Broker · Review Updated Sept 2026
TradeStation review — futures fees & verdict
TradeStation is a veteran US broker famous for its powerful desktop platform and strategy backtesting. Here's an honest look at its futures commissions, features and who it's best for.
Is TradeStation good for futures?
Yes, especially if you value a strong desktop platform and strategy testing. Futures commissions run around $1.50 per contract, per side (≈$1.75 on the FuturesPlus platform), plus exchange fees. It's more feature-heavy than cheap-and-simple brokers, which suits systematic traders.
About TradeStation
TradeStation is a long-established US broker and platform. It's best known for its desktop software, EasyLanguage strategy coding and backtesting — a favorite of systematic and technical traders. It offers futures, stocks and options, with free real-time CME data once you generate enough futures commissions.
TradeStation futures commissions
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Futures commission | ~$1.50/contract per side |
| FuturesPlus platform | ~$1.75/contract per side |
| NFA fee (non-members) | +$0.01/contract |
| Inactivity fee | $10/mo (waived with 10+ trades / $5k balance) |
Commissions are per side; exchange, clearing and regulatory fees apply on top. Real-time CME data is free once you generate ~$40 in futures commissions in a month (90-day grace for new funded accounts). Always confirm current rates on TradeStation's pricing page.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Powerful desktop platform
- EasyLanguage strategy coding & backtesting
- Futures, stocks & options in one account
- Free CME data with enough activity
- Long-established, well-regulated
Cons
- Higher per-contract futures commission
- Inactivity fee if you rarely trade
- Platform can feel complex for beginners
- Costs add up for low-volume traders
Verdict
TradeStation is a strong pick for systematic and technical traders who want a serious desktop platform and backtesting — even if per-contract commissions aren't the cheapest. If you mainly scalp micros and want the lowest cost, compare our NinjaTrader and AMP Futures reviews. See all deals on our hub.
TradeStation FAQ
How much are TradeStation futures fees?
Around $1.50 per contract, per side (≈$1.75 on FuturesPlus), plus exchange, clearing and NFA fees. Confirm current rates on their pricing page.
Does TradeStation have an inactivity fee?
Yes — $10/month, waived if you make 10+ trades in the prior 90 days or keep a $5,000 average balance.
Is TradeStation good for automated trading?
Yes — EasyLanguage lets you code and backtest strategies, which is a key reason systematic traders choose it.