Best Online Brokers and Trading Platforms for 2025

Investing in 2025 is a whole new ballgame compared to just a few years back. These days, commission-free trading is the standard, mobile-first apps are taking over, and artificial intelligence is transforming how we research and trade. Whether you’re just starting out with your first shares or you’re a seasoned trader diving into options and futures, picking the right broker can really make a difference in your investing journey.

The ideal online broker isn’t just a platform for executing trades—it’s your entry point to the markets. A solid platform offers the tools, research, education, and customer support you need to make informed choices. On the flip side, a bad choice could lead to steep fees, a limited selection of assets, or outdated technology that holds you back.

In this guide, we’ll showcase the 10 best online brokers and trading platforms for 2025, selected for their balance of cost, features, safety, and user experience. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear idea of which broker suits your needs—whether you’re into long-term investing, active trading, or exploring options strategies.

What to Look for in an Online Broker (Evaluation Criteria)

Before we jump into the list, let’s take a moment to discuss the key factors to consider when selecting a broker in 2025.

Fees & Commissions

These days, most brokers are offering $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs, but not all fees are created equal. Keep an eye out for:

• Options contract fees, which typically range from $0.50 to $0.65 per contract.
• Commissions for futures and forex trades.
• Margin interest rates, which can vary quite a bit.
• Hidden costs, such as spreads on crypto transactions.

Trading Platforms & Tools

The top brokers provide robust platforms that cater to various experience levels:

• User-friendly apps with straightforward interfaces for beginners.
• Advanced platforms like thinkorswim (TD Ameritrade) or IBKR Trader Workstation, featuring sophisticated charting, screeners, and diverse order types.
• AI-powered tools for research, alerts, and optimizing your portfolio.

Asset Variety

A well-rounded broker should allow you to invest in more than just U.S. stocks. Look for:

• ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds.
• Options and futures for those looking to employ advanced strategies.
• Forex and international equities for a taste of global markets.
• Access to crypto for those interested in digital assets.

Regulation & Security

When it comes to safety, there’s no room for compromise. Opt for brokers regulated by reputable organizations like:

• SEC (U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission).
• FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority).
• SIPC protection, which covers up to $500,000 in securities.
• FDIC insurance for your cash balances.

Ease of Use

If the platform is too complicated, mistakes are bound to happen. For beginners, a clean, mobile-friendly app like Robinhood or SoFi is perfect. Advanced traders, on the other hand, will prioritize customization and speed.

Education & Research

The best brokers don’t just facilitate trades—they also support your learning journey. Look for:

• Free tutorials and webinars.
• Analyst ratings and up-to-date market news.
• Features for strategy testing and paper trading.

Customer Service

The markets can change in an instant, and when you need assistance, waiting days for a response isn’t ideal. The leading brokers offer 24/7 support through phone, chat, or email.

Quick Comparison Table: Best Online Brokers and Trading Platforms for 2025

Broker / Platform	Founded	Assets Available	Fees & Commissions	Best For	Standout Feature
Fidelity Investments	1946	Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options	$0 stock & ETF trades; low options fees	Long-term investors & retirement planners	Industry-leading research + retirement tools
Charles Schwab	1971	Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, futures	$0 stock & ETF trades; low-cost options	All-around investors	Fractional shares + robo-advisor integration
TD Ameritrade (Schwab)	1975	Stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex	$0 stock & ETF trades; options $0.65/contract	Active traders	thinkorswim platform (advanced trading)
E*TRADE (Morgan Stanley)	1982	Stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options, futures	$0 stock & ETF trades; tiered options pricing	Casual investors & beginners	User-friendly mobile + retirement planning
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)	1978	Stocks, ETFs, options, futures, bonds, forex, crypto	$0 stock trades (IBKR Lite); ultra-low margin rates	Advanced & global traders	Global market access in 150+ markets
Robinhood	2013	Stocks, ETFs, options, crypto	$0 commissions; spreads on crypto	Beginners & mobile-first users	Clean app, fractional shares, instant deposits
Webull	2017	Stocks, ETFs, options, crypto	$0 commissions; options $0	Beginners & intermediate investors	Sleek app, extended trading hours, paper trading
Merrill Edge (BofA)	2010	Stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds	$0 stock & ETF trades; low fees for BofA clients	Retirement-focused investors	Seamless integration with Bank of America
SoFi Invest	2011	Stocks, ETFs, crypto, robo-advising	$0 commissions; fractional shares	New investors & SoFi members	Beginner-friendly + crypto investing
tastytrade (formerly tastyworks)	2017	Stocks, ETFs, options, futures	$0 stock trades; $1 per options contract	Options traders	Options-focused tools + strategy education

