Finance

Best Apps Like E*TRADE in 2026

E*TRADE delivers commission-free trading with its Power E*TRADE platform offering advanced options analysis, futures, and comprehensive research.

Why People Look for E*TRADE Alternatives

Now part of Morgan Stanley, some users note a drift toward wealth management rather than self-directed retail.
Mobile app is less advanced than Webull or moomoo for active chart-driven traders.
Mutual fund selection is smaller than Fidelity or Schwab.
No cryptocurrency trading offered.

6 Best Alternatives to E*TRADE

Each app below addresses a specific gap in E*TRADE's offering. We picked them based on real user review patterns and feature differentiation.

TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim)

Best-in-Class Options Trading Platform

thinkorswim rivals Power E*TRADE for options analysis and adds superior backtesting, scripting, and futures tools. Now part of Schwab, it remains a top choice for serious options traders.

Options and futures traders who want the deepest analytical tools Free; $0 commissions on stocks/ETFs
Explore TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim) data →

Fidelity

Full-Service Brokerage with Strong Research

Fidelity matches E*TRADE on commissions and product depth while offering zero-expense-ratio index funds and superior customer service. Its Active Trader Pro platform competes with Power E*TRADE.

Investors who want E*TRADE-level tools with better funds Free; $0 commissions on stocks/ETFs
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Interactive Brokers

Global Markets and Low Margin Rates

IBKR offers the lowest margin rates and widest global market access in retail brokerage. It is a natural upgrade from E*TRADE for active traders who need more markets and lower costs.

Active traders who trade on margin or need international markets IBKR Lite free; Pro uses tiered commissions
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Charles Schwab

Full-Service Brokerage with thinkorswim Included

Schwab offers a complete brokerage with thinkorswim trading, strong research, retirement accounts, and banking. It is a direct E*TRADE competitor with a larger branch network.

Full-service brokerage users who want thinkorswim for active trading Free; $0 commissions on stocks/ETFs
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Webull

Commission-Free Active Trading

Webull offers free options trading with no per-contract fee and solid charting tools in a mobile-first design. It is leaner than E*TRADE but delivers strong value for active stock and options traders.

Mobile-first active traders who want zero-fee options Free; no commissions on stocks/ETFs/options
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Tastytrade

Options-Focused Brokerage with Low Costs

Tastytrade is built specifically for options and futures traders with a capped $10/leg fee structure and a platform designed around options flow. It has a loyal following among retail derivatives traders.

Dedicated options traders who want a platform built around derivatives $0 to open; $1/contract to open options (capped at $10/leg)
Explore Tastytrade data →
How we found these alternatives

E*TRADE, now part of Morgan Stanley, has a long track record as a self-directed brokerage with particular strength in options and futures trading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Morgan Stanley acquired E*TRADE in 2020 for approximately $13 billion. E*TRADE continues to operate as a self-directed brokerage brand under Morgan Stanley's ownership.

Yes. E*TRADE supports futures trading through its Power E*TRADE platform at $1.50 per contract. It covers major futures including equity indices, metals, energy, and agricultural products.

Yes. Power E*TRADE is available at no extra cost to all E*TRADE account holders. It offers advanced options chains, risk/reward analysis, technical screeners, and streaming news.

App Vulture monitors brokerage app ratings and update quality over time, helping you identify well-maintained E*TRADE alternatives that match your trading style and asset class preferences.

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