Every ranking on this site lives here, sorted by the decision you’re actually trying to make: which scanner, which broker for shorting, which journal, which app to start on. Each list scores its category on the same five criteria, weighted the same way, explained in how we rate. This page is part of our full day trading app comparison.
One thing the rankings can’t do is make a losing strategy win. Most day traders lose money, and a better tool only compounds an edge you already have.
Find the stock
Scanners and AI tools
Best scannersBest stock scannersThe tools that surface gappers, RVOL spikes, and halt-resumes before the move. Ranked on scan speed and alert quality.See the ranking
Best AI toolsBest AI trading appsSignal generators and automation, scored on signal quality and transparency. Includes the bot-versus-signal distinction most lists skip.See the ranking
Execute the trade
Platforms and brokers
Best desktop platformsBest day trading platformsDesktop-weighted: the order-entry and routing software serious traders run, not phone apps.See the ranking
Best for shortingBest brokers for short sellingRanked on locate inventory and borrow availability, the supplier relationship that decides your short book.See the ranking
Best for small accountsBest brokers for small accountsLow minimums and cash-account options, reframed for the post-PDT rules.See the ranking
Best DAS brokersBest DAS Trader brokersWhich direct-access brokers offer the DAS platform, and how their data packages compare.See the ranking
Learn the ropes
Beginners and practice
Best for beginnersBest day trading apps for beginnersBeginner-friendly brokers and simulators, plus a free-apps section. No pro tools you can’t use yet.See the ranking
Best paper tradingBest paper trading appsBroker paper-trading modes for rehearsing entries with no money at risk.See the ranking
Best simulatorsBest day trading simulatorsDedicated replay and sim tools that rerun real sessions, distinct from live paper trading.See the ranking
Measure the results
Journals
Best journalsBest trading journalsThe tool that tells you which half of your trading pays for the other half. Ranked on analytics depth and import coverage.See the ranking
Not sure where to start? If you’re new, the beginner app rankings and a simulator come first. The paid scanners and journals earn their place later, once you’ve proven an edge worth measuring.