CommSec Alternatives & Competitors

Checking

Replacement verdicts

CommSec logo

Alternatives to CommSec

Curated replacements grouped by fit, tradeoffs, pricing flexibility, and platform access. Use this list to decide which CommSec competitor is worth testing first.

Looking for a CommSec replacement? We've profiled 20 alternatives by workflow fit, pricing flexibility, caveats, and platform access. Whether you need a free option to trial, mobile-ready workflows, or API integrations, this list helps you choose what to test first.

Disclosure: outbound links may include affiliate or sponsor links

Which Alternative Should You Use?

Wealthsimple logo

Wealthsimple

Closest replacement

Best for: Canadian residents seeking $0 online commissions for listed Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs.

  • Wealthsimple best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
  • Wealthsimple lists Free and Subscription pricing, so compare the current plan against your existing setup.

Watch for: Canada-only eligibility: Individual applicants must reside in Canada and meet provincial or territorial age-of-majority requirements.

CIBC Investor's Edge logo

CIBC Investor's Edge

Best pricing fit

Best for: Canadian residents who want self-directed brokerage linked to CIBC banking.

  • CIBC Investor's Edge best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
  • CIBC Investor's Edge shares Other pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Canada-only opening: Individual opening is limited to eligible Canadian residents.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) logo

Interactive Brokers (IBKR)

Quality-checked pick

Best for: Active investors who need global multi-asset access, advanced orders, APIs, and volume-based commissions.

  • Interactive Brokers (IBKR) best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, portfolio tracking, and options and trading workflows.
  • Interactive Brokers (IBKR) lists Free and Subscription pricing, so compare the current plan against your existing setup.

Watch for: Commission and market-data details vary by market: The record contains separate stock, ETF, options, futures, crypto, and market-data pricing notes by region and product.

Monex Securities logo

Monex Securities

Strong runner-up

Best for: Japan residents who need Japanese and U.S. securities in one self-directed account.

  • Monex Securities best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
  • Monex Securities shares Other pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Japan residents only: The ordinary account is limited to Japan residents and is restricted when a customer becomes non-resident.

Detailed Alternatives

I want to

Our ranked order by workflow overlap and quality.

1
Wealthsimple logo
Closest replacement

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online commissions for listed Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Canadian and U.S. listed stock and ETF trades have $0 stated online commission.
  • Fractional stock and ETF market orders start at $1.
  • Core clients pay $10 CAD plus tax monthly for USD accounts after a 30-day trial; Premium and Generation include them.
  • Self-directed investment accounts use CIPF protection within applicable account-category limits.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Useful when you want to add macro and fund research instead of mirroring the current workflow.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Currency conversion, index-option, exercise, instant-withdrawal and product costs can apply.
  • Canada-only eligibility: Individual applicants must reside in Canada and meet provincial or territorial age-of-majority requirements.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
WealthsimpleTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

2
CIBC Investor's Edge logo
Best pricing fit

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed brokerage linked to CIBC banking.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $6.95, or $4.95 under Active Trader pricing.
  • Over 180 selected ETFs can trade commission-free when the live list and holding rules are met.
  • All ordinary CAD and USD brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.
  • CDRs are separate securities and do not prove direct fractional-share order support.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
  • Canada-only opening: Individual opening is limited to eligible Canadian residents.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
CIBC Investor's EdgeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

3
Monex Securities logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Japan residents who need Japanese and U.S. securities in one self-directed account.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Domestic per-order commissions start at ¥55 and top out at ¥1,070 under the published online tiers.
  • U.S. security commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
  • One Share buys eligible Japanese securities below the standard lot from one share.
  • Segregated assets have Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, My Number and linked-bank checks, and Domestic, U.S., odd-lot, currency and derivative transactions use different schedules.
  • Japan residents only: The ordinary account is limited to Japan residents and is restricted when a customer becomes non-resident.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Monex SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

4
Rakuten Securities logo
Rakuten SecuritiesDrop-in replacement
4
Rakuten Securities logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Japan residents who need Japanese and U.S. securities, funds, bonds, and derivatives in one account.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Zero Course domestic cash-equity brokerage is ¥0 when its SOR/R-Cross conditions are accepted.
  • U.S. stock and ETF commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
  • Kabumini trades eligible Japanese shares below the standard lot from one share.
  • Segregated assets are backed by Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, tax and account screening, and Zero Course domestic pricing has SOR/R-Cross and electronic-service conditions.
  • Japan residents only: The modeled account is not open as a general overseas route, and non-resident customers face restrictions.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Rakuten SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

