Broker comparison
Which broker fits your needs?
Platforms, products and fees side by side.
Updated