Comparison of Robinhood vs TradeStation [ 2025 ]

The best brokers to invest in cryptocurrencies compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is theRobinhood vs TradeStation comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Robinhood

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

TradeStation

Main points

Fees

Low 4,7/5

Regulated

SEC, FINRA

Demo account

Low 4,2/5

Fees

FINRA, SEC

Regulated

Yes

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Passive income

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.1 – Robinhood offers commission-free trading, which is excellent for beginners. However, the inability to transfer cryptocurrencies off the platform and limited cryptocurrency options can be limiting .

3.9 – TradeStation charges competitive volume-based fees starting at $2 + 0.65% for small trades. The complex fee structure and $10 monthly inactivity fee are notable drawbacks .

Level

Low 4,7/5

Low 4,2/5

Brief explanation

Robinhood Crypto does not charge any commission fees for trading cryptocurrencies on its platform. Users can buy and sell 15 different cryptocurrencies without incurring additional costs, making it an attractive option for those looking to trade without worrying about hidden fees. However, while Robinhood does not impose direct trading fees, it passes on network fees from crypto miners and validators to users when processing blockchain transactions. Additionally, Robinhood makes money through payment for order flow (PFOF), which involves selling user order information to market makers and may not always result in the best execution prices for trades. In summary, Robinhood Crypto offers commission-free trading, but users should be aware of network fees and the potential implications of PFOF on trade execution prices .

TradeStation charges competitive fees for cryptocurrency trading, though there are some costs to be aware of. Trading commissions are based on a tiered structure, starting at 0.30% per trade for monthly volumes up to $100,000 and decreasing to 0.20% for volumes above $1 million. This makes TradeStation suitable for both small and large traders. Additionally, there is a spread markup, which is the difference between the bid and ask prices, typically ranging from 0.5% to 1%. The platform also charges an inactivity fee of $50 if there is no trading activity for 12 months, and wire transfer withdrawal fees are $25 for US clients and $35 for international clients. These fees can add up, especially for infrequent traders. Despite these costs, TradeStation’s comprehensive tools and security measures can justify the expenses for those who prioritize advanced trading capabilities and regulatory compliance.

Robinhood

Year founded: Robinhood was founded in 2013, which provides a decade-long track record in the financial services industry.
Number of users: The platform boasts over 22 million users, reflecting its popularity and trust among investors.
Security methods: Robinhood employs industry-standard security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA) and encryption, to protect user data and funds.
Regulation: Robinhood is regulated by top-tier authorities such as the SEC and FINRA, ensuring compliance with stringent financial regulations.
Reputation and Reviews: The platform has received generally positive reviews for its ease of use and innovative commission-free trading model, though it has faced some criticism regarding customer service.

TradeStation

Year Founded: Established in 1982, TradeStation has a long track record of stability and innovation in the brokerage industry.
Security Methods: TradeStation employs robust security measures, including two-factor authentication and encryption, to protect user data and assets.
Regulation and Licensing: TradeStation is regulated by top-tier US authorities such as the SEC and FINRA, ensuring compliance with strict financial standards.
Reputation and Reviews: TradeStation has consistently received positive reviews from users and industry experts for its advanced trading tools and comprehensive platform.
Transparency: As a subsidiary of Monex Group, a publicly listed company, TradeStation maintains a high level of transparency by regularly publishing financial statements and complying with rigorous disclosure requirements.

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Product selection

Native token

Robinhood does not have a native token.

TradeStation does not have a native token.

Earns

Robinhood does not offer staking or other earning options for cryptocurrencies. The platform is geared towards trading a select few cryptocurrencies .

TradeStation does not provide staking or earning options with cryptocurrencies. The platform allows direct trading of certain cryptocurrencies .

NFT marketplace

Robinhood does not have an NFT marketplace.

TradeStation does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

Robinhood provides a debit card that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted .

TradeStation does not have a card for its clients .

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes, Robinhood accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Yes, TradeStation accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Mastercard

No, Robinhood does not accept Mastercard for deposits.

No, TradeStation does not accept Mastercard for deposits.

Wire transfer

Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

No, Robinhood does not accept credit/debit cards for deposits, but it offers a debit card for use .

