Day trading penny stocks can be an exciting way to potentially make quick profits by trading low-priced shares. However, success in penny stock trading relies heavily on choosing the right trading platform or app. With countless options available, selecting an app that combines speed, reliability, low fees, and advanced tools is essential for day traders.
This guide will help you explore the best apps for day trading penny stocks in 2025, highlighting their features, pros and cons, and what makes them suitable for penny stock traders.
What Are Penny Stocks and Why Day Trade Them?
Penny stocks generally refer to shares that trade at less than $5 per share, often of smaller companies or startups. They are known for their:
- High volatility — prices can move quickly and dramatically
- Low liquidity — can be harder to buy or sell large quantities instantly
- Potential for quick gains — but also higher risk of loss
Day trading penny stocks involves buying and selling these stocks within the same trading day to capitalize on short-term price movements.
Key Features to Look for in Penny Stock Trading Apps
Before diving into the list of apps, it’s important to know what to prioritize when choosing an app for penny stock day trading:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Low Commissions/Fees | Keeps trading costs down for frequent trades |
| Real-Time Market Data | Essential for quick decision-making |
| Fast Order Execution | Prevents slippage during fast price changes |
| Advanced Charting Tools | Helps analyze price patterns and trends |
| User-Friendly Interface | For quick navigation and order placement |
| Availability of OTC Stocks | Many penny stocks trade over-the-counter (OTC) |
Top 7 Apps for Day Trading Penny Stocks in 2025
1. Webull
Webull has quickly become popular among penny stock traders due to its zero commission trading, advanced charting tools, and user-friendly mobile app.
- Pros:
- No commissions or fees on trades
- Real-time quotes and Level 2 market data
- Technical indicators and customizable charts
- Supports trading on OTC markets
- Cons:
- No mutual funds or bonds trading
- Limited educational resources for beginners
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time, Level 2 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
2. TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim)
TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim platform is known for its professional-grade tools, ideal for serious penny stock traders.
- Pros:
- Advanced charting and technical analysis tools
- Supports penny stock and OTC trading
- Paper trading feature to practice strategies
- 24/7 customer support
- Cons:
- Slightly steeper learning curve for beginners
- Commissions on some OTC trades
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 for stocks, OTC fees may apply |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
3. Fidelity
Fidelity is a trusted name in investing and offers a solid platform for penny stock trading with strong research and educational resources.
- Pros:
- Zero commission on stocks and ETFs
- Robust research tools and stock screeners
- Easy-to-use mobile app
- Cons:
- OTC trading limited compared to other platforms
- Less suited for ultra-active day traders
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 |
| OTC Stock Trading | Limited |
| Market Data | Real-time |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
4. E*TRADE
E*TRADE offers a versatile platform with both simplicity for beginners and advanced tools for experienced traders.
- Pros:
- Commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs
- Access to OTC markets
- Intuitive mobile app with good charting tools
- Cons:
- Some fees for options and mutual funds
- Research tools not as extensive as competitors
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
5. Robinhood
Robinhood is well known for its simple interface and zero commission trades, making it popular among new penny stock day traders.
- Pros:
- No commissions or fees
- Easy to navigate interface
- Instant deposits for quicker trades
- Cons:
- Limited advanced charting and analysis tools
- Past controversies over outages during volatile periods
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time (basic) |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
6. Interactive Brokers
Known for its low margin rates and powerful trading tools, Interactive Brokers caters to professional traders including penny stock day traders.
- Pros:
- Low commissions and margin rates
- Advanced trading platform with customizable tools
- Global market access including OTC stocks
- Cons:
- Complex interface not beginner-friendly
- Monthly inactivity fees for low-volume traders
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | Low, varies by volume |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time, advanced |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
7. Merrill Edge
Merrill Edge is ideal for traders who want integrated banking and trading services with reliable research tools.
- Pros:
- Zero commissions on stocks and ETFs
- Good OTC stock availability
- Access to Bank of America clients benefits
- Cons:
- Trading platform less advanced than some competitors
- No fractional shares
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Commissions | $0 |
| OTC Stock Trading | Yes |
| Market Data | Real-time |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Desktop |
How to Choose the Right Penny Stock Trading App for You
When deciding which app to use for day trading penny stocks, consider:
- Trading Frequency: Are you an active day trader or occasional trader? Apps like Interactive Brokers or thinkorswim offer advanced features for high-volume trading.
- Budget for Fees: Look for apps with low or zero commissions, especially important if trading low-priced stocks.
- User Experience: Beginners might prefer Robinhood or Webull for simplicity, while experienced traders might want advanced tools.
- OTC Market Access: Many penny stocks trade OTC, so check if the app supports OTC trading.
- Research & Tools: Strong charting and screening tools help identify trading opportunities.
Table: Summary Comparison of Best Penny Stock Trading Apps
| App Name | Commissions | OTC Stocks | Platform Access | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Webull | $0 | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Beginners & Active Traders |
| TD Ameritrade | $0 | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Advanced Traders |
| Fidelity | $0 | Limited | Mobile, Desktop | Long-term & Beginners |
| E*TRADE | $0 | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Versatile Traders |
| Robinhood | $0 | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Beginners |
| Interactive Brokers | Low | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Professional Traders |
| Merrill Edge | $0 | Yes | Mobile, Desktop | Bank of America Clients |
Tips for Successful Penny Stock Day Trading
- Research Thoroughly: Penny stocks can be volatile and risky; thorough research is key.
- Use Stop-Loss Orders: Limit potential losses with automatic sell orders.
- Avoid Pump-and-Dump Schemes: Be cautious of hype-driven penny stocks.
- Stay Updated: Use apps that provide real-time news and alerts.
- Practice First: Use paper trading or demo accounts before risking real money.
Conclusion
Choosing the best app for day trading penny stocks depends on your trading style, budget, and experience level. Apps like Webull and Robinhood are excellent for beginners due to their ease of use and zero commissions, while platforms like TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim and Interactive Brokers cater to more experienced traders who want advanced tools.
Remember, penny stock trading carries high risk and requires discipline, research, and fast decision-making. Pairing your skills with the right app will improve your chances of success.
