synchronise between desktop and mobile platforms. This is particularly important for traders looking to use both systems complementarily. The best brokers with mobile trading apps should offer a consistent experience between their desktop client and their mobile platform. In particular, online brokers should share watch lists and alerts, as well as tools like stock screeners.
User Experience
The best brokers with mobile apps should offer a service that is easy to use, intuitive, concise and reliable. It is worth bearing in mind that different apps will be aimed at different target markets. For instance, a beginner may not get an optimal experience using an app designed for experienced traders with advanced tools and customisation options. A beginner trader may also benefit from a site with better educational resources and more detailed information. In addition, some apps offer a streamlined, specialised service, while others are better for more general trading. If you are looking to trade a particular type of asset, it may be worth considering mobile apps that specialise in that area.
One of the first things to take into consideration when choosing a mobile trading platform is how easy it is to set up an account. Some brokers will not let you sign up via their mobile app and will instead redirect you to their desktop version. This is less than ideal for those looking to do mobile trading only.
Secondly, the best brokers with mobile apps will make their platform easy to navigate and include excellent search features. Day traders in particular need to be able to move quickly between the news feed, assets and charts. All mobile apps should have a well-designed user interface with concise information and few superfluous features. The research and analysis tools should also be simple and easy to understand.
Finally, mobile trading apps should have a reliable service. Even some of the larger, more established brokers with mobile apps have experienced crashes in recent months. Be sure to check that any platform you sign up with does not suffer from regular performance issues, as these can be frustrating and may lose you money.
Fees & Minimum Deposit
Using the best brokers with mobile apps tends to be one of the cheapest ways to trade. Many new investing and trading applications were formed with the sole purpose of providing commission-free speculation. A few online brokers support free options trading but most will charge a small amount per contract. Before you sign up with any online broker, consider reading up on their payment structure, as this can vary between firms. Some mobile platforms may charge users a flat rate, whereas others take a percentage of earnings. Other platforms charge fees on deposits and withdrawals.
Several mobile apps require a paid subscription in return for benefits like investment advice, advanced analytics and excellent market research. It is worth not automatically dismissing paid trading apps. Instead, check the services on offer to see whether the broker is worth the money.
The amount of capital needed to set up an account with a mobile trading app varies. Some brokers with mobile apps do not need a minimum deposit. Other platforms may require initial investments of hundreds of dollars. Many of the most popular free trading apps have small or non-existent minimum deposit requirements.
Security
Traders should always exercise caution when signing up with an online trading app, even one of the best brokers with mobile apps. As with any brokerage, do some research on where the company is registered and how long it has been operating. Brokers based in major financial centres will be subject to the most stringent rules. Offshore firms are lightly regulated, meaning that you may not be legally well protected if anything goes wrong. In addition, check that any broker with a mobile app that you open an account with has been trading for at least a couple of years, for added security.
The most secure mobile trading apps will use biometric data (like fingerprint scanners) or two-factor authentication (2FA) to access their platforms. Some platforms use third-party verification systems, where users have to download an additional app to access their platform, which, while safe, is a little long-winded. Always check reviews for security information. Some leading platforms do not encrypt their financial data, making them vulnerable to attacks by malware.
How To Start Mobile Trading
The first step is to choose from the best brokers with mobile apps. Using the criteria outlined above, make sure you have chosen a safe, reliable broker that is well-suited to your particular investment needs. Check that you have read up on any fees that the broker may charge, as well as their minimum deposit requirements. Signing up with an online trading platform may require verification. We also recommend using a demo account, if supported, to trial an app before depositing money.
Pros Of The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
- Low minimum deposits
- On-the-go trading access
- Convenient market access
- Easy-to-use, intuitive app design
- Rapidly improving user experience
- Inexpensive, commission-free trading
Drawbacks Of The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
- Smaller screens
- Slower than desktop clients
- Some platforms lack all the features of the desktop equivalent
Final Word On The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps
The experience offered by the best brokers with mobile apps has continuously improved as technology has advanced. Many brokerages are now more focused than ever on providing the full range of trading services on an intuitive, readily accessible platform. In many cases, using the best brokers with mobile apps is just as effective as trading via desktop.
FAQs
Are The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps Expensive?
Many of the most popular online trading apps are free to download and charge zero commission, placing them firmly at the cheapest end of the price spectrum. Some brokers with mobile apps require a paid subscription. While more expensive, the services these offer in return for these fees may make them worth consideration.
CanThe Best Brokers With Mobile Apps Match Their Desktop Equivalent?
Mobile apps are catching up to desktop clients in many respects. Interactive charting and improved user interfaces have made trading apps a more competitive all-around experience. Many brokers have also worked on improving the integration of their mobile apps with their desktop platform.
What Makes A Good Broker With A Mobile App?
The best brokers with mobile apps will have a well-designed, easy-to-use platform. Mobile platforms should be easy to navigate and contain concise amounts of information, as well as clear and accurate charts. The best brokers for mobile trading will also have good integration between their desktop client and mobile app.
Are The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps Secure?
The best brokers with mobile apps are as secure if not more secure than their desktop counterparts, although some lack proper data encryption, which makes them potentially vulnerable. The brokers with the most secure mobile apps will use biometric login data or two-factor verification.
Are The Best Brokers With Mobile Apps Available On iOS Or Android?
Most of the leading mobile trading apps are available on both iOS and Android devices. It is advised that you use a smartphone with at least 64GB of internal storage and good processing power. A larger screen may also be helpful.