Finding the best stock broker in India comes down to one question: how do you actually trade? The broker that is perfect for a long-term investor buying and holding is rarely the cheapest for an active intraday trader placing dozens of orders a day. This guide compares the top stock brokers in India for 2026 — across account-opening charges, annual maintenance (AMC), equity delivery and intraday brokerage, futures and options (F&O) costs, trading platforms, and the segments each one supports — so you can match a broker to your style instead of chasing a single “best” label.
We have ranked eleven of India’s most widely used brokers, from mobile-first discount players like m.Stock, Zerodha, and Groww to established full-service names like ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities, and Motilal Oswal. Every charge below is reconciled from each broker’s official tariff and refreshed monthly; because pricing and plans change, always confirm current rates on the broker’s website before opening an account.
Whether you want the lowest brokerage for active trading, free equity delivery for buy-and-hold investing, a bank-linked 3-in-1 account, or strong research and advisory, the comparison table and detailed reviews below lay the numbers out side by side. Use the quick “best broker by need” section to jump straight to the shortlist that fits you, then read the individual reviews for the trade-offs.
Top stock brokers in India 2026 at a glance
The table below summarises account-opening fees, AMC, and brokerage across delivery, intraday, and F&O for all eleven brokers, in our editorial order. Discount brokers dominate on raw cost; full-service brokers justify higher fees with research, advisory, and branch support. Figures are per executed order unless noted and exclude statutory charges (STT, exchange transaction fees, GST, the SEBI turnover fee, and stamp duty), which apply with every broker.
| Broker | Type | Rating | A/C Opening | AMC | Delivery | Intraday | F&O | Top offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. m.Stock | Discount | 4.6 | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹5/order | ₹5/order | Open Free Account |
| 2. Zerodha | Discount | 4.5 | ₹200 | ₹300/yr | ₹0 | ₹20 / 0.03%* | ₹20/order | Open Free Demat |
| 3. Groww | Discount | 4.4 | ₹0 | ₹0 | 0.1% / ₹20* | 0.1% / ₹20* | ₹20/order | Open Account |
| 4. BlinkX (JM Fin.) | Discount | 4.3 | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 (plan) | Plan-based | Plan-based | Open Account |
| 5. Upstox | Discount | 4.2 | ₹0 | ₹300/yr† | ₹20/order | ₹20 / 0.05%* | ₹20/order | Open Account |
| 6. ICICI Direct | Full-service | 4.0 | ₹0 | ₹300/yr | 0.29%‡ | ₹20 (Neo)‡ | ₹20–₹50 | Open Account |
| 7. HDFC Securities | Full-service | 3.9 | ₹999‡ | ₹750/yr‡ | 0.32%‡ | 0.032%‡ | ₹20/order | Open Account |
| 8. 5paisa | Discount | 3.8 | ₹0 | ₹300/yr | ₹20/order‡ | ₹20/order | ₹20/order | Open Account |
| 9. Motilal Oswal | Full-service | 3.7 | ₹0 | ₹199/yr | 0.20% | 0.02% | ₹20/lot | Open Account |
| 10. Sharekhan | Full-service | 3.6 | ₹0 | ₹400/yr | 0.30% | 0.02% | ₹20/lot | Open Account |
| 11. Angel One | Full-service | 4.1 | ₹0 | ₹240/yr† | ₹0 | ₹20 / 0.03%* | ₹20/order | Open Account |
* whichever is lower • † AMC free for the first year • ‡ plan-dependent — verify and display one plan (HDFC Sky / ICICI Neo offer flat ₹20). Ratings are out of 5. Figures are point-in-time (June 2026) and exclude statutory charges; confirm current rates with the broker before opening an account.
What is a stock broker?
A stock broker is a SEBI-registered intermediary that lets you buy and sell shares, derivatives, and other securities on the stock exchanges (NSE and BSE). To invest, you need two linked accounts: a trading account to place buy and sell orders, and a demat account to hold your securities in electronic form with a depository — CDSL or NSDL. Most modern brokers open both together in a single online process.
Brokers fall into two broad categories — discount and full-service — and earn money mainly through brokerage on each trade, plus charges like AMC. The baseline safety framework for any Indian broker is SEBI registration, membership of the exchanges, and mandatory segregation of client funds, which keeps your money and securities separate from the broker’s own books.
