Do you want to find the best comparison of demat account charges in India in 2025? As retail investors have increased, and a large range of brokers provide both zero and low rates, it can be confusing to determine the correct demat account. As a first-time or advanced investor, it is important to know about the current demat account charges in order to maximize returns and spend minimum fees.
Selecting the best demat account is not all about rate comparison with the brokers. It is all about striking a balance between the cost, platform functionality, and customer care. As per the new SEBI regulations and changing demands of investors in 2025, the scenario of the demat account has never been as competitive as it is now. We tabulate the recent demat account fees, annual fees, prices of transactions, and exclusive services of the top brokers- so that you are comfortable choosing the best demat account to invest in your future.
Top 7 Demat Accounts in India (2025): Charges & Features
1. Upstox (Our Top Pick)
Why Choose Upstox?
In 2025, Upstox is one of the most notable providers of transparent pricing, free account opening fee, and low annual maintenance. With its sophisticated trading platforms and compliance together with an easy onboarding process, it is the favorite of cost-sensitive investors and active traders.
Key Features
- Opening of account charges: 0 (Free)
- Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC): 150 a year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: 20 per order or 2.5 percent (whichever is lesser)
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: 20/order or 0.05 Percent (whichever is lower)
- Demat Debit Transaction: Rs 13 + Rs 5.50(CDSL charges) per scrip
- Remat Charges: 25 per certificate or 0.05 per cent of value (whichever is more)
- Creation of Pledge: 0.02 per cent. of transaction (min. 50) + NSDL/CDSL charges
- Platform: Pro, Web, TradingView, Mobile app
- Phone, email, chat
2. Zerodha
Why Choose Zerodha?
Zerodha is a pioneer in discount broking, offering a simple fee structure and a powerful trading platform. Its transparent charges and educational resources make it a favorite among new-age investors.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0 (Online)
- AMC: ₹300 per year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: ₹0
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: ₹20 per order or 0.03% (whichever is lower)
- Demat Debit Transaction: ₹13.5 + GST per transaction
- Remat Charges: ₹150 per certificate + CDSL charges + ₹100 courier
- Pledge Creation: ₹30 per request + GST
- Platform: Kite web & mobile, Varsity learning
3. ICICI Direct
Why Choose ICICI Direct?
ICICI Direct offers a 3-in-1 account (bank, demat, trading) for seamless fund transfers and integrated investing. It is ideal for those seeking convenience and premium advisory services.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹700 per year (individuals)
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: 0.55%
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: 0.275%
- Demat Debit Transaction: 0.04% of value (min ₹30, max ₹25,000)
- Remat Charges: ₹25 per certificate or 0.04% of value
- Pledge Creation: 0.02% (min ₹35) if ICICI Bank is counterparty
- Platform: Web, mobile, eATM instant settlement
4. Angel One
Why Choose Angel One?
Angel One combines full-service research with discount brokerage pricing. It’s known for its robust trading tools and personalized advisory.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹240 per year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: ₹0
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: ₹20 per order
- Platform: Web, mobile, ARQ Prime research
5. 5paisa
Why Choose 5paisa?
5paisa is a tech-driven discount broker with competitive pricing and a feature-rich app, ideal for DIY investors.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹150 per year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: ₹20 per order or 2.5% (whichever is lower)
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: ₹20 per order or 0.05% (whichever is lower)
- Platform: Web, mobile, robo-advisory
6. HDFC Securities
Why Choose HDFC Securities?
HDFC Securities is a leading bank broker offering wealth management, daily research, and integrated banking for HDFC Bank customers.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹999
- AMC: ₹750 per year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: 0.32%
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: 0.032%
- Platform: Web, mobile, investment advisory
7. Fyers
Why Choose Fyers?
Fyers is a discount broker focused on advanced analytics and a user-friendly interface, suitable for tech-savvy investors.
