Best Futures Trading Platforms

A futures contract is one of the most complex and riskiest securities traded today. If you hold the wrong side of a futures contract, your losses are not capped by an up-front purchase price. Instead, your gains or losses are determined after the contract closes, setting you up for big gains or big losses. That is why it is crucial to have a legitimate partner for your investments, one with reliable service, affordable fees and bonus features. If you are interested in trading futures or simply need a switch from your old provider, consider these best futures trading platforms to get you started off on the right foot. 

A financial advisor can also help you decide if futures trading fits your investing strategy, timeline and risk profile. This is especially important if you’re a beginner investor or have large amounts of money to invest.

What Are Futures Contracts?

Futures contracts are standardized agreements to buy or sell a specific asset at a predetermined price on a set future date. 

These asset classes can include commodities, such as oil, wheat and gold futures, as well as financial investments like stock indexes, interest rates and currencies. Regardless of the type of commodity, futures contracts are traded on regulated exchanges, ensuring transparency and liquidity.

When a trader enters a futures contract, they are essentially betting on whether the underlying asset’s value will rise or fall. By locking in a price today, traders and investors can manage risk, speculate on price movements, or hedge against potential market volatility. 

For example, if a trader believes oil prices will increase, they might buy a futures contract with the goal of selling it later at a higher price. Conversely, a trader expecting prices to fall might sell a contract now and plan to buy it back at a lower cost later.

Futures are widely used for two main purposes: hedging and speculation. 

• Hedging: Businesses and producers often use futures to hedge against price swings. An example is when an airline locks in fuel prices to protect against sudden cost increases. 
• Speculation: Speculators use futures to profit from market fluctuations, often with the added advantage of leverage. This leverage allows traders to control larger positions with relatively small amounts of capital, although it also amplifies risk.

Once you have decided the best investment strategy for your financial goals, consider these best futures trading platforms to help you get started.

Data and Methodology

We identified the plan options below through exhaustive research and analysis of the futures trading platforms. They are listed in an order that’s in direct correlation with their individual composite score based on our methodology, which includes how much the platforms charge for commissions per trade as well as the account minimums of each platform.

1. Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers is known for its data. Combined with technical indicators, in-depth reporting and convenient customization, this platform remains a standout amongst its competitors. 

These added features are particularly valuable for futures trading, given how much advanced traders rely on technical data. The same is true when it comes to fundamental analysis, as Interactive Brokers provides outstanding sources for news and other real-world data.

When it comes to complexity, this platform offers one of the best sets of trading tools on the market. This platform offers a generous selection of tools for a number of functions, including setting conditions, algorithmic and automatic triggers and other forms of complex trading. 

Through its PortfolioAnalyst tool, investors can view their entire portfolio at a glance, ensuring easy tracking of all financial accounts. If you are looking for a comprehensive, customizable platform, Interactive Brokers may be extremely beneficial.

However, for beginner investors, Interactive Brokers can be very overwhelming. While experienced investors will find much to love about this platform, it is still quite complex for those just getting their feet wet, and new investors will likely find it challenging.

2. Tastytrade

Tastytrade is the best futures trading platform for active traders seeking more than just a simple interface. 

Designed with options and futures in mind, the platform provides a fast, intuitive experience built around quick order entry and dynamic market insights. It is particularly appealing for traders who prefer a hands-on approach and want access to advanced tools without being overwhelmed by unnecessary complexity.

Tastytrade has made a name for itself with its specialized features specifically designed for options and futures trading. These include robust charting, customizable watchlists and streamlined trade execution tailored for derivatives traders. Users benefit from built-in research and risk analysis tools that help them evaluate different investment strategies before placing a trade. This makes it easier to manage positions and understand potential outcomes in rapidly changing markets.

One of Tastytrade’s key advantages is its competitive pricing. The platform is known for keeping commissions low, with simple, transparent costs that appeal to frequent traders. This affordability, combined with specialized features, makes it a strong contender for investors seeking professional tools without paying for a premium subscription.

3. Webull

Webull has carved out a niche as a platform that balances accessibility with advanced features. Its sleek design and intuitive interface make it a natural fit for newer investors, while still providing the depth more experienced traders expect. The mobile app in particular is highly rated, offering an easy way to trade assets like futures and stocks on the go.

