TradeStation Review 2023

3.5
/ 5
TradeStation is #12 in our CFD broker rankings.

US based broker with pricing methods split to cater for active day traders, or longer term stock holders


Trusted

Demo Account

Low Cost

MetaTrader 4
$500
MT4
CFD, Stocks, Futures, E-minis
-
USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF
ACH Transfer

Forex Trading

Not Available

Stocks Trading

Trade US stocks from just .002 per share with the Tradestation unbundled pricing

CFD Trading

Not Available

Crypto Trading

Not Available

TradeStation is a leading online brokerage facilitating the trade of stocks, options and futures. Traditionally aimed at experienced traders, the broker offers a powerful trading platform and a range of advanced features. This review of Tradestation will examine all elements of their offering, including accounts, brokerage fees, mobile apps and customer support, before concluding with a final verdict.

Account Types

There are two types of retail brokerage accounts, US Equities & Options, and Futures. You can apply for both account types, but you will do all trading on the same advanced platform.

When opening a TradeStation account you will also get access to paper trading. This simulator will enable you to develop and test strategies without risking your own capital.

Straightforward setting up allows for a quick start to trading. Simply check on their website that you meet the rules and regulations. Options margin requirements will differ from cash account minimum balance rules, for example.

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A Brief History

Early History

TradeStation was the brainchild of two brothers William and Rafael Cruz. They brought the company to life because they wanted a way to design, test, optimise and automate their own trading strategies.

The TradeStation Group, Inc. is actually the parent company of the online securities and futures brokerage firm. Its headquarters are in Florida. However, the company is now global in nature with office locations and addresses in:

Between 1997 to 2011 you would have found the TradeStation Group as a Nasdaq GS-listed company. However, an acquisition by Tokyo Stock Exchange listed company Monex Group marked a new beginning.

Recent Years

In recent years the company has gained traction in numerous countries, from the USA and Canada to Europe and Australia. As a result of this international success, TradeStation has picked up numerous awards, including:

It is clear that the developers and CEO have brought in numerous updates over the years to keep enticing traders in. If they continue to support more casual investors their net worth looks set to increase even further.

Minimum Initial Deposit

Originally, TradeStation was geared towards high-end professional investors, requiring a stock-trading account minimum of $5,000. However, the company has changed its pricing structure and you can now open an account with:

While this may still sound high, you get advanced trading tools for your money. So in terms of value, TradeStation may well trump other exchanges boasting lower fees and minimum deposit requirements.

Spreads & Commissions

TradeStation charges straightforward rates in comparison with other brokers. For equities they use three different structures:

For options, TradeStation uses a per share and flat fee. The most popular pricing structure is the latter. Equity trades will cost $5, while options trades cost $5 + $0.50. Reviews of these fees are relatively positive, as you get basic real-time market data for free. Not to mention there isn’t a $99.95 monthly account service fee if you don’t hit minimum activity levels. As a result, this is the most cost-effective option for non-professional traders.

Leverage

Opt for a margin account and you can essentially borrow capital from TradeStation to increase your position size (buying power). While trading on margin can help you bolster profits, it does come with drawbacks. For example, there is the risk of margin calls and losing more than your initial deposit.

See the official website for margin interest rates, as they will depend on the instrument and account type.

Other Trading Fees

User reviews were quick to praise TradeStation for not having a range of hidden fees that can seriously cut into your end of day returns. There are, of course, some of the industry standard brokerage and platform fees that you would expect, such as:

Overall, TradeStation’s equities and options fees are towards the higher end of the industry. Futures pricing and requirements can also feel expensive. But as will be shown below, TradeStation offers a far more comprehensive and in-depth service than many other brokers, arguably justifying these costs.

TradeStation does provide unique special offers and promotions. For example, activity military veterans and first responders can all sign up the TradeStation Salutes program. This gives you access to totally free stocks, ETFs and options trades. It also brings all the standard benefits that come with a standard flat-fee account, such as zero platform fees and free basic market data feeds.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on the official website for current joining offers, referral schemes and any other promotions.

Trading Platforms

Web Trading Platform

For those who lack the hardware system requirements for the desktop download, you can use the Web Trading tool with just an internet connection. You will get access to streaming real-time data plus rapid execution speeds.

In addition, a secure connection is guaranteed when accessing from a Mac, Linux or PC web browser. Overall Web Trading reviews are positive, but they did note experienced traders will want the comprehensive features of the desktop platform.

Desktop Platform

Although software reviews of the 9.5 download were popular, TradeStation 10 was to be the new and improved platform. Some of the highlights of the platform include:

So users have extensive functionality and a range of features. Of course, you also get all the useful basics, such as news feeds, email alerts and direct chart trading capabilities. Placing trailing stops, backtesting strategies and tracking a cryptocurrency of interest are all straightforward too. On top of that, you can create your own indicators with TradeStation’s Easy language, tutorials for which can be found on the online trading academy.