Types of stock brokers in India: discount vs full-service
Discount brokers focus on low-cost execution with flat or minimal brokerage and few advisory services. They are app-first, suit self-directed traders and investors, and keep costs low — examples include m.Stock, Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, and 5paisa.
Full-service brokers add in-house research, advisory, and a dedicated relationship manager, usually at a higher, often percentage-based fee. They typically combine an app with a branch network — examples include ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities, Motilal Oswal, Sharekhan, and Angel One. Note that Angel One is a full-service broker that has moved to flat discount-style pricing.
| Discount Brokers | Full-Service Brokers |
|---|---|
| Low, flat brokerage | Higher / percentage brokerage |
| Primarily online, app-first | Online plus a branch network |
| Little or no advisory | Research and stock advisory |
| No dedicated relationship manager | Dedicated relationship manager |
| Best for self-directed traders | Best for investors who want guidance |
If you make your own decisions and trade often, a discount broker almost always wins on cost. If you want guidance, research, and a single point of contact — or prefer a bank-linked account — a full-service broker can be worth the premium. Compare both on the best demat account in India page before deciding.
Best stock broker in India by need
Different traders need different things from a broker. Use these shortlists to jump straight to the right pick, then read the detailed reviews below.
- Best for beginners: Groww, Zerodha, Angel One — simple apps and learning resources. See best trading apps in India.
- Lowest brokerage: m.Stock (₹0 delivery, ₹5 F&O), 5paisa, Upstox. See lowest brokerage charges in India.
- Best for intraday: m.Stock, Upstox, Angel One — low flat per-order cost. Compare trading platforms.
- Best for F&O / options: m.Stock (₹5), Angel One, Upstox. Learn the basics of futures and options.
- Free equity delivery: Zerodha, Angel One, m.Stock. Compare on the best demat account page.
- Best 3-in-1 account: ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities — bank-linked trading plus demat.
- Best for mutual funds & SIP: Groww, Zerodha. See best mutual fund apps.
- Best for algo trading: see best algo trading software.
- Compare or calculate: use the broker comparison hub and financial calculators.
How to choose the best stock broker for you
There is no universal best broker — the right one depends on how much you trade, what segments you use, and how much hand-holding you want. Weigh these factors before you open an account:
- Match cost to your trading volume. If you trade often, a flat per-order fee (₹5–₹20) beats a percentage plan; if you buy and hold, free or low delivery brokerage matters most.
- Look at total cost, not just brokerage. Add AMC and statutory charges (STT, exchange fees, GST, SEBI turnover fee, stamp duty). A “free” account can still cost more once AMC and add-ons are counted.
- Check platform stability and features. Speed, uptime during volatile sessions, charting, and order types matter more for active traders than headline pricing.
- Confirm the segments and products you need. Equity delivery and intraday, F&O, commodity, currency, IPOs, mutual funds, bonds, or an NRI account — make sure the broker supports them.
- Compare margin and MTF. If you use leverage, check intraday margins and Margin Trading Facility (MTF) rates, which vary widely between brokers.
- Weigh research and support. Full-service brokers add research, advisory, and a relationship manager; discount brokers keep you self-directed but cheaper. Decide which you actually value.
- Check account-opening and KYC ease. Most brokers offer fully online, paperless account opening with Aadhaar e-sign — look for a smooth, quick process.
- Review the regulatory and grievance record. Prefer SEBI-registered brokers with a clean complaints history on the exchange and SEBI SCORES portals.