Although Webull started as a stock trading platform, its expansion into futures has added real value for active traders. The platform supports extended trading hours and detailed market data. Advanced charting tools allow investors to track multiple contracts, customize indicators and analyze trends so they can make make informed decisions about fast-moving futures markets.

One of Webull’s biggest draws is its commission-free trading platform for stocks, ETFs and options, but it also features competitively priced futures contracts. While additional trading fees may apply for some trades, the overall cost structure is designed to remain attractive to cost-conscious traders with a multi-asset strategy. 

For many investors, Webull offers an appealing entry point into futures trading without the worry of hidden costs.

4.(Tie) NinjaTrader

NinjaTrader is widely recognized as a platform for serious futures traders seeking expert tools. Its highly customizable desktop includes advanced charting, algorithmic trading capabilities and a wide selection of order types. For traders who prioritize precision and control, NinjaTrader delivers the kind of flexibility that can accommodate even the most complex trading strategies.

One of the most distinctive things about futures, and the related options market, is its selection. You can trade several different types of investments, ranging from precious metals and agricultural products to stocks and cryptocurrency. This accommodates most trading needs for even dedicated traders, making NinjaTrader a fantastic choice for those looking for diversify their portofolio..

You can choose from several pricing models, including a free version with basic features, a lease option and a lifetime license for traders who prefer longterm investing. Commissions are competitive, and traders who purchase a license often benefit from even lower fees. 

With software appropriate for both advanced and new investors alike, this tiered pricing system allows users to choose the investment level that best matches their trading style and financial goals.

4.(Tie) Tradovate

Tradovate sets itself apart by being one of the first cloud-based futures trading platforms. This means traders can access their accounts seamlessly from desktop, tablet or mobile without the need for downloads or complicated software. The platform’s clean, modern design makes it especially appealing for traders who value speed and convenience without sacrificing functionality.

Unlike general-purpose brokerages that added futures later, Tradovate was designed from the ground up with futures in mind. Features include advanced charting, customizable dashboards powerful order-entry tools and a sweep limit order option specifically tailored to the needs of futures traders. This concentrated focus makes the platform an excellent choice for both experienced and beginner investors who want a platform optimized for derivatives.

Tradovate offers a straightforward, membership-based pricing structure that is different from many competitors. Traders can choose between paying per-trade commissions or purchasing a lifetime membership that includes Tradovate’s lowest commissions. 

This model can be especially cost-effective for high-volume futures traders who value affordability and transparency.

6. E*TRADE

E*TRADE has long been recognized as one of the most established online brokerages, and its expansion into futures trading brings that same reliability to active traders. 

Backed by the resources of Morgan Stanley, the platform offers a sense of security and stability that appeals to investors who want a trusted name in financial services. Through its Power E*TRADE platform, traders gain access to an advanced suite of tools specifically designed for derivatives. Futures traders benefit from dynamic charting, integrated risk analysis and strategy scanners to evaluate opportunities quickly. The platform also provides streaming market data and fast trade execution, helping users stay on top of rapidly changing markets.

Education has always been a cornerstone of E*TRADE’s offering, and futures are no exception. The platform provides on-demand webinars, in-depth articles and platform tutorials to help traders sharpen their skills. 

Combined with its robust customer support and Morgan Stanley’s research resources, E*TRADE stands out as a strong option for traders who want both professional tools and ongoing guidance without the costs of a financial advisor.

7. Charles Schwab

Powered by Ameritrade, the Charles Schwab futures trading platform reflects the firm’s long-standing reputation for trust and reliability. 

Known for catering to both seasoned and beginner investors, Schwab combines broad market access with the stability of a full-service brokerage. This makes it an attractive choice for traders who value security but do not want to sacrifice advanced tools.

Through its thinkorswim platform, Schwab offers a beginner-friendly approach for futures trading. The platform integratesr paper trading for newer investors still navigating their way through futures trading. This virtual trading feature enables them to practice trading without risking any of their own money. 

There are also plenty of resources to help. Charles Schwab provides expert commentary and live-streaming news, in addition to its robust Learning Center.

Once they are ready to begin trading, they can create preconfigured strategies for easy one-click trading. thinkorswim assists the process with advanced charting, customizable screeners and extended trading hours.. With access to a wide selection of contracts, traders can diversify their strategies and manage positions efficiently in fast-moving markets.