Key Features
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹300 per year
- Equity Delivery Brokerage: ₹0
- Equity Intraday Brokerage: ₹20 per order
- Platform: Web, mobile, advanced charting
Comparison Table: Best Demat Account Charges in India (2025)
| Broker | Account Opening | AMC (Yearly) | Equity Delivery | Intraday | Demat Debit Transaction | Remat | Pledge Creation | Platform Features |
| Upstox | ₹0 | ₹150 | ₹20/order or 2.5% (lower) | ₹20/order or 0.05% (lower) | ₹13 + ₹5.50/scrip | ₹25/certificate or 0.05% | 0.02% (min ₹50) + charges | Pro Web, Mobile, TradingView |
| Zerodha | ₹0 | ₹300 | ₹0 | ₹20/order or 0.03% (lower) | ₹13.5 + GST | ₹150 + CDSL + ₹100 courier | ₹30/request + GST | Kite, Varsity |
| ICICI Direct | ₹0 | ₹700 | 0.55% | 0.275% | 0.04% (min ₹30, max ₹25,000) | ₹25/certificate or 0.04% | 0.02% (min ₹35) | 3-in-1, eATM, Research |
| Angel One | ₹0 | ₹240 | ₹0 | ₹20/order | NA | NA | NA | ARQ Prime, SmartAPI |
| 5paisa | ₹0 | ₹150 | ₹20/order or 2.5% (lower) | ₹20/order or 0.05% (lower) | NA | NA | NA | Robo-advisory, Subscription |
| HDFC Sec | ₹999 | ₹750 | 0.32% | 0.032% | NA | NA | NA | Wealth Mgmt, Advisory |
| Fyers | ₹0 | ₹300 | ₹0 | ₹20/order | NA | NA | NA | Analytics, Simple UI |
How to Choose the Best Demat Account for You
When comparing demat accounts, do keep in mind the following:
- Account Opening Fees: A number of brokers have zero charges on opening an account. Account opening is free in Upstox, Zerodha, Angel One and Fyers.
- Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC): The less AMC the more savings. Upstox is one of the cheapest with a fee of only 150 a year
- Brokerage Fees: It can be very costly to pay a percentage brokerage as compared to the flat brokerage (such as 20/order intraday + delivery on Upstox).
- Transaction Charges: Look at demat debit transaction costs- there is Upstox and Zerodha with some of the lowest in the industry.
- Features of the Platform: You can use Advanced charting, mobile access and research tools to improve your trading experience.
- Customer Support: The effective customer support will play a significant role in rectifying account or transaction problems.
- Regulatory Compliance: Verification that your broker is SEBI-registered and abides by all the guidelines of the investor protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the cheapest broker in terms of demat account in 2025?
With low AMC of 150/- per year, zero account opening fee and transaction charges, Upstox has one of the cheapest account opening fee and transaction charges.
2. Do demat accounts include any hidden charges?
Majority of the brokers are transparent in terms of charges, however, ensure that there is no demat debit, remat and pledge charges before opening an account.
3. Is it possible to open a demat account online without charges?
Yes, online account opening is free of cost at brokers such as Upstox, Zerodha, Angel One, and Fyers.
4. How much does Upstox charge on demat debit transactions?
The demat debit transactions in Upstox are charged at 13 + 5.50 (CDSL charges) per scrip.
5. What is the best value broker to active traders?
Upstox has a flat 20 per order charge and a low annual maintenance charge; it is a good choice of active traders with a value and advanced features requirement.
6. What is the difference between AMC charges across brokers?
AMC range is between 150 (Upstox, 5paisa) and 700 (ICICI Direct). Long term savings are better with lower AMC.
7. What is the advantage of 3 in 1 account?
The 3-in-1 accounts (such as ICICI Direct) combine banking, demat, and trading and provide a smooth fund transfer but may have a high AMC.
8. Is it possible to transfer my demat account to some other broker?
Yes. You may transfer your demat holdings to another SEBI-registered broker and do the same thing by going through the prescribed procedure.
9. Do demat account have zero brokerage facility?
Zerodha charges zero brokerage when trading in equity delivery, but additional expenses such as AMC and transaction fees still exist.
10. What brokers are suited to beginners?
Upstox and Zerodha would suit beginners because they all offer low charges, easy onboarding, and an easy-to-use platform
Conclusion
The choice of the most advantageous demat account charges comparison in India in 2025 is not related to the lowest fee only. Upstox stands out as the best option among investors who want to enjoy the combination of cost-effectiveness, high-tech solutions, and customer support. Upstox boasts of zero account opening charges, low AMC (only 150 rupees), and clear transaction fee which enables you to invest in a completely risk-free and affordable manner. Quote your options, analyze your trading requirements and open your Upstox account now and feel the difference!