5
SBI Securities logo
SBI SecuritiesDrop-in replacement
5
SBI Securities logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Japan residents who need domestic shares, U.S. securities, funds, bonds, and derivatives in one account.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Zero Revolution lists ¥0 brokerage for eligible domestic cash, margin and S-share orders under its conditions.
  • U.S. security commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
  • S-shares provide eligible Japanese securities below the standard lot from one share.
  • Segregated assets have Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, My Number and bank-account checks, and Domestic zero brokerage requires electronic-delivery and course conditions.
  • Japan residents only: SBI limits opening to domestic residents and states it does not hold overseas securities-business licenses.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
SBI SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

6
Public.com logo
Public.comDrop-in replacement
6
Public.com logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Eligible U.S. investors looking for stocks, ETFs, bonds, and options in one self-directed interface.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
  • Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
  • Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
  • The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved eligible U.S. brokerage account is required, and Regular-hours U.S.-listed equity trades are free, but extended-hours, OTC, plan, transfer, and regulatory fees can apply.
  • U.S.-only onboarding: Opening requires a U.S. residential address, valid SSN, and supported citizenship, residency, or visa status.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

7
BMO InvestorLine logo
BMO InvestorLineDrop-in replacement
7
BMO InvestorLine logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed investing through a BMO brokerage.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $9.95, or $3.95 for qualifying active traders.
  • More than 100 selected ETFs can qualify for commission-free trading.
  • Standard ordinary CAD, USD and registered brokerage cash currently earns 0%.
  • Allocated bullion and precious-metal certificates are available with product-specific commissions.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian self-directed brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
  • Canada-only opening: The reviewed individual opening flow is for eligible Canadian residents.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
BMO InvestorLineTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

8
Groww logo
GrowwDrop-in replacement
8
Groww logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Resident Indian investors who want stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, IPOs, and derivatives in one web and mobile account.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • One resident-India platform spans NSE/BSE cash equities, ETFs, direct mutual funds, F&O and MCX commodity derivatives.
  • Groww Invest Tech is a SEBI-registered broker and CDSL/NSDL depository participant.
  • Trading and demat opening and maintenance are listed at ₹0, with transaction and depository charges disclosed separately.
  • UPI, net banking and Indian bank transfers fund the trading balance, with eligible instant withdrawals under ₹1 lakh.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, The current opening route is for resident Indian applicants and eligible Indian entities, not NRIs, and Trades incur brokerage, depository, exchange, tax and regulatory charges according to product and order type.
  • No NRI accounts: Groww expressly says NRIs cannot currently invest in mutual funds, stocks or F&O through the platform.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
GrowwTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

9
RBC Direct Investing logo
RBC Direct InvestingDrop-in replacement
9
RBC Direct Investing logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed investing through an RBC brokerage.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $9.95, or $6.95 under Active Trader pricing.
  • Selected ETFs and online mutual-fund trades can carry a $0 RBC commission.
  • Gold and silver certificates have a 100-ounce minimum and a $43 minimum commission.
  • Ordinary CAD, USD and registered brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved self-directed brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
  • Canada-only public opening: The reviewed public account-opening offer establishes eligibility for Canadian residents only.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
RBC Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

10
TD Direct Investing logo
TD Direct InvestingPartial replacement
10
TD Direct Investing logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: Canadian residents who need self-directed access to stocks, ETFs, options, funds, bonds, GICs, and research.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Whole-share Canadian and U.S. stocks cost $9.99 standard or $7 for Active Traders.
  • Eligible partial-share stock and ETF trades cost $1.99 and record holdings to five decimals.
  • Standard CAD, USD and registered brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.
  • TD Easy Trade is a separate service with a narrower product set and different free-trade terms.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Most whole-share stock trades are paid; only select ETFs are commission-free.
  • Canada-only opening: Applicants must be Canadian residents and meet age and account-specific requirements.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
TD Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

11
E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley logo
E*TRADE from Morgan StanleyPartial replacement
11
E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: U.S. self-directed investors who need several account types, research, retirement administration, and multiple trading platforms.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • $0 online U.S. exchange-listed stock and ETF commissions; options cost $0.65 or $0.50 per contract by activity tier.
  • Eligible listed Reg-NMS fractions start at $5 and support quantities to three decimal places during the rollout.
  • The default Bank Deposit Program pays 0.01%, 0.05%, or 0.15% APY by current balance tier.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage features require an approved account and cleared funding, and Options, margin, futures, crypto and specialized registrations require separate eligibility.
  • Low default cash rate: The standard Bank Deposit Program pays 0.01% below $500,000 under the current tier schedule.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
E*TRADE from Morgan StanleyTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

