Online Futures Trading...Who is good to use?

[baseballeyeq]

What are some of the best places to trade futures online?
Also, What is their account minimum to open?
(I'm looking for a service that is as simple to use as Scottrade is with stocks.)

Thanks

[brownsfan019]

baseball - most futures traders do not trade via an online form, like stocks. Since these markets can move very quickly, most traders use a stand alone program that runs on your computer. The biggest issue with using a purely online order entry is that by the time your order gets through to where it needs to go, it may be way too late for that order to execute timely.

Most software platforms offer a trial so you can see it for yourself.

I would recommend a platform called T4 (http://www.ctsfutures.com/content/t4/) I use T4 through Mirus Futures. They call it Dorman Direct b/c T4 allows each broker to put their own company name on the platform. And Mirus is an IB for Dorman Trading. I know, very confusing in the beginning.

[Soultrader]

With futures you need a fast execution system. The Infinity AT platform is extremely fast. Brownsfan mentioned T4 which is impressive as well. There are alot of futures brokers out there but only a few have tools for serious trading. Make sure you try the demos whenever available and feel comfortable with what you are using.

Alot traders use the Tradestation matrix as well but I personally find it a little slow when it comes down to execution.

[baseballeyeq]

Thanks everyone.