Are you a new investor searching for the top discount broker for beginners in India? With so many options, it’s easy to feel lost. Discount brokers make investing affordable and simple, but not all are created equal. This guide explains what discount brokers are, why they’re ideal for beginners, and ranks the best options for 2025
Why Beginners Need the Right Discount Broker
Starting your stock market journey is exciting, but picking the wrong broker can mean high costs and confusing tools. The top discount broker for beginners offers low fees, easy-to-use apps, and reliable support. In 2025, millions of Indians are opening demat and trading accounts, and most opt for discount brokers due to their low-cost, digital-first services. This guide, built on the latest data and real user needs, will help you choose the best broker to start strong.
What Is a Discount Broker? Why Do Beginners Prefer Them?
Discount brokers are online platforms that let you buy and sell stocks, commodities, and other securities at a flat, low fee. Unlike full-service brokers, they don’t offer financial advice or portfolio management. Instead, they focus on:
- Low brokerage charges: Pay a fixed fee per trade, no matter the trade size.
- Simple digital platforms: Trade via app or website.
- No hidden costs: Transparent pricing.
- Self-directed investing: Make your own decisions with powerful tools.
Why beginners love discount brokers:
- Lower costs mean more profits stay with you.
- Easy-to-use apps help you learn as you go.
- Quick account opening—fully online.
- Access to stocks, commodities, mutual funds, and more.
Top Discount Brokers for Beginners in India (2025)
Here’s a detailed look at the best discount brokers for new investors, based on pricing, features, and latest user data.
1. Upstox
Upstox is a leading discount broker trusted by over 28 lakh clients as of May 2025. Backed by Ratan Tata and Kalaari Capital, Upstox delivers a tech-first, low-cost trading experience across stocks, commodities, currencies, and more.
Why Choose Upstox?
- Flat ₹20 per trade across all segments—equity, F&O, commodity, currency.
- Zero account opening charges (limited period).
- No annual maintenance charge for the first year.
- Modern mobile and web platforms with real-time data, smartlists, and advanced charting.
- Strategy Builder: Build and analyze complex option strategies—even as a beginner.
- Advisor’s Pick: Get SEBI-registered analyst recommendations right in the app.
- Buy Now, Pay Later (MTF): Invest in stocks by paying a fraction upfront.
- Integrated health insurance and wealth tools for holistic financial planning.
- Commodity Broker in India (Full-Service Brokers): Trade commodities alongside equities using a single account.
Key Features
- Flat ₹20 per executed order (or 0.05% for equity intraday, whichever is lower).
- ₹0 on equity delivery (for most segments).
- Trade stocks, F&O, commodities, currencies, mutual funds, IPOs.
- Instant digital account opening—start trading the same day.
- Advanced security and risk management.
- Learning resources and customer support for beginners.
2. Zerodha
Zerodha is India’s largest discount broker, known for its robust Kite trading platform and educational resources.
Why Choose Zerodha?
- ₹0 brokerage on equity delivery.
- ₹20 or 0.03% per order for intraday and F&O.
- Kite platform: Advanced charts and tools.
- Zerodha Varsity: Free investor education.
Key Features
- Flat fee structure.
- No hidden charges.
- Direct mutual fund platform (Coin).
- Strong community and support.
3. Groww
Groww started as a mutual fund platform and now offers stocks, ETFs, and US stocks1.
Why Choose Groww?
- Zero account opening charges.
- ₹20 per trade for intraday and F&O.
- Simple, beginner-friendly app.
- Direct mutual funds and US stocks.
Key Features
- Easy onboarding.
- Educational content.
- All-in-one investment platform.
4. Angel One
Angel One (formerly Angel Broking) combines a trusted legacy with modern tech.
Why Choose Angel One?
- ₹0 brokerage on equity delivery.
- ₹20 per trade for intraday and F&O.
- SmartAPI for automation.
- ARQ Prime: Personalized investment ideas.
Key Features
- Comprehensive research.
- Advanced app and web tools.
- Strong customer support.
5. BlinkX by JM Financial
BlinkX offers a subscription-based unlimited trading model.
Why Choose BlinkX?
- Trade unlimited at zero brokerage with a ₹249/2 months plan.
- Covers equity, F&O, commodities, and IPOs.
Key Features
- Subscription pricing.
- Unlimited trades.
- Simple app and web interface.
Comparison Table: Top Discount Brokers for Beginners (2025)
| Broker | Account Opening | AMC (Year 1) | Equity Delivery | Intraday/F&O | Commodity | Notable Features | User Base (2025) |
| Upstox | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹20/order | ₹20/order | Advanced tools, MTF, insurance | 28+ lakh |
| Zerodha | ~₹200 | ₹300 | ₹0 | ₹20/order | ₹20/order | Kite, Varsity, Coin | 1+ crore |
| Groww | ₹0 | ₹0 (1st yr) | ₹0 | ₹20/order | ₹20/order | US stocks, MF, simple app | 80+ lakh |
| Angel One | ₹0 | ₹0 (1st yr) | ₹0 | ₹20/order | ₹20/order | ARQ Prime, research, SmartAPI | 1+ crore |
| BlinkX | ₹249/2 months | ₹0 | ₹0* | ₹0* | ₹0* | Unlimited trading (subscription) | NA |
How to Choose the Top Discount Broker for Beginners
When selecting a top discount broker for beginners, focus on:
- Low and transparent brokerage: Avoid brokers with hidden charges.
- Easy-to-use platforms: Look for intuitive mobile and web apps.
- Quick digital onboarding: Open accounts online, no paperwork.
- Educational resources: Access to guides, tutorials, and research.
- Diverse product access: Trade stocks, commodities, mutual funds, and more.
- Strong customer support: Responsive help for new investors.
- Commodity Broker in India (Full-Service Brokers): If you want to trade commodities, ensure your broker offers this feature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Discount Brokers for Beginners
What is a discount broker?
A broker offering low-cost, flat fee trading via digital platforms, with no advisory services.
What is the minimum amount to start?
There is no minimum balance required to open an account with most discount brokers.
Can I invest in mutual funds and initial public offerings (IPOs)?
Yes, leading brokers offer direct mutual fund and IPO investment.
Is my money safe with discount brokers?
Yes, all major brokers are SEBI-registered and follow strict regulations.
Do discount brokers provide investment advice?
No, but some offer research tools and analyst picks (like Upstox’s Advisor’s Pick).
Why should beginners choose a discount broker?
They offer lower costs, simple tools, and easy account opening—ideal for learning and starting small.
How fast can I start trading?
With Upstox, you can open an account and start trading the same day.
Is there any annual maintenance charge (AMC)?
Most brokers, including Upstox, offer zero AMC for the first year.
How much does Upstox charge per trade?
Flat ₹20 per executed order across all segments.
Can I trade commodities with discount brokers?
Yes, top brokers like Upstox and Angel One allow commodity trading on the same platform.
Conclusion
Start Investing with the Top Discount Broker for Beginners
Choosing the top discount broker for beginners is the key to a confident start in the Indian stock market. Upstox leads the pack in 2025 with flat low fees, advanced tools, and a beginner-friendly experience—making it the best choice for new investors. Open your Upstox account today and join millions of Indians trading smarter, not harder.
Ready to trade? Open your Upstox account now and start your investment journey with the best in the business!
