Discover the Best Platforms for Online Trading in 2025

Getting into online trading in 2025 means picking the right spot to do it. It’s not just about picking stocks; it’s about finding a platform that fits how you want to trade, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at it for a while. We looked at a bunch of them to figure out which ones are the best platforms for online trading right now, considering things like fees, what you can invest in, and how easy they are to use. This list should help you find a good fit for your investing journey.

Key Takeaways

• The best trading platforms usually have low fees and a good variety of investment options.
• Ease of use is important, especially for new traders, so look for a simple and clear interface.
• Many platforms offer educational materials and tools to help you learn and practice trading.
• Consider what you want to trade – stocks, ETFs, options, crypto – and pick a platform that supports it.
• Mobile apps are key for trading on the go, so check out their usability and features.

1. Fidelity Investments

Fidelity has been around for ages, starting way back in 1946, and they’ve really built a solid reputation. As of September 2025, they’re managing a massive $6.4 trillion in assets, which tells you a lot of people trust them with their money. They’ve been making steady improvements to their platform, even making it easier to open accounts and adding more banking-like features to their cash management product. They’re known for keeping trading costs low while still offering some pretty powerful tools.

What’s cool is that Fidelity offers Stocks by the Slice, meaning you can buy parts of stocks and ETFs for as little as $1. This is a great way to start building a diverse portfolio without needing a ton of cash upfront. I found their platform really easy to use, even if you’re just starting out. The dashboard is organized well, showing you your portfolio, market news, and educational stuff all in one place.

Speaking of education, Fidelity has a huge Learning Center. It’s packed with articles, videos, and webinars that explain everything from reading stock charts to how different investments work together. They also have a Planning & Guidance Center to help you figure out a plan to reach your money goals. Plus, their customer support is available 24/7 and they’ve won awards for it. They also have over 100 physical branches if you ever want to talk to someone face-to-face. fidelity netbenefits

Here’s a quick look at some of their fees:

Fidelity is a solid choice, especially if you’re new to investing or just want a reliable platform with good support and low costs. They seem to have something for pretty much everyone, from beginners to more experienced traders.

2. Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a powerhouse in the online trading world, especially if you’re looking for a platform that offers a massive range of assets and global market access. Founded way back in 1978, they’ve been at the forefront of using technology to make trading more efficient. They really shine when it comes to providing access to 160 markets across 36 countries, which is pretty unmatched.

For seasoned traders, IBKR is often the go-to. They have advanced tools, super customizable features, and some of the lowest margin rates out there. Think of their Trader Workstation (TWS) as a professional-grade cockpit for your investments. They’ve also been rolling out newer platforms like IBKR Desktop, which tries to blend that power with a simpler interface, and IBKR InvestMentor, a mobile app for learning the ropes.

Here’s a quick look at what they offer:

• Global Reach: Trade stocks, options, futures, forex, bonds, and more across 160 exchanges worldwide. They support trading in up to 28 currencies.
• Advanced Tools: Access to a huge variety of order types (over 100!), sophisticated charting, and algorithmic trading capabilities.
• Pricing: They have a couple of pricing structures. IBKR Lite offers commission-free trades for US-listed stocks and ETFs, while IBKR Pro has tiered, volume-based commissions that can get very low for active traders. It can be a bit confusing to figure out which is best for you.
• New Features: They’ve been adding things like overnight trading for certain ETFs and stocks, and even AI-powered news summaries to help you stay informed.

While IBKR is fantastic for experienced traders who want a lot of control and access, it can feel a bit overwhelming for absolute beginners. The sheer number of options and the complexity of some platforms might require a learning curve. However, they are making efforts to be more accessible with educational content and simpler interfaces on some of their apps.

They also offer cryptocurrency trading for 11 different coins, though spot crypto trading isn’t available directly. You can trade Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, though. It’s worth noting that IBKR is a highly secure and regulated brokerage firm, licensed in many global jurisdictions, which adds a layer of safety for your funds. If you’re serious about trading and want a platform that can grow with you, Interactive Brokers is definitely worth a close look.

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3. Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab is a big name in the investing world, and for good reason. They’ve been around for ages, and after they brought TD Ameritrade into the fold, they really beefed up their platform. It’s a solid choice for pretty much anyone, from folks just starting out to those who know their way around the market.

