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thinkorswim desktop vs Trader Workstation: catalog facts
thinkorswim desktop	Trader Workstation
Best for: Active traders with a Charles Schwab account	Best for: Active traders with an Interactive Brokers account
Free The software is free to download for Schwab clients; trading fees and commissions follow Schwab's pricing.	Free The software is a free download; trading costs and account terms are set by Interactive Brokers.
macOS	macOS
Customizable layouts and analysis tools Covers stocks, options and futures trading All 3 strengths for thinkorswim desktop Customizable layouts and analysis tools Covers stocks, options and futures trading Free with a Schwab account	Access to many asset classes and global markets from one application Advanced order types and risk analysis tools All 3 strengths for Trader Workstation Access to many asset classes and global markets from one application Advanced order types and risk analysis tools Official user guides from the broker
Requires a Charles Schwab brokerage account Aimed at active traders rather than budgeting	Only works with an Interactive Brokers account Aimed at active traders, so the interface is dense for casual investors
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
Account needed	Account needed
Needs internet	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for thinkorswim desktop schwab.com/trading/thinkorswim/desktop Catalog checked October 1, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Trader Workstation interactivebrokers.com Catalog checked October 1, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.