Are you searching for the best broker for a demat and trading account in India but feeling confused by the options? With so many brokers promising the lowest fees, best platforms, and top service, itโs easy to get lost. Picking the right broker is crucialโit impacts your costs, trading experience, and even your long-term returns. This guide breaks down the top brokers, highlights their charges and features, and explains why Upstox stands out as the best choice for most investors.
Why Choosing the Right Demat and Trading Account Matters
Opening a demat and trading account is the first step to investing in stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, and commodities. The right broker offers:
- Low account opening and maintenance charges
- Transparent and affordable brokerage
- Fast, reliable trading platforms (mobile and web)
- Good customer support
- SEBI registration and regulatory safety
The wrong broker can eat into your profits with hidden fees or poor service. Thatโs why comparing the best demat and trading account in India is so important.
Top 7 Brokers for Demat and Trading Account in India (2026)
Here are the best brokers for demat and trading accounts in India, based on 2026 data from trusted sources and broker websites. Upstox leads the list for its affordable pricing, technology, and user-friendly experience.
1. Upstox โ Best Overall for Demat and Trading Account
Upstox is one of Indiaโs fastest-growing brokers, offering a seamless demat and trading account experience. It is popular for its flat-fee brokerage, zero account opening charges, and robust online platforms.
Why Choose Upstox:
- Zero Account Opening Fee: Start investing with โน0 account opening charges.
- Affordable Brokerage: Pay just โน20 per executed order for equity delivery, intraday, F&O, and commodities.
- User-Friendly Platforms: Mobile and web apps are simple, fast, and packed with features.
- Transparent Charges: No hidden fees; all charges are clearly listed.
- SEBI Registered: Fully compliant and secure.
- Good for All Investors: Suitable for beginners, active traders, and long-term investors.
Key Features:
- Real-time price alerts and watchlists
- Fast fund transfers and withdrawals
- Access to stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, IPOs, and commodities
- 24/7 customer support
- Free educational resources
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening Charges: โน0
- Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC): โน0 for accounts opened after August 2021; โน150 + GST for older accounts
- Brokerage: โน20 per executed order or 0.05% (whichever is lower)
- Active Clients: Among top 5 brokers in India
- SEBI Registration: Yes
2. Zerodha
Zerodha is Indiaโs largest discount broker, known for its low-cost trading and advanced Kite platform.
Why Choose Zerodha:
Popular Discount Broker Upstox
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- Zero Account Opening Fee: For online accounts.
- Low AMC: โน0 for holdings up to โน4 lakh; โน300/year for higher holdings.
- Flat Brokerage: โน20 per order or 0.03% (whichever is lower).
Key Features:
- Advanced charting tools
- Easy mobile and web access
- Integration with mutual funds and thematic investments
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน0 (online)
- AMC: โน0โโน300/year
- Brokerage: โน20/order or 0.03%
3. Groww
Groww is a fintech broker popular among new investors for its simple app and direct mutual fund access.
Why Choose Groww:
- Zero Account Opening and AMC: No charges to open or maintain your account.
- Flat Brokerage: โน20 per executed order.
Key Features:
- Direct mutual fund investments
- Clean, modern interface
- Step-by-step guides
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน0
- AMC: โน0
- Brokerage: โน20/order
4. Angel One
Angel One is a full-service broker offering a blend of research, advisory, and low brokerage.
Why Choose Angel One:
- Zero Account Opening Fee
- Flat Brokerage: โน20 per executed order.
- Research and Advisory: Access to reports and recommendations.
Key Features:
- Smart trading platforms
- Educational resources
- Good customer support
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน0
- AMC: โน60/quarter
- Brokerage: โน20/order
5. ICICI Direct (Full-Service Broker)
ICICI Direct is a leading full-service broker, offering a 3-in-1 account (bank, demat, trading) and strong research.
Why Choose ICICI Direct:
- 3-in-1 Account: Seamless banking and investing.
- Research Reports: Market insights and recommendations.
- Wide Product Range: Stocks, mutual funds, IPOs, insurance.
Key Features:
- Premium customer support
- Wide branch network
- Advanced trading tools
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน0 (with select plans)
- AMC: โน700/year
- Brokerage: โน20/order (flat plan)
6. HDFC Securities (Full-Service Broker)
HDFC Securities is a trusted name for those who want a bank-backed broker and strong research.
