Are you looking for the very best trading platform? Like many others who buy and sell securities and other assets via online brokerage accounts, you're probably seeking the features suited to the kind of trading you do. A platform is a little bit like an automobile in that there's no perfect one that satisfies everyone's tastes. There is, in fact, an endless list of trading preferences among the hordes of people who place online orders every day. In addition to those who specialize in forex, commodities, equity shares, options, and futures, some investing enthusiasts play the markets via indices, CFDs (contracts for difference), ETFs (exchange traded funds), and other kinds of assets.
So, while there might not be a favorite all-around platform for everyone, there are clear leaders within the various niches. Comparing the top-ranked candidates can be helpful for people who haven't yet settled on a market or style of doing business. Some aim to just make a few trades per month and tend to invest their capital in hopes of earning long-term profits. Others focus more on medium-term or very short-term time horizons and include swing buyers, scalpers, and day trading specialists. Here are the four leading platform providers, along with the pros and cons for each.
MetaTrader 5
After you download mt5, or MetaTrader 5, you'll be ready to handle just about any kind of order, transaction, or asset class. That's because the creators of the software intended to make it a one-stop type of product, capable of serving the needs of beginnings to experts, and everyone in between. On the plus side for MT5, the interface is simple to navigate, the array of analytical tools is exceptional, there are multiple assets available for trading, there's an economic calendar that is useful and comprehensive, the timeframes number 21, and users can place eight different kinds of pending orders. On the downside, a few beginners might be put off by the vast number of tools and complex features, and there is no exchange market hedging function. For day traders and those with experience, there are few choices better than MT5.
TD Ameritrade
Newcomers to the securities markets, those who are saving for retirement, and day trading enthusiasts prefer TD Ameritrade's setup because it caters directly to their needs. Advantages include excellent research reports, full-scale educational materials, and lots of assets to trade, including options, stocks, and futures. However, cons include proprietary software, thinkorswim, which can be very complex for newcomers.
eTrade
Active and frequent traders who enjoy building retirement portfolios, dealing in traditional markets, and trading derivatives enjoy eTrade. There are actually several platforms offered with a large number of available assets and uniquely attentive customer service. On the downside, forex enthusiasts can find better places to do their business, and there is no way to practice order placement because eTrade has no paper trading function on its main platform.
Vanguard
If you're a buy and hold type who also wants to develop a strong retirement portfolio and appreciates a clean, simple platform, then Vanguard is a viable option. There are plenty of ETFs to choose from as well as a full lineup of popular mutual funds, research tools, and a user-friendly mobile app. Unfortunately,
Vanguard only offers 10 charting/technical indicators for its users, no chance to trade forex, and limited features for day-traders.
What You Should Look For
When shopping for platforms, consider your personal preferences above all else. Even the best stock trading apps require specificity and these platforms are no different. Do you mainly want to deal in foreign currency, stocks, futures, options, or some other niche asset class? If so, keep in mind that some programs out there are only designed to work with one or two security types. Next, consider your
experience level. Just as some platforms focus on forex, options, or CFDs, some are geared to users who
have specific levels of experience, like beginners, seasoned pros, or those who have experience but only
trade infrequently.
Feature-rich offerings are all the rage. People want up-to-the-minute financial news and market quotes, and the leading providers offer both. Likewise, if you prefer detailed charting and analytical tools, try to find a company that offers the style of charting you need and the array of technical indicators you use regularly. Finally, try to work with products that offer well-organized demo versions so you can practice for a few days and see how you like them. Never walk into a situation cold or make a commitment to trade on a platform that you don't know anything about.
