Best Brokers With E-minis 2025
Discover our top brokers for trading E-minis, offering smaller-sized futures contracts that provide flexible access to major indices with competitive pricing.
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1NinjaTrader 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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2Interactive 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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3Founded in 2006, AvaTrade is a top forex and CFD broker trusted by over 400,000 traders. Regulated in 9 regions, it handles more than 2 million trades monthly. AvaTrade offers platforms like MT4, MT5, and WebTrader, with over 1,250 instruments. Traders of all levels can explore CFDs, AvaOptions, and AvaFutures for short-term trading. AvaTrade provides excellent education and 24/5 multilingual customer support for a complete trading experience.
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4Founded in 1996, Swissquote is a Swiss bank and broker offering online trading with three million products, including forex, CFDs, futures, options, and bonds. Known for its reliability, Swissquote has built a strong reputation with innovative trading solutions, such as being the first bank to offer crypto trading in 2017 and recently introducing fractional shares and the Invest Easy service.
Compare The Best E-mini Brokers On Key Attributes
| 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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✓ | ✓ | $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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✓ | ✓ | $300$100 | 0.01 Lots | 1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro) | ✓ | ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBI, FSA, FSRA, BVI, ADGM, CIRO, AFM | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting, Futures | WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, AvaFutures, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✓ | ✓ | $1,000 | 0.01 Lots | 1:100 (Retail), 1:400 (Pro) | ✗ | FCA, FINMA, CSSF, DFSA, SFC, MAS, MFSA, CySEC, FSCA | CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Bonds, Options, Futures, ETFs, Crypto (location dependent) | CFXD, MT4, MT5, AutoChartist, TradingCentral | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, ZAR, TRY, SEK, NOK, CHF, HKD, SGD, PLN, AED, SAR, HUF, THB, QAR, MXN | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader and FIX API solutions | ✓ | ✗ | |
| Broker | |
USD Account |
Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Leverage |
Copy Trading |
Regulator |
Instruments |
Platforms |
Account Currencies |
Automated Trading |
AI |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
How Safe Are These E-mini Brokers?
See how dependable the top E-mini brokers are and how they will safeguard your funds:
| 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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✗ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Broker | Trust Rating |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Negative Balance Protection |
Segregated Accounts |
Compare Mobile E-mini Trading
Find out how good these brokers are for trading E-minis on mobile after our tests of their apps:
| 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 | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
Are The Top E-mini Brokers Good For Beginners?
E-mini beginners should use brokers with demo accounts and other features geared towards new traders:
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✓ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $0 | $100 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $300$100 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
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✓ | $1,000 | 0.01 Lots | ✓ | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
Are The Top E-mini Brokers Good For Advanced Traders?
Experienced E-mini traders needs sophisticated tools to enhance the trading experience:
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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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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Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | 1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro) | ✓ | ✗ |
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Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader and FIX API solutions | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:100 (Retail), 1:400 (Pro) | ✓ | ✗ |
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
Accounts Comparison
Compare the trading accounts offered by Best Brokers With E-minis 2025.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
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✓ | USD: 4.8%, GBP: 4.7% | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
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✓ | USD: 2.7% | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
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✓ | USD: 1.75%, GBP: 2%, EUR: 1.5%, CHF: 0.75% | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
Compare The Ratings Of Top E-mini Brokers
See how the top E-mini brokers scored in key categories following our hands-on tests:
| Broker | Trust |
Platforms |
Assets |
Mobile |
Fees |
Accounts |
Research |
Education |
Support |
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| Broker | Trust |
Platforms |
Assets |
Mobile |
Fees |
Accounts |
Research |
Education |
Support |
Compare Trading Fees
The cost of trading E-minis can vary over time - here's how the top providers stack up on costs:
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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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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✓ | $50 | 0.13 | 0.9 | BTC <1%, ETH 2% | |
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✗ | $0 | N/A | 1.3 | 71 BTC (Prime Account) | |
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
How Popular Are These Brokers With E-minis?
Traders often prefer the most popular E-mini trading platforms - here's how many clients the top providers have:
| Broker | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers |
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| NinjaTrader |
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| AvaTrade |
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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
- Low costs, with $50 trading margins and commissions starting at $.09 per micro contract.
- You can access thousands of applications and add-ons from developers worldwide for trading.
- Traders can access a free platform and trade simulation capabilities with the unlimited demo.
Cons
- Some payment methods require a withdrawal fee.