Why Choose HDFC Securities:
- Bank-Linked Account: Easy fund transfers.
- Research Tools: Regular reports and recommendations.
- Offline Branches: Support at physical locations.
Key Features:
- Real-time trading
- Multiple investment options
- Secure platform
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน999
- AMC: โน750/year
- Brokerage: โน20/order (flat plan)
7. 5 paisa
5paisa is known for affordable pricing and quick digital onboarding.
Why Choose 5paisa:
- Zero Account Opening Fee
- Flat Brokerage: โน20 per order.
- Auto Investing: SIPs and portfolio management.
Key Features:
- Robo advisory
- Mutual fund investments
- Educational content
Latest Pricing:
- Account Opening: โน0
- AMC: โน25/month
- Brokerage: โน20/order
Comparison Table: Top Demat and Trading Accounts in India (2026)
| Broker | Account Opening | AMC (Yearly) | Brokerage (per order) | Mutual Funds | Key Feature |
| Upstox | โน0 | โน0โโน150 | โน20 | Yes | User-friendly, transparent |
| Zerodha | โน0 | โน0โโน300 | โน20 | Yes | Kite platform, low cost |
| Groww | โน0 | โน0 | โน20 | Yes | Simple app, direct MF |
| Angel One | โน0 | โน240 | โน20 | Yes | Research, full-service |
| ICICI Direct | โน0โโน975 | โน700 | โน20 | Yes | 3-in-1 account, research |
| HDFC Securities | โน999 | โน750 | โน20 | Yes | Bank-backed, research |
| 5paisa | โน0 | โน300 | โน20 | Yes | Robo advisory, SIPs |
How to Choose the Best Demat and Trading Account in India
When picking the best broker for demat and trading account in India, look for:
- Low Charges: Prefer brokers with zero or low account opening and maintenance charges.
- Affordable Brokerage: Flat-fee brokers like Upstox and Zerodha are cost-effective for most investors.
- Platform Quality: Fast, secure, and easy-to-use apps/web platforms are a must.
- Product Range: Ensure access to stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, IPOs, and commodities.
- Customer Support: Responsive support for queries and issues.
- SEBI Registration: Always choose a SEBI-registered broker for safety and compliance.
- Full-Service vs. Discount: Full-service brokers offer research and advisory; discount brokers focus on low costs.
FAQs: Best Broker for Demat and Trading Account in India
Which is the best broker for demat and trading account in India?
Upstox stands out for its low charges, transparent pricing, and user-friendly platforms in 2026.
What are the account opening charges at Upstox?
Upstox offers zero account opening charges for new users in 2026.
What is the annual maintenance charge (AMC) at Upstox?
For accounts opened after August 2021, AMC is โน0; for older accounts, it is โน150 + GST.
What is the brokerage at Upstox?
Upstox charges โน20 per executed order or 0.05%, whichever is lower, across all segments.
Are there any hidden charges in demat accounts?
Apart from AMC and brokerage, you may pay dematerialization, rematerialization, and transaction charges. Always check the brokerโs official fee schedule.
Can I open a demat and trading account online?
Yes, brokers like Upstox, Zerodha, and Groww offer fully online, paperless account opening.
Which broker is best for mutual funds and SIPs?
Upstox, Zerodha, and Groww all offer direct mutual fund investments at zero commission.
Are full-service brokers better than discount brokers?
Full-service brokers like ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities offer research and advisory but charge higher fees. Discount brokers like Upstox and Zerodha are cheaper and suitable for self-directed investors.
Is my money safe with these brokers?
All listed brokers are SEBI-registered and follow strict safety protocols.
What is a Commodity Broker in India (Full-Service Brokers)?
A commodity broker in India (full-service) offers demat, trading, research, and advisory services for commodities, often with higher fees but more personalized support.
Conclusion
Choosing the best broker for demat and trading account in India is the foundation of your investing journey. In 2026, Upstox leads with zero account opening charges, low brokerage, transparent pricing, and easy-to-use platforms. Whether youโre a beginner or an experienced investor, Upstox gives you the tools and support to invest confidently.
Ready to open your demat and trading account? Start with Upstox today and experience Indiaโs top-rated broker!