Detailed reviews of the best stock brokers in India
These reviews are deliberately concise; all charge figures live in the comparison table above, so each summary focuses on who the broker suits and what to watch for. Open any review for the full breakdown.
m.Stock — 4.6/5
m.Stock, incorporated in 2022, is a mobile-first stock trading platform designed for modern investors. It is a subsidiary of Mirae Asset Financial Group. m.Stock provides competitive pricing and investment options in stocks, F&O, mutual funds, ETFs, and IPOs. It offers zero brokerage for equity delivery, mutual funds, and IPOs and Rs 5 for intraday, futures & options.
| Broker Name | Active no. Of clients | A/C opening charge | AMC charge | Delivery Brokerage | Intraday, F&O Brokerage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| m.Stock | 4,22,973 | FREE | Zero | ₹0 | Flat ₹5 per order |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free Account opening | Limited advanced charting & tools |
| Very low-cost intraday and F&O | Delayed customer support |
| A variety of investment options | Lack of certain features |
| User-friendly mobile app | No 3 in 1 Account |
Service Offered
- Equities
- Derivatives
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | ₹ 0 |
| Intraday | ₹5 per order |
| Futures | ₹5 per order |
| Options | ₹5 per executed order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Zerodha — 4.5/5
Started in 2010, Zerodha was founded by Nithin Kamath. Zerodha is headquartered in Bangalore, India. It is known to be a frontrunner in the discount broker since it brought the concept of Rs. 20 brokerage per order among traders and investors in India. Zerodha is considered the most reliable, safe, and trustworthy stock broker in India. There is zero brokerage charged for equity delivery and mutual funds. Whether you are a new investor or a seasoned one, Zerodha is an apt choice for all types of investors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reasonable broker fees | No Stock Tips or Research Reports |
| Advanced trading tools | Limited customer support |
| A variety of goods and services | Slow Account Opening |
| Reliable customer support | No 3 in 1 Account |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Low-cost brokerage: Zerodha offers zero brokerage for equity delivery trades and Rs 20 per order for intraday and F&O trades
- Top-notch trading platforms: They offer advanced platforms like Kite, Console, and Kite Web
- Basket orders: You can order multiple buy/sell orders simultaneously
- API access: Custom trading strategies using Zerodha API.
For Investors:
- Direct mutual funds: Direct plans give higher returns than regular plans.
- Educational resources: Zerodha gives you free courses, books, and articles to learn trading.
Service Offered
- Equities
- Derivatives
- Currency
- Commodities
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
Zerodha Trading Platform
- Kite
- Console
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | ₹ 0 |
| Intraday | 0.03% or ₹20, whichever is less per order. |
| Futures | 0.03% or ₹20, whichever is less per order. |
| Options | ₹20 per executed order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Groww — 4.4/5
Groww has emerged as a leading player in the discount stockbroking space, thanks to its user-centric application and wide range of investment products. It allows traders and investors to invest in stocks, mutual funds, and IPOs. Groww has gained immense popularity among investors due to its advanced trading platforms, reasonable brokerage, and wide-ranging products. It has maximum brokerage of Rs. 20 per order regardless of trade volume or quantity. The mutual funds investment through Groww are absolutely free.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple Pricing | Limited Investment Products |
| Free Account Opening | No Call and Trade Services |
| Zero Demat AMC Charges | No Stock Tips or Research Reports |
| Quick Paperless Account Opening | No Margin Trading Facility |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders
- Less brokerage fee: Groww offers low brokerage fees for intraday, delivery, and in other segments.
- Advanced charting tools: Have advanced tools for charting and indicators
- Multiple order types: You can opt limit orders, stop-loss orders and target orders for loss protection.
For Investors
- No commission on direct mutual funds: Commission-free mutual fund investment for direct funds
- User-friendly platform: Groww app has better UI
- Free Educational Resources: Groww offers free educational blogs, PDFs, and videos to help investors
Service Offered:
- Equity
- Derivatives
- IPO
- Fixed Deposits
- Direct Mutual Funds
- US Stocks
Groww Trading Platforms:
- Groww Web Trading Platform
- Groww Mobile Trading App
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 0.1% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Intraday | 0.1% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Futures | ₹20 per executed order |
| Options | ₹20 per executed order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
BlinkX by JM Financial — 4.3/5
BlinkX, the modern investment platform redefining the landscape of financial stockbroking services. BlinkX is built on a foundation of customer satisfaction and cutting-edge technology. This innovative trading app equips users with advanced tools and real-time data, empowering them to make smarter investment choices. JM Financial Services, an integral part of the JM Financial Group with over 50 years of experience, specializes in investment advisory and wealth management tailored for non-institutional clients.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No Fund Transfer Charges | No Website Terminal |
| Call and Trade in free | No US stock investment |
| Dedicated Relationship Manager | No Commodity Trading |
| Advanced trading App | No 3 in 1 Account |
| Research Calls | GTC and GTD are not available in Equity segment |
| Margin trading facility | Desktop trading platforms are unavailable |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
Subscription plan starting from Rs 249 for 2 months and Rs 899 for 12 months.