The 10 Best Online Brokers and Trading Platforms for 2025

1. Fidelity Investments – The Top Choice for Long-Term Investors & Retirement

Overview:

Fidelity has earned its stripes as one of the most trusted names in the investment world. Since its inception in 1946, it has gained a reputation for offering low costs, in-depth research, and excellent retirement planning tools. As we step into 2025, it remains the top pick for long-term investors, particularly those with an eye on retirement.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on trades for stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Leading research from over 20 different providers.
• A diverse array of investment options, including mutual funds, bonds, ETFs, and more.
• Exceptional retirement planning tools, featuring IRAs and 401(k) rollovers.
• Fidelity ZERO index funds that come with no expense ratio.

What’s New in 2025:

• New AI-driven portfolio analysis tools.
• Improved integration for fractional share investing.
• More user-friendly retirement calculators to help plan for various life stages.

Best For:

Long-term investors, retirement planners, and anyone seeking a reliable all-in-one platform.

Downsides:

• While the trading platform is solid, it doesn’t quite match the advanced features of Interactive Brokers or TD Ameritrade for day traders.
• Customer support can sometimes lag during busy hours.

2. Charles Schwab – Best All-Around Broker

Overview:

Charles Schwab is still leading the way as a full-service broker, striking a perfect balance between low costs and powerful tools. After bringing TD Ameritrade into the fold, Schwab now provides access to both its own platform and the thinkorswim platform, making it a top choice for investors at any level.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Access to thinkorswim for advanced trading and charting.
• Invest in fractional shares with Schwab Stock Slices.
• Schwab Intelligent Portfolios, a handy robo-advisor service.
• Strong options for retirement and wealth management.

What’s New in 2025:

• Full integration of TD Ameritrade’s accounts and tools into Schwab’s ecosystem.
• Enhanced AI-driven investment screeners to help generate portfolio ideas.
• Broader selection of global ETFs for better international diversification.

Best For:

Investors looking for a mix of user-friendly tools and advanced features. Perfect for anyone wanting a single broker to meet all their investment needs.

Downsides:

• While the research tools are solid, Fidelity still takes the lead when it comes to in-depth retirement analysis.
• The transition for former TD Ameritrade users is still in progress, which might lead to some minor hiccups.

3. TD Ameritrade (Now Under Schwab) – Best for Active Traders

Overview:

TD Ameritrade has officially joined forces with Charles Schwab, but the thinkorswim platform still stands out as one of the top trading platforms in 2025. Renowned for its sophisticated charting, screeners, and tools, it’s the ultimate pick for active traders

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs; just $0.65 per options contract.
• Access thinkorswim on desktop, web, and mobile, all equipped with professional-grade tools.
• Enjoy advanced charting, strategy backtesting, and paper trading.
• Dive into forex and futures markets.
• Explore a vast educational library tailored for traders of all experience levels.

What’s New in 2025:

• Seamless integration into Schwab accounts, while thinkorswim continues to operate independently for traders.
• Exciting new AI-driven alerts and market sentiment tracking features in thinkorswim.
• Expanded offerings in futures and derivatives.

Best For:

Day traders, swing traders, and options traders looking for cutting-edge tools without the burden of platform fees.

