Best Options Brokers 2026
We’ve tested and ranked the top options brokers, selected for their excellent trading conditions, from fees and commissions to platform usability and trust.
Written ByPaul Holmes
With over 15 years of trading experience, including developing algorithmic strategies on MetaTrader and evaluating brokers, he brings deep expertise in market analysis and trader education, helping traders choose the right platform for their requirements.
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Fact Checked ByTobias Robinson
Tobias is committed to helping traders find the right brokerage for their needs. He has tested 200+ brokers, spent 2,600+ hours using different platforms, and placed 2,100+ trades.
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Edited ByJames Barra
James is an experienced broker analyst with a background in financial services. He has spent 2,500+ hours testing brokers, used 35+ different platforms and apps, audited 120+ broker T&Cs, and verified 300+ regulatory licenses. James has also been on US and UK TV, and been a guest on finance podcasts, discussing reports conducted by BrokerListings.com and sharing his expertise.
James Barra Profile PageOctober 9, 2026
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IBKR’s options platform offers low commissions, starting at $0.25 per contract for high-volume traders, with no added spreads or platform fees. It provides access to global options markets and advanced tools. Trader Workstation (TWS) can be complex for new options traders. Real-time data requires extra subscriptions.
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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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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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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.
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When we tested Firstrade, its trading services were notable for zero commissions and no contract fees on options. The platform offers advanced strategies with user-friendly tools and no minimum deposit. Regulated by SEC and FINRA, Firstrade is ideal for beginners and experienced traders looking for cost-effective, flexible options trading on both desktop and mobile.
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 | $1 | 1:50 (major forex pairs), 1:2-1:4 (equities) | ✗ | SEC, FINRA, CFTC, NFA, CIRO, FCA, CBI, ASIC, SFC, SEBI, JFSA, MAS | Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Cryptocurrencies, CFDs Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, 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 | TWS API | ✓ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $0 (live trades must meet intraday margin minimums, e.g., $50 to trade micro contracts) | 1 contract | $50 intraday margins for Micro contracts and $500 for popular E-mini contracts | ✗ | NFA, CFTC, CySEC | Futures, Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto (non-futures depend on provider) | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD | NinjaScript or via Automated Trading Interface | ✗ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $50 | $10 | ✗ | ✓ | SEC, FINRA | Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader | USD | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✓ | $0 | $0 | 1:2 | ✗ | SEC, FINRA, SIPC, MAS, SFC, ASIC, FMA, CIRO, CIPF, JFSA, SC | Stocks, Options, ETFs, ADRs, OTCs ,Futures | Desktop Platform, Mobile App | USD, CAD, AUD, JPY, MYR, HKD, SGD, CNY | Moomoo OpenAPI | ✓ | ✗ | |
 |
✓ | ✗ | $0 | $5 | 1:2 | ✗ | SEC, FINRA | Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Fixed | Firstrade Invest 3.0, TradingCentral | USD | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | |
| 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 2026 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 2026.
| Broker | Mobile Apps |
iOS Rating |
Android Rating |
Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
iOS & Android | ✓ | ||
|
iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
|
iOS & Android | ✗ | ||
|
Yes (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 Options Brokers 2026 are for beginners.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Trade |
Education Rating |
Support Rating |
Fractional Shares |
Demo Competitions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✓ | $0 | $1 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $0 (live trades must meet intraday margin minimums, e.g., $50 to trade micro contracts) | 1 contract | ✗ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $50 | $10 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
|
✓ | $0 | $0 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
|
✗ | $0 | $5 | ✓ | ✗ | ||
| 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 2026 are for advanced or professional traders.
| Broker | Automated Trading |
VPS |
API |
AI |
Pro Account |
Leverage |
Low Latency |
Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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TWS API | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:50 (major forex pairs), 1:2-1:4 (equities) | ✓ | ✓ |
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NinjaScript or via Automated Trading Interface | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | $50 intraday margins for Micro contracts and $500 for popular E-mini contracts | ✓ | ✗ |
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✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
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Moomoo OpenAPI | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | 1:2 | ✓ | ✓ |
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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 2026.
| Broker | Demo Account |
Interest on Cash |
Islamic Account |
Joint Account |
Managed Account |
PAMM |
MAM |
LAMM |
Pro Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✓ | USD: 3.14%, GBP: 3.24% | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | USD: 4.05% | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✓ | USD: 3.35% | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
|
✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 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 2026 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 2026.
