Best online stock brokers 2024
Investing has come a long way. Nowadays, it feels like just about anyone can jump into the stock market, thanks to a boom in online brokers, making it easier, faster, and even a bit fun.
Whether you’re a green beginner or someone with years of trading under your belt, there’s a platform out there with your name on it.
And as we step into 2024, picking the right broker? That’s key to hitting those financial targets you’ve set. Each platform’s got its own bag of tricks—some wave goodbye to commissions, others boast top-tier research tools or throw in rock-solid customer support.
This guide, Best Online Stock Brokers 2024, is here to make that choice a bit clearer, weighing the highs and lows of each broker so you can find what fits your style. Here’s to your financial journey—smooth, smart, and geared up for success.
1. eToro
eToro’s been on the scene since 2007 and has become the go-to platform for “social trading” with over 30 million users worldwide. With options for trading stocks, ETFs, crypto, and even copy-trading other investors’ strategies, it’s especially appealing to beginners looking to follow more experienced traders.
Pros:
- Social trading features let you “copy” the big shots.
- Wide range of assets, from stocks to cryptos, all in one platform.
- Really beginner-friendly layout, so you don’t feel like you’re cracking a code just to place a trade.
- Strong community vibe, with loads of engagement.
Cons:
- Some higher fees sneak in, particularly on crypto spreads.
- Limited research tools—serious investors might find it a bit thin here.
- Withdrawal fee (always feels like a cash grab, right?).
Size: Over 30 million users
Years Active: 16
Minimum Investment: $10
2. Plus500
Plus500, founded in 2008, is all about Contracts for Difference (CFDs). Active in over 50 countries, it’s got a solid user base that appreciates no-commission trading, but it’s definitely more suited to traders who know the ropes of CFDs and don’t need tons of educational resources.
Pros:
- Commission-free trading on stocks, forex, crypto, and more—just spreads.
- The platform’s clean and simple, even if it’s aimed at CFD lovers.
- Has tools for risk management, like guaranteed stop-loss.
Cons:
- Mostly focused on CFDs, so not exactly the best fit for long-term investors.
- Barely any educational content; beginners might feel a bit out to sea.
- You’re not buying stocks outright—just derivatives. No ownership of assets.
Size: Millions of users globally
Years Active: 15
Minimum Investment: $100
3. AvaTrade
AvaTrade’s been around since 2006, drawing in over 300,000 users globally, with a strong appeal for forex and CFD traders. It provides several platforms, including MT4 and MT5, catering to traders who like a bit of flexibility in their tools.
Pros:
- Multiple trading platforms, including the popular MT4 and MT5.
- Good educational content; they seem to care about teaching you a thing or two.
- Decent customer service options for those “I need help now!” moments.
Cons:
- They’ll hit you with inactivity fees if you’re idle for 3 months.
- Not accessible to U.S. clients due to regulatory stuff.
- Limited stock options; mainly known for forex and CFDs.
Size: 300,000+ users
Years Active: 17
Minimum Investment: $100
4. Saxo Bank
Saxo Bank is the heavyweight here, founded way back in 1992, and it’s been catering to serious investors ever since. Known for a vast range of assets (think 40,000+ instruments), this platform is all about high-level trading with in-depth research and analysis tools.
Pros:
- Extensive market access, offering just about every asset you can imagine.
- Top-notch research tools and analytics for the die-hard market junkies.
- Fully regulated across many jurisdictions, so you know they’re not flying by night.
Cons:
- High minimum deposit ($2,000). Definitely a barrier for beginners.
- Complex platform; it’s built for pros, not newcomers.
- No commission-free trades, so fees can add up quick.
Size: Over 800,000 users
Years Active: 31
Minimum Investment: $2,000
5. Robinhood
Founded in 2013, Robinhood shook up the game with its commission-free trading on stocks and options. With over 22 million users, it’s primarily geared toward U.S. investors, offering a clean, simple platform that makes trading easy even for first-timers.
Pros:
- Zero commission on stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Straightforward app interface, tailor-made for mobile users.
- No minimum deposit, so literally anyone can get started.
Cons:
- Limited research and educational content.
- Customer service has had a bit of a rocky reputation.
- Only available in the U.S., so international investors are out of luck.
Size: 22 million users
Years Active: 10
Minimum Investment: None
6. E*TRADE
E*TRADE has been around since the early days of online trading—founded back in 1982! It offers a wide range of investment options with a strong emphasis on educational content, making it a solid choice for all types of investors.
Pros:
- Wide variety of investments, from stocks and options to mutual funds.
- Great educational resources, including webinars and tutorials.
- User-friendly for both beginners and seasoned investors.
Cons:
- Higher fees on some investment types, especially mutual funds.
- No commission-free trades on mutual funds; stocks and ETFs only.
- Not as competitive in terms of spreads compared to some newer brokers.
Size: Over 5 million users
Years Active: 41
Minimum Investment: $500 for some accounts
7. Interactive Brokers
Known for low costs and professional-grade tools, Interactive Brokers has been in the market since 1978. It’s more suited for active traders and professionals who want access to deep research and analytics, with options for global trading.
Pros:
- Extremely low commission rates, even for international trades.