For Traders:
- Unlimited Trading: You can trade unlimited times with Blinkx Rs 899 subscription plan.
- Heatmap: Analyze market condition and liquidity by heatmap.
For Investors:
- No Fund Transfer Charge: There is no fund transfer charges with BlinkX.
- Multiple Investment Options: BlinkX has multiple investment options like mutual funds, stocks, F&O, currency and commodities.
Service Offered
- Equities
- Derivatives
- Currency
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
- ETFs
Blinkx Trading Platform
Charges: 0 for delivery Order, Unlimited trading by opting for the Rs 899 plan
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Read the full BlinkX by JM Financial review
Upstox — 4.2/5
Earlier known as RKSV, Upstox is a prominent discount broker in India that allows trading in equities, commodities, currency, futures, and options across BSE, NSE, and MCX. The stockbroker is supported by investors like Ratan Tata, Kalaari Capital, and GVK Davix.
The trading platforms provided by Upstox are cutting-edge and come with various advanced features that make stock trading seamless. In addition, Upstox allows its users to choose from thousands of mutual funds for investment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It offers no fees for trading | No GTC/GTT orders |
| Swift creation of a paperless account | Delivery transactions do not offer margin funding |
| Shareholdings to assist in margin trading | Occasionally reported technical concerns with apps |
| Affordable brokerage fees | No stock tips or research reports |
| User-friendly and intuitive trading platform | Chargeable call and trade option |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Powerful charting: Upstox offers advanced charting tools like 100+ indicators and 80+ drawing tools for deep analysis.
- Market discovery: Discover and analyse Market with Upstox app
- Advanced order execution: You can place basket orders with up to 10 entries and more
For Investors:
- Investment ideas: Upstox has multiple investment options like mutual funds, best stocks for beginners, and actively traded options
- News & insights: Stay updated with Market by Upstox alerts
- Order placement: Place order anywhere anytime with your desired amount
Service Offered
- Equity
- Commodity
- Currency
- Mutual fund
- ETF
- Derivatives
Upstox Trading Platform
- Upstox Pro Web Trading Platform
- Bridge for AmiBroker
- Developer Console
- Option Chain Tool
- Upstox MF Platform
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 2.5% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Intraday | 0.05% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Futures | 0.05% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Options | ₹20 per executed order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
ICICI Direct — 4.0/5
ICICI Direct has a large customer base in the Indian stock market. The stock broker allows traders and investors to trade in equity, commodity, and currency across BSE, NSE, and MCX. Other products offered by ICICI Direct are mutual funds & IPO, fixed deposits, bonds, NCD, wealth products, home loans, loans against securities, etc. Its flagship 3-in-1 account is quite popular among investors which is inclusive of ICICI Bank Account, ICICI Trading Account, and ICICI Demat Account.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 3-in-1 Trading Account | Very Expensive Brokerage Fees |
| Immediately available funds | Minimum Brokerage Charge |
| Various Investment Possibilities | Fees for Trading Penny Stocks |
| Dual Stock Exchange Access | Extra charge for Call Trade |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Advanced Trading Tools: Offers Advanced tools for analysis and trading
- 3-in-1 trading account: ICICI Direct provides the facility of 3-in-1 trading account.
- Instant Payout: Available instant payout within 5 minutes
For Investors
- Single access point: ICICI Direct provides a single access point for all your financial needs.
Service Offered
- Equities
- Derivatives
- Currency
- Commodities
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
- Fixed Deposits
- Government Bonds
- NCDs
- ETFs
- Loan Against Shares
ICICI Direct Trading Platforms:
- Trade Racer
- ICICI Direct Mobile Trading App
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 0.55% |
| Intraday | ₹20 per order |
| Futures | ₹50 per order |
| Options | ₹50 per order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Read the full ICICI Direct review
HDFC Securities — 3.9/5
HDFC Securities holds a special position in the online stockbroking space. HDFC Securities is counted among the leading full-service stockbrokers in India. It allows traders and investors to invest in bonds, shares, mutual funds, options, buybacks, commodities, currency derivatives, etc.
