Our Verdict
Interactive Brokers scores higher overall (9.6/10 vs 9.0/10) on our methodology, which weighs fees & pricing (30%), safety & regulation (30%), platform & tools (25%), service & funding (15%). That makes it the stronger all-round choice for most people.
But a higher score doesn't make it the right pick for you. Interactive Brokers is built for serious and professional traders, while Charles Schwab targets investors who want deep research. If your situation matches the second description, the lower-scoring option is the better decision — the score measures general quality, not personal fit.