Trading Platforms
What software you need and how to set it up
The Main Platforms
| Platform | Type | Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| NinjaTrader | Desktop (Windows) | Free* | Advanced traders, customization |
| Tradovate | Web + Desktop + Mobile | Free | Beginners, simplicity |
| TradingView | Web + App | Free/Premium | Technical analysis |
| Quantower | Desktop | Free/Premium | Multi-broker |
| Rithmic (R|Trader) | Desktop | Free | Direct execution |
*NinjaTrader is free to trade with. You only pay if you want premium analysis features.
NinjaTrader: The Most Popular
- Advantages: Highly customizable, unlimited indicators, backtesting
- Disadvantages: Windows only, complex interface at first
- Download: ninjatrader.com → Free download
- Connection: The prop firm will give you credentials to connect
Tradovate: The Easiest
- Advantages: Web-based (no installation needed), mobile, clean interface
- Disadvantages: Less customizable than NinjaTrader
- Access: tradovate.com → Create a free account
- Connection: The prop firm will give you credentials to connect
Tradovate is perfect for getting started. You can switch to NinjaTrader when you need more features.
TradingView: Popular for Analysis and Trading
- Advantages: Great charts, works on any device, active community
- Analysis: 100+ indicators, drawing tools, screeners
- Trading: Trade directly on the chart, configurable alerts
- Access: The free plan works for futures trading
- Connection: Connects via Tradovate - use your prop firm credentials
If you already use TradingView for analysis, you can execute trades directly without switching platforms.
How Does the Connection Work?
- 1. You purchase the evaluation on the prop firm's website
- 2. You receive credentials via email (username and password)
- 3. You set up the platform with those credentials
- 4. The platform connects to the prop firm's server
- 5. You start trading - everything is tracked automatically
Basic Recommended Setup
- Charts: Add the instruments you plan to trade (ES, NQ)
- Timeframes: Set up 1min, 5min, 15min based on your style
- DOM (Depth of Market): Tool for viewing orders and executing trades
- Account panel: Shows your balance, P&L, and drawdown
- Alerts: Set up price alerts if the platform allows it
Practice on a demo/simulator before trading live. Get familiar with order execution.
Data Feed: Rithmic vs CQG
- Rithmic: The most common, compatible with NinjaTrader and more
- CQG: Used by some firms, also compatible
- Tradovate: Uses its own integrated feed
Don't worry too much about this - the prop firm will tell you what to use and how to set it up.
Key Points
- NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TradingView are the main platforms (all free)
- TradingView stands out for its charts and lets you trade directly on the chart
- Tradovate is easier for beginners (web, mobile, intuitive)
- NinjaTrader is more powerful but complex (Windows only)
- The prop firm gives you the credentials to connect
- Practice on demo before trading with real money
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay for the platform?
No. NinjaTrader, Tradovate, and TradingView are free to trade with. You only pay if you want premium analysis features or additional data, but it's not necessary to get started.
Is TradingView good for trading futures?
Yes, TradingView works well for futures. It has great charts, you can place orders directly on the chart, and it works from any device. If you already use TradingView for analysis, you can connect your prop firm and trade without switching platforms. The free plan is enough to get started.
Can I use Mac?
Yes. Both Tradovate and TradingView work in any browser, including Mac. NinjaTrader requires Windows, but you can use a virtual machine or Parallels on Mac if needed.
Can I trade from my phone?
Yes, Tradovate and TradingView have mobile apps. However, it's not recommended for active trading - better for monitoring positions or emergency closes.
What happens if my internet goes down while I have a position?
Your position stays open on the prop firm's server. That's why it's important to always have a stop loss. If you lose connection, the stop protects your account.
Knowledge Check
Answer correctly to unlock the next step
How does the platform connect to your prop firm account?
Do you need to pay for NinjaTrader or Tradovate to trade?
What limitation does NinjaTrader have regarding operating systems?
Which platform is most recommended for beginners?
Trading Rules
How to Withdraw Your Profits
guide.quiz.passToUnlock
Risk Warning
Futures trading carries a high risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or investment recommendations. Past results do not guarantee future performance. Only trade with capital you can afford to lose.