Rating Methodology
Overview
Every platform on this site is scored using a transparent 100-point system. Scores reflect published features, official pricing data and documented platform capabilities. We do not fabricate hands-on testing claims or adjust scores based on affiliate relationships.
Base Scoring Criteria
Each platform is evaluated across nine weighted criteria:
| Criterion | Weight | What we evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| Execution and order tools | 20% | Order types, hotkeys, DOM, bracket orders, speed of entry tools |
| Total trading cost | 20% | Commissions, contract fees, data fees, platform fees, margin rates |
| Platform and charting | 15% | Chart quality, indicators, layout customization, replay tools |
| Market access | 10% | Number of asset classes, exchanges, and global markets available |
| Margin and capital efficiency | 10% | Intraday margin, portfolio margin, capital requirements |
| Reliability and usability | 10% | Uptime, interface clarity, mobile experience, customer support |
| API and automation | 5% | REST/WebSocket API, strategy automation, third-party integrations |
| Short-selling access | 5% | Locate availability, borrow costs, short-selling tools |
| Education and paper trading | 5% | Simulation quality, educational resources, onboarding |
Trader-Type Adjustments
In addition to the overall score, we calculate suitability scores for different trader profiles. These adjust the base weights to reflect what matters most for each type:
- Futures trader score: Emphasizes Execution and order tools, Total trading cost, Platform and charting
- Stock day trader score: Emphasizes Execution and order tools, Total trading cost, Short-selling access
- Options trader score: Emphasizes Total trading cost, Platform and charting, Execution and order tools
- Beginner score: Emphasizes Reliability and usability, Education and paper trading, Total trading cost
- Algo trader score: Emphasizes API and automation, Execution and order tools, Platform and charting
- Short seller score: Emphasizes Short-selling access, Execution and order tools, Margin and capital efficiency
Data Sources
- Official platform pricing and feature pages
- FINRA, SEC, CFTC and NFA regulatory publications
- Platform API documentation and developer resources
- Published margin schedules and fee disclosures
What We Do NOT Do
- We do not fabricate testing experiences
- We do not accept payment to adjust scores
- We do not use misleading precision (e.g., "9.7/10") without justification
- We do not copy data from competitor comparison sites
- We do not present unverified data as confirmed fact
Verification Status
Each data point carries one of four statuses:
- Verified: Confirmed against an official source with a recorded date
- Needs verification: Believed accurate but not yet confirmed against primary source
- Varies by plan: Depends on account type, subscription tier or volume
- Not applicable: The feature or fee does not apply to this platform
Updates
We review data quarterly and update immediately when material changes are identified.
Each platform record includes a lastVerified date. See our homepage update log
for recent changes.