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✗ | $0 | 0.08-0.20 bps x trade value | 0.12%-0.18% | |
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✗ | $35 | 1.3 | Floating | |
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✓ | $10 | ✗ | BTC 0.75% | |
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✗ | $0 | ✗ | 0.49% per spot Bitcoin trade (US), 0.3% to 0.39% (Singapore) | |
|
✗ | $0 | ✗ | Variable | |
| Broker | Cost Rating |
Fixed Spreads |
Inactivity Fee |
EUR/USD Spread |
Crypto Spread |
Customer Ratings
Compare how customers of these brokers feel about them, with real user ratings from Trustpilot, the Apple App Store and Google Play.
| Broker | Customers |
Trustpilot Score |
Trustpilot Reviews |
Android App Rating |
iOS App Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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4,300,000 | 5,520 | |||
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1,800,000 | 1,243 | |||
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3,200,000 | 32,190 | |||
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24,000,000 | 752 | |||
|
✗ | 53 | |||
| Broker | Customers |
Trustpilot Score |
Trustpilot Reviews |
Android App Rating |
iOS App Rating |
Broker Popularity
See how popular the Best Options Brokers 2026 are in terms of number of clients.
| Broker | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Moomoo |
|
| Interactive Brokers |
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| eToro USA |
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| NinjaTrader |
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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 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.
- IBKR, primarily designed for skilled traders, has expanded its appeal recently by eliminating its initial $10,000 deposit requirement.
- 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.
- TWS is complex, and beginners might find it difficult to use and understand all its features.
- 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
- The market replay feature lets you download tick-by-tick historical data, go back to any date, and interact with it as if trading live. It's useful for strategy testing and real-world practice.
- Nano contracts, which are one-hundredth the size of standard contracts, let traders adjust positions precisely and manage risks on a smaller scale. This is beneficial for those who build positions gradually.
's ecosystem offers traders access to thousands of add-ons and applications from developers in over 150 countries. These include indicators, strategies, and custom tools that extend the platform's native features.
Cons
- NinjaTrader was bought by Kraken in May 2025. Although it still operates independently, traders concerned about long-term stability may worry about changes in the platform's direction and pricing under new ownership.
- Intraday margin requirements can rise up to four times in the 15 minutes before major economic news and remain high for several minutes after volatility decreases.
- NinjaTrader was fined $250,000 in 2025 for not implementing a sufficient anti-money laundering program and for supervisory failures.
Why Trade With eToro USA?
eToro is a strong choice for traders seeking social investing and copy trading. Its low deposit, zero commissions, and easy-to-use platform suit new traders.
Pros
- eToro USA Securities is a reliable broker that's regulated by the SEC, part of FINRA, and a member of SIPC.
- 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 may reduce active traders' profit margins.
- eToro USA was fined $1.5 million by the SEC in 2024 for unregistered crypto offerings.
- Traders used to third-party charting tools won't find MetaTrader 4 platform integration.
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
- Moomoo offers detailed analytics and insights compared to other brands.
- API Skills offers agentic investing for retail traders. Users can connect their AI agents, such as Claude or OpenAI, to Moomoo's platform to execute algorithmic strategies using natural language.
- The broker provides early access to trading hours before the market opens.
Cons
- The account options are limited compared to similar brokerages, with no managed portfolios or robo-advisor solutions.
- No negative balance protection, a standard safety feature at top-tier regulated brokers.
- Moomoo has received several regulatory penalties lately, including fines and orders in 2026 that temporarily halted the acceptance of some Japanese and Chinese clients.
Why Trade With Firstrade?
Firstrade is ideal for beginners wanting to trade US stocks without commission fees. It offers plenty of free educational resources and high-quality research, including its new FirstradeGPT tool. Users also get trading ideas from Morningstar, Briefing.com, Zacks, and Benzinga.
Pros
- Trusted US-regulated broker, member of SIPC
- Improved stock trading features now include overnight trading and fractional shares.
- Great broker for cost-conscious traders with low OTC fees
Cons
- Firstrade emphasizes stocks and lacks forex options, reducing diversification opportunities.
- Customer support needs improvement after testing, but 24/7 help is now available.
- Visa card deposits and withdrawals are not accepted.
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 IG performed particularly well during our tests of its customer service. It offers access to options markets in the US, Europe, Asia and beyond.
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.
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.
Options Product Breakdowns At Popular Brokers
We’ve also built deep-dive guides to explain the availability and key features of options trading products at some well-known brokerages: