Are you searching for the best demat account in India but feeling lost with so many options? Whether you’re a first-time investor or looking to switch brokers for better pricing and features, finding the right demat account can be confusing. The right choice can save you money, offer a smoother trading experience, and even help you grow your wealth faster. In this guide, we break down the top demat accounts for 2025, compare their features, and answer your most pressing questions you can make a confident, informed decision.
What is a demat account?
A demat account is essential for anyone looking to invest or trade in the Indian stock market. It holds your shares and securities in electronic form, making buying, selling, and tracking investments seamless and secure. With India reaching a record 192.4 million demat accounts in FY25 and over 41 million new accounts opened in a single year, choosing the right demat account is more important than ever.
Top 7 Best Demat Accounts in India (2025)
1. Upstox – Best Discount Broker in India
Upstox is a leading name for anyone looking for the best demat account in India in 2025. With its user-friendly app, ultra-low brokerage, and robust security, Upstox is ideal for both beginners and seasoned traders.
Why Choose Upstox?
Upstox offers zero account opening charges and some of the lowest brokerage fees in the industry. Its advanced mobile and web platforms make trading easy and fast. Backed by investors like Ratan Tata, Upstox is trusted by over 1 crore users.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC): ₹25/month (waived for first year)
- Brokerage: ₹20 per order (Equity Delivery & Intraday)
- Trading Platform: Upstox Pro (Web & App)
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, F&O, Commodities, US Stocks
- Customer Support: 24/7 via chat, email, and phone
2. Zerodha
Zerodha is India’s largest and most trusted discount broker, known for its transparent pricing and powerful Kite platform.
Why Choose Zerodha?
Zerodha’s flat ₹20 per trade model and seamless Kite app make it a favorite among active traders. It’s also a pioneer in direct mutual fund investing.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹200 (Equity), ₹300 (Equity + Commodity)
- AMC: ₹300/year
- Brokerage: ₹20 per executed order or 0.03% (whichever is lower)
- Trading Platform: Kite (Web & App)
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, Bonds, IPOs, F&O, Commodities
3. Angel One
Angel One (formerly Angel Broking) combines full-service features with discount brokerage pricing.
Why Choose Angel One?
Angel One offers free equity delivery trades and a robust ARQ Prime advisory engine, making it a good choice for both investors and traders.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹240/year (first year free)
- Brokerage: ₹20 per order (Equity, F&O, Commodity)
- Trading Platform: Angel One App, Web, and Trade
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, F&O, Commodities
4. Groww
Groww is popular among new investors for its simple interface and zero commission on mutual funds.
Why Choose Groww?
Groww’s app-first approach and zero account opening charges make it a top pick for millennials and first-time investors.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹0
- Brokerage: ₹20 per executed order or 0.05% (whichever is lower)
- Trading Platform: Groww App & Web
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, US Stocks, IPOs
5. ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct is a trusted full-service broker with strong research support and banking integration.
Why Choose ICICI Direct?
ICICI Direct offers a 3-in-1 account (bank, demat, trading) for seamless fund transfers and a wide range of investment products.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0 (limited period)
- AMC: ₹300/year
- Brokerage: 0.55% (delivery), ₹20 per order (intraday)
Trading Platform: ICICI Direct Markets App & Web - Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, Bonds, F&O, Insurance
6. HDFC Securities
HDFC Securities is a top choice for HDFC Bank customers, offering a secure 3-in-1 account and advanced research tools.
Why Choose HDFC Securities?
With a strong brand, reliable support, and a range of investment options, HDFC Securities is great for long-term investors.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹999
- AMC: ₹750/year
- Brokerage: 0.50% (delivery), ₹20 per order (intraday)
- Trading Platform: HDFC Securities App & Web
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, F&O, Bonds
7. Motilal Oswal
Motilal Oswal is known for its research-driven advisory and personalized service.
Why Choose Motilal Oswal?