Downsides:

• It can feel a bit overwhelming for newcomers.
• Trading in futures and forex carries higher risks.

4. E*TRADE (Now Part of Morgan Stanley) – Best for Casual Investors

Overview:

E*TRADE, now under the Morgan Stanley umbrella, continues to shine as one of the most user-friendly platforms for retail investors in 2025. Its appeal comes from its straightforward interface, robust mobile app, and a wealth of educational resources, making it a go-to option for casual and beginner investors alike.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options trades.
• Options pricing: $0.65 per contract, dropping to $0.50 for active traders.
• Two powerful platforms: ETRADE Web and Power ETRADE (ideal for advanced charting).
• A wide array of mutual funds and retirement accounts.
• Integrated research tools and educational guides.

What’s New in 2025:

• Closer integration with Morgan Stanley’s wealth management tools.
• Enhanced retirement planning features with AI-driven projections.
• Smoother transitions between mobile and desktop for traders.

Best For:

Casual investors and beginners looking for a dependable, user-friendly platform that also offers advanced tools as they develop their skills.

Downsides:

• Not the most cost-effective choice for options traders compared to tastytrade or Interactive Brokers.
• Advanced users might find Power E*TRADE lacking in depth compared to thinkorswim.

5. Interactive Brokers (IBKR) – Best for Advanced & Global Traders

Overview:

Interactive Brokers stands out as the go-to choice for professional and international investors. With its impressive global market access, incredibly low margin rates, and top-notch tools, IBKR is truly a leader for advanced traders in 2025.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on U.S. stock and ETF trades (thanks to IBKR Lite).
• Access to over 150 global markets, including stocks, bonds, futures, forex, and crypto.
• Unbeatable low margin rates, often below 2%.
• Trader Workstation (TWS) platform packed with advanced analytics and algorithmic trading.
• IBKR GlobalTrader app designed for investors on the go.

What’s New in 2025:

• Broader access to international ETFs and bond markets.
• AI-driven trade analytics to enhance execution strategies.
• Improved crypto offerings with direct market access.

Best For:

Advanced traders, hedge funds, and global investors seeking professional-grade tools and worldwide access.

Downsides:

• A steep learning curve for newcomers.
• Some features might feel a bit overwhelming compared to simpler apps like Robinhood or SoFi.

6. Robinhood – Best for Beginners & Mobile-First Users

Overview:

Robinhood changed the game by making commission-free stock and ETF trading mainstream. In 2025, it continues to be a top pick for beginners, thanks to its sleek design, instant deposits, and fractional shares, while also branching out into crypto and retirement accounts.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Fractional share investing starting at just $1.
• Commission-free crypto trading (though spreads do apply).
• User-friendly, mobile-first interface.
• Robinhood Gold: a premium subscription offering research and margin access.

What’s New in 2025:

• Expanded retirement accounts (IRAs with matching contributions).
• Robinhood Wallet for self-custody of crypto.
• More educational resources for first-time investors.

Best For:

Complete beginners and mobile-first investors looking for simplicity and low entry barriers.

Downsides:

• Limited research tools compared to platforms like Fidelity or Schwab.
• Advanced traders may find it lacking in features.
• The business model (relying on payment for order flow) is still a topic of debate.

7. Webull – Best for Tech-Savvy Beginners

Overview:

Webull has quickly become a favorite among younger investors thanks to its sleek app, extended trading hours, and commission-free model. As we look ahead to 2025, it remains one of the top mobile-first brokers, striking a balance between Robinhood’s user-friendly approach and more sophisticated platforms.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Free trading on options contracts.
• Crypto trading available with no commission (though spreads do apply).
• A paper trading feature for practice runs.
• Extended-hours trading for stock markets.

What’s New in 2025:

• AI-driven portfolio insights and automatically generated watchlists.
• Enhanced learning tools for those just starting out.
• A broader range of retirement account options.

