Trading in the stock market has never been more accessible. With the rise of stock brokers USA and modern technology, investors can now manage portfolios, analyze charts, and execute trades with just a few clicks. While mobile apps get a lot of attention, many serious traders still prefer desktop trading platforms for their advanced tools, faster execution, and ability to handle complex strategies.
For trading for beginners, choosing the right platform can make the difference between a smooth learning experience and constant frustration. For intermediate and advanced users, the right broker can lower costs, improve execution, and provide powerful research tools.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best trading platforms in the USA for desktop users in 2025, comparing features, pricing, and user experience. We’ll also highlight an alternative path for traders who lack big capital — prop firms like TradeThePool, which allow you to trade funded accounts with little or no deposit.
What Makes a Good Desktop Trading Platform?
Before diving into the rankings, let’s define what makes a platform stand out.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Low Commissions & Fees – Look for low commission brokers offering $0 stock trades.
- Platform Stability – Fast execution and reliability during market volatility.
- Research & Analysis Tools – Charting, screeners, and data for informed decisions.
- Asset Variety – Stocks, ETFs, options, futures, and crypto availability.
- Learning Resources – Especially important for trading for beginners.
- Margin Rates – For traders who use leverage, interest rates matter.
Top Desktop Trading Platforms USA (2025)
Here’s a quick comparison table before we dive into detailed reviews.
| Broker / Platform | Stock Commissions | Options (per contract) | Margin Rates (approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TD Ameritrade – Thinkorswim | $0 | $0.65 | ~13.5% | Active traders, charting tools |
| Interactive Brokers (TWS) | $0 (IBKR Lite) | $0.65 | ~6.8% | Global traders, professionals |
| Fidelity Active Trader Pro | $0 | $0.65 | ~12.1% | Long-term investors, retirement |
| Charles Schwab StreetSmart Edge | $0 | $0.65 | ~13.6% | Beginners + retirement planning |
| Webull Desktop | $0 | $0.55 | ~9.5% | Tech-savvy beginners, swing traders |
| Robinhood Web/Desktop | $0 | $0 (Gold plan) | ~12% | Simple, beginner-friendly |
1. TD Ameritrade – Thinkorswim
Best For: Active traders and advanced charting.
Pros:
- One of the most advanced charting systems in the market.
- Paper trading account for practice.
- Wide range of indicators and strategy testing.
- Excellent educational content for beginners.
Cons:
- May feel overwhelming for new traders.
- Slightly higher margin rates than some rivals.
User Experience Insight:
Thinkorswim is considered the gold standard for serious retail traders in the USA. It’s packed with tools, including options chains, level II quotes, and built-in tutorials.
2. Interactive Brokers (Trader Workstation – TWS)
Best For: Professional and international traders.
Pros:
- Lowest margin rates (~6.8%).
- Access to 135+ global markets.
- Advanced automation and APIs.
- Huge range of asset classes.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve.
- Interface feels less beginner-friendly.
User Experience Insight:
Interactive Brokers is the choice for traders who need professional-grade execution, portfolio margining, and global access. It’s not as “pretty” as Robinhood or Webull, but it’s far more powerful.
3. Fidelity – Active Trader Pro
Best For: Long-term investors and retirement planning.
Pros:
- Free, robust desktop platform.
- Integrated with Fidelity’s retirement accounts.
- Excellent customer support and research.
- Fractional shares available.
Cons:
- Not as advanced for day trading.
- Limited futures/crypto access.
User Experience Insight:
Active Trader Pro is a great balance between usability and power. Fidelity’s platform is built for investors who want professional tools without leaving their retirement planning ecosystem.
4. Charles Schwab – StreetSmart Edge
Best For: Beginners who want support plus strong resources.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface.
- Integrated with Schwab’s broader ecosystem.
- Great for retirement and ETFs.
- Strong research library.
Cons:
- Platform updates less frequent.
- Not as customizable as Thinkorswim or TWS.