Motilal Oswal offers free account opening and zero AMC for the first year, plus strong research reports.
Key Features:
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0
- AMC: ₹0 (first year), ₹400/year thereafter
- Brokerage: 0.20% (delivery), ₹20 per order (intraday)
- Trading Platform: MO Investor & MO Trader Apps
- Investment Options: Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, F&O, Commodities
Comparison Table: Best Demat Account in India (2025)
| Broker | Account Opening | AMC | Brokerage (Delivery/Intraday) | Trading Platform | Investment Options | Unique Feature |
| Upstox | ₹0 | ₹25/month (1st yr free) | ₹20/order | Upstox Pro (Web/App) | Stocks, MF, IPO, F&O, US Stocks | Low charges, Fast onboarding |
| Zerodha | ₹200/₹300 | ₹300/year | ₹20/order or 0.03% | Kite (Web/App) | Stocks, MF, IPO, F&O, Commodities | Largest broker, Kite platform |
| Angel One | ₹0 | ₹240/year (1st yr free) | ₹20/order | Angel One App/Web | Stocks, MF, IPO, F&O, Commodities | Free delivery trades, ARQ Prime |
| Groww | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹20/order or 0.05% | Groww App/Web | Stocks, MF, IPO, US Stocks | Zero AMC, Simple interface |
| ICICI Direct | ₹0 (offer) | ₹300/year | 0.55%/₹20/order | ICICI Direct App/Web | Stocks, MF, IPO, Bonds, F&O | 3-in-1 account, Research support |
| HDFC Securities | ₹999 | ₹750/year | 0.50%/₹20/order | HDFC Sec App/Web | Stocks, MF, IPO, Bonds, F&O | 3-in-1 account, Brand trust |
| Motilal Oswal | ₹0 | ₹0 (1st yr), ₹400/year | 0.20%/₹20/order | MO Trader/Investor | Stocks, MF, IPO, F&O, Commodities | Strong research, Free AMC 1st yr |
How to Choose the Best Demat Account in India
What Should You Look For?
- Account Charges: Prefer brokers with low or zero account opening and AMC.
- Brokerage Fees: Lower brokerage fees mean more profit, especially for frequent traders.
- Trading Platform: Check for user-friendly, fast, and reliable platforms.
- Investment Options: Ensure the broker offers all products you want (stocks, mutual funds, IPOs, etc.).
- Customer Support: Quick and helpful support is crucial for resolving issues.
- Security: Ensure the broker is SEBI registered and uses strong security protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the best demat account in India for beginners?
Upstox and Groww are great for beginners due to their simple apps and low charges.
What is the cheapest demat account in India?
Groww offers zero account opening and zero AMC, making it the most affordable.
Which broker has the lowest brokerage charges?
Upstox, Zerodha, and Angel One charge a flat ₹20 per order, among the lowest in India.
Is Upstox safe for trading?
Yes, Upstox is SEBI registered, uses bank-grade security, and is trusted by over 1 crore users.
Can I open a demat account online?
Yes, all major brokers offer fully online account opening with instant activation.
What documents are required for a demat account opening?
You need a PAN card, Aadhaar, bank proof, and a selfie/photo.
Can I have two demat accounts?
Yes, you can open multiple demat accounts with different brokers.
Which is the best discount broker in India?
Upstox is widely regarded as the best discount broker in India for 2025.
What is AMC in a demat account?
AMC stands for Annual Maintenance Charges, a yearly fee for maintaining your demat account.
Can I invest in US stocks via an Indian demat account?
Upstox and Groww allow you to invest in US stocks through their platforms.
Conclusion
Choosing the best demat account in India is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective investing journey. In 2025, Upstox stands out as the top choice with zero account opening charges, low brokerage, and a powerful trading platform. Other great options include Zerodha, Angel One, Groww, and ICICI Direct catering to different needs.
Ready to start investing? Open your demat account with Upstox today and enjoy seamless trading at the lowest cost.