Best For:

Tech-savvy beginners and intermediate investors looking for a mobile-first broker that offers free options trading.

Downsides:

• Research tools are somewhat limited compared to Fidelity or Schwab.
• Customer service isn’t as robust as what traditional brokers provide.

8. Merrill Edge (Bank of America) – Best for Banking Integration

Overview:

Merrill Edge, a part of Bank of America, continues to be a solid option for those who want a smooth blend of investing and banking. With access to Bank of America branches and research, it’s particularly beneficial for investors focused on retirement.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Seamless integration with Bank of America checking and savings accounts.
• Strong tools for retirement and wealth management.
• Research from BofA Global Research and Morningstar.
• A Preferred Rewards program for banking clients.

What’s New in 2025:

• Upgraded AI-driven financial planning dashboards.
• A wider selection of ESG investment products.
• More resources designed for retirement income planning.

Best For:

Bank of America clients and retirement-focused investors who prefer to keep all their financial needs in one place.

Downsides:

• Not as appealing for active traders.
• The platform feels a bit outdated compared to the sleek designs of Webull or Robinhood.

9. SoFi Invest – Best for New Investors & All-in-One Finance

Overview:

SoFi Invest has made a name for itself as a user-friendly, all-in-one financial app. It goes beyond just trading by offering loans, banking, and financial planning, turning it into a personal finance hub for 2025.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs.
• Fractional share investing.
• Access to cryptocurrencies.
• Automated investing through a robo-advisor.
• Free financial planning sessions for members.

What’s New in 2025:

• Expanded crypto offerings, now including staking features.
• Enhanced financial wellness tools like credit score tracking and debt payoff plans.
• Seamless integration with SoFi’s student loan refinancing and banking services.

Best For:

New investors looking for a straightforward way to manage all their finances—loans, banking, and investing—all in one convenient app.

Downsides:

• Limited advanced tools for those who trade actively.
• A smaller selection of assets compared to Schwab or Fidelity.

10. tastytrade (formerly tastyworks) – Best for Options Traders

Overview:

tastytrade is crafted by traders, for traders. It’s recognized as the go-to broker for options trading, blending low fees with robust tools and educational resources. By 2025, it continues to be the top choice for serious options traders.

Key Features:

• $0 commissions on stocks.
• Options trades cost $1 per contract to open, and closing them is free.
• Futures and futures options are available.
• Advanced charting and strategy analysis tools.
• A vast library of video tutorials and live shows focused on options trading.

What’s New in 2025:

• An expanded education hub featuring AI-driven trade ideas.
• More customizable dashboards for backtesting strategies.
• Reduced margin requirements on select products.

Best For:

Options traders seeking low-cost contracts, extensive strategy support, and professional-grade tools.

Downsides:

• It can be overwhelming for beginners who just want to buy and hold stocks.
• Limited access to mutual funds or retirement planning features.

Decision Guide: Which Broker Is Best for You?

With a sea of options out there, choosing the right broker really hinges on your experience, goals, and investing style. Here’s a quick rundown:

Best for Beginners: Robinhood, SoFi Invest, Webull

• Robinhood makes things easy with its user-friendly app and the option for fractional shares.
• SoFi is like a one-stop shop for all your financial needs—investing, banking, and loans all in one place.
• Webull is perfect for tech-savvy newbies who are looking for free options trading and extended trading hours.

Best for Long-Term Investors & Retirement: Fidelity, Merrill Edge, Charles Schwab

• Fidelity stands out with its excellent retirement planning tools and ZERO fees on index funds.
• Merrill Edge works seamlessly with Bank of America, making it a great choice for retirement savers.
• Charles Schwab strikes a nice balance between cost, research, and robo-advisor services.

Best for Active & Options Traders: TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim), tastytrade, Interactive Brokers

• TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim platform is a powerhouse for day traders.
• tastytrade is designed for options traders who want to keep costs low.
• Interactive Brokers is unbeatable when it comes to global access and professional-grade tools.

