Alpha Vantage vs Interactive Brokers (IBKR) comparison

Alpha Vantage focuses on Data APIs, News, and News Sentiment while Interactive Brokers (IBKR) specializes in Brokerage, Advanced Order Types, and Smart/Direct Routing. They overlap in 4 categories, so choose based on your preferred workflow and pricing.

Alpha Vantage offers a free tier that lets you get started without paying, while Interactive Brokers (IBKR) requires a subscription. If budget is a concern, start with Alpha Vantage and upgrade later if you need more advanced features.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) has a mobile app so you can check your research on the go. Alpha Vantage is web-only, so you'll need a browser to access it from mobile devices.

Yes, both platforms offer API access for developers and quants who want to build custom integrations or automate their workflows.

Choose Alpha Vantage if you need Cloud-native REST APIs for realtime and historical financial data across global stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, FX, cryptocurrencies, commodities, technical indicators and macroeconomic indicators in a single unified portfolio of endpoints., and Global equity time series APIs (daily, weekly, monthly and intraday 1–60 minute bars) with 20+ years of history, optional split/dividend-adjusted prices, and support for extended trading hours where available.. Go with Interactive Brokers (IBKR) if Platforms: Client Portal (web), Trader Workstation (TWS) and IBKR Desktop (desktop), IBKR Mobile / GlobalTrader (mobile), plus IBKR APIs; feature availability differs by platform/product., and Supported instruments include stocks/ETFs, options (incl. combos), mutual funds, futures (incl. futures options), spot FX, bonds, physical metals, structured products and CFDs. better fits how you invest.

Both cover Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Currencies, and Commodities. Alpha Vantage also includes Cryptos, and Funds. Interactive Brokers (IBKR) adds coverage for Futures, Bonds, and Other.

Yes, both platforms provide real-time market data. This makes either suitable for active trading strategies where timing matters.

Both platforms let you export data to spreadsheets (CSV). This is useful for custom analysis or record-keeping.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is built with active traders in mind, offering features like real-time data and technical analysis. Alpha Vantage is better suited for buy-and-hold investors focused on fundamentals.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) includes a stock screener for finding investment ideas. Alpha Vantage focuses on other analytical tools.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) offers portfolio tracking features. Alpha Vantage is more focused on research and analysis.