Schwab maintains a straightforward, per-contract pricing structure for futures trading, ensuring that costs remain predictable and transparent. While not always the lowest-cost provider, investors still benefit from competitive commissions paired with generous resources. For many, this balance between price and service creates long-term appeal.

Before signing up, try the thinkorswim platform for free for 30 days with a Guest Pass.   

8. AMP Futures

AMP Futures stands out as a brokerage dedicated almost entirely to futures and commodities trading. 

Unlike larger firms that offer futures as one product among many, AMP is laser-focused on providing professional-grade access to futures markets. This specialization makes it particularly appealing to active traders who want a platform built with their exact needs in mind.

One of AMP’s biggest advantages is its flexibility. Instead of locking users into a single platform, AMP gives traders access to four data feeds and over 50 trading platforms, including popular options like MetaTrader 5, Sierra Chart, and TradingView. This breadth of options allows traders to pick the interface and tools that best fit their strategies, whether they prioritize advanced charting, automation, or simplicity.

With no monthly inactivity fees or minimum volume requirements, AMP is well-known as an affordable trading platform with a low-cost structure and competitive day-trading margins. Futures traders benefit from some of the lowest brokerage fees in the industry, paired with transparent fee disclosures. AMP promises to match any commissions quote; otherwise, it will provide you with 20 commission-free trades.

For those who trade frequently or with larger position sizes, AMP’s pricing model can deliver significant savings without compromising execution quality.

9. Optimus Futures

Optimus Futures is a broker catering specifically to futures traders. It is a boutique firm that places a strong emphasis on personalized service. 

Unlike larger, all-purpose brokerages, Optimus is dedicated to helping traders navigate futures markets with professional-grade tools and tailored support. Its platform includes a free trading journal with TradingView integration and available paper trading. There are also plenty of educational tools, such as videos, detailed tutorial guides and an active blog detailing vital information.This extra focus on education makes thinkorswim especially appealing to both active day traders and those exploring futures for the first time.

Optimus Futures is also popular for its transparent, cost-conscious pricing. Commission rates are competitive, and traders benefit from low intraday margins, making it easier to participate in fast-moving markets with smaller capital requirements. By combining low costs and with quality features and resources, the firm provides strong value for active traders who prioritize efficiency.

Where Optimus truly differentiates itself is in client support. The firm emphasizes personal service with 24-hour trading desk access, as well as one-on-one guidance and technical help. New traders can take advantage of platform tutorials and webinars, while experienced traders benefit from direct assistance with more complex strategies. 

This blend of support and futures specialization makes Optimus Futures a compelling choice for traders who want both flexibility and attentive service.

10. TradeStation

For a sophisticated futures platform, TradeStation offers some of the best prices around. However, understanding the pricing scheme of TradeStation can take some doing. Prices depend on the product and account type, meaning that what you pay can vary significantly. 

TradeStation does not charge any commissions for futures, stocks and options. However, while there is no minimum funding requirement for futures, futures options require a $5,000 deposit. Still, TradeStation offers some of the best prices on the market for futures traders, and they provide access to a smart trading platform.

Futures traders can access the platform via desktop or web, or they can download the FuturesPlus mobile app, although it receives dismal ratings from users..  Features include Vol Curve Manager and Trade Monitor tools with lightning-fast trading execution, plus the RadarScreen feature with over 180 technical and fundamental indicators that can be customized to fit individual needs.

With competitive pricing and sophisticated features, TradeStation is a great pick for futures trading – as long as you do not rely to heavily on the app.

Bottom Line

These best futures trading platforms offer a host of features backed by affordable pricing, reasonable entry points and strong financial ratings.

However, you may have noticed there is no award for best beginner platform. This is because futures are generally not recommended for beginners, as they carry an outsized risk of loss disproportionate to many other assets. In other words, this is not a good asset for beginners. 

Experienced investors, however, can choose from several established futures trading platforms that offer all the tools and services they need, whether they are an active or passive trader. Ultimately, the best platform all depends on your individual needs.

Tips for Investing

• Most retail investors don’t trade in futures contracts for good reason. These are risky products with a very real potential for catastrophic losses. It’s important to get expert advice when investing in things you’re not familiar with. A financial advisor can give you excellent guidance on whether futures make sense for you. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s matching tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
• One way you can get a quick and relatively accurate overview of your investing is by taking advantage of a free, easy-to-use investment calculator.

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