United StatesSummary
NinjaTrader, founded in 2003, is both a famous trading platform and a US-regulated futures broker (CFTC, NFA). It is often the natural next step for a futures prop firm trader moving to their own money: same contracts (NQ, ES, MNQ, MES), same software.
The best entry point for trading futures with your own money.
Accounts and fees
Three plans: free ($0.39 per micro, $1.29 per standard contract, per side), monthly at $99 ($0.29 / $0.99) or lifetime at $1,499 ($0.09 / $0.59). Intraday margins of $50 on micros and $500 on popular E-minis.
Platforms and markets
NinjaTrader Desktop, Web and Mobile included in every plan. CME Group futures: indices, commodities, currencies, rates and crypto.
Trading conditions
| Regulation | CFTC and NFA (NinjaTrader Clearing, FCM, NFA ID 0309379) |
|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | No minimum to open (contract margin still required to trade) |
| Cost | Free plan: $0.39 per micro and $1.29 per standard contract, per side |
| Commission | Monthly plan ($99/month): $0.29 / $0.99; lifetime plan ($1,499): $0.09 / $0.59 |
| Platforms | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web, Mobile |
| Markets | CME Group futures (indices, commodities, currencies, rates, crypto) |
| Leverage / margin | Intraday margins: $50 per micro, $500 on popular E-minis |
Data checked in October 2026 on the broker's official website and specialist reviews. Fees and conditions can change: check them before opening an account.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- $50 intraday margins on micros
- Full platform included
- Commissions down to $0.09
- CFTC/NFA regulated
Weaknesses
- Futures only
- Best rates require a subscription
Who is it for?
A good fit if you…
- Futures day traders (NQ, ES, MNQ, MES)
- Come from a futures prop firm
- Small accounts ($50 margins)
Avoid if you…
- Want spot forex or shares
Score breakdown
Five criteria rated out of 10: real fees (spread and commission), strength of regulation, platforms, choice of markets and overall experience (track record, account opening, tools).
FAQ NinjaTrader
Is there a minimum deposit at NinjaTrader?
Not to open the account, but you must cover the contract margin ($50 for a micro intraday).
How much does a micro cost?
$0.39 per side on the free plan, $0.29 on the monthly plan and $0.09 on the lifetime plan.
CFDs and futures are leveraged products: most retail accounts lose money. Only trade money you can afford to lose.
