Best Options Brokers 2025
We’ve tested and ranked the top options brokers, selected for their excellent trading conditions, from fees and commissions to platform usability and trust.
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1
IBKR’s platform impressed with low commissions, starting at $0.25 per contract for high-volume traders, and no extra spreads or platform fees. It provides vast global options markets and advanced tools. The Trader Workstation (TWS) interface can be complex, requiring new traders to learn. Real-time data access needs extra subscriptions.
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2
In our tests, NinjaTrader stood out for its advanced charting, automated options trading, and low commissions beginning at $0.09 per micro contract. The platform includes a free version with basic features and paid plans for advanced tools. It provides strong tools for experienced options traders, but beginners may find it challenging to learn.
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3
eToro USA's options platform offers a user-friendly interface with no commission or contract fees on U.S. equity options. Regulatory fees include a $0.02645 per contract Options Regulatory Fee (ORF) and a $0.00279 per contract FINRA Trading Activity Fee. It provides access to various U.S.-listed stocks and options, with a $50 minimum deposit required to begin.
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4
During our tests, FOREX.com provided fast, reliable options execution with user-friendly tools on both desktop and mobile. The platform offers a wide variety of currency and index options with competitive pricing, typically $0.50–$0.80 per contract. It is regulated in multiple areas and allows small trade sizes and low deposits for flexible access.
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5
When we tested Moomoo’s US options, the platform impressed with $0 commission on equity options and only $0.50 per index contract. It supports 13 strategies, offers real-time Level 2 data (with $100 average balance), and provides fast execution. FCA/SEC regulated, low deposits, but note: options positions cannot be transferred out once opened, which users found restrictive in our live trades.
Best Options Brokers Comparison
| Broker |  |
USD Account |
Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Leverage |
Copy Trading |
Regulator |
Instruments |
Platforms |
Account Currencies |
Automated Trading |
AI |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
✓ | ✓ | $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 | ✓ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $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 | ✗ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $100 | $10 | ✗ | ✓ | SEC, FINRA | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader | USD | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | 1:50 | ✗ | NFA, CFTC | Forex, Stock CFDs, Futures, Futures OptionsForex, CFDs, Stock CFDs, Indices, Commodities, Futures, Options, Crypto | WebTrader, Mobile, MT4, MT5, TradingView | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, PLN | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✓ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $0 | $0 | 1:2 | ✗ | SEC, FINRA, MAS, ASIC, SFC | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs ,Futures | Desktop Platform, Mobile App | USD, HKD, SGD | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
| 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 Options Brokers 2025 are.
| Broker | Trust Rating |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Negative Balance Protection |
Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✗ | ✓ | ✓ | |
|
✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
|
✗ | ✗ | ✓ | |
|
✗ | ✓ | ✗ | |
|
✗ | ✗ | ✓ | |
| Broker | Trust Rating |
Guaranteed Stop Loss |
Negative Balance Protection |
Segregated Accounts |
Mobile Trading Comparison
Compare the mobile trading features of the Best Options Brokers 2025.
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
iOS & Android | ✓ | ||
|
iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
|
iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
|
iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
|
Yes (iOS & Android) | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
Comparison for Beginners
Compare how suitable the Best Options Brokers 2025 are for beginners.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✓ | $0 | $100 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $100 | $10 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $100 | 0.01 Lots | ✗ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $0 | $0 | ✗ | ✗ | ||
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
Comparison for Advanced Traders
Compare how suitable the Best Options Brokers 2025 are for advanced or professional traders.
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Capitalise.ai & TWS API | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✓ |
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NinjaScript or via Automated Trading Interface | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✗ |
|
✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
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Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:50 | ✓ | ✗ |
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✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | 1:2 | ✗ | ✓ |
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
Accounts Comparison
Compare the trading accounts offered by Best Options Brokers 2025.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✓ | USD: 4.8%, GBP: 4.7% | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | USD: 4.9% | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | USD: 5.1% | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 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 Options Brokers 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 Options Brokers 2025.
