Plus500vs
TradeStationStock Broker Comparison
This comparison pits Plus500's user-friendly CFD platform against TradeStation's US-regulated equity trading suite. The tension centers on cost models, tools, and international reach.
Our Verdict
TradeStation winsby 0.4 pts
TradeStation edges Plus500 on editorial score and platform capability, supported by its commission-free trading and advanced tools.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1TradeStation offers commission-free trading while Plus500 does not
- 2Plus500 lacks advanced charting and automation tools
- 3Plus500 accesses 18 exchanges versus TradeStation's 3
Who should choose Plus500 vs TradeStation?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Choose Plus500 if…
Choose Plus500 if you want a beginner-friendly CFD platform with broad stock CFD access.
Choose TradeStation if…
Choose TradeStation if you want real stock ownership, commission-free trading, and advanced charting and automation.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Best for low cost trading
Recommended
TradeStation wins for low cost trading with commission-free trading.
Best for safety & regulation
Recommended
Plus500 vs TradeStation: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.6/ 5 | 4.0/ 5 |
| Min deposit | $100 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads from | 0.6 pips▼ lower | 1 pips |
| Commission / lot | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity fee | $10/month (after 3 months)▼ lower |
Plus500 vs TradeStation Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- LSE-listed, FCA/ASIC/MAS regulated, exceptional regulatory transparency
- 1,800+ share CFDs across major global exchanges on a clean beginner-friendly platform
- No commission, spread-only pricing is simple to understand
- Consistently top-rated mobile app for equity CFD access
Cons
- Share CFDs only, no real ownership, ISA, SIPP, or dividend entitlement
Plus500 vs TradeStation: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
Plus500
criteria wins
6
TradeStation
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | Plus500 | TradeStation |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Pass | Fail |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Fail | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Fail | Pass |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Pass |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Pass | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Pass |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Fail | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Pass |
Plus500 vs TradeStation: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: Plus500 rates 3.6/5 and TradeStation rates 4/5. TradeStation has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
Plus500 lists tighter spreads from 0.6, compared with TradeStation's 1. For stock trading, also factor in any per-trade or per-share commissions — spreads and commissions together determine the true cost per trade.
TradeStation has no minimum deposit, while Plus500 requires at least $100. This makes TradeStation more accessible for traders with limited starting capital.
Both Plus500 and TradeStation hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, two factors stand out: TradeStation has no minimum deposit, removing the capital barrier entirely, and Plus500 provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
Plus500 lists maximum leverage of 20:1, while TradeStation lists up to 50:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
Plus500 supports Proprietary Web/Mobile, while TradeStation supports Proprietary Web/Mobile. Both provide Proprietary Web/Mobile.
TradeStation offers commission-free stock trading while Plus500 does not according to our data. Commission-free trading can reduce costs for frequent traders. Always confirm the current fee structure directly on each broker's website.
Both Plus500 and TradeStation are covered by a compensation scheme according to our data, providing an additional safety net for your stock investments. Confirm the specific scheme and coverage limit that applies to your account before depositing.