In particular, TradeStation.com backtesting reviews are positive even vs Multicharts. This means traders can test and replay a strategy with real data before risking their own capital.

Overall, the desktop platform is among the best in the industry, including Metatrader.

TradeStation Mobile Apps

Mobile app reviews show users are mostly content with TradeStation’s offering. You can get iOS and Android trading apps from their respective app stores.

Once you log in you are met with watchlists, real-time quotes and customisation capabilities. The interface is clean, in part because the data on display is kept to a minimum. Drawing tools, futures data plus symbol lists and lookup can also be accessed with ease. You can also set up useful text alerts from within the app.

In 2017 Matrix was added to iPhone and Android apps. This is a ladder trading tool allowing you to one-click buy and sell from a real-time level 2 quote window. Implementing limit orders is particularly useful when day trading where every penny per share counts. Although it is worth noting level 2 data isn’t part of the free package and comes with a monthly fee of $11.

Mobile day trading with TradeStation

On top of that, you get:

The major drawback is the limited indicator set. 20 is far below competitors, such as NinjaTrader. You also cannot compare the performance of multiple securities at once.

Overall then, iPad and Android app reviews were content with TradeStation’s offering. The apps make for a smooth transition from the desktop-based applications. They provide all the basic tools you need to generate revenue.

Methods of Payment

Before you can start FX trading or speculating on Bitcoin (BTC), your account will need funding. Fortunately making deposits and withdrawals can be done via several methods, including:

For further details on the transfer of funds, debit cards and wire instructions, see the official website.

 

Demo Account

Customer reviews from forex, equities and options traders are quick to point out drawbacks when it comes to TradeStation’s free demo account download. Mainly that such a practice account doesn’t exist. Instead, virtual trading is only available once you have funded an account.

Having said that, the simulated account is good. For example, once you have completed the platform download and log in, you will have access to virtually all the same features and functionality that live traders do. It’s the perfect place to fine-tune a strategy. If you contact TradeStation, you may even be able to reset your simulated account.

However, the fact that there is no free trial option for public use may seriously deter novice traders. It means potential customers have no way to test-drive the platform. The only option is watching demo videos, which won’t give many customers enough of a feel for the platform.

Having said that, it is worth keeping an eye on their official website, as at times TradeStation has run a 60-day free trial download.

Additional TradeStation Features

Education

Equities and forex reviews rarely come across such extensive additional resources. Firstly, there is the wealth of educational resources from the TradeStation university, from new platform training to useful webinars. There are also manual PDFs to ensure installation and getting started is made easy. User guides and e-books can also be found when you head to the client center so you can setup and get straight to work. Finally, TradeStation Labs helps you apply your new-found trading knowledge.

WebAPI

The application programming interface WebAPI helps run numerous applications. It also means third-party developers can create and integrate applications using a programming language that makes and receives HTTP requests and responses.

Automated Trading

It is no secret huge numbers of users now capitalise on the capabilities of genetic algorithmic trading. Automation allows you to enter and exit far more trades than you ever could manually. It’s also straightforward to implement on TradeStation. You simply:

Automated trading reviews rate TradeStation’s service highly. It’s simply so quick and easy to set up. However, high-frequency trading is not a shortcut to riches. You still need to carefully monitor your strategy.

RadarScreen

Part of your platform software download will grant you access to the RadarScreen feature. Rather than scrolling through historical options data and penny stocks quotes, you can identify potential opportunities with ease. You can also customise the scanner in line with charts and market trends.

Hot Lists

This helps flag up unusual activity. Over 100 hot lists will help you see which ticker index and futures symbols may break above the 52-week high. You may instantly see the bitcoin futures symbol is about to gap up at open, for example.

EasyLanguage

Forget API python, the EasyLanguage feature lets you create custom analysis tools and strategies. You can build and alter indicators within your trading platform. It’s ideal for traders with minimal coding knowledge.

Regulation & License

User forums demonstrate the demand for trusted and regulated brokers. Fortunately, TradeStation is one of the most reputable online brokers in the world. The brokerage is registered with SEC and has good relations with FIRA.

Users can relax in the knowledge their accounts have protection in a range of scenarios, such as bankruptcy or failure. This is because TradeStation is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). Therefore, accounts are guaranteed for up to $500,000, including $250,000 in cash.

Benefits

There are several very good reasons prospective traders should consider TradeStation, including:

Drawbacks

Despite the advantages above, there are also several downsides to the TradeStation offering, including:

Trading Hours

Trading hours are mostly the same regardless of user locations. However, TradeStation does also offer after-hours trading. So while the normal trading day is between 09:30 ET until 16:00 ET Monday to Friday, you can actually trade from 08:00 ET to at 20:00 ET.

Users are automatically able to trade during extended hours. You do not need additional documentation. Also, TradeStation does not charge any extra commissions or fees for extended hours trading.

See the official website for upcoming holiday hours.

Contact & Customer Support

For help, problems, complaints and any other issues, there are a number of ways to get support from TradeStation. Reviews often praise the high level of customer service on offer.