HDFC Securities provide a wide range of trading platforms that make online stockbroking seamless and effective. The best thing about HDFC Securities is its vast network which is comprised of branches, representatives, and touch points. It levies a brokerage of 0.01% per trade for equity delivery and Rs. 20 per order for trading in derivatives.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 3-in-1 trading account | High, fixed brokerage charges |
| Various investment options on a single platform | No commodity trading (MCX and NCDEX) |
| Best broker for trading in India as it allows both stock exchanges | You must have an HDFC Bank account for 3-in-1 accounts |
| User-friendly and intuitive trading platform | Brokerage of ₹25 per trade is particularly burdensome for low-value transactions. |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Multiple Trading Platforms: Offers multiple platforms for individual preferences.
- Customer Support: Help customers with 24/7 customer support
- Margin Trading Facility: Offers traders to leverage existing holdings to increase returns.
- Brokerage Plans: Multiple brokerage plans are available for all types of traders
For Investors:
- Single Investments platform: You can invest in various investment schemes at HDFC single platform.
- 3-in-1 Account: HDFC provides 3-in-1 account facility.
- Detailed Portfolio Tracking: HDFC offers detailed analysis of investors’ portfolios free of charge.
Service Offered:
- Equity
- Derivatives
- Currency
- Commodity
- Mutual funds
- Insurance
- IPOs
- Bonds
- PMS
- NCDs
- ETFs
- Loans against securities
HDFC Securities Trading Platforms:
- Blink
- ProTerminal
- HDFC Securities Mobile Trading App
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 0.07%-0.32% on transaction value |
| Intraday | 0.40%- 0.15% on transaction value |
| Futures | ₹20 per order |
| Options | ₹20 per order |
Account Opening Charges – ₹999
Read the full HDFC Securities review
5paisa — 3.8/5
Since 2007, 5paisa has been a fast-growing discount broker in India. The platform is known for its low costs and large choice of services. It caters to tech-savvy investors searching for low-cost decisions. 5Paisa charges a standard brokerage of Rs. 20 regardless of the trade size, category, or exchange.
All 5Paisa trading platforms are built on advanced technology and provide seamless trading experience to traders and investors. 5Paisa is the only discount broker that provides in-depth analysis and advice on over 4,000 businesses is 5paisa. The broker offers both short and long-term calls, derivative techniques, and investment ideas based on portfolios.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fixed-Rate Pricing | Margin Funding Challenges |
| All-in-One Account | High charges for Demat account debit |
| Quick Digital Account Opening | Higher Exchange Transaction Charges |
| Free Mutual Fund Account | No Commodity trading option |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Low Charges: The reasonable fixed-rate price of ₹20 per order makes it an excellent option for investors and traders on a budget.
- All in One Account: You can use one account for investing in any type of trading and investment
For Investors:
- Paperless Investing: Upstox has multiple investment options like mutual funds, best stocks for beginners, and actively traded options
- Multiple Mutual Funds: You can choose between multiple funds for investment
Service Offered
- Equities
- Currency
- Commodities
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
5Paisa Trading Platforms
- Investor terminal web platform
- Trader terminal
- 5Paisa shares trading mobile app.