What really makes Schwab stand out is how they cater to beginners. They’ve got this thing called the Investor Starter Kit. You fund your account, and they give you $101 to start investing in some big S&P 500 companies. It’s a neat way to get your feet wet without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, with Schwab Stock Slices, you can buy parts of shares for as little as $5. Pretty cool, right?

They also have a ton of educational stuff. Seriously, articles, videos, live webinars – they cover everything from basic portfolio building to understanding tricky stock patterns. It’s all right there on the platform, so you can learn as you go.

Here’s a quick look at some of their features:

• Account Minimum: $0 for active investing. You can get started without a huge chunk of cash.
• Commissions: $0 for stock and ETF trades. They also have over 4,000 mutual funds with no transaction fees.
• Options Trading: There’s a $0.65 fee per contract.
• Platforms: You get access to user-friendly web and mobile platforms, plus the really powerful thinkorswim® platform, which is great for more active traders.
• Support: They offer 24/7 customer service and even have over 300 physical branches if you prefer talking to someone face-to-face.

If you’re looking for a place that offers a bit of everything, from easy-to-understand tools for new investors to advanced trading capabilities, Charles Schwab is definitely worth a look. They’ve managed to combine a lot of services under one roof, making it a convenient spot for many different types of investors.

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4. E*TRADE

E*TRADE has been around for a while, and they’ve really gotten good at making online trading feel pretty straightforward. They were one of the first to really push the whole online thing, and now, with Morgan Stanley backing them up, they’ve got some serious research and tools available. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a platform that works well on your phone, with a good balance of features for both beginners and folks who know their way around the market.

They offer commission-free trades for stocks and ETFs, which is pretty standard these days. Options trading has a small fee per contract, depending on how much you trade. One thing to note is that while they have a lot of investment options, you can’t trade crypto directly, and fractional shares are mostly tied to their robo-advisor or dividend reinvestment plans.

ETRADE has a couple of different platforms. There’s the main ETRADE platform, which is good for most people, and then there’s Power ETRADE. Power ETRADE is where you’ll find more advanced charting and tools, which is great if you want to get into more complex trades like options or futures. They even have a paper trading feature on Power E*TRADE, which is super helpful for practicing without risking real money.

Here’s a quick look at some of their fees:

They’ve got a ton of educational stuff, from articles to videos, and now they’re pulling in research from Morgan Stanley. This makes it easier to get a handle on what’s happening in the market and make more informed decisions. It’s a good mix for anyone trying to learn the ropes or just stay up-to-date.

Overall, E*TRADE is a strong contender, especially if you value a good mobile experience and access to detailed research. They’ve got a lot to offer, from automated portfolios to tools for active traders.

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5. Robinhood

Robinhood really shook things up when it first came out, basically saying, ‘Hey, you don’t need to pay big fees to trade stocks.’ And honestly, they kind of made it cool to start investing, especially for younger folks. Their app is super simple to use, which is a big plus if you’re just getting your feet wet.

They’re known for their commission-free trading, which is still a major draw. You can trade stocks, ETFs, and options without paying a fee for each trade. Plus, they’ve expanded into crypto, offering a pretty decent selection of digital coins, which is more than some other platforms can say.

Here’s a quick look at what they offer:

• Commission-Free Trading: No fees for buying or selling stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Cryptocurrency: Access to a wide range of digital assets.
• User-Friendly App: Designed for ease of use, making it simple to get started.
• IRA Match: Robinhood Gold members can get a match on IRA contributions.

Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Because they keep things so simple, you won’t find a ton of fancy research tools or in-depth analysis built into the platform. You’re pretty much on your own to figure out your investment strategy. Also, while they advertise commission-free crypto trades, there are still spread costs involved, which can add up. And not every crypto they list is available on their more advanced ‘Legend’ platform.

If you’re someone who likes a straightforward approach and wants to trade without worrying about per-trade commissions, Robinhood is definitely worth a look. Just be aware that you might need to look elsewhere for detailed market research or more complex trading features.

6. Webull

Webull has really made a name for itself, especially with folks who are just getting their feet wet in the investing world. It’s got this clean, modern look that’s pretty easy to figure out, which is a big plus when you’re staring at charts and numbers for the first time. They’ve managed to pack in a lot of features without making it feel overwhelming.

