TD Ameritrade has the online trading platform down to a science. From it's website to it's tools like Thinkorswim, TD Ameritrade is a strong contender for the top investment platform.
Their services offer a powerful range of options that appeal to a large and varied customer base. Their top selling points include their $0 commissions, $0 minimum balance, their huge selection of exchange-traded funds that are commission-free, and mutual funds with no transaction fees.
These features make them among the top trading platforms for IRA accounts as well as investors who are just starting out. However, at the same time, their services include plenty of experienced traders due to the versatility of the platform and the great offerings of their available research.
Quick Summary
- $0 Commission stocks, ETF, and options trades
- $0 minimum IRAs and other accounts
- One of the few self-directed HSA providers
TD Ameritrade Details | |
|---|---|
Product Name | TD Ameritrade |
Min Invesment | $0 |
Commission | $0 for Stock, Options, ETF trades |
Account Type | Traditional, IRA, Trust, and More |
Promotions | None |
TD Ameritrade’s Benefits
A great option for all investors, from beginners to advanced trading pros, there are a wide array of options and benefits to using TD Ameritrade. They offer leading commission pricing at $0 per stock, ETF, or options trade, the $0 account minimums and over 2,000 transaction fee-free mutual funds.
TD Ameritrade offers a highly comprehensive selection of investment products. With more than 100 commission-free ETFs expertly chosen by independent research firm, Morningstar, which includes equity funds, commodity funds, international funds, and bond funds, all with economical expense ratios, the options are plentiful to create a diverse portfolio trading at a reasonable cost. One of the best aspects of commission-free trades (for ETFs) is that dollar-cost averages can be done at no additional charge.
With a strong commitment to offering competitive, highly in-depth research and data offerings, one of TD Ameritrade’s best benefits is this research for developing strategies and examining the market, at no extra cost. Research, data, and education are such a major focal point for many investors, and often one of the biggest selling points in choosing a trading platform to work with.
Plenty of competitive online brokerages attach a hefty fee for such services, so this is a highly attractive feature. In addition, investors with TD Ameritrade have the option to connect with company trading specialists via phone or in person, if needed.
See how TD Ameritrade compares using our Online Stock Broker Comparison Tool.
Innovative Trading Platforms
TD Ameritrade offers two distinct platforms for trading: Trade Architect or thinkorswim. Recently acquired and updated, thinkorswim enables investors to test their trade strategies while analyzing the potential gains and risk involved. Trade Architect is entirely web-based and it offers screening tools, streaming news, and additional advanced features for trading.
TD Ameritrade’s mobile app is known for being incredibly useful, serving as a mobile version of their web platform, providing streaming news, customization, and full options.
Ameritrade’s social network, MyTrade allows users to connect with the community while working with the provided virtual trading tools to test strategies in a risk-free environment.
Customer service is a top priority for TD Ameritrade and they offer phone service 24/7 along with email support and the option of in-branch service in over 120 locations.
The Ease Of Opening A Roth IRA AT TD Ameritrade
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Cons
With their change to $0 commissions, they've eliminated most of the cons. However, they could improve their mobile app experience to compete with some of the online-only services.
Final Verdict
Overall, TD Ameritrade’s offers a ton of exceptional offerings, including commission-free ETF trades that make using their platforms both convenient and effective.
Bottom line: their services are perfect for everyone; from investors who are just starting out to seasoned traders looking for reliability and options from a trading platform.
TD Ameritrade Review
- Commissions & Fees - 100
- Customer Service - 90
- Ease Of Use - 90
- Tools & Resources - 95
- Investment Options - 100
- Specialty Services - 100
Overall
Summary
TD Ameritrade has amazing features for both new and experienced investors and only a short con list. Find out more here.
Joe Raspolich is a writer, editor and a money-saving enthusiast. He has a passion for learning and researching new topics and ideas. Joe was raised believing frugality doesn’t have to be boring, and he has learned how to have fun with limited funds.
Al Cantwell says
Joe, excellent article. Apologies if I missed it, but does TDA allow loans out of a solo 401k?
Robert Farrington says
TD Ameritrade does offer loans out of their Solo 401k. You can see how they compare to other solo 401k companies here.