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | ₹20 per order |
| Intraday | ₹20 per order |
| Futures | ₹20 per order |
| Options | ₹20 per order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Motilal Oswal — 3.7/5
Motilal Oswal is a well-known full-service brokerage company founded in India in 1987. It offers various investing alternatives such as shares, commodities, mutual funds, and more, is renowned for its research-driven methodology. It has built a reputation as one of the best stock brokers in India for its wealth management and counseling services.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 35+ years of experience | High brokerage charges |
| Free Equity Intraday Trading for Lifetime | No 3-in-1 account. |
| Free 1st Month FnO Brokerage up to ₹1,000 | Additional hidden charges |
| Wide investment options | Account opening charges |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders
- MY Wallet Feature: Check orders, positions, and limits all in one place in your trading app
- Live updates of market: Get live market updates on your MO trading app
- Bulk order functionality: Place orders in bulk by this function by Motilal Oswal
For Investors
- Less commission: Pay comparatively less commission for your investment
- Easy fund transfer: MO has an easy fund transfer facility in 60 bank accounts
- Easy UI: Get easy user experience on MO apps
Service Offered:
- Equities
- Commodities
- Currency
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investing
- Fixed Deposits
- SIPs
Motilal Oswal Trading Platforms
- Motilal Oswal trade
- Desktop trading platform
- Web trading platform
- Mobile app
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 0.20% |
| Intraday | 0.02% |
| Futures | 0.02% |
| Options | ₹20 per lot |
Account Opening Charges: Zero
Read the full Motilal Oswal review
Sharekhan — 3.6/5
Sharekhan, founded in 2000, has a solid reputation in the Indian brokerage business. Positioned among the top stock brokers in India and provides various investment services, such as portfolio management, mutual funds, derivatives, and stocks. Because of its valuable research and counseling services reputation, Sharekhan is a go-to alternative for many investors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| User-Friendly And Intuitive Trading Platforms | No 3-in-1 Account. |
| Flexible Brokerage Slabs | Percentage-Based Brokerage Charges |
| Comprehensive Training and Education | Minimum Brokerage Charges |
| Free Fund Transfers and DP Transactions | Limited Trading for Classic Account Holders |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Margin Trading: Leverage your holdings to increase gains with Sharekhan.
- Advanced Charts: Advance charting tools for better decision-making.
- Trigger Orders: Place orders automatically by setting time.
- Free Market Alert: Provides live updates and alerts to stay in the market
For Investors:
- SIP: Invest your money in SIP with Sharekhan Login.
- Direct Regular Mutual Funds:
- IPO Investments: Apply for IPO of new companies.
Service Offered:
- Equities
- Derivatives
- Currency
- Commodities
- Mutual Fund Investment
- IPO Investments
- PMS
- Depository Services
Sharekhan Trading Platforms:
- Trade Tiger
- Sharekhan web
- Sharekhan mobile app
- ComMobile Pro
- InstaMf App
Brokerage Charges:
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | 0.30% |
| Intraday | 0.02% |
| Futures | 0.02% |
| Options | ₹20 per lot |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Read the full Sharekhan review
Angel One — 4.1/5
Angel One (formerly Angel Broking), is considered among the top 10 stock brokers in India. Since 1987, Angel One has more than 30 years of experience (and has built a strong reputation for its commitment to providing financial services and investment opportunities to retail and institutional clients).
Angel One is also known for its wide partner network with 110 branches, 10000+ trading terminals, and more than 18000 authorized representatives in all big and small cities of India. Angel One’s flagship brokerage plan is ‘Angel iTrade PRIME’, which allows traders to trade in all segments (Intraday, F&O, Currencies & Commodities) at a flat Rs 20 per trade excluding Equity Delivery. There are no charges for Equity Delivery.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full-service at rock-bottom prices | Margin financing through surprise |
| Beginner training available | No trading in SMEs’ shares |
| Trading on margin with collateral | RM and sales team cross-sell |
| Stock And Mutual Fund Tips Or Research Reports | No GTC/GTT orders |
Special Features for Traders and Investors
For Traders:
- Advanced Trading Platforms: Offers Angel One Super and Angel One Trade app for seamless trading
- Advanced Charting Tools: Real-time charting by technical indicators and studies.
- Margin Trading: Leverage your holdings to increase gains with Angel One.
- Customer Support: You are supported by 24/7 customer service for any type of investment help.
For Investors
- Free Equity delivery: Zero brokerage for stocks.
- Research reports: Free research reports to help you make the right decision.
Service Offered
- Equity
- Derivatives
- Commodity
- Currency
- Mutual Funds
- IPO Investments
- US stocks
Angel One Trading Platforms:
- Angel iTrade
- Angel SpeedPro
- Angel Broking Login App
- Angel BEE
Brokerage Charges
| Segment | Charge |
|---|---|
| Delivery | ₹ 0 |
| Intraday | 0.03% or ₹20, whichever is less per order. |
| Futures | 0.25% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
| Options | 0.25% or ₹20, whichever is lower per executed order |
Account Opening Charges – Zero
Read the full Angel One review
Brokerage and other charges explained
Brokerage is only one part of what you pay. Every buy or sell order also attracts statutory and regulatory charges that are broadly the same regardless of which broker you use — which is why comparing total cost matters more than comparing headline brokerage alone.
