Best Options Trading Tools

Trading options is the process of buying and selling stocks at a pre-negotiated price by a certain date. Options are a type of contract that gives the trader the right to buy or sell a particular stock in the future but does not require them to eat the losses should they choose not to buy.  And when you're trading, your profits are only as good as the tools you use. Here are Benzinga's favorites.

Quick Look at the Best Options Trading Tools:

• Best for All Trading Levels: Benzinga Pro
• Best for Active and Global Traders: Interactive Brokers
• Best for Data Driven Models: MenthorQ
• Best for Traders of All Levels: moomoo
• Best for AI Investing: Magnifi
• Best for Inexpensive Options Trading: Tradier

The Best Options Trading Tools

Check out Benzinga's top picks.

1. Benzinga Pro

Benzinga Pro is considered one of the best tools for options traders due to its comprehensive real-time news and data features, which are crucial for making informed trading decisions. The platform offers a Signals tool that provides timely alerts on significant market events, enabling traders to capitalize on rapid market movements.

Its Screener tool allows users to filter stocks based on various fundamental and technical criteria, making it easier to identify profitable trading opportunities. The combination of these tools ensures that traders have access to the most up-to-date information and analytical capabilities, enhancing their ability to execute successful options trades.

2. Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is considered one of the best tools for options traders due to its robust and sophisticated trading platform. It offers a wide range of advanced options trading tools that enable traders to evaluate and execute complex strategies efficiently. The platform's technological leadership and comprehensive research tools provide an edge in the highly competitive options market[5]. Additionally, IBKR provides low-cost trading and direct access to global markets, ensuring that traders can execute their strategies without excessive costs.

3. MethorQ

MenthorQ stands out as one of the best tools for options traders due to its advanced quantitative models and cutting-edge analysis capabilities. The platform leverages Big Data and AI to provide institutional-grade data and analytics, enabling traders to predict key price levels, anticipate market volatility, and identify market momentum with high accuracy.

This sophisticated approach allows traders to make more informed decisions and stay ahead in the fast-paced options market. MenthorQ's focus on creating tools that cater specifically to active investors ensures that its features are tailored to the needs of serious options traders, further enhancing its utility and effectiveness.

4. moomoo

Moomoo is one of the best tools for options traders due to its combination of low-cost trading and advanced analytical tools. The platform offers commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options, along with a low contract fee of $0.50, making it highly cost-effective for active traders. Additionally, Moomoo provides robust trading tools, including real-time level 2 data, technical charting support, and seamless integration across desktop and mobile devices, which are essential for making informed trading decisions.

Moomoo's access to multiple options markets and its user-friendly interface enhance the trading experience, allowing traders to efficiently execute and manage their strategies. These features combined with the platform's cost advantages and powerful analytical capabilities, make Moomoo a top choice for options traders seeking both value and functionality.

5. Magnifi

Magnifi is one of the best tools for options traders due to its powerful AI-driven insights and comprehensive investment tools. The app leverages artificial intelligence to help users research investments, identify key trading opportunities, and build robust portfolios, making it particularly beneficial for both novice and experienced traders. Additionally, Magnifi's seamless integration of a built-in brokerage allows for commission-free trading, further reducing costs and maximizing potential profits for traders.

Magnifi offers a collaborative environment where users can learn from and interact with fellow traders, enhancing collective intelligence and fostering a community of informed investors. This combination of advanced AI technology, cost-effective trading, and community support makes Magnifi a standout choice for options traders looking to enhance their trading strategies and achieve better outcomes.

6. Tradier

Tradier is a high-tech broker for active traders. Tradier differentiates itself by using application programming interface (API) technology to partner with popular trading software to offer a wide range of platform choices. 

Tradier invented the idea of an API-integrated brokerage firm with customizable interface options. Most brokers lock you into a pre-set interface, allowing you limited ways to customize your trading station, but not Tradier. You can integrate your platform of choice into your Tradier workstation while you take advantage of Tradier’s low fees and commissions. 

How to Choose

Choosing the best options trading tools is essential for maximizing your trading efficiency and profitability. Here are key factors to consider when selecting the right tools:

• Functionality and Features: Ensure the tool offers comprehensive features such as option chains, pricing models, volatility indicators, and options screeners. These features help you analyze the market, manage risks, and make informed decisions.
• Ease of Use: The user interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate. A tool with a steep learning curve can hinder your trading process. Look for platforms that provide tutorials and educational resources to help you get started quickly.
• Real-Time Data: Accurate and real-time data is crucial for options trading. Ensure the tool provides up-to-date market data and alerts to help you stay ahead of market movements.
• Cost: Consider the pricing structure of the tool. While some platforms offer free basic services, advanced features may require a subscription. Balance the cost with the value provided to ensure it fits your budget and trading needs.
• Customer Support: Reliable customer support is vital, especially if you encounter issues or have questions about the tool. Check if the provider offers multiple support channels such as live chat, email, and phone support.
• Reviews and Recommendations: Research user reviews and expert recommendations to gauge the tool's reliability and performance. Feedback from other traders can provide valuable insights into the tool's strengths and weaknesses.

Frequently Asked Questions