- The advanced trading tools require an additional fee.
- You need to register with partner brokers to trade in securities other than forex and futures.
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
- 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.
- IBKR provides a cost-effective platform for traders by offering low fees, narrow spreads, and clear pricing.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- TWS's platform may be difficult for beginners to grasp because of its complexity. Plus500's web platform, on the other hand, is more appropriate for those new to trading.
Why Trade With AvaTrade?
AvaTrade provides traders with essential tools: an intuitive WebTrader, strong AvaProtect risk management, a quick 5-minute sign-up, and reliable support for fast-paced markets.
Pros
- AvaTrade enhances its products with AvaFutures, offering an alternative to trade over 35 markets with low trading margins.
- Years later, AvaTrade is still among the few brokers with a custom risk management tool, AvaProtect, which insures losses up to $1M for a fee and is simple to use on the platform.
- The WebTrader performed well in our tests, featuring an easy-to-use interface for beginners and strong charting tools, including 6 chart layouts and over 60 technical indicators.
Cons
- Signing up is easy, but AvaTrade doesn't offer an ECN account like Pepperstone or IC Markets, which provides raw spreads and fast execution that many traders want.
- The AvaSocial app is satisfactory but could be better. Its design, usability, and navigation between strategy providers and account management need improvement to compete with top platforms like eToro.
- While the deposit process is smooth, AvaTrade doesn't support crypto payments, unlike TopFX, which caters to crypto-focused traders.
Why Trade With Swissquote?
Swissquote is a great option for active traders seeking a customizable platform, like its CXFD that includes Autochartist for automated chart analysis to assist trading decisions. However, its average fees and high $1,000 minimum deposit may be less accessible for beginners.
Pros
- Swissquote offers advanced research tools such as Autochartist for technical analysis and real-time news integration from Dow Jones. Their proprietary Market Talk videos and Morning News reports provide daily expert analysis, which is attractive to active traders.
- Swissquote is highly trusted for being a bank, listed on the Swiss stock exchange, and authorized by FINMA in Switzerland, FCA in the UK, and CSSF in Luxembourg.
- Swissquote caters to fast trading strategies like scalping and high-frequency trading, offering 9ms average execution speeds, a 98% fill rate, and FIX API.
Cons
- Unlike brokers like eToro, which offer social trading features, Swissquote lacks tools for community interaction or copying successful traders. This limits its appeal for those who value peer learning.
- Swissquote mainly serves professional and wealthy clients, requiring high minimum deposits like $1,000 for Standard accounts. This makes it less suitable for smaller traders, who might prefer brokers offering higher leverage and no minimum deposit.
- Analysis indicates Swissquote has relatively high fees, with forex spreads starting at 1.3 pips on Standard accounts, whereas Pepperstone and IC Markets offer 0.0 pips. Transaction fees for non-Swiss stocks and ETFs can increase costs for frequent traders.
Filters
How We Choose The Top E-mini Brokers
To find the best brokers for trading E-mini futures, we identified brokers in our evolving database that offer access to E-mini contracts, such as the E-mini S&P 500 (ES), E-mini Nasdaq-100 (NQ), E-mini Dow (YM), and E-mini Russell 2000 (RTY).
We then ranked these E-mini brokers based on their overall ratings after an in-depth assessment of 200+ metrics per provider, including pricing, leverage, and tools.
Additionally, we personally tested their trading platforms to evaluate charting tools and overall user experience.
What To Look For In A Top Broker For Trading E-minis
E-mini futures are a go-to for traders looking to capitalize on major indices like the S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow Jones; but finding the right broker can make or break your strategy.
Here are the key things to consider:
Market Access
When trading E-mini futures, you need a broker that gives you:
- Access to CME, NYMEX, CBOT, and ICE for deep liquidity.
- Multiple instruments, not just E-minis, but also options and CFDs on indices.
- Fast execution with low latency, particularly for strategies like scalping and day trading.
Best Broker for Market Access: If you want the most comprehensive market access, I’ve discovered that Interactive Brokers is tough to beat. It stands out for its direct market access to all major futures exchanges, including CME and ICE.
Fees and Commission Structure
Every tick counts when trading E-mini futures; high fees can eat into your profits quickly. The best brokers offer:
- Tight spreads and low commissions – Ideal for scalpers and active traders.
- Transparent pricing – No hidden charges like withdrawal or inactivity fees.
- Reasonable overnight financing (swap) rates – If you hold positions beyond the session.
