Tradestation vs. tastytrade – A Detailed Comparison
Discover our detailed comparison of Tradestation and tastytrade 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 Tradestation and tastytrade across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
- Best for options trading
- Low derivative commissions
- Solid charting tools
Overview of Tradestation
TradeStation is a brokerage firm that caters to active traders and very serious investors who demand a comprehensive platform with advanced trading features and analytical tools. While TradeStation is a solid brokerage, options traders must be aware of the abnormally high exercise fees.
✓ Backtesting tools
✓ Integrate with TradingView
✓ Best for active traders
Tradestation is Best For
TradeStation is best suited for traders who need a sophisticated trading environment. Its platform might be overwhelming for beginners but is highly appreciated by experienced traders for its depth, flexibility, and range of professional-grade tools.
Overview of tastytrade
tastytrade is a brokerage platform built for active traders, especially options traders. It was founded by Tom Sosnoff, who also founded the thinkorswim platform. Sosnoff recently sold tastytrade to IG, and is still the main host of his financial education company tastylive.
✓ Best for options trading
✓ Low derivative commissions
✓ Solid charting tools
tastytrade is Best For
tastytrade is best for active traders, especially those who want a high tier margin account and low fees for futures and options trades. The platform is also great for regular investors with features like fractional shares. Additionally, you can trade cryptocurrency on the platform.
Key Characteristics of Tradestation and tastytrade
| Platform | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tradestation | Brokerage Platform | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Futures, Futures Options, Crypto, Forex | Downloadable and web trading platforms | Real-time data with funded account | No premium features |
| tastytrade | Brokerage Platform | Stocks, ETFs, Options, Index Options, Futures, Futures Options, Crypto, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tradestation | No | Yes | SIPC Insured | Yes |
| tastytrade | Yes, no fees to enable, but clearing fee to sell fractional shares | Yes | SIPC Insured | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
| Fee Type | Tradestation | tastytrade |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Commission | Free | Free |
| Option Commission | $0.60 per contract | $1 to Open, Free to Close |
| Futures Commission | $1.50 per contract, $0.50 micro | $1.25 per contract, $0.85 micro, $0.25 smalls |
| Futures Options Commission | $1.50 per contract | $2.50 per contract, $1.50 micro |
| Option Exercise Fee | $14.95 fee at expiration, early exercise is $1.50 per contract with $5,95 minimum | $5 fee |
Tradestation vs tastytrade – Bottom Line
Choosing between Tradestation and tastytrade 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
Exclusive Deal: 30-Day FREE Premium Access + Bonus Credit
Don’t Miss Out – Sign up for TradingView Now!
- Advanced Charts
- Real-Time Data
- Track all Markets
If you sign up for a TradingView account using my affiliate link, you can get a 30-day free trial of its premium features plus a $15 credit toward your subscription. However, signing up for a free trial is not required, and you can use nearly all of its features with a basic free account. You can read my full review of TradingView to learn more.
Related Trading Platform Comparisons
Interactive Brokers vs TradingView
