Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025
Dig into the best demo trading accounts based on our years and countless hours of personal use.
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1Plus500 is a reputable broker that began operating in the US in 2021. It is accredited by the CFTC and NFA to provide futures trading on forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and interest rates. The creation of an account on Plus500 takes only 10 minutes, and you need a minimum of $100 to start trading. Its user-friendly web platform makes it a strong choice for US traders.
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2NinjaTrader is a US-based brokerage regulated for trading futures. It offers three different pricing plans for varied needs and budgets, along with extremely low margins on popular contracts. The company's renowned charting software and trading platform provides extensive customization options and excellent technical analysis features.
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3Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a top brokerage firm offering access to 150 markets in 33 countries and a range of investment services. With 40 years in the field, this company listed on Nasdaq strictly follows the rules set by authorities such as the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC. It's recognized as one of the most reliable brokers for global trading.
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4eToro is a platform for social investing that provides options for both short and long-term trading on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto. The platform is recognized for its easy-to-use, community-oriented interface and reasonable fees. With oversight from FINRA and SIPC, and used by millions globally, eToro is a reputed name in the industry. Trading on eToro is facilitated by eToro USA Securities, Inc.
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5Established in 1999, FOREX.com is part of StoneX, a global financial services company that serves over a million customers. It's regulated in the US, UK, EU, Australia, and other countries. The broker offers a wide range of markets beyond forex and provides competitive pricing on advanced platforms.
Compare Brokers
| Broker |  |
USD Account |
Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Leverage |
Copy Trading |
Regulator |
Instruments |
Platforms |
Account Currencies |
Automated Trading |
AI |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✓ | ✓ | $100 | 0.0 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | CFTC, NFA | Futures on Cryptocurrencies, Metals, Agriculture, Forex, Interest rates, Energy, Equity Index future contracts | WebTrader, App | USD | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✓ | ✓ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | 1:50 | ✗ | NFA, CFTC | Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal | USD | NinjaScript or via Automated Trading Interface | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✓ | ✓ | $0 | $100 | 1:50 | ✗ | FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF | Capitalise.ai & TWS API | ✓ | ✗ | |
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✓ | ✓ | $100 | $10 | ✗ | ✓ | SEC, FINRA | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader | USD | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✓ | ✓ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | 1:50 | ✗ | NFA, CFTC | Forex, Stocks, Futures, Futures OptionsForex, CFDs, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto | MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✓ | ✗ | |
| Broker | |
USD Account |
Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Leverage |
Copy Trading |
Regulator |
Instruments |
Platforms |
Account Currencies |
Automated Trading |
AI |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Safety Comparison
Compare how safe the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025 are.
| Broker | Trust Rating |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Negative Balance Protection |
Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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✗ | ✗ | ✓ | |
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✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✗ | ✓ | ✓ | |
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✗ | ✗ | ✓ | |
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✗ | ✓ | ✗ | |
| Broker | Trust Rating |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Negative Balance Protection |
Segregated Accounts |
Mobile Trading Comparison
Compare the mobile trading features of the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025.
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
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iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
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iOS & Android | ✓ | ||
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iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
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iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
Comparison for Beginners
Compare how suitable the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025 are for beginners.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✓ | $100 | 0.0 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $0 | $100 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $100 | $10 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
Comparison for Advanced Traders
Compare how suitable the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025 are for advanced or professional traders.
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
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NinjaScript or via Automated Trading Interface | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✗ |
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Capitalise.ai & TWS API | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✓ |
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✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
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Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✗ |
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
Accounts Comparison
Compare the trading accounts offered by Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
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✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
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✓ | USD: 4.8%, GBP: 4.7% | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
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✓ | USD: 4.9% | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
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✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
Detailed Rating Comparison
Compare how we rated the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025 in key areas.
| Broker | Trust |
Platforms |
Assets |
Mobile |
Fees |
Accounts |
Research |
Education |
Support |
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| Broker | Trust |
Platforms |
Assets |
Mobile |
Fees |
Accounts |
Research |
Education |
Support |
Fee and Cost Comparison
Compare the cost of trading with the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025.
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✗ | $0 | ✗ | 0.75 | ✗ | |
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✗ | $25 | ✗ | 1.3 | Floating | |
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✗ | $0 | 0.003 | 0.08-0.20 bps x trade value | 0.12%-0.18% | |
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✓ | $10 | $0 | ✗ | BTC 0.75% | |
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✗ | $15 | 0.14 | 1.2 | BTC 1.4%, ETH 2% | |
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
Broker Popularity
See how popular the Best Demo Trading Accounts 2025 are in terms of number of clients.
| Broker | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers |
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| eToro USA |
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| NinjaTrader |
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| FOREX.com |
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Why Trade With Plus500 US?
