Charles Schwab

4.5/5

“Solid overall platform, just watch advanced fee/feature trade-offs”

For my trading and investing needs Schwab is excellent. It isn’t always the cheapest for ultra-active futures or exotic products, but for general investors it hits the sweet spot. I switched because I wanted the “do everything” broker.

Pros : Schwab’s strong across the board: trading, research, service, account types. Scores and awards back it up.

Cons : Margin rates remain relatively high and some advanced features may cost more.

Switched from : Lightspeed Trading

Reason to switch : I switched because the passive broker lacked flexibility for options/futures, and Schwab gave me both breadth and value.

4.6/5

“Branch network plus digital convenience, best of both worlds”

I appreciate that I can manage my portfolio online but also drop into a branch if needed. That hybrid model is why I switched to Schwab.

Pros : Schwab combines digital platforms and physical branch network, offering both online trading and in-person support.

Cons : Some traders transitioning from other platforms found the migration process challenging.

Switched from : Wealthfront

Reason to switch : I switched because the purely digital broker lacked physical branch support; Schwab gave me both options.

4.3/5

“Global access and multi-currency features helped my overseas trades”

I’m based outside the U.S. but trade U.S. stocks. I moved to Schwab because they made international access easier, offered U.S. stock trading, and supported multiple currencies.

Pros : Schwab offers international clients access, multiple account types, U.S. stocks, and certain global wiring/currency features.

Cons : Non-U.S. investors may face foreign-exchange or international-trade costs that are higher than some global brokers.

Switched from : Robinhood

Reason to switch : My previous broker had minimal U.S. market access; Schwab unlocked those markets for me.