12
Firstrade logo
FirstradePartial replacement
12
Firstrade logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: U.S. and supported international investors seeking $0 online stock, ETF, mutual-fund, and options commissions.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and listed options have $0 stated online commissions and $0 standard options contract fees.
  • International brokerage is available only for the current official matrix of 27 countries and regions.
  • Fractional trading covers selected equities and ETFs, but fractions cannot transfer and carry voting and liquidity limitations.
  • Firstrade currently posts 0.15% for brokerage credit interest and Apex FDIC-swept cash across all balance tiers.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved domestic or supported international brokerage account is required, and Regulatory, short-borrow, fixed-income, fund, broker-assisted, and transfer costs can apply.
  • Restricted international matrix: International onboarding is limited to 27 named countries and regions and cannot be generalized globally.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
FirstradeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

13
National Bank Direct Brokerage logo
National Bank Direct BrokeragePartial replacement
13

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online Canadian and U.S. stock and ETF commissions.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Online Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs carry $0 stated commission.
  • A $100 annual administration fee is waived under published asset, age, InvestCube or offer conditions.
  • Uninvested brokerage credit balances currently pay 0% in the live pricing table.
  • CAD-USD conversion spreads fall from 1.70% to 0.60% across published transaction tiers.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and The $100 annual administration fee requires a published waiver condition to avoid.
  • Canada-only online opening: The online application requires Canadian residence and age 18 or older.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
National Bank Direct BrokerageTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-09-02 via pricing.

14
Qtrade Direct Investing logo
Qtrade Direct InvestingPartial replacement
14
Qtrade Direct Investing logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online equity, ETF and mutual-fund commissions.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Online equities, ETFs and mutual funds carry $0 stated commission.
  • Online options cost $0 plus $0.75 per contract, with separate assignment and exercise fees.
  • Published cash-credit rates are 0% through C$2 million and 0.10% above in CAD, while USD remains 0%.
  • The official DRIP program purchases full shares only; direct fractional orders were not established.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on filings and transcript research and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian brokerage account is required, and Transaction, product, service, FX and transfer fees can apply despite $0 equity and ETF commissions.
  • Canada-only opening: New applicants must be Canadian residents and meet provincial or territorial age requirements.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Qtrade Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

15
SoFi Invest logo
SoFi InvestDrop-in replacement
15
SoFi Invest logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: Eligible U.S. investors who want self-directed investing in the SoFi app.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • $0 stated online commissions for U.S. stocks, ETFs, and listed options, with other charges possible.
  • Eligible fractional stock and ETF purchases start at $5 and support quantities to five decimals.
  • The optional bank sweep changes eligible cash protection from SIPC to FDIC after funds reach program banks.
  • SoFi Securities LLC is FINRA-registered under CRD 151717 and is a SIPC member.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Trading requires an approved eligible brokerage account, and The self-directed investing minimum is $5.
  • U.S.-resident eligibility: Residents abroad and in U.S. territories are excluded. U.S. address, taxpayer ID, and qualifying status are required.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
SoFi InvestTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

16
Merrill Edge logo
Merrill EdgePartial replacement
16
Merrill Edge logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: U.S. Bank of America customers valuing linked banking, immediate eligible transfers, and relationship-level visibility.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • $0 online stock and ETF commissions and $0 option base commission plus $0.65 per contract.
  • Linked eligible Bank of America transfers can be real time; external bank, wire, check, and account-transfer funding are supported.
  • Standard bank-sweep rates are currently 0.01%, 0.05%, or 0.15% by balance tier.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists, filings and transcript research, and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage use requires an approved Merrill account, and Options, margin, trust, estate and business accounts have additional rules.
  • Low standard cash rate: The standard bank sweep pays 0.01% below $1 million under the current rate sheet.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Merrill EdgeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

17
Webull logo
WebullPartial replacement
17
Webull logo
Partial replacement

Bottom line: Eligible U.S. traders looking for mobile, web, and desktop execution with $0 online commissions for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • $0 online commissions for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, subject to disclosed exceptions and regulatory charges.
  • Selected U.S. stock and ETF fractional purchases start at $1.
  • Cash Management sweeps eligible settled cash to program banks and supports up to $5 million total FDIC eligibility under program limits.