Plus500 US is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a user-friendly platform, low trading margins, and access to the Futures Academy to improve trading skills. Its strong tools and reliable service earned it second place in DayTrading.com's 'Best US Broker' award.
Pros
- The account setup, pricing structure, and web platform make futures trading simpler than competitors like NinjaTrader.
- Plus500 US stands out due to its affordable fees for trading. It offers competitive margins and does not charge for inactivity, live data, routing, or platform usage.
- Plus500 is a respected publicly traded company. It boasts an impressive base of over 24 million traders and sponsors the Chicago Bulls, adding to its credibility.
Cons
- The private trading platform is easy to use, but doesn't have the advanced analysis tools that platforms like MetaTrader 4 do.
- Plus500 US doesn't include social trading features, unlike platforms such as eToro US. Including this feature may benefit potential traders.
- Testing showed fast response times for support, but phone aid is not available.
Why Trade With NinjaTrader?
NinjaTrader consistently satisfies active futures traders with its low-cost service and high-quality analysis tools. It offers superior charting features, including hundreds of indicators and over 10 chart types.
Pros
- You can access thousands of applications and add-ons from developers worldwide for trading.
- NinjaTrader is a well-regarded and acclaimed futures broker, approved by the NFA and CFTC.
- Low costs, with $50 trading margins and commissions starting at $.09 per micro contract.
Cons
- You need to register with partner brokers to trade in securities other than forex and futures.
- The advanced trading tools require an additional fee.
- Some payment methods require a withdrawal fee.
Why Trade With Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers is ideal for seasoned traders due to its robust charting platforms, updated data, and adaptability, especially with the IBKR Desktop application. Its exceptional pricing and advanced order features appeal to traders, and its variety of stocks remains unmatched in the market.
Pros
- IBKR, primarily designed for skilled traders, has expanded its appeal recently by eliminating its initial $10,000 deposit requirement.
- The new IBKR Desktop platform combines the advantages of TWS and adds unique tools like Option Lattice and Screeners with MultiSort to make trading accessible and impressive for traders of all levels.
- The TWS platform is designed for intermediate to advanced traders. It includes over 100 order types and a dependable real-time market data feed that rarely experiences downtime.
Cons
- Customer service may take time to respond, and there may be delays in fixing problems based on tests. It could be difficult to reach the customer service promptly.
- IBKR offers many research tools. However, the tools are not uniformly distributed across trading platforms and the web-based 'Account Management' page, causing confusion for the users.
- Only one active session per account is allowed, which means you can't run the desktop version and mobile app at the same time. This can sometimes lead to a frustrating trading experience.
Why Trade With eToro USA?
eToro is a top choice for traders due to its top-notch social investing and copy trading services. The broker caters well to new traders with its low deposit requirement, commission-free trading, and user-friendly platform.
Pros
- The online broker provides a user-friendly social investment network for easy crypto trading replication.
- The low minimum deposit and simple account setup allow beginners to start trading quickly.
- Traders can use Smart Portfolios for a simpler approach, covering multiple sectors and markets like renewable energy and artificial intelligence.
Cons
- Average fees can reduce the profits of traders.
- Traders used to third-party charting tools won't find MetaTrader 4 platform integration.
- There are fewer trading options available, including only stocks, ETFs, and cryptos, compared to competitors.
Why Trade With FOREX.com?
FOREX.com is a top-tier brokerage suitable for forex traders of all skill levels. It offers more than 80 currency pairs, has small spreads starting from 0.0 pips, and features low fees. The platform provides powerful charting tools that include over 100 technical indicators and multiple research aids.
Pros
- FOREX.com provides a selection of top trading platforms and additional features. These include Trading Central research, a SMART Signals pattern scanner, trading signals, and strategy builders.
- FOREX.com has over 20 years of experience with strong regulatory oversight, and has received multiple awards, including second place in our 'Best Forex Broker' awards. As such, FOREX.com is globally reputed as a reliable trading brokerage.
- Numerous educational materials such as tutorials, webinars, and a comprehensive YouTube channel are available to assist you in learning about the financial markets.
Cons
- FOREX.com's MT4 platform provides around 600 instruments for trading, which is considerably less than the 5,500+ options accessible on its other platforms.
