StockCharts vs. thinkorswim – A Detailed Comparison
Discover our detailed comparison of StockCharts and thinkorswim to help determine which is best for you. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, choosing the right platform can significantly impact your trading experience.
To make your research easier, we manually found key data for StockCharts and thinkorswim across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
Overview of StockCharts
StockCharts is a stock charting platform that is great for technical analysis since it allows you to use various indicators. However, the platform looks a bit dated, especially compared to platforms like TradingView and TrendSpider. It is also lacking in some fundamental data features, and does not provide free intra-day charting like TradingView.
✓ Pricing: $19-$50/month
✓ Extensive market data
✓ Decent charting tools
StockCharts is Best For
StockCharts is best for swing traders who want a free charting platform for daily time frames and longer. You can access intra-day with a paid subscription, but there are many platforms that offer more features like TradingView and Finviz.
Overview of thinkorswim
thinkorswim was founded by Tom Sosnoff in the late 90s, and is one of the most popular trading platforms today. thinkorswim allows you to use advanced charting tools, custom indicators, screeners, trade options, and more! thinkorswim itself is not a brokerage, but is compatible with Schwab and TD Ameritrade customers.
✓ Customizable charting tools
✓ Paper trading features
✓ Free for Schwab accounts
thinkorswim is Best For
thinkorswim is best for traders who already use Schwab or TD Ameritrade, and want an excellent trading platform for technical analysis, options trading, news, and more!
Key Characteristics of StockCharts and thinkorswim
| Platform | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| StockCharts | Charting Software | Not a broker, but you can chart stocks & ETFs | Web-based charting platform with access to several chart types and indicators | Daily, weekly, and monthly time frames are free, but you must purchase the ability to use intra-day data | $19-$50 per month |
| thinkorswim | Trading Platform (Schwab) | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Index Options, Futures, Futures Options, Bonds | Downloadable desktop platform and web app | Real-time data with funded account | No premium features |
Trading Features and Tools
| Platform | DRIP | Margin Trading | Insurance | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| StockCharts | Not a broker | Not a broker | Not a broker | Yes |
| thinkorswim | Yes, no fees | Yes | Not a broker | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
| Fee Type | StockCharts | thinkorswim |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Commission | Not a broker | Free |
| Option Commission | Not a broker | $0.65 per contract |
| Futures Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
| Futures Options Commission | Not a broker | $2.25 per contract |
| Option Exercise Fee | Not a broker | None |
StockCharts vs thinkorswim – Bottom Line
Choosing between StockCharts and thinkorswim depends on your specific trading needs, preferred trading tools, and the type of assets you’re interested in.
Both platforms offer distinct advantages, but by considering the detailed comparison above, you can select the one that aligns best with your trading strategy and goals.
For more detailed reviews and comparisons, continue exploring our other articles on brokerage platform comparisons.
What is the Overall Best Charting Software?
I have reviewed and used nearly every trading platform available, and I believe that TradingView is the best overall charting software available. Here are some reasons why:
- All of TradingView’s key features are free to use
- TradingView provides real-time data for free whenever possible
- You are not tied to a single broker and can use whichever you want while charting on TradingView
- You can track all markets on a single platform, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, and futures.
- TradingView has an excellent economic calendar and various screeners
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