Lose

  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists, filings and transcript research, and advisor and client reporting.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Trading requires an approved eligible brokerage account, and Options, margin, entity and IRA access have additional rules.
  • U.S. eligibility rules: Applicants need a U.S. address, SSN or ITIN, and permanent-resident or accepted-visa status.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
WebullTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

18
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) logo
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)Quality-checked pick
18
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) logo
Quality-checked pick

Interactive Brokers (IBKR)

Analyst pickTested by us

Bottom line: Active investors who need global multi-asset access, advanced orders, APIs, and volume-based commissions.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Options

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • Smart/Direct Routing
  • Paper Trading
  • Screeners

Lose

  • Downloadable Tax Reports
  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data and portfolio watchlists.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage account has no recurring platform fee in the profile, but trading commissions and add-on fees vary by product, and Real-time market data and Level II data generally require subscriptions.
  • Commission and market-data details vary by market: The record contains separate stock, ETF, options, futures, crypto, and market-data pricing notes by region and product.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)Transaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

19
AJ Bell logo
AJ BellDrop-in replacement
19
AJ Bell logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: UK investors looking for taxable, ISA, LISA, junior, trust, company, and pension accounts with one provider.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • Share custody is 0.25% with monthly caps from £2.50 to £10 depending on the account wrapper.
  • Fund custody is generally 0.25% on the first £250,000, 0.10% on the next £250,000, then zero.
  • Online dealing costs £5 for listed securities or £1.50 for funds; frequent share dealing can fall to £3.50.

Lose

  • Options
  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage access requires an approved eligible UK account, and Shares, funds, FX, taxes, levies, and investment products can each add charges.
  • UK tax residence required: New online accounts require UK tax residence. U.S. and Canadian citizens or tax residents are excluded.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
AJ BellTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

20
Hargreaves Lansdown logo
Hargreaves LansdownDrop-in replacement
20
Hargreaves Lansdown logo
Drop-in replacement

Bottom line: UK investors looking for broad funds, shares, ETFs, bonds, ISA, LISA, junior, trust, and pension accounts in one established platform.

Keep

  • Brokerage
  • Portfolio
  • Watchlist
  • Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

  • Advanced Order Types
  • Funds have a tiered annual account charge starting at 0.35%; listed assets are generally 0.35% capped at £150 per account annually.
  • One-off online fund trades cost £1.95; listed-security trades cost £6.95 or £3.95 after 20+ prior-month trades.
  • Overseas share FX is tiered at 0.99%, 0.50%, and 0.20% by trade value.

Lose

  • Options
  • Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
  • Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
  • International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
  • The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Watch out

  • Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data.
  • Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage use requires an approved account and applicable UK residence/wrapper eligibility, and Platform, dealing, FX, tax, levy, and product charges can apply.
  • Percentage platform charge: Funds and most listed assets carry 0.35% entry-tier account charges, with different tiers, caps, and junior-account exceptions.
Price
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Hargreaves LansdownTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier
Paid only
Replacement
Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

What This Shortlist Tells You

Wealthsimple is the closest drop-in replacement with overlapping coverage in Brokerage, Portfolio, and Watchlist while adding Canadian and U.S. listed stock and ETF trades have $0 stated online commission. and Fractional stock and ETF market orders start at $1. features (workflow overlap ~100%).

Round out your stack with new coverage areas like Advanced Order Types, Smart/Direct Routing, Paper Trading, and Screeners.

Coverage Snapshot

Where alternatives already align

Most shared categories across the top matches.

Brokerage×20Portfolio×20Watchlist×20Downloadable Tax Reports×19Options×18

New angles introduced

Categories the alternatives add beyond CommSec.

Advanced Order Types+6APIs & Data Feeds+1Crypto Derivatives+1News+1Order Book / Level II+1Paper Trading+1Performance Attribution+1Risk Metrics+1

Access & Pricing

Free options

0/20

0 picks introduce a free tier you can start with.

Mobile ready

20/20

20 matches support mobile alongside CommSec.

API availability

2/20

2 of the shortlisted tools expose API endpoints for automation-heavy workflows.

Quality checks

1 starred / 1 tested

1 tools are flagged as analyst picks; 1 have been hands-on tested.

Avg. coverage overlap

97%

Average percentage of categories shared with the base tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best alternatives to CommSec?

CommSec users most often consider Wealthsimple, CIBC Investor's Edge, and Monex Securities as their go-to alternatives.

Which workflows do the top CommSec alternatives cover?

Expect deep coverage across Brokerage, Downloadable Tax Reports, Options, Portfolio, and Watchlist, so you can port most CommSec workflows without much friction.

Feedback

Missing an alternative, or is a listing out of date? Tell me and I will look.

Curation & Accuracy

This directory blends AI‑assisted discovery with human curation. Entries are reviewed, edited, and organized with the goal of expanding coverage and sharpening quality over time. Your feedback helps steer improvements (because no single human can capture everything all at once).

Details change. Pricing, features, and availability may be incomplete or out of date. Treat listings as a starting point and verify on the provider’s site before making decisions. If you spot an error or a gap, send a quick note and I’ll adjust.