Best Trading Apps for iOS in 2024

What if I told you the app in your pocket could be the key to unlocking financial freedom? In today’s fast-paced digital economy, iOS trading apps have revolutionized how people buy and sell stocks, crypto, commodities, and more. Whether you're a beginner learning the ropes or a seasoned trader searching for cutting-edge tools, choosing the right trading app could be your game-changer.

But how do you sift through the noise of hundreds of apps, all claiming to be the best? Here’s the suspense—the best trading app may not be the one you expect. It’s often the app that aligns perfectly with your unique trading style, financial goals, and the amount of risk you're willing to take on.

Here, I’m breaking down the top trading apps for iOS in 2024, analyzing their strengths, quirks, and the specific types of traders who would benefit most from each platform. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear winner tailored to your needs.

1. TD Ameritrade: Feature-Packed and Newbie-Friendly

TD Ameritrade is a household name in the trading world, and for good reason. It offers one of the most comprehensive and feature-rich apps for iOS. Whether you’re looking to invest in individual stocks, ETFs, options, or futures, this app delivers with precision and depth. It’s equally welcoming to beginners as it is to professional traders, making it a versatile choice.

What makes TD Ameritrade particularly appealing for beginners? The education center built into the app—offering videos, tutorials, and articles—ensures new traders have all the knowledge at their fingertips. For advanced traders, the app integrates the thinkorswim platform, a top-tier trading tool with extensive charting options, real-time data, and complex strategies.

• Fees: No commission on stocks and ETFs.
• Pros: Strong education resources, thinkorswim integration.
• Cons: Can be overwhelming for first-time users.

2. Robinhood: Simplified for Beginners, but Beware of Shortcomings

Robinhood has become synonymous with millennial investing, known for its easy-to-use interface and commission-free trades. Launched with a vision to “democratize finance,” Robinhood is an excellent gateway for beginners. The app covers stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrency—everything in one place. Its simplicity, however, can be a double-edged sword.

Robinhood’s lack of detailed tools and resources, along with a lack of phone customer service, makes it less suitable for serious traders. Also, while free trades may seem attractive, Robinhood has faced scrutiny for its payment-for-order-flow practices, meaning they route your trades in ways that may not always give you the best execution price.

• Fees: Commission-free for stocks, options, and crypto.
• Pros: User-friendly, commission-free, accessible to beginners.
• Cons: Limited research tools, controversies over trade practices.

3. E*TRADE: Balancing Simplicity and Sophistication

E*TRADE manages to strike a delicate balance between user-friendliness and powerful features. It provides an intuitive interface for those new to investing, while offering advanced features like detailed charting tools and risk analysis for seasoned pros.

One of the best features? The Power E*TRADE platform, which offers a sophisticated, customizable trading environment. It gives you access to a wealth of educational materials, whether you're a novice or an expert. Not to mention, E*TRADE’s mobile app is a favorite for its smooth performance and customizable dashboard.

• Fees: $0 commission for stocks and ETFs.
• Pros: Flexible for all trader levels, outstanding mobile platform.
• Cons: Option fees can get pricey.

4. Interactive Brokers: Best for Pros Seeking Control

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) stands out as one of the best apps for professional and high-volume traders. The app integrates flawlessly with IBKR’s desktop platform, giving access to a vast array of markets—including stocks, options, futures, and more. Its margin rates are some of the lowest in the industry, making it a go-to for seasoned traders.

Though IBKR’s app is feature-rich, it’s not built for beginners. The interface can feel complex, especially if you don’t have prior experience with trading. For serious investors, though, this is the app to beat.

• Fees: $0 commissions for IBKR Lite users.
• Pros: Low margin rates, robust market access.
• Cons: Steep learning curve for beginners.

5. Coinbase: Leading the Charge for Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency traders, take note—Coinbase continues to be the most popular iOS app for trading Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets. With its clean, beginner-friendly design and ability to handle large transaction volumes, Coinbase makes buying and selling crypto almost effortless.

However, transaction fees can be steep, especially for small trades. On the flip side, Coinbase Pro, which is integrated within the app, offers lower fees and more advanced features like real-time charting and professional-level market analysis.

• Fees: High transaction fees on small trades.
• Pros: Easy-to-use for crypto beginners, high liquidity.
• Cons: Expensive fees, limited asset coverage beyond major cryptos.

6. Fidelity: Trusted Name, Great App for Retirement Investors

Fidelity consistently ranks high among iOS trading apps for its focus on long-term investors. Known for offering commission-free trades on stocks and ETFs, the app also excels in providing retirement planning tools, making it perfect for people looking to invest for their future.

Fidelity’s app gives users access to its extensive research resources, including expert analysis, financial data, and educational materials. For those planning for retirement, Fidelity’s suite of IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) and retirement calculators is a huge bonus.

• Fees: No commission on stocks and ETFs.
• Pros: Great for retirement-focused investors, extensive research tools.
• Cons: Not ideal for high-frequency traders.

How to Choose the Right Trading App for You?

Now that you’ve read through the top iOS trading apps of 2024, the next question is—how do you choose the right one for you? It boils down to your goals. If you're looking for an app to ease you into the world of trading, apps like Robinhood or E*TRADE will suit your needs. If you're a professional or high-volume trader, Interactive Brokers may be the more appropriate choice.

Beyond the app features, consider transaction fees, ease of use, and the kind of assets you want to trade (stocks, crypto, futures, etc.). Don’t hesitate to test out a few demo accounts or apps before committing to one.

In conclusion, the best trading app for iOS isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you need: whether it’s the user-friendly simplicity of Robinhood or the high-end power tools of Interactive Brokers, there’s an app out there to match every trading style.