You can get in contact by phone between 08:00 ET to 20:00 ET Monday to Thursday and between 08:00 to 18:00 on Friday about new accounts. See the website for the phone number in your location and time zone.

You can also email TradeStation at InstitutionalSales@TradeStation.com. They can help you if your account is not working or you wish to close your account. They can also walk you through initial margin requirements for your brokerage account and a whole load more.

Technical support is available 24 hours a day from Sunday 15:30 ET to Friday 20:00 ET. Reviews show customer assistants were very knowledgeable and could help when platforms were not loading or connecting. They may also be able to assist when order types are rejected, as well as deciphering notifications for you.

You can also use their live chat feature to get support. User reviews show wait times were low.

Lastly, you can also head to their website and FAQ page for support. With answers given in detail, many users will be able to repair problems themselves. You can also find useful information on hotkeys, training videos and unsettled funds.

Safety & Security

Events in recent years highlight the need for a legitimate broker. Both hacking and false promises of riches by untrustworthy brokers have led to an erosion in public confidence. So, is TradeStation a good broker in terms of user security? There is no doubt they go above and beyond to keep personal data and information secure. In fact, they do so in the following ways:

Tradestation Verdict

TradeStation is one of the best direct access brokers. Users rate the comprehensive trading platform and the support for third-party add-ons. There are also extensive additional resources as well as customer support staff who can answer any questions. The only downside is the relatively expensive fees that penalise less active traders.

Overall then, TradeStation remains a worthy choice for experienced traders. However, beginners may be better off elsewhere, where they can find lower minimum requirements and a free demo account.

Accepted Countries

TradeStation only accepts traders from United States.

Payment Methods

TradeStation Details

Minimum Trade Min lot size will vary
Regulated By SEC
Account Types
  • DMA
Islamic Account No
Mobile Apps iOS, Android and Windows
Margin Trading No
Volatility Index No
Spot Trading No
Perpetual Swaps No
ELWs No
REITs No
AI / Machine Learning No
Robo Advisor No
P2P Trading No
Negative Balance Protection No
VPS Hosting No
Tournaments No
Demo Competitions No
Managed Accounts No
Market Maker No
Social Trading No
Guaranteed Stop Loss No
Commodities
  • Soybeans

CFD Trading Details

FTSE Spread N/A
GBPUSD Spread N/A
Oil Spread 0.06 pips
Stocks Spread 0.2% Var
Leverage 1:20

Compare TradeStation

Compare TradeStation with similar brokers that accept traders from your location. Among available brokers these are the most similar to TradeStation:

  1. OANDA – 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 authorized by leading regulators, including the CFTC/NFA. Around the clock support is available, alongside flexible contract sizes and automated trade executions.
    Go to OANDA
  2. 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.
    Go to Webull
  3. Forex.com – Forex.com boasts a global reputation with multiple awards and 20+ years experience. Regulated in the US, EU, UK and Canada they offer 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.
    Go to Forex.com

TradeStation Comparison Table

Compare TradeStation With Similar Brokers
TradeStation OANDA Webull Forex.com
Rating 3.5 4.5 4.4 4.5
Markets Stocks, Commodities Forex Stocks, ETFs, options, cryptos, forex, ADRs, fractional shares, OTCs Forex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Cryptos, Futures, Options
Demo Account Yes Yes Yes Yes
Minimum Deposit $500 $0 $0 $100
Minimum Trade Min lot size will vary $0 $5 $1
Regulators SEC CFTC, NFA SEC, FINRA CySEC, IIROC, NFA, CFTC, FCA, CIMA, CIRO
Bonus $5,000 welcome bonus with a deposit of $500 Six free stocks
Education No Yes Yes Yes
Platforms MT4 MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist MT4, MT5, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
Leverage 1:20 1:30 EU, 1:200 Global 1:200
Payment Methods 1 12 3 8
Visit Visit Visit Visit Visit
Review TradeStation
Review
OANDA
Review
Webull
Review
Forex.com
Review

Compare Trading Instruments

Compare the markets and instruments offered by TradeStation and its competitors. Please note, some markets may only be available via CFDs or other derivatives.

Compare TradeStation Trading Instruments
TradeStation OANDA Webull Forex.com
CFD Yes No No Yes
Forex No Yes Yes Yes
Stocks Yes Yes Yes Yes
Commodities Yes Yes No Yes
Oil No No No Yes
Gold No Yes No Yes
Copper No Yes No No
Silver No Yes No Yes
Corn No Yes No No
Crypto No Yes Yes Yes
Futures Yes No No Yes
Options No No Yes Yes
ETFs No No Yes No
Bonds No Yes No No
Warrants No No No No
Spreadbetting No No No No
Volatility Index No No No No

TradeStation vs Other Brokers

Compare TradeStation with any other broker by selecting the other broker below.

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US based broker with pricing methods split to cater for active day traders, or longer term stock holders