- Demo accounts have a limited time duration of 90 days, which may not be sufficient for thoroughly testing trading strategies.
- US clients do not have negative balance protection, so you can potentially owe more than your original account deposit.
Filters
Guide to the Best Demo Trading Accounts
Having explored many demo accounts, I wanted to create an easy-to-understand guide to help traders find the best demo trading options. Here’s a simplified rundown of what to consider when choosing a demo account.
Key Factors in Choosing a Demo Trading Account
Here are the main things I check when evaluating a demo trading account:
- Is there a time limit for using the account?
- How much pretend money do you start with?
- Can you try trading in a variety of markets?
- Is it simple to sign up and start practicing trading?
- Does it closely mirror real trading conditions?
What Makes a Good Demo Trading Account?
No Time Limits
A lot of brokers let you use a demo account for about 30 days, but I personally prefer those that offer unlimited use. This lets you continue testing strategies even after opening a real trading account. AvaTrade is known for offering unlimited demo accounts with various platforms.
Virtual Funds
Demo accounts usually come with between $10,000 to $100,000 of virtual money. Try to trade in amounts you would use in real life to better prepare yourself for actual trading. XM offers $100,000 with the ability to add more money by contacting customer service.
Available Trading Instruments
The top demo accounts simulate trading in a variety of markets including forex, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. Make sure the markets you wish to practice on are available. CMC Markets stands out with over 12,000 trading options.
Easy Sign-Up
Good demo accounts should be easy to access; you can usually sign up and start trading within minutes. XTB, for instance, lets you set up a demo account in just a couple of minutes, requiring only basic information like your email and name.
Realistic Trading Conditions
The best demo accounts mimic real market conditions with live data and trading tools like stop-loss orders. Keep in mind that demo accounts don’t fully replicate real conditions; trades are often executed instantly, unlike in live trading where you might experience delays or re-quotes.
Introduction to Demo Trading Accounts
A demo trading account serves as a practice space where you can trade using virtual funds. This helps you practice trading strategies and learn how markets operate without risking real money.
How Demo Accounts Work
Demo accounts are loaded with fake money, making it possible for you to try trading strategies and familiarize yourself with market movements without financial risk.
Capabilities of Demo Accounts
Demo accounts allow you to:
- Explore different markets and understand how they move, like comparing stock trading to commodities trading.
- Gain trading experience by opening and closing trades and using market tools without real financial risk.
- Analyze past trades to improve your trading skills.
- Use trading tools and charts to gain insights into market trends.
- Create custom watchlists to keep an eye on markets that interest you.
Pros and Cons of Using Demo Trading Accounts
Pros
- Risk-Free: Mistakes in a demo account don’t cost you real money.
- Price Action: Learn to handle market changes by practicing with imaginary trades.
- Broker Test-Drive: Evaluate different platforms and brokers without a financial commitment.
- Strategy Calibration: Fine-tune your trading plan before risking real money.
- Emotional Practice: Simulate real-time trading to practice handling emotional stress.
Cons
- Execution: Demo accounts might execute trades more efficiently than real accounts.
- Capital Discrepancies: Virtual funds may not reflect the actual amount you’ll use in live trading.
- Unrealistic Spreads: Demo accounts may show narrow spreads that differ from reality.
- Initial Deposits: Some brokers require a deposit to access demo accounts.
- Emotional Detachment: You won’t experience real fears or hopes, which can impact real trading.
Bottom Line
Demo trading accounts are invaluable for learning and testing strategies but have their drawbacks, including not fully replicating real-world anxieties and risks. Nonetheless, they serve as a valuable tool for trying out brokers and platforms before committing real funds.
FAQ
What Are Demo Trading Accounts?
Demo trading accounts are practice tools that allow you to try trading without using actual money. Brokers provide you with a virtual bankroll to trade.
Which Is the Best Demo Trading Account?
The best demo accounts are easy to start, give you plenty of virtual money, and provide a realistic trading experience.
How Do I Open a Demo Trading Account?
Opening a demo account usually involves filling out a simple form on a broker’s website. Some accounts may not even need registration.
Are Demo Trading Accounts Only for Beginners?
No, they’re useful for experienced traders, too, especially for testing new strategies and getting familiar with proprietary platforms.
What Are the Alternatives to Demo Trading?
For beginners not using a demo account, consider brokers with low minimum deposits. These allow you to begin trading with less than $100, often with additional educational resources.