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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✗ | $0 | 0.003 | 0.08-0.20 bps x trade value | 0.12%-0.18% | |
|
✗ | $25 | ✗ | 1.3 | Floating | |
|
✓ | $10 | $0 | ✗ | BTC 0.75% | |
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✗ | $15 | 0.14 | 1.2 | BTC 1.4%, ETH 2% | |
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✗ | $0 | $0 per trade | ✗ | ✗ | |
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
CFD Stocks Spread |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
Broker Popularity
See how popular the Best Options Brokers 2025 are in terms of number of clients.
| Broker | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Moomoo |
|
| Interactive Brokers |
|
| eToro USA |
|
| NinjaTrader |
|
| FOREX.com |
|
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 provides a cost-effective platform for traders by offering low fees, narrow spreads, and clear pricing.
- 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.
- There's a large selection of free or paid research subscriptions available to all traders. If you subscribe to Toggle AI, you will also receive commission refunds from IBKR.
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 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
- NinjaTrader provides detailed charting software for active traders, complete with custom technical indicators and widgets.
- 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.
Cons
- You need to register with partner brokers to trade in securities other than forex and futures.
- Some payment methods require a withdrawal fee.
- The advanced trading tools require an additional fee.
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 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.
- The broker's Academy provides extensive educational resources for traders, ranging from beginners to advanced levels.
Cons
- The exclusive terminal does not accommodate trading bots and lacks extra equity market analysis tools.
- Average fees can reduce the profits of traders.
- 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 top-tier forex pricing beginning at 0.0 pips. They also offer competitive cashback rebates up to 15% for dedicated traders.
- Numerous educational materials such as tutorials, webinars, and a comprehensive YouTube channel are available to assist you in learning about the financial markets.
- 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.
Cons
- Demo accounts have a limited time duration of 90 days, which may not be sufficient for thoroughly testing trading strategies.
- The funding options are not as extensive as those of top competitors such as IC Markets and lack several widely-used e-wallets, particularly UnionPay and POLi.
- FOREX.com has expanded their trading offerings, but these remain limited to forex and CFDs. Unfortunately, they don't provide options to invest in actual stocks, ETFs, or cryptocurrencies.
Why Trade With Moomoo?
Moomoo is a great option for beginner and intermediate traders aiming to diversify their investment portfolio. The brokerage's app is easily navigable and the trading fees are significantly low.
Pros
- The broker requires no minimum deposit, making it suitable for beginner traders.
- Moomoo is a FINRA and SIPC member, providing additional security for potential clients interested in trading.
- The broker provides early access to trading hours before the market opens.
Cons
- Regrettably, even with its existing security features, this platform still lacks 2 factor authentication (2FA).
- The protection against negative balance, a standard security measure at highly regulated brokers, is not available here.
- The broker doesn't offer phone or live chat support, options typically provided by other brokers.
Filters
How We Chose the Best Options Brokers
We conducted an in-depth evaluation to pinpoint the best options brokers, assigning ratings based on their overall trading experience.
Here’s how we determined the top choices:
- Data-Driven Assessment – We analyzed over 200 key factors, focusing on key factors like the availability of options contracts and pricing.
- Hands-On Testing – We went beyond raw data, actively using each broker’s platform to assess trading tools, support, and user experience.
What to Look for in a Broker for Trading Options
Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of trading options or you’ve already got some experience under your belt, finding the right broker can make all the difference.
A good broker can make your trading experience seamless, educational, and profitable, while a poor one can leave you frustrated and out of pocket.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to look for when choosing a broker for trading options:
Low Fees and Commissions
Let’s face it — fees can eat into your profits faster than you can say “call option.” When trading options, you’ll encounter costs like:
- Per-contract fees: Some brokers charge a flat rate per options contract (e.g., 0.50 to 1.50 per contract).
- Base commission: A fee charged per trade, regardless of the number of contracts.
- Exercise and assignment fees: Charged when an option is exercised or assigned.
