Alternatives to IB

D

doli

I have used IB for some time, but the problems and performance are discouraging, so I'd like to find a new broker. The way I trade (stocks and futures) is by hitting the bid and ask, so I need accurate and timely quotes. I also like to watch charts while trading, so I'd like charts that update with each tick.

My problems with IB:

1) When I need to use an order ticket, TWS stops for several seconds.

2) The charts only update every 5 seconds, so I have to watch the ticker instead of the chart.

3) Due to volatility and/or aggregation of the tickers, when I hit the bid/ask, an order may be placed at a price other than the one I hit (clicked on). This may also be a performance problem.

Right now, I think TWS is better for passive traders (ones who put an order into the book) rather than active traders.

My computer is fast with plenty of memory.

Any recommendations?
 
I only trade futures so can only recommend a futures broker. Shoot me a PM, and I'll send you my broker's contact info. Super fast platform, better margins and commissions :)
 
Have you tried using a different order entry system, like Ninja, and a different data feed? I use NT for my forex trading with IB and it is far superior than trading off FX trader or the TWS. One click from charts or the level 2
 
IB used to have competitive commissions, so people would put up with their sh*t. That's no longer the case; the brokerage market is much more competitive now, and much better margin and commission rates are being offered at other firms, with better service and faster execution. I used to be with IB, so I know your pain :D
 
Quote from doli:

I have used IB for some time, but the problems and performance are discouraging, so I'd like to find a new broker. The way I trade (stocks and futures) is by hitting the bid and ask, so I need accurate and timely quotes. I also like to watch charts while trading, so I'd like charts that update with each tick.

My problems with IB:

1) When I need to use an order ticket, TWS stops for several seconds.

2) The charts only update every 5 seconds, so I have to watch the ticker instead of the chart.

3) Due to volatility and/or aggregation of the tickers, when I hit the bid/ask, an order may be placed at a price other than the one I hit (clicked on). This may also be a performance problem.

Right now, I think TWS is better for passive traders (ones who put an order into the book) rather than active traders.

My computer is fast with plenty of memory.

Any recommendations?
More...

1) Why use a ticket in the first place?
2) Use Medved Quote tracker or Ninjatrader
3) Prices update 3 times per second or more I think. When I hit it's almost instantaneous. I have trades with a program (Excel spreadsheet) that get's in and out in less than one second roundtrip. I dont get it.
 
Quote from cstfx:

Have you tried using a different order entry system, like Ninja, and a different data feed? I use NT for my forex trading with IB and it is far superior than trading off FX trader or the TWS. One click from charts or the level 2
More...

I'll look into it.
 
Quote from total_keops:

1) Why use a ticket in the first place?
2) Use Medved Quote tracker or Ninjatrader
3) Prices update 3 times per second or more I think. When I hit it's almost instantaneous. I have trades with a program (Excel spreadsheet) that get's in and out in less than one second roundtrip. I dont get it.
More...

I use the order ticket when I've accumulated more than the size that is set-up into my default size, which is used when hitting the bid/ask.
 
Quote from doli:

I use the order ticket when I've accumulated more than the size that is set-up into my default size, which is used when hitting the bid/ask.
More...
Wouldn't it be faster to change the numbers manually in the order row? That's what I do.
Also, you can program a shortcut key (easy to set up). Suppose I have 500 shares (my default being 200) and I want to close it all. I select the position row with the mouse, hit the "c" on the keyboard and it places a close position order (of 500) and I only have to clic on transmit. Very fast. I dont know if there are better ways.
 
Alternatives to IB??? Are you nuckin' futz!!!???

That'd be like going back to this:


NT3775096.jpg
 
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