TradeStation
ActiveOverview
TradeStation is a trading platform offering tools for trading stocks, ETFs, options, and futures. It provides desktop, web, and mobile access with features like advanced charting, strategy automation, and backtesting. Targeted at active traders, it supports live and simulated trading environments.
Key Features
- Advanced Charting - Multi-timeframe charts with technical indicators across asset classes.
- Strategy Automation - EasyLanguage scripting for automated trading strategies.
- Backtesting - Historical data testing of strategies in simulated environment.
- Multi-Monitor Support - Customizable desktop interface for multiple screens.
- Options Analysis - OptionStation Pro for options trading and position management.
- Real-Time Data - Live market data feeds for entitled symbols.
- Order Types - Advanced order execution including bracket and OCO orders.
- Portfolio Management - Tools for tracking positions and performance across accounts.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| TS SELECT | $0 commissions on stocks/ETFs | Unlimited options at $0.60/contract; futures at $1.50/contract; platform access. |
| Individual | Varies by activity | Basic brokerage account with live/simulated trading; web/mobile access. |
| Futures | $1.50 per contract | Futures trading on desktop/web/mobile; real-time data. |
Platforms & Requirements
Desktop runs on Windows with multi-monitor support; requires installation and device registration. Web platform accessible via any browser without download. Mobile apps available on iOS and Android for on-the-go trading.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Real-time data feeds
- EasyLanguage API for custom indicators
- Brokerage account syncing
- Futures exchanges
- Options clearing corporations
- Third-party charting tools
- Portfolio export to CSV
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| thinkorswim (TD Ameritrade) | Stronger paper trading and thinkScript; now part of Schwab. |
| Interactive Brokers TWS | Lower costs for high-volume; more global markets. |
| NinjaTrader | Free advanced charting; requires separate broker. |
| TradingView | Web-based social charting; lighter trading execution. |
Reputation
TradeStation is recognized for powerful desktop tools and strategy automation, earning #1 Innovation broker in 2026 StockBrokers.com review and Broker of the Year in 2025 TradingView awards. Users praise customization and charting but note steep learning curve for beginners. Some criticize device registration requirements and occasional platform glitches.
Sources (10)
- https://www.tradestation.com/platforms-and-tools/desktop/
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tradestation.MobileTrading&hl=en_US
- https://www.tradestation.com
- https://www.tradestation.com/learn/getting-started/
- https://help.tradestation.com/10_00/eng/tradestationhelp/desktop/login_tradestation.htm
- https://www.tradestation.com/account-applications/
- https://help.tradestation.com/10_00/eng/tradestationhelp/desktop/open_ts_platform.htm
- https://help.tradestation.com/10_00/eng/tradestationhelp/desktop/access_ts_different_window.htm
- https://my.tradestation.com/profile
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4Z39C_R-Nc