- Brokerage: the broker’s own fee — either flat per order (₹5–₹20) or a percentage of turnover.
- Securities Transaction Tax (STT): a government levy on equity and derivative transactions.
- Exchange transaction charges: levied by NSE/BSE/MCX on turnover.
- SEBI turnover fee: a small regulatory charge on traded value.
- GST: 18% on brokerage plus transaction charges.
- Stamp duty: a state levy on buy-side transactions.
- DP / demat-debit charges: a flat fee per scrip on the sell side, charged by the depository participant.
- AMC: an annual demat maintenance charge — ₹0 with several brokers, otherwise roughly ₹199–₹750 a year.
For active traders, even small per-order differences compound over hundreds of trades, so model your likely monthly volume against each broker’s flat-versus-percentage pricing. You can estimate this quickly using our financial calculators.
How to open a demat and trading account
Opening an account with most brokers is fully online and takes only a few minutes; verification is usually completed within 24–48 hours.
- Choose a broker that fits your needs using the comparison and reviews above.
- Keep your PAN, Aadhaar, a cancelled cheque or bank statement, a signature image, and a photo ready.
- Complete the online KYC form and in-person verification (IPV), usually via a short video.
- E-sign the application with an Aadhaar OTP — no paperwork or courier needed.
- Once verified, your trading and demat accounts are activated and you can add funds and start investing.
Remember you can hold only one individual account per broker against your PAN, though you may open accounts with multiple brokers if you want different platforms or to separate strategies.
FAQs about Best Stock Broker in India
Which is the best stock broker in India in 2026?
There is no single best broker for everyone — the right choice depends on how you trade. For low-cost active trading, m.Stock (₹0 delivery, ₹5 per order on intraday and F&O) and Upstox lead; for free equity delivery and a proven platform, Zerodha and Angel One stand out; for a bank-linked 3-in-1 account, ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities are strongest. Use the comparison table above to match a broker to your needs.
Which stock broker has the lowest brokerage in India?
Discount brokers are the cheapest. m.Stock charges ₹0 on equity delivery and a flat ₹5 per order on intraday and F&O, while most discount brokers such as Zerodha, Upstox, Groww, and 5paisa cap intraday and F&O at ₹20 per order. When comparing, always add AMC and statutory charges (STT, exchange fees, GST, SEBI turnover fee, and stamp duty), not just headline brokerage.
Which is the best stock broker for beginners in India?
Beginners usually prefer Groww, Zerodha, or Angel One for their clean apps, low brokerage, and learning resources. If you mainly buy and hold, prioritise free equity delivery and low AMC; if you expect to trade often, prioritise low per-order cost and a stable platform. Start with a small amount until you are comfortable with order types and charges.
Which broker is best for intraday trading in India?
m.Stock (₹5 per order), Upstox, and Angel One offer some of the lowest per-order intraday costs. For active traders, small per-order differences add up quickly, so also weigh platform speed and stability, available intraday margin (MTF), and order types. A flat per-order fee is usually cheaper than a percentage plan once your order value rises.
Which brokers offer free equity delivery in India?
Zerodha, Angel One, and m.Stock offer zero brokerage on equity delivery, which suits long-term investors who buy and hold. Note that Upstox now charges ₹20 per order on delivery for accounts opened after 21 August 2021 — only older accounts retain free delivery. Even with free delivery, statutory charges and any AMC still apply.
What is the difference between a discount broker and a full-service broker?
Discount brokers focus on low-cost execution with flat or minimal brokerage and few advisory services — ideal if you make your own decisions. Full-service brokers charge higher, often percentage-based fees but add in-house research, advisory, and a dedicated relationship manager. Discount brokers include m.Stock, Zerodha, Groww, and Upstox; full-service names include ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities, and Motilal Oswal.
What are account-opening charges and AMC?