Expert take: I’d look for brokers with competitive pricing, especially if you plan to trade frequently. Some brokers even offer $0 commissions on options trading, though they might make up for it in other ways (like wider spreads).
User-Friendly Platforms and Tools
If you’re new to options trading, a clunky or overly complex platform can feel like trying to fly a spaceship without a manual.
Look for brokers that offer:
- Intuitive interfaces: Easy-to-navigate platforms that don’t require a PhD to understand.
- Customizable dashboards: The ability to set up your workspace to track the metrics that matter most to you.
- One-click trading: Quick execution is crucial in fast-moving markets.
- Paper trading: A risk-free way to practice trading options before putting real money on the line.
Expert take: I’ve discovered platforms like Interactive Brokers are great examples of user-friendly yet powerful tools for options traders. You can trade options on US and international markets for $0.65 per contract (with volume discounts available).
Educational Resources for Beginners
Options trading has its own language – calls, puts, strikes, spreads, Greeks (no, not the ancient kind). If you’re new to this, you’ll want a broker that offers:
- Tutorials and webinars: Step-by-step guides to help you understand the basics and advanced strategies.
- Glossaries and FAQs: Quick references for all those confusing terms.
- Demo accounts: Practice trading options with virtual money to build confidence.
Expert take: In my opinion, brokers like IG are best for their extensive educational libraries, which make them excellent choices for beginners. IG is best for experienced traders who want a reliable, feature-rich platform and access to global options markets.
IG Platform
Robust Research and Analysis Tools
Successful options trading relies on solid research and analysis. Look for brokers that provide:
- Real-time data: Up-to-the-second pricing and market information.
- Options screeners: Tools to filter and find the best opportunities based on your criteria.
- Charting tools: Advanced charts with technical indicators to help you spot trends.
- Market news and insights: Stay informed about events that could impact your trades.
Expert take: Platforms like CMC Markets excel in this area, offering professional-grade tools for serious traders. You can trade options on indices, commodities, forex, and more with low spreads and no commission on CFD options trading.
Reliable Customer Support
When you’re in the middle of a trade, and something goes wrong, you don’t want to be stuck on hold for hours. Look for brokers that offer:
- 24/7 support: Because the market doesn’t sleep, and neither should your broker’s support team.
- Multiple contact options: Phone, email, live chat, and even social media support.
- Knowledgeable reps: Support staff who actually understand options trading and can help you resolve issues quickly.
Expert take: Brokers like Saxo Bank performed particularly well during our tests of its customer service. It offers access to options markets in the US, Europe, and Asia.
Mobile Trading Capabilities
In today’s fast-paced world, you must be able to trade options on the go. A good brokerage should offer:
- A fully functional mobile app: This allows you to monitor your positions, place trades, and access research tools from your phone.
- Push notifications: Alerts for price movements, order executions, and important news.
- Security features: Biometric login (fingerprint or face ID) to keep your account safe.
Expert take: easyMarkets is popular for its sleek, user-friendly mobile trading app, though it may lack some advanced features on desktop platforms.
Account Minimums and Margin Requirements
Some brokers require a hefty minimum deposit to start trading options, while others let you get started with just a few dollars. Consider:
- Account minimums: If you’re just starting out, you might prefer a broker with no minimum deposit.
- Margin accounts: If you plan to trade advanced options strategies like spreads or straddles, you’ll need a margin account. Check the broker’s margin requirements and interest rates.
Brokers like FOREX.com are great for beginners with smaller accounts, while platforms like Interactive Brokers cater to more experienced traders with larger balances.
Reputation and Regulation
Last but definitely not least, make sure your broker is reputable and regulated by a recognised authority like the SEC (US Securities and Exchange Commission), FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority), or the FCA (UK Financial Conduct Authority).
This will help safeguard your funds from bad actors and potential trading scams, while potentially ensuring measures like negative balance protection are in place so you can’t lose more than your balance.
Pro tip: Check our online reviews to see the scores our experts assigned each broker’s trustworthiness.