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Qtrade vs Questrade (2026): Both $0 Commissions Now, So Which Canadian Broker Is Better?
Both Qtrade and Questrade now charge $0 commissions on online stock and ETF trades, and Qtrade dropped its quarterly administration fees in late 2025. Choose Questrade if you want the widest account menu (including FHSA, RESP and corporate accounts), $0 options commissions, a robo-advisor (Questwealth) or more advanced trading tools. Choose Qtrade if you value top-rated customer service, strong research and portfolio tools, and commission-free mutual funds. Both support TFSAs, RRSPs and FHSAs, hold USD in registered accounts, and are CIRO members with CIPF coverage. Currency conversion costs apply at both.
The price gap has closed
For years, the choice was simple: Questrade was cheaper, Qtrade had better service. Then Questrade went to $0 commissions in 2025, and Qtrade followed in late 2025, also dropping its quarterly administration fees.
So in 2026, both are $0 for online stock and ETF trades. The decision now comes down to features, service and the fees that remain.
Qtrade vs Questrade at a glance
| Feature | Qtrade | Questrade |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks and ETFs (online) | $0 | $0 |
| Options | Per-contract fees | $0 commission (contract fees may apply) |
| Mutual funds | $0 commission | Commission per trade |
| Quarterly admin fee | Eliminated (late 2025) | None on most accounts |
| Account minimum | $0 | $0 |
| TFSA / RRSP / FHSA / RESP | Yes | Yes |
| USD in registered accounts | Yes | Yes |
| Robo-advisor | Qtrade Guided Portfolios | Questwealth Portfolios |
| Customer service | Consistently top-rated | Mixed reviews |
| Research tools | Strong portfolio analysis and research | Good, plus advanced Questrade Edge platform |
| Protection | CIRO / CIPF | CIRO / CIPF |
Fees change. Check each broker's current pricing page.
Where Qtrade wins
1. Customer service. Qtrade has been a regular top performer in Canadian broker rankings for service. If you value getting a knowledgeable person on the phone quickly, that matters.
2. Research and portfolio tools. Qtrade's portfolio analytics, screeners and research are clean and easy to use.
3. Mutual funds. $0 commission on mutual fund trades, versus a per-trade commission at Questrade.
4. Simplicity. A tidy, uncluttered interface. See how to open a Qtrade account.
Where Questrade wins
1. $0 options. If you trade options, Questrade's $0 commissions add up.
2. More account types. Questrade offers a very wide menu, including corporate, partnership and trust accounts, plus every major registered account.
3. Questwealth Portfolios. A low-cost robo-advisor in the same company, useful if you want some money managed and some self-directed.
4. Advanced platform. Questrade Edge has more trading tools for active investors.
5. Scale. Questrade is one of Canada's largest independent brokers. See our Questrade review.
The fees that still matter
- Currency conversion. Both charge a spread when you convert CAD to USD. If you buy US stocks often, use Norbert's gambit or compare with Interactive Brokers (our comparison).
- ECN fees. Some brokers pass on exchange fees on certain orders. Check the fine print if you trade frequently.
- Transfer-out fees. Typically around $150 if you leave. Both have offered reimbursement when you transfer in above a minimum.
- Phone-assisted trades. Cost extra at both.
Which is better for...
| You are... | Pick |
|---|---|
| A buy-and-hold ETF investor | Either; pick the platform you like |
| An options trader | Questrade |
| A mutual fund investor | Qtrade |
| Someone who values service | Qtrade |
| Wanting a robo portfolio plus DIY | Questrade |
| Opening an FHSA or RESP | Either |
How to switch between them
- Open the new account (same type: TFSA to TFSA, RRSP to RRSP).
- Request a transfer from the new broker, "in kind" (keep your holdings) or "in cash."
- Ask about fee reimbursement for the transfer-out fee.
- Never withdraw from a TFSA or RRSP to move it. See how to transfer a TFSA or RRSP.
The bottom line
With both at $0 commissions, Qtrade vs Questrade is now a choice of style. Qtrade is best for investors who want excellent service, strong research and free mutual fund trades. Questrade is best for investors who want $0 options, the widest account menu, a robo-advisor and advanced tools. For a broader view, see our best online brokers in Canada.
This comparison is educational and not a recommendation. Fees and features change; confirm current pricing with each broker before opening an account.
Frequently asked questions
Is Qtrade or Questrade cheaper in 2026?
For online stock and ETF trades, both are $0. Questrade also charges $0 commissions on options, while Qtrade charges per-contract fees. Qtrade offers commission-free mutual funds, while Questrade charges a commission on mutual fund trades. Currency conversion and other fees apply at both.
Does Qtrade still charge $8.75 per trade?
No. Qtrade moved to $0 commissions on online stock and ETF trades in late 2025 and eliminated its quarterly administration fees at the same time. Older reviews quoting $8.75 are out of date.
Which has better customer service, Qtrade or Questrade?
Qtrade has consistently ranked at or near the top of Canadian broker customer-service surveys. Questrade is larger and its app ratings have been mixed, though it offers phone and chat support.
Can I open an FHSA at Qtrade and Questrade?
Yes. Both offer the First Home Savings Account along with TFSAs, RRSPs, RESPs and RRIFs. Questrade offers a somewhat wider menu, including more account types for businesses.
Which is better for beginners?
Both work well. Questrade's robo-advisor (Questwealth Portfolios) suits beginners who want a hands-off option, while Qtrade's clean interface, education and strong service also make it beginner-friendly.
Can I transfer from Qtrade to Questrade, or vice versa?
Yes. Start the transfer at the receiving broker and request a direct transfer of your TFSA or RRSP so your contribution room isn't affected. Both brokers have offered to reimburse transfer-out fees above certain balances, so check current offers.
Primary sources
Data & disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not financial or investment advice. Figures reflect data available as of Nov 4, 2026, and conditions change — always confirm current pricing, rates and rules with the provider before you act. Written by Elizabeta Dimoska. See our editorial standards and disclosure.
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