Account opening is a one-time fee to set up your trading and demat account; most discount brokers waive it. AMC (Annual Maintenance Charge) is a yearly demat fee — several brokers such as m.Stock, Groww, and BlinkX charge ₹0, while others range from about ₹199 to ₹750 a year. Always check both, since a “free” account can still carry AMC.
Is my money safe with a stock broker in India?
Funds held with a SEBI-registered broker are generally safe: client money must be kept in segregated accounts and your shares are held in your own demat account with CDSL or NSDL, not by the broker. As a precaution, avoid leaving large idle balances in the broker wallet and enable two-factor authentication. Stick to brokers with a clean regulatory and grievance record.
Can I open more than one demat account in India?
Yes. You can hold demat accounts with different brokers, but only one individual account per broker against your PAN. Joint accounts with the same broker are allowed. Multiple accounts can help you separate strategies or access different platforms, though fewer accounts are easier to track and may save on AMC.
Which is the best stock broker for F&O and options trading in India?
m.Stock stands out with a flat ₹5 per order on F&O, while Angel One, Upstox, Zerodha, and most discount brokers charge ₹20 per order. For options, also compare margin requirements, the option chain and order-placement speed, and how the platform handles fast markets. Because F&O involves high volumes, per-order pricing usually beats percentage plans.
Which is the best 3-in-1 account in India?
ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities offer the best-known 3-in-1 accounts, linking your savings bank account, trading account, and demat in one place for instant fund transfers. They suit investors who value convenience and bank-grade trust over the lowest possible brokerage. If cost matters more, switch to their flat-fee plans (ICICI Neo, HDFC Sky) or choose a discount broker.
How much money do I need to start trading in India?
There is no fixed minimum — most discount brokers let you open an account for free, and you can start with whatever you can afford to invest. You only need enough to buy at least one share (or one lot for F&O) plus charges. Beginners should start small, invest only money they will not need soon, and avoid leverage until they understand the risks.
What charges apply besides brokerage?
Beyond brokerage, every trade attracts statutory and regulatory charges: Securities Transaction Tax (STT), exchange transaction fees, the SEBI turnover fee, GST at 18% on brokerage and transaction charges, and stamp duty. Demat accounts may also levy DP/debit charges per sell transaction and an annual AMC. These are broadly the same across brokers, so compare total cost, not just headline brokerage.
Which is the best trading app in India?
Every broker listed here offers a mobile app — Zerodha’s Kite, Groww, Angel One, Upstox, and m.Stock are among the most popular. The best app for you depends on interface, stability under load, charting, and the segments you trade. Compare them on our best trading app guide before deciding, and test the app with a small trade first.
How do I switch from one stock broker to another?
You do not need to sell your holdings to switch. Open an account with the new broker, then transfer your shares between demat accounts using an off-market transfer or by shifting your demat through CDSL/NSDL. You can also keep the old account dormant. Compare AMC and closure charges before moving, and remember to update any linked SIPs.
The bottom line
The best stock broker in India is the one that fits how you trade, not the one with the flashiest marketing. For the lowest active-trading costs, m.Stock (₹0 delivery, ₹5 per order) and Upstox are hard to beat. For free equity delivery and a rock-solid platform, Zerodha and Angel One lead. If you want a bank-linked 3-in-1 account with research, ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities are the strongest picks, while Motilal Oswal and Sharekhan suit investors who value advisory and education.
Whichever you choose, compare total cost — brokerage plus AMC and statutory charges — and confirm the latest rates on the broker’s official tariff before opening an account. Start with the master comparison, read the full review of your shortlist, and open the account that matches your trading style.
| Stock Broker | Charges | Top offers |
|---|---|---|
| m.Stock | Free | Open Free Account |
| Zerodha | 0 for Delivery, Rs 20/Order for other | Open Free Demat |
| Groww | Rs.20/order | Open Account |
| BlinkX by JM Financial | Open Account | |
| Upstox | Rs 20 per Order | Open Account |
| ICICI Direct | 0.55% for delivery, 0.275% for Intraday | Open Account |
| HDFC Securities | 0.5% for delivery, 0.05% for Intraday | Open Account |
| 5Paisa | Rs 20 per Order | Open Account |
| Motilal Oswal | Rs 1/Order | Open Account |
| Sharekhan | Free | Open Account |