One of the things that stands out is their focus on making trading accessible. You can trade stocks, ETFs, and options without paying any commission fees, which is pretty standard now but still a good deal. They also offer cryptocurrency trading, though it’s handled through a separate app called Webull Pay. It’s nice to have that option if you’re interested in crypto.

Here’s a quick look at some of their fee structures:

• Stocks & ETFs: $0.00 commission
• Options: $0.00 commission per contract (though regulatory fees may apply)
• Cryptocurrency: Varies based on trading volume (via Webull Pay)
• Transfer Fee: $75.00 (for full account transfers)

They also have a paper trading feature, which is super handy. It lets you practice making trades with fake money before you put your actual cash on the line. It’s a smart way to get a feel for the platform and test out different strategies without any risk.

While Webull is great for beginners and offers a lot of tools, it’s worth noting that some more complex investment products or advanced charting tools might be found on platforms geared towards very experienced traders. It strikes a good balance, though, for most everyday investors.

Their mobile app gets a lot of attention, and honestly, it’s pretty solid. You can do most of your trading and research right from your phone. They’ve also been adding new features, like overnight trading for certain ETFs and stocks, which is a pretty big deal for those who want more flexibility.

7. tastytrade

If you’re into options trading, tastytrade is a platform that really stands out. It was built by the same folks who created the well-known thinkorswim platform, and they’ve focused heavily on making it a top spot for options traders. Their commission structure for options is a big draw, especially the capped fees for larger trades and no charges to close positions. It’s designed to be pretty customizable, so you can set it up how you like.

They also put a lot of effort into educational content and tools specifically for options. You can even follow trades from some of the tastylive contributors, which is a neat way to see how experienced traders approach the market.

Here’s a quick look at what they offer:

• Options-focused tools: They have some really good tools for analyzing and keeping an eye on your options trades.
• Educational resources: Plenty of content tailored for options traders.
• Customizable platform: You can tweak the trading experience to fit your style.
• Follow Feed: See what tastylive contributors are trading.

However, it’s not perfect for everyone. They don’t have paper trading directly on the platform, and if you’re looking for a lot of retirement planning tools or mutual funds, you might find it a bit limited compared to other brokers. It’s definitely geared more towards active options traders.

tastytrade really shines for options traders who want specialized tools and a cost-effective structure. While it might not have every single feature for every type of investor, its strengths in options trading are hard to beat.

8. Public

Public is a trading platform that really tries to make investing feel more like a community. It’s got this social feed built right in, so you can see what other people are buying and selling, and even follow investors you find interesting. It’s a neat idea, especially if you’re just starting out and want to get a feel for what’s happening in the market from a more relatable perspective.

They focus on making things simple and accessible for everyday investors. You won’t find a ton of complicated tools here, which can be a good thing if you’re not looking to get bogged down in advanced analytics. It’s more about getting your feet wet and learning as you go.

Here’s a quick look at what Public offers:

• Commission-Free Trading: Buy and sell stocks and ETFs without paying a commission fee. This is pretty standard now, but still good to know.
• Fractional Shares: You can buy pieces of expensive stocks, which is great for smaller budgets.
• Crypto Trading: Public also lets you trade a selection of cryptocurrencies, adding another layer of investment options.
• Community Features: The social aspect is a big draw, with the ability to share trades, comment on stocks, and follow other users.

Public aims to demystify investing by blending social networking with trading. It’s designed for those who appreciate seeing what others are doing and want a more interactive way to learn about the stock market. While it might lack the depth of tools found on more professional platforms, its user-friendly interface and community focus make it a solid choice for many.

They also have a premium tier called Public Premium, which gives you access to more research and insights. It’s not a huge jump in price, so if you find yourself using the platform a lot, it might be worth checking out. Overall, Public is a good option if you like the idea of trading alongside a community and prefer a straightforward trading experience.

9. SoFi Invest

SoFi Invest is a platform that’s trying to do a lot of things for its users, and for the most part, it does a pretty good job. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a place to manage your banking, loans, and investments all under one roof. They’ve got a pretty straightforward approach to investing, which can be nice if you’re not trying to get too complicated with your money.