Best for Global Investing: Interactive Brokers

• With access to over 150 markets worldwide, IBKR is the go-to for anyone looking to invest internationally.

Best for Research & Education: Fidelity, Charles Schwab, TD Ameritrade

• Fidelity provides unmatched depth in retirement and market research.
• Schwab combines insightful analyst reports with powerful screening tools.
• TD Ameritrade excels in trader education, offering tutorials and paper trading options.

Best Mobile Apps: Robinhood, Webull, SoFi Invest

• Robinhood is all about simplicity.
• Webull offers advanced yet sleek trading tools.
• SoFi is your all-in-one solution for managing your finances.

Regulation and Investor Protection in 2025

In today’s world, investors are all about safety and transparency, especially after witnessing broker failures and platform outages in the past. So, what’s in place to keep you safe in 2025?

SEC and FINRA Oversight

• All major U.S. brokers are under the watchful eye of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
• This oversight ensures that brokers stick to the rules, promoting fairness, transparency, and proper reporting.

SIPC Insurance

• The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) has your back, covering up to $500,000 in securities (including $250,000 in cash) if a broker goes belly up.
• Just a heads up, SIPC doesn’t cover market losses—only the insolvency of the broker.

FDIC Protection

• If you have cash in broker-linked accounts (like Fidelity Cash Management or Schwab Bank), those funds are typically insured by the FDIC up to $250,000.

Cybersecurity & Data Protection

• Most leading brokers now provide two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric logins, and fraud monitoring to keep your information safe.
• Many also have private insurance to cover hacks or data breaches.

International Protections

• For global brokers like Interactive Brokers, the protections can vary by region but often align with U.S. standards.
• European investors might enjoy the benefits of MiFID II protections, while clients in the UK are covered by the FCA.

FAQs

Q1. Which online broker has the lowest fees in 2025?

These days, most brokers are offering $0 trades for stocks and ETFs. If you’re looking at options, tastytrade and Webull are your best bets for low costs, while Interactive Brokers provides incredibly low margin rates for those who are more experienced.

Q2. What’s the best broker for day trading?

For day trading, TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim and Interactive Brokers are highly recommended. They both come packed with advanced tools, quick execution, and real-time data that traders love.

Q3. Can I trade crypto with online brokers?

Absolutely! However, the options can differ. Robinhood, Webull, and SoFi let you trade crypto directly. On the other hand, Fidelity, Schwab, and a few others are a bit slower to jump on the crypto bandwagon but might offer indirect exposure through ETFs.

Q4. Which broker is safest for retirement investing?

When it comes to retirement investing, Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and Merrill Edge really shine. They offer excellent retirement planning tools, solid SIPC protection, and have built a strong reputation over the years.

Q5. What’s the difference between a broker and a robo-advisor?

A broker allows you to buy and sell assets directly, while a robo-advisor (like Schwab Intelligent Portfolios or SoFi Automated Investing) takes care of managing your portfolio for you using smart algorithms.

Conclusion

The online broker you pick in 2025 will play a big role in your investment journey. With so many great options out there, the trick is to find a platform that aligns with your goals and experience level:

• If you’re just starting out, Robinhood, SoFi, or Webull are perfect for their user-friendly and mobile-first designs.
• For long-term investors and those planning for retirement, Fidelity, Schwab, or Merrill Edge offer the best tools.
• Active traders and options enthusiasts will get the most bang for their buck with TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim, tastytrade, or Interactive Brokers.
• And for global investors, Interactive Brokers is a fantastic choice, providing unmatched access to markets around the world.

No single broker is “the best” for everyone. The key is to find one that strikes the right balance of cost, features, safety, and convenience that suits your personal style.

As always, keep in mind that investing comes with its own set of risks. Start off small, keep learning, and take advantage of the research, education, and planning tools that these platforms provide. The best broker in 2025 isn’t just a trading venue—it’s your ally in creating wealth for the future.