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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

E*TRADE vs Rakuten Securities 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the broker comparison of E*TRADE and Rakuten Securities, the key difference lies in their geographic focus and market offerings. E*TRADE, with a rating of 3.6/5, is a US-centric broker ideal for traders interested in zero commission stock and ETF trading, supported by strong educational resources and an excellent options trading platform. Conversely, Rakuten Securities, rated 3.42/5, appeals to traders in Japan, offering a broader range of markets including crypto and forex, with the added benefit of Rakuten Points integration. While E*TRADE is backed by Morgan Stanley and provides robust options for futures and bonds, Rakuten Securities stands out with its extensive reach within Japan and access to US stocks.

E*TRADE

Rakuten Securities

Higher ratedE*TRADE logo

E*TRADE

3.6/ 5
Visit E*TRADE →Full review
VS
E*TRADERakuten Securities
BrokerRank Score3.6/5 ✓3.5/5
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:4 ✓1:3
RegulationSEC, CFTC ✓FSA
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MarketSpeed II
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
E*TRADERakuten Securities
Best for Low Fees
E*TRADERakuten Securities
Best for Regulation
E*TRADERakuten Securities
Best Overall
E*TRADERakuten Securities
Quick Answer

E*TRADE is the better choice overall, scoring 3.6/5 vs 3.5/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, E*TRADE offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

E*TRADE vs Rakuten Securities: Key Differences

Feature

E*TRADE

Winner

Rakuten Securities

Our Rating
3.6 / 5
3.5 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
SECCFTC
FSA
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MarketSpeed II
Markets
Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Stocks, Etf, Crypto, Forex, Indices
Founded
1982
1999
Headquarters
Arlington, USA
Tokyo, Japan
Score
2 / 2
0 / 2

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Fees Comparison

Fee

E*TRADE

Rakuten Securities

Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

E*TRADE emerges as the better choice for beginners due to its strong educational resources and zero commission trading on stocks and ETFs, making it easier for novices to navigate the market. Professional traders might prefer Rakuten Securities for its diverse market access, including forex and crypto, despite its Japan-centric focus. In terms of fees, both brokers offer zero commission on stocks and ETFs, but E*TRADE's additional options contract fee means Rakuten Securities takes a slight edge in fee competitiveness.

Who Should Choose Which?

E*TRADE

E*TRADE

3.6/5

Top pick

Choose E*TRADE if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.6/5)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:4)
  • More regulatory licences (2)
  • More established (est. 1982)
Rakuten Securities

Rakuten Securities

3.5/5

Choose Rakuten Securities if you want…

  • More market types (5)
  • More platforms (3 supported)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is E*TRADE better than Rakuten Securities?

E*TRADE scores higher overall on our independent rating system. E*TRADE holds a 3.6/5 rating vs Rakuten Securities's 3.5/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, E*TRADE or Rakuten Securities?

E*TRADE offers spreads from 0 pips, while Rakuten Securities starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for E*TRADE vs Rakuten Securities?

E*TRADE requires a minimum deposit of $0. Rakuten Securities requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, E*TRADE or Rakuten Securities?

E*TRADE is regulated by SEC, CFTC, while Rakuten Securities holds licences from FSA.

5

What trading platforms do E*TRADE and Rakuten Securities support?

E*TRADE supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Rakuten Securities supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MarketSpeed II.

6

Can I use both E*TRADE and Rakuten Securities?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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