Beginner's Guide | What are the ways to choose the right app for buying US stocks? Comprehensive Evaluation Guide for US Stock Trading Platforms

As more Taiwanese investors turn their attention to the US stock market, finding a suitable US stock trading platform becomes the first step into the world of investing. However, with so many US stock Apps available, how do you choose the right one? Cost, features, security—each factor influences your trading experience. This article will help you understand the key points in selecting a US stock trading platform and provide an overview of the current mainstream platforms.

When buying US stocks with an App, what factors are most critical?

Before deciding which broker to use, ask yourself: what do I care about most? The following dimensions are worth considering:

Can I afford the trading costs?

Expenses directly impact your returns, making this the most practical consideration. Although many brokers now offer zero-commission policies, there are differences in details:

• Watch out for hidden fees: Some platforms charge extra for withdrawals, transfers, or cashouts—be sure to clarify these in advance
• Spread costs cannot be ignored: Even without commissions, the bid-ask spread can eat into your profits
• Fee structures vary greatly: Some charge per share, others by percentage, catering to different investment scales

How to evaluate the platform’s user experience?

What should a good trading App have?

• Is the interface intuitive enough?: The ability to place quick orders during market volatility often depends on user-friendliness
• Are analysis tools comprehensive?: If you rely on technical analysis, check what charts and indicators the platform offers
• Practice features are important: Demo trading allows beginners to familiarize themselves with the process risk-free
• Is execution speed stable?: Especially during market swings, the platform’s responsiveness is crucial

Can customer support provide timely assistance?

Problems are inevitable during trading; support quality is very important:

• Real-time chat: Can you get quick responses during trading hours?
• Phone support: Complex issues often require direct human communication
• Email support: Slower response but suitable for non-urgent matters

Is security guaranteed?

This is the baseline for choosing any financial platform:

• Regulatory compliance: Only brokers regulated by reputable authorities can safeguard your funds
• Data encryption and two-factor authentication: Basic security measures
• Negative balance protection: Quality platforms limit your losses to your initial investment

Actual comparison of mainstream US stock trading platforms

The following six platforms each have their own strengths, suitable for different types of investors:

Mitrade: Beginner-friendly simple option

This platform excels in simplicity and ease of use. Its CFD trading model offers zero commissions, two-way trading, and flexible leverage, making entry relatively easy. Besides US stocks, it also supports Hong Kong stocks, forex, indices, and cryptocurrencies, offering a rich asset variety.

It provides risk management features like take-profit, stop-loss, trailing stops, and negative balance protection, especially friendly to beginners. A free demo account allows thorough practice before real trading.

Advantages: Flexible leverage, diverse assets, intuitive interface
Disadvantages: CFD trading features, some advanced functions are not fully developed

InteractiveBrokers: Tools for professional investors

Founded in 1977, this veteran broker offers a wide range of products including stocks, options, futures, and forex. Its per-share fee model benefits large-volume traders—whether buying $50 or $500,000 worth of stocks, the fee rate remains the same.

However, its interface is relatively complex, more suitable for experienced professional traders rather than beginners.

Advantages: Rich product lineup, low fees, professional features
Disadvantages: Steep learning curve, minimum trading requirements

Charles Schwab: A well-capitalized all-rounder

Established in 1971 with assets under management of $3.72 trillion, listed on NASDAQ. After acquiring TD Ameritrade in 2019, it unified stock, ETF, and options trading fees to zero.

The Thinkorswim platform offers advanced trading tools with comprehensive resources and services. However, managing multiple platforms can be complex, and there is a relatively high minimum deposit requirement.

Advantages: Zero commissions, abundant resources, stability
Disadvantages: Multi-platform complexity, high initial capital needed

Firstrade: Fastest account opening process

Founded by Chinese Americans in New York, over thirty years as an online trading pioneer and one of the earliest to implement zero commissions. The account opening process is simple and quick, with high approval efficiency, ideal for investors wanting to enter the market swiftly.

User-friendly interface, suitable for long-term investors. However, active traders seeking advanced features may find it lacking. Some users report slow customer service responses.

Advantages: Easy account setup, simple interface, diverse products
Disadvantages: Limited research tools, customer support not very strong

Webull: A new platform with a strong social trading element

Founded in 2017 by tech industry veterans, quickly established a foothold in US and Hong Kong markets with a zero-commission strategy. Features social functions allowing users to share trading strategies and market insights. Besides stocks and ETFs, it also offers options and cryptocurrencies.

As of 2022, it has over 35 million global users. Some product lines are still incomplete, such as bonds and futures, so evaluate whether it fits your needs.

Advantages: Commission-free trading, social features, large user base
Disadvantages: Product range to expand, relatively short platform history

FUTU: A professional choice among Hong Kong online brokers

Founded in 2012, listed on NASDAQ in 2019. Offers US stocks, Hong Kong stocks, funds, futures, and forex.

Fees are also based on per-share charges ($0.0049 per share, minimum $0.99), friendly to large capital investors, but may seem less cost-effective for small investors. Provides user-friendly interface and rich educational resources.

Advantages: Intuitive interface, broad product selection, ample market info
Disadvantages: Fee thresholds, some products less complete

Common investor questions answered one by one

How much starting capital do I need to enter US stock trading?

Actually, not much. Most brokers have no minimum for tax-advantaged accounts—you only need enough to buy at least one share plus transaction costs. Some platforms even support zero deposit opening.

How to achieve diversification with limited funds?

Consider index-related products. If you’re unsure which stocks to pick, investing in indices like Dow Jones, Nasdaq 100, etc., can diversify risk more effectively.

How long does it take from opening an account to actual trading?

Demo accounts are very quick to set up—many platforms only require simple info and provide virtual funds for practice. Real accounts are also straightforward, with quick and efficient approval processes.

How to determine if a broker is truly suitable for me?

Evaluate comprehensively: your capital size, asset preferences, trading style and tech needs, expected trading frequency, and support requirements. It’s recommended to test with a demo account first before real trading.

How to calculate actual trading costs when using a US stock App?

Besides commissions, watch out for hidden costs. Although many platforms advertise zero commissions, day trading may incur routing fees, market data fees, and platform charges. Always review the full fee schedule before trading.

How to verify if a broker is properly regulated?

US-based online stock brokers must be regulated by the SEC and be members of FINRA and SIPC. Check the disclosures at the bottom of the platform’s homepage for regulatory information.

Choosing a US stock App isn’t complicated—focus on your actual needs and trading style. Start with a demo to familiarize yourself, then gradually transition to real trading—that’s the more prudent approach.