No, TradeStation does not accept credit/debit cards .

Comparative table

Robinhood	Features	TradeStation
Robinhood Crypto allows users to start trading with as little as $1, making it highly accessible to beginners and those with limited capital.	Minimum Trade	TradeStation allows for low minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners.
The platform is known for its commission-free trading, which means users can trade cryptocurrencies without incurring additional costs, making it very cost-effective.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Fees are higher than some competitors, especially for withdrawals.
While the platform supports 15 cryptocurrencies, this number is relatively low compared to other exchanges that offer a broader range of digital assets.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Only offers Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin.
Robinhood does not support direct trading between different cryptocurrencies, limiting trading flexibility.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Limited to major coins, restricting diversification opportunities.
The website is user-friendly and provides clear information, but it could benefit from more detailed explanations on certain services and policies.	Website Transparency	TradeStation provides clear and detailed information about its services and fees.
Robinhood provides a debit card that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted .	Credit/Debit Card	TradeStation does not have a card for its clients .
Robinhood does not support external wallets, meaning users cannot transfer their cryptocurrencies off the platform, which is a significant limitation for those seeking more control over their assets.	Storage Offering	Utilizes secure storage solutions with BitGo for crypto assets.
The platform does not offer staking or rewards programs, which are features available on many other cryptocurrency exchanges.	Staking and Rewards	No staking or rewards programs available.
Robinhood provides an excellent mobile and desktop trading experience, known for its seamless integration and user-friendly design.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both platforms are user-friendly and feature-rich, but the mobile app has fewer features.
Customer service has been a point of criticism, with reports of slow response times and limited support options, which can be frustrating for users needing immediate assistance.	Customer Service	Customer service is decent but has room for improvement in response times and support quality.
Deposits and withdrawals are straightforward, but the lack of support for transferring cryptocurrencies to external wallets remains a drawback.	Deposit and Withdraw	Limited methods and high fees for withdrawals, making it less user-friendly.

Key features

Analysis tools

Robinhood offers advanced charting and screener tools, with in-depth charting, dozens of technical indicators, and market data from multiple sources. However, their crypto trading is separated into a different app, Webull Pay, which continues the same features .

TradeStation provides a powerful desktop trading platform with customizable sophisticated analysis tools, custom charts, and a detailed order book for crypto trading. They also offer mobile app trading with improved charting capabilities .

Mobile APP

Yes, Robinhood has a highly rated mobile app that allows users to trade cryptocurrencies along with other assets .

Yes, TradeStation offers a mobile app that includes advanced charting, trading, and analysis tools .

Security

Robinhood is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of investor protection. They offer SIPC insurance for securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit. However, they do not provide negative balance protection.

TradeStation is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing high investor protection levels. They offer SIPC insurance but do not provide negative balance protection. Their parent company is publicly listed, enhancing transparency.

Additional features

Robinhood provides commission-free trading on a selection of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin through their mobile app. They offer a user-friendly platform with features such as instant deposits, real-time data, and access to margin accounts with Robinhood Gold. However, their crypto services are limited compared to specialized crypto exchanges .

TradeStation offers direct cryptocurrency trading for a limited selection of coins, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin. Their platform includes advanced features like strategy development and technical analysis through the TradeStation Master Class. They also support crypto trading in IRAs and provide competitive volume-based fees. However, their crypto offerings have decreased in recent years .

Anonymity

Robinhood does not offer anonymous accounts. Users must provide personal details and complete verification steps .

Anonymous accounts are not supported on TradeStation. Personal and financial information along with verification documents are required.

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

Robinhood supports trading in a limited number of cryptocurrencies. The available cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Bitcoin SV (BSV), Dogecoin (DOGE), Ethereum (ETH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), and Litecoin (LTC).

TradeStation offers trading in a few cryptocurrencies. The supported cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USD Coin (USDC) .

User-friendliness

Robinhood offers a sleek and user-friendly mobile app that makes it easy for users to trade cryptocurrencies alongside other assets. The platform’s simplicity and commission-free trading are major advantages, though it lacks some advanced features and educational tools. Additionally, Robinhood does not allow users to withdraw their crypto holdings to external wallets, which could be a limitation for some traders .