User Experience Insight:
Schwab is highly trusted among U.S. investors. StreetSmart Edge is simpler compared to Thinkorswim but has enough functionality for most intermediate users.
5. Webull Desktop
Best For: Tech-savvy beginners and swing traders.
Pros:
- Commission-free stock and ETF trading.
- Advanced charting for a free platform.
- Extended-hours trading.
- Social features and community insights.
Cons:
- Limited investment products (no mutual funds).
- Research tools not as deep as Fidelity/Schwab.
User Experience Insight:
Webull is sleek, modern, and geared toward new traders who like visual charting tools and active communities. It’s less overwhelming than Thinkorswim but still powerful.
6. Robinhood Web & Desktop
Best For: Beginners who want simplicity.
Pros:
- Clean, easy-to-use interface.
- $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto.
- Fractional shares and recurring investments.
- Robinhood Gold adds advanced features.
Cons:
- Limited research tools.
- Past regulatory controversies.
- Not built for advanced strategies.
User Experience Insight:
Robinhood is still one of the best platforms for absolute beginners. Its desktop version mirrors the simplicity of its mobile app, making it accessible but less robust than professional platforms.
Commission & Margin Comparison
Here’s a snapshot of costs:
| Broker / Platform | Stocks & ETFs | Options Fee (per contract) | Margin Rate (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD Ameritrade | $0 | $0.65 | ~13.5% |
| Interactive Brokers | $0 (Lite) | $0.65 | ~6.8% |
| Fidelity | $0 | $0.65 | ~12.1% |
| Charles Schwab | $0 | $0.65 | ~13.6% |
| Webull | $0 | $0.55 | ~9.5% |
| Robinhood | $0 | $0 (Gold) | ~12% |
Prop Trading: An Alternative for Capital-Limited Traders
Desktop trading platforms are excellent for those with their own funds. But what if you want to trade seriously without depositing thousands of dollars?
Many traders are also exploring TradeThePool stock prop firm in 2025 — these stock prop firms fund traders, so you can trade with little or no deposit.
Why TradeThePool?
- No large deposit needed when trading with a prop firm.
- Get access to up to $260,000 in trading capital.
- Evaluation process ensures disciplined trading.
- Remote access so you can trade from anywhere.
- Profit-sharing model for performance-based growth.
Prop firms help you get funded to trade remotely, making them an excellent choice for skilled traders without large personal savings.
FAQ: Best Desktop Trading Platforms USA
1. What is the best trading platform for beginners in the USA?
Robinhood and Webull are great starting points for beginners due to their simplicity and low fees.
2. Which platform is best for active day trading?
Thinkorswim (TD Ameritrade) and Interactive Brokers are ideal for active day traders due to their advanced tools and fast execution.
3. Are there free desktop trading platforms?
Yes. Robinhood, Webull, Fidelity, and Schwab all offer free desktop platforms with $0 commissions.
4. Do these brokers offer demo accounts?
TD Ameritrade (Thinkorswim) offers a full-featured paper trading account. Webull also provides a simulated trading feature.
5. Which broker has the lowest margin rates?
Interactive Brokers consistently offers the lowest margin interest rates in the USA.
6. Can I trade options with these platforms?
Yes. All the brokers listed offer options trading with fees ranging from $0–$0.65 per contract.
7. Are discount brokers safe?
Yes, all the brokers mentioned here are regulated by FINRA and the SEC.
8. How do prop firms differ from discount brokers?
Discount brokers give you access to markets using your own capital, while prop firms fund traders after an evaluation, letting you trade without risking your personal money.
Conclusion
Choosing the best desktop trading platform in the USA depends on your experience level, goals, and trading style. Beginners may prefer Robinhood or Webull, while active traders often choose Thinkorswim or Interactive Brokers. Fidelity and Schwab remain excellent all-around choices for investors focused on retirement and long-term portfolios.
Want to start trading without using your own money? Explore the top-rated stock prop firm tradethepool.com.
