How to choose stock computer software in 2025? A collection of 5 recommended stock computer software options

Why Professional Investors Still Use Computers to View Stocks

Although smartphones have become ubiquitous, for serious traders, desktop stock market applications remain an indispensable tool.

Advantages of Screen Size and Computing Power

A large screen means more information can be displayed simultaneously. Viewing MACD lines and RSI indicators on a 6-inch phone is very difficult, but a computer screen allows investors to observe multiple technical indicators, price-volume changes, and fundamental data at once. Computers also far surpass phones in processing power, enabling real-time loading of complex data analysis models, which is crucial for in-depth technical analysis.

Multi-Task Monitoring Capabilities

Markets change rapidly. On a computer, investors can open multiple windows to monitor real-time movements across different markets such as Taiwan stocks, US stocks, Japanese stocks, commodities, and more. This parallel operation is nearly impossible on a phone. When sudden market events occur, the ability to react quickly through multiple windows can directly influence trading decisions.

Stability and Security

Computers won’t be interrupted by battery depletion or accidental drops. Compared to the fragility of phones, computers can provide a stable, 24/7 market monitoring environment, giving investors peace of mind in overseeing their holdings.

Because of these advantages, desktop stock market applications remain popular in 2025. Below are five practical tools to help you find the most suitable stock viewing software for your computer.

5 Recommended Stock Viewing Software for Desktop

Tradingview: Industry Benchmark for Chart Analysis

Founded in 2011 by US technical experts and traders, Tradingview has evolved over more than a decade into the most recognized global financial chart platform. Many mainstream financial websites (including Yahoo Finance) actually embed Tradingview’s charting tools.

Core Advantages:

This software’s drawing capabilities are among the strongest in the industry. Users can freely draw lines, mark, color, and add trendlines, with over 100 technical indicators and drawing tools—far exceeding similar products. Its database covers major global markets—Taiwan stocks, US stocks, forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and even Indian stocks—making data sources remarkably comprehensive.

The platform also has built-in social features, allowing users to browse individual stock analyses, investor discussions, and latest news, forming a complete analysis ecosystem. Despite its rich features, the interface remains clean and user-friendly; beginners can quickly learn to operate after brief training. Available in web and desktop versions.

Limitations:

Tradingview does not offer order placement itself; trading must be done through partner brokers, which adds complexity to account opening. Full features require a paid subscription; the free version is sufficient for basic use but may limit advanced investors.

Futu NiuNiu: All-in-One Platform for Hong Kong and US Stocks

Futu NiuNiu’s influence in the Chinese-speaking world has surged in recent years. It successfully listed on NASDAQ in 2019 (stock code: FUTU), holding securities licenses in Hong Kong, the US, and Singapore, becoming a key gateway for Asian investors to access Hong Kong and US markets.

Core Advantages:

The desktop interface is simple and intuitive. The top-left shows price charts with trendlines and technical tools; the top-right displays company financials and valuation info; the bottom-left contains options trading; the bottom-right shows bid-ask data. The layout is comprehensive, catering to different investor needs.

Futu has optimized for options trading, with built-in options pricing calculators, making it easy for options investors to understand intrinsic and time value. It covers real-time quotes and trading for Hong Kong stocks, US stocks, and A-shares (Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Connect), with both Windows and Mac desktop versions for seamless switching between mobile and desktop.

Limitations:

It does not support credit card deposits; funding options are limited to bank wire and ACH transfers, which may inconvenience some users. The mobile app, while feature-rich, can be complex, requiring multiple clicks to access advanced functions, leading to a less smooth user experience compared to the desktop.

Interactive Brokers (IB): Professional Trading Platform for Global Markets

Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Interactive Brokers has grown from a market maker for options into one of the world’s largest electronic trading platforms by trading volume. For Taiwanese investors interested in overseas markets, especially bonds, IB offers unparalleled market access.

Core Advantages:

IB’s desktop platform, Trader Workstation (TWS), is a powerful professional-grade trading software. It supports highly customizable interfaces, allowing users to set up different windows and tools according to preferences. TWS supports various order types and algorithmic trading, suitable for high-frequency traders.

Its robust technical analysis tools include real-time charts, indicators, market scanners, and strategy backtesting. As the largest online broker globally, IB provides access to over 120 markets, enabling investors to diversify their global portfolios easily.

Limitations:

Due to its extensive features, the interface can be complex, making it challenging for beginners. TWS is mainly designed for experienced traders, especially high-frequency or institutional investors. The mobile app has similar issues—complex login procedures and security verifications can slow down trading.