When you’re starting out or just want a simple way to invest, SoFi Invest has a few things going for it:

• Fractional Shares: You can buy pieces of expensive stocks, which is great for getting started without a lot of cash.
• ETFs and Stocks: They offer a decent selection of individual stocks and exchange-traded funds to pick from.
• Crypto Trading: If you’re into digital currencies, SoFi lets you trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a few others.
• Robo-Advisor: For those who want a hands-off approach, their robo-advisor can build and manage a portfolio for you based on your goals.

It’s not the platform for everyone, though. If you’re a super active trader who needs advanced tools or a huge variety of complex investment products, you might find SoFi Invest a bit basic. They also don’t have options trading, which is a big deal for some people.

The whole idea behind SoFi is to make financial services more accessible and less intimidating. They’ve built a brand around helping people get ahead, and their investing platform fits into that picture by trying to keep things simple and user-friendly. It’s part of a larger ecosystem designed to help you with various financial needs, not just trading.

Overall, SoFi Invest is a good option for beginners or those who appreciate a streamlined experience and want to keep their financial life consolidated. It’s easy to get started, and the fractional shares make it accessible for almost anyone to begin investing.

10. Ally Invest

Ally Invest is a solid choice if you’re looking for a place that combines banking and investing. It’s pretty straightforward to get started, especially with their Self-Directed Trading option, which doesn’t even have a minimum deposit. That’s a big plus for folks just dipping their toes into the market.

They’ve got a decent range of investment choices, including stocks, ETFs, options, and even forex. If you’re not keen on picking everything yourself, their Robo Portfolios can handle things for you, though those do have a $100 minimum.

Here’s a quick look at some of their fees:

One thing that stands out is their 24/7 customer service. It’s nice to know you can get help whenever you need it, day or night. They also provide articles to help you learn more about investing, which is always a good thing.

While they don’t have physical branches like some of the bigger banks, their online platform is pretty user-friendly. They even offer a bonus sometimes when you open a new account, which can be a nice little boost to get you started.

Wrapping It Up: Finding Your Trading Home in 2025

So, we’ve looked at a bunch of different places you can trade online in 2025. It’s clear there isn’t just one ‘best’ spot for everyone. What works for a seasoned pro might be way too much for someone just starting out. Think about what you want to do – are you just dipping your toes in with stocks and ETFs, or are you looking to trade options or even crypto? Keep an eye on those fees, too, because they can really add up over time. Most importantly, pick a platform that feels right for you. You want something that’s not a headache to use and has the tools you need to feel good about your decisions. Take your time, maybe even try out a demo account if they have one, and find the place where you feel most comfortable making your moves in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a trading platform and how does it work?

A trading platform, also called an online brokerage account, is like a digital tool that lets you buy and sell investments using your computer or phone. The company holding your account keeps your money and investments safe. They also give you reports and statements about your account’s activity. Plus, they add any interest or dividends you earn. To open one in the U.S., you’ll need your Social Security number and some basic personal and financial info, including your trading experience.

What’s the best trading platform for someone just starting out?

For beginners, platforms like Webull and Fidelity are often recommended. They offer easy-to-use tools and plenty of learning materials to help you understand how to trade. It’s also a good idea to look for a platform that lets you practice with fake money, called ‘paper trading,’ before you use your real money.

How do you pick the best trading platform?

The best platforms usually have low fees, a good variety of investment choices, a modern and easy-to-use trading system, and lots of helpful guides and resources. What works best for one person might not be perfect for another, so it’s important to think about what you need most.

What kind of investments can I trade on these platforms?

Most platforms let you trade stocks and ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds). Many also offer options, bonds, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Some platforms might have even more specialized investments available.

Are there any fees I should know about?

Yes, there can be fees. Some platforms charge commissions for trading stocks or ETFs, while others might have fees for options trades. You might also see fees for things like accessing certain market data, not trading for a while (inactivity fees), or if your account balance drops too low.

What makes a trading app easy to use?

An easy-to-use trading app has a simple and clear layout that makes sense right away, especially for new investors. You should be able to find what you need quickly and navigate through different features without much trouble. Reading reviews from other users can give you a good idea of how well an app is designed.

Peyman Khosravani