Quote from mercurial:
I have gone both the multi provider and tradestation only routes.
I can say from first hand experience that the TS route made more sense. Current releases are very fast and stable. I autotrade without any issues for months at a time.
Fewer moving parts make a big difference when things DO go wrong. Having to track the status of fills and cancellations alone during data surges and interruptions is a big deal. Ts does a good job so far. In a multi app solution it can be a big problem.
unless you can program your own App, the cost of getting the job done to a satisfactory level would exceed any savings you could hope to achieve using IB vs TS.
Also, the commission difference is really inconsequential unless you are trading large volume. In which case, upgrade to the F1 pricing plan (500 per month) and you'll get 1.66 a side for CME traded futures. You will be ahead after 225 RT or so.
Obviously the lack IRA and lack of foreign markets are additional considerations unrelated to the apps themselves.
One more consideration: Opportunity cost. While you are putting together your perfect platform, others may well be discovering the inefficiency that comprises your system's edge. Take advantage of something that works while it is still working.
Best of luck to you.