Sanchu Stock Market: Taiwan’s Local Investor’s First Choice

Sanchu Information Co., Ltd., established in the 1990s, has dedicated itself to developing stable, precise trading platforms. The earliest version of Sanchu Stock Market appeared during Taiwan’s early stock market days. With internet proliferation and technological advances, the software has continuously evolved, becoming a top choice for many Taiwanese investors trading local stocks.

Core Advantages:

An essential tool for Taiwan stock monitoring, providing real-time quotes and rich technical analysis tools. The platform includes 24 professional indicators, such as RSI and KD. The desktop version offers ten different viewing modes, with customizable interface styles in the top-right corner to suit different trading habits.

Sanchu also offers stock screening tools, AI-based smart stock selection, and new stock winners, helping investors make smarter choices. Its post-market data display is rich, supporting long-term Taiwan stock holdings. The system has been operating stably for years, with very few crashes or data errors.

Currently, Sanchu is Taiwan’s largest mobile stock viewing app provider; over 90% of the 47 partner brokerages use Sanchu-developed mobile applications, solidifying its industry position.

Limitations:

Sanchu does not provide order placement services. Since September 2023, it launched a “multi-broker order” feature connecting with Yuanta, E.SUN, and Uni-President Securities, but the process remains somewhat cumbersome. It is more suitable for investors focusing on Taiwan markets; international stocks are limited, with delays in US stocks and ADR quotes.

Mitrade: Cross-Market International Solution

Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Mitrade is a global fintech company specializing in forex and CFD trading. Investors can trade derivatives of forex, commodities, US stocks, cryptocurrencies, and more on its platform.

Core Advantages:

Supports both web and desktop applications. The web version requires no download—just connect online to view quotes and trade; the desktop app offers more comprehensive features. Both interfaces are clean and intuitive, suitable for beginners. Users can easily browse market quotes, charts, and trading history.

As an international broker, Mitrade mainly provides quotes for US and Australian stocks, covering over 100 assets including global indices, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, forex, and precious metals. It offers free market viewing and direct order placement within the app, completing all trading processes with one account for high convenience.

Localized services are well-developed; Taiwanese users can deposit and withdraw in New Taiwan Dollars, avoiding currency exchange hassles. The desktop application ensures fast trade execution, minimizing latency. Supports various order types and automated trading. Technical analysis tools include trendlines, moving averages, RSI, etc. The platform employs advanced encryption and multi-layer security to protect funds and privacy. Leverage trading is supported, allowing investors to maximize capital.

Limitations:

Margin trading mechanisms are not suitable for long-term investors. The mobile app, while maintaining the simplicity of the desktop version, has limited support for advanced technical analysis features, which needs improvement.

Differences in Desktop and Mobile Experience for Various Software

All five software options offer both desktop and mobile applications, but user experiences differ significantly.

Sanchu is Taiwan’s largest mobile stock viewing app, but compared to its desktop version, it slightly lags in displaying corporate info and chart smoothness.

Mitrade’s mobile app retains the simplicity of its desktop counterpart, friendly to beginners, but its professional technical analysis features are limited on both ends.

Futu NiuNiu’s desktop version is feature-rich, but on mobile, some functions require multiple taps to access.

Interactive Brokers faces similar issues—the TWS platform is too large, and its mobile design inevitably sacrifices some functionality. Additionally, the login verification process is cumbersome, affecting trading speed.

Tradingview, as the best charting software, offers an unbeatable desktop experience, but this cannot be fully realized on small screens like smartphones.

How to Choose the Right Stock Viewing Desktop Software for You

Finding the most suitable stock viewing tool depends on clarifying your investment needs.

If you prioritize a simple, user-friendly interface, Mitrade is a good choice. If you seek the most powerful charting and global market coverage, Tradingview has clear advantages. If access to over 120 markets worldwide is essential, Interactive Brokers leads. For local Taiwan market focus, Sanchu provides the most tailored support. If you want a combination of Hong Kong and US stock trading plus options analysis, Futu NiuNiu is the most comprehensive.

Quant traders should also consider MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which has built-in technical analysis tools, automation, and strategy backtesting—suitable for advanced users. However, it requires broker account login, and Mac users need to use virtual machines or web versions.

Based on your trading style, market preferences, and technical needs, choosing the application that best fits will truly enhance your investment efficiency.