- Access to 135+ markets worldwide, a dream for global traders.
- Tons of research tools—think more data than you can shake a stick at.
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly; the platform has a steep learning curve.
- High inactivity fees for low-balance accounts.
- Customer service can feel a bit detached; they cater to pros, after all.
Size: Over 1.8 million accounts
Years Active: 45
Minimum Investment: $0 for Lite, but fees for inactive accounts
8. Fidelity
Founded in 1946, Fidelity is a titan in the financial world, offering everything from trading platforms to retirement accounts. Known for high-quality research tools, Fidelity caters to investors at all levels.
Pros:
- Offers commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Excellent customer service; highly rated across the board.
- Great research tools and a wealth of educational resources.
Cons:
- Limited access to international markets for individual investors.
- High fees on some account types, like managed accounts.
- Mobile app isn’t as intuitive as some of the new kids on the block.
Size: Over 40 million individual investors
Years Active: 77
Minimum Investment: No minimums for most accounts
9. Charles Schwab
Since 1971, Schwab has been helping people invest with confidence. It’s a versatile platform, offering commission-free trading on U.S. stocks and ETFs, plus a variety of investment options for retirement and general accounts.
Pros:
- Commission-free on U.S. stocks and ETFs.
- Robust research and analysis tools, especially for retirement planning.
- Highly rated customer service with branches for in-person support.
Cons:
- Limited options for non-U.S. investors.
- Mutual funds come with higher fees compared to some competitors.
- Not the most user-friendly mobile app out there.
Size: Over 33 million clients
Years Active: 52
Minimum Investment: No minimum for basic accounts
10. TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade has been a staple since 1975 and is especially known for its powerful trading platforms and educational resources. From beginners to experts, it’s popular among U.S. investors looking for a one-stop shop.
Pros:
- Commission-free on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Extensive research tools and educational content for all levels.
- Great customer service with both online and in-person support.
Cons:
- Some higher fees for mutual fund trades.
- Platform can feel overwhelming for beginners due to all the features.
- Limited global reach, primarily U.S.-focused.
Size: Over 11 million clients
Years Active: 48
Minimum Investment: No minimum for most accounts
Overviw of the Best online stock brokers 2024
| Broker | Years in Operation | Company Size | Minimum Investment | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | 16 | Over 30 million users | $10 | – Social trading with copy features – Wide asset selection – Beginner-friendly interface – Strong community feel |
– High fees on crypto spreads – Limited research tools – Withdrawal fees |
| Plus500 | 15 | Millions of users globally | $100 | – No commission; spreads only – Clean, simple platform – Risk management tools available |
– CFD-focused, no asset ownership – Few educational resources – Not ideal for long-term investors |
| AvaTrade | 17 | 300,000+ users | $100 | – Multiple platforms (MT4, MT5) – Strong educational content – Reliable customer service |
– Inactivity fees after 3 months – Not available in the U.S. – Limited stock selection |
| Saxo Bank | 31 | 800,000+ users | $2,000 | – Huge asset variety (40,000+) – High-level research and analytics – Reputable and well-regulated |
– High minimum deposit – Complex interface – No commission-free trades |
| Robinhood | 10 | 22 million users | No minimum | – Zero commission on stocks/ETFs – Easy-to-use app – Accessible with no deposit required |
– Limited research resources – Customer service issues reported – U.S. only |
| E*TRADE | 41 | 5 million+ users | $500 for some accounts | – Wide investment range – Rich educational resources – Suitable for beginners and experts |
– Higher fees on mutual funds – No commission-free mutual funds – Competitive spreads needed |
| Interactive Brokers | 45 | 1.8 million accounts | $0 for Lite (fees for inactive accounts) | – Low commissions, global reach – 135+ markets access – Extensive research tools |
– Steep learning curve – Inactivity fees on low-balance accounts – Customer service lacks warmth |
| Fidelity | 77 | 40 million+ investors | No minimum | – Commission-free trades on U.S. stocks – Excellent customer service – High-quality research resources |
– Limited international market access – Higher fees on managed accounts – Mobile app interface needs improvement |
| Charles Schwab | 52 | 33 million clients | No minimum | – Commission-free on U.S. stocks/ETFs – Great for retirement planning – Strong customer support network |
– Limited options for non-U.S. traders – Higher mutual fund fees – Mobile app needs updates |
| TD Ameritrade | 48 | 11 million clients | No minimum | – Free U.S. stocks/ETFs options – Comprehensive educational resources – Available online and in-branch support |
– Higher fees for mutual funds – Feature-rich platform may overwhelm beginners – Primarily U.S.-focused |
Conclusion on Best online stock brokers 2024
So, which broker’s right for you? That depends. If you’re just starting out, Robinhood and eToro make trading simple and accessible.
For those wanting a deeper dive, Saxo Bank and Interactive Brokers provide advanced tools, though they might feel a bit complex. And if education and customer support are key, Fidelity, Schwab, and TD Ameritrade have you covered.
Each broker has its own vibe, whether it’s casual and community-driven like eToro, or technical and detailed like Saxo. Choosing the right one comes down to matching your experience, goals, and budget with the broker that “gets” you. So, pick wisely, because the right broker can make all the difference in your investment journey!
