Futures trading is not for the faint of heart. With leverage, volatility and split-second decisions, it’s a space that demands the right tools and partners. The best futures brokers in 2025 deliver powerful platforms, fair pricing and the education and research necessary to stay ahead of fast-moving markets.
Whether you're just getting started with micro contracts or an experienced trader managing complex strategies, Benzinga’s guide covers the top futures brokers for different needs – from the most cost-efficient platforms to those best equipped for professional traders.
1. Best Overall: Plus500
Why We Like It: Plus500 offers a streamlined, easy-to-use interface with competitive futures pricing and is available to U.S. clients – a rarity among global brokers.
Highlights:
- Low minimum deposit
- Real-time pricing and risk management tools
- Access to commodities, indices and currency futures
- Intuitive platform ideal for beginners and intermediate traders
Drawbacks:
- Lacks automated trading and MT4/MT5 integration
- Limited advanced charting for pro users
Plus500 remains our top choice for overall value and accessibility in 2025. While serious traders may need more technical depth, the platform’s simplicity and solid feature set make it ideal for most users.
2. Best for Advanced Tools: NinjaTrader
- Best For:Advanced Futures TradingVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through NinjaTrader's website
Why We Like It: A favorite among active traders, NinjaTrader brings pro-level features like customizable charting, strategy automation and deep third-party integration.
Highlights:
- Desktop, web and mobile platforms
- Commission-free pricing available with a lifetime license
- Trade directly from charts
- Low $50 margin for micro contracts
Drawbacks:
- Market data subscription required for live trading
- No equities or options trading directly
For dedicated futures traders who want to chart, backtest and automate, NinjaTrader is unmatched.
3. Best for Professionals: Interactive Brokers
- Best For:Active and Global TradersVIEW PROS & CONS:Securely through Interactive Brokers’ website
Why We Like It: A global heavyweight, Interactive Brokers offers the deepest market access, lowest per-contract fees and a platform that can handle any trading strategy.
Highlights:
- Commissions as low as $0.25 per contract
- Massive global market coverage
- Institutional-level tools and automation
- Volume-based pricing discounts
Drawbacks:
- Trader Workstation has a steep learning curve
- Approval for futures accounts may be strict
IBKR shines for professionals managing large portfolios and those who need access to international futures exchanges and advanced analytics.
4. Best for Education: E*TRADE
Why We Like It: Backed by Morgan Stanley, E*TRADE blends a sleek platform with extensive educational tools, ideal for those learning the futures markets.
Highlights:
- $1.50 per futures contract
- Strong desktop and mobile platforms
- Simulated trading account
- Free CME and CFE data for non-professionals
Drawbacks:
- Higher margin requirements for IRAs
- U.S. markets only
E*TRADE is the perfect launchpad for anyone new to futures trading who wants simplicity and knowledge.
5. Best Desktop Platform: TradeStation
Why We Like It: With a powerful and customizable desktop interface, TradeStation delivers unmatched charting, order routing and futures trading functionality.
Highlights:
- $1.50 per contract; $0.50 for micro contracts
- Advanced order types and automation
- RadarScreen scanning and Matrix ladder trading
- Simulated trading included
Drawbacks:
- High learning curve for beginners
- Customer service can be inconsistent
Seasoned traders who prefer a desktop environment will find everything they need in TradeStation.
6. Best for Active Traders: EdgeClear
- Best For:Active Futures TradingVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through EdgeClear's website
Why We Like It: EdgeClear was built by traders for traders. It focuses on low costs, fast execution and high customization.
Highlights:
- Transparent pricing and volume discounts
- API integration for algorithmic trading
- Strong community and trader support
Drawbacks:
- Fewer educational tools
- UI may feel dated
Active traders looking to cut costs while maintaining speed and flexibility should look hard at EdgeClear.
7. Best for Global Market Access: Tickmill
- Best For:Low Deposit RequirementVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through Tickmill Investing's website
Why We Like It: Tickmill opens the door to futures markets across continents and boasts low commissions with top-tier execution via MetaTrader 4.
Highlights:
- International reach
- Low spreads and commissions
- MT4 integration with algorithmic support
Drawbacks:
- Not available in the U.S.
- Lacks robust desktop terminal compared to competitors
Global traders will appreciate Tickmill’s efficient execution and access to diverse futures markets.
8. Best for User-Friendly Experience: AvaTrade
- Best For:Non U.S. Forex & CFD TradersVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through AvaTrade's website
Why We Like It: AvaTrade simplifies the trading experience with an intuitive platform, good mobile access and no commissions.
Highlights:
- MT4 and MT5 access
- Commission-free futures trading
- Excellent mobile experience
Drawbacks:
- U.S. traders not accepted
- No advanced desktop charting
AvaTrade is ideal for international traders looking for low-pressure access to the futures markets.
9. Best for Low-Cost Trading: Generic Trade
- Best For:Discount Futures TradingVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through Generic Trade's website
Why We Like It: With one of the lowest commissions in the industry, Generic Trade delivers cheap access to futures for cost-conscious traders.
Highlights:
- Flat $0.59 per contract
- Basic charting tools
- No platform fees
Drawbacks:
- Lacks advanced features
- No mobile trading
Generic Trade is perfect for traders who want low-cost market access without all the extras.
10. Best for Visual Learners: tastytrade
Why We Like It: Formerly tastyworks, tastytrade is a colorful, intuitive platform that merges education and execution seamlessly.
Highlights:
- Futures contracts from $1.25
- Visually engaging tools and layout
- Extensive educational content
Drawbacks:
- Sparse fundamental research tools
- Limited third-party integrations
If you value clean design and actionable education, tastytrade could be your new trading home.
How to Choose the Right Futures Broker
When choosing a futures broker, consider:
- Fees & Commissions: Lower fees help preserve profits but always evaluate in context of platform features.
- Platform Quality: Look for charting, order entry types, execution speed and mobile compatibility.
- Market Access: Ensure the broker offers the futures contracts
- Customer Support: 24/7 assistance can make a major difference – especially during market volatility.
- Education & Tools: Beginners should favor brokers with robust learning and research resources.
The best futures broker is the one that aligns with your strategy, budget and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a beginner trade futures?
Yes, but futures are complex and risky. Beginners should choose brokers like E*TRADE or Optimus Futures that offer educational resources and simulated trading.
Can I trade futures with $100?
Some brokers like NinjaTrader and tastytrade offer micro futures contracts with low margin requirements but $100 is extremely risky. A higher balance is recommended.
Do I need a broker to trade futures?
Yes, futures are traded on regulated exchanges and require access through a licensed futures broker.
Which futures broker has the lowest fees?
Generic Trade ($0.59/contract) and Interactive Brokers ($0.25/contract for minis) offer some of the lowest commissions in the industry.
Are futures brokers regulated?
Yes. In the U.S., futures brokers must be registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and be members of the National Futures Association (NFA).
About AJ Fabino
AJ Fabino is the Investing & Cryptocurrency Editor at Benzinga, overseeing a range of financial content, including stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, futures, IPOs, bonds, and cryptocurrency. With extensive experience in financial journalism and content strategy, AJ is dedicated to delivering engaging, insightful, and timely news that empowers readers to make informed investment decisions.