TradeStation provides a powerful and intuitive platform for trading cryptocurrencies. The platform is designed to cater to both novice and experienced traders, with a range of tools and features that enhance the trading experience. While the selection of cryptocurrencies is limited, the platform’s overall usability and support make it a solid choice for crypto trading.

Value for money

Robinhood is renowned for its commission-free trading, providing excellent value for money, especially for beginners. However, its limited cryptocurrency offerings and inability to transfer crypto out of the platform may limit its appeal for more advanced users.

TradeStation offers good value with competitive volume-based fees and a range of trading tools. Its inactivity fee of $10 per month and the administrative fee for IRAs might be less attractive for occasional traders.

Countries of operation

United States (in most states) .

United States, available to most other countries except restricted regions like North Korea and Sudan .

Best for

Robinhood is perfect for beginners and younger investors who want an easy-to-use, commission-free platform to trade a limited range of cryptocurrencies. Its integration with stock and ETF trading makes it convenient for those looking to diversify their investments.

TradeStation is suited for experienced traders who value advanced trading tools and direct access to crypto trading. Its detailed order book and professional-grade platform make it ideal for those who want to trade and analyze cryptocurrencies deeply.

Account

Trading

Robinhood allows direct cryptocurrency trading with zero commissions, making it an attractive option for retail investors. However, it offers a limited range of cryptocurrencies compared to other platforms.

TradeStation offers a limited selection of cryptocurrencies but provides a powerful trading platform with advanced tools and features. It is suitable for traders who want to integrate crypto trading with other financial products.

Deposit and withdrawal

Robinhood allows deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers. The process is straightforward and free of charge, but the limited options can be a drawback for some users.

TradeStation supports deposits and withdrawals primarily via bank transfers. While the process is secure, it can be slower and more expensive compared to other brokers, with fees for wire transfers.

Account opening process

Robinhood offers an easy and quick account opening process. Users complete an online application, provide personal information, and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and accounts are typically approved within a day.

Opening an account with TradeStation is fully digital and user-friendly. Users need to provide personal and financial information and submit verification documents. The process usually takes one to two business days for approval.

KYC required?

Yes, KYC is required at Robinhood. Users must submit personal identification documents and proof of address to verify their accounts.

TradeStation requires KYC verification. Users need to provide personal identification documents and proof of address before they can start trading.

Customer Service

Robinhood offers customer support primarily through email and in-app messaging. They have recently introduced phone support, but response times can vary. The support team is helpful, though some users report delays in getting issues resolved.

TradeStation provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat. The support is available during market hours and is generally responsive, though some users find the service to be slower during peak times.

Security

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

As an expert on our website, I recommend Robinhood Crypto for its ease of use and commission-free trading. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who want to start trading cryptocurrencies with minimal initial investment. However, be mindful of its limitations, such as the lack of support for external wallets and limited customer service. Overall, it’s a solid platform for those new to crypto trading, offering a straightforward and accessible entry into the market.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert in the crypto market, I find TradeStation to be a solid platform for those who prioritize security and advanced trading tools. While its cryptocurrency offerings are limited to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USD Coin, the platform excels in providing a highly regulated environment and robust trading features. TradeStation’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive educational resources make it a suitable choice for both seasoned traders and those looking to gain deeper insights into crypto trading. However, the high withdrawal fees and limited deposit options are areas that could be improved to enhance the overall user experience.

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How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).

For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.

Comparison of Robinhood vs TradeStation [ 2025 ]

Robinhood

TradeStation

Main points

Recommended for

Comparison of fees

Rating

Level

Brief explanation

Robinhood

TradeStation

Product selection

Native token

Earns

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Company information

Full name

Regulation

Year founded

Founder

Payment methods

Transfers

Mastercard

Wire transfer

Card

Comparative table

Key features

Analysis tools

Mobile APP

Security

Additional features

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

User-friendliness

Value for money

Countries of operation

Best for

Account

Trading

Deposit and withdrawal

Account opening process

KYC required?

Customer Service

Security

Which of these exchanges is for you?

How do we review crypto exchanges?

Risk Disclaimer

More comparatives Robinhood and TradeStation