Best Broker for Fees and Commissions: NinjaTrader stands out as one of the most cost-effective brokers for E-mini futures traders. It offers ultra-low commissions from $0.35 per contract for high-volume traders. There are no platform fees – the basic version of NinjaTrader is free for charting and analysis. And you get competitive margins – $50 intraday margins for E-mini S&P 500 contracts.
Research and Market Insights
Successful E-mini trading isn’t just about execution speed; it’s also about staying informed. The best brokers provide:
- Market reports & analysis – Insights into price action, volume trends, and sentiment.
- Supply-demand data – Key for futures traders tracking economic cycles.
- Trading signals & AI-based forecasts – Useful for strategy refinement.
- Educational resources – Essential for beginners learning the ropes.
Best Broker for Research and Market Insights: AvaTrade stands out as a powerhouse for research-driven traders based on our tests, offering regular market reports covering indices, commodities, and futures trends. It also has a comprehensive education hub with webinars, trading tutorials and more.
Trading Platform and Tools
A solid trading platform is just as important as market access or low fees. You need:
- Support for popular platforms – MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, or proprietary software.
- Advanced charting & indicators – Customizable tools for technical analysis.
- Real-time price alerts – Instant notifications for market moves.
- Mobile trading capability – Trade E-minis on the go without limitations.
Best Broker for Trading Platforms & Tools: If you want a versatile platform with strong charting tools and mobile access, Interactive Brokers delivers. It has made great improvements to its suite of software over the years, from Trader Workstation (TWS) to the newer new IBKR Desktop platform. You can easily set custom notifications for key E-mini price levels.
Regulation and Security
When trading E-mini futures, security is non-negotiable. A top-tier broker should offer:
- Strong regulatory oversight – Licensed by authorities like the CFTC (U.S.), FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), or CySEC (EU).
- Segregated client funds – Your money is kept separate from the broker’s operational funds.
- Strict compliance & transparency – Clear policies, no shady practices.
Best Broker for Regulation and Security: Interactive Brokers is one of the safest and most well-regulated E-mini brokers globally, with regulation by top authorities (CFTC, FCA, ASIC and more). It also offers unmatched transparency as a publicly listed company with strict compliance standards. Additionally, users get robust security features with two-factor authentication and encryption for account protection.
Execution Speed and Order Types
When trading E-mini futures, speed is everything. The best brokers provide:
- Ultra-fast execution – Low latency and minimal slippage.
- Advanced order types – Stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stops, and OCO (One Cancels Other) orders.
- Deep liquidity – Access to large trade volumes without price manipulation.
Best Broker for Execution Speed and Order Types: NinjaTrader is built for serious E-mini traders who demand lightning-fast execution and a full suite of order types. It’s optimized for high-speed order execution, reducing slippage and provides advanced order types like stop-loss, trailing stops, and automated strategies. Its advanced tools for order routing and trade automation also impress.
NinjaTrader offers reliable software for trading E-minis
Customer Support and Service
Reliable customer support is crucial, especially when trading E-mini futures in fast-moving markets. The best brokers offer:
- 24/5 or 24/7 availability – You’re never left waiting during a trade.
- Multiple support channels – Phone, email, and live chat for quick responses.
- Multilingual assistance – Catering to traders from different regions.
Best Broker for Customer Support: For E-mini traders who value responsive and knowledgeable support, AvaTrade ensures you get assistance when it matters most. It offers live chat, phone, and email for quick assistance, while it has knowledgeable agents who understand futures and trading platforms.
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Multiple, reliable funding options are essential when managing your E-mini futures trades. A top broker should offer:
- Various payment methods – Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets.
- Fast withdrawal processing – Quick access to your funds without unnecessary delays.
- Low or no withdrawal fees – Avoid hidden charges when moving money in and out of your account.
Best Broker for Deposit & Withdrawal Options: AvaTrade offers flexible funding options with fast withdrawals and minimal fees, making it perfect for E-mini traders who need convenience and reliability when managing their funds.
FAQ
What Are E-mini Futures?
Picture E-mini futures as a more affordable ticket to the world of futures trading. The “E” stands for electronic, meaning you can trade these through online platforms anytime, anywhere.
A futures contract is a legal agreement to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price on a future date. E-minis are more attractive to many retail traders because they’re smaller than regular futures, requiring a smaller initial investment.
They are flexible and allow you to potentially profit whether the market is going up or down. This makes them a good choice if you want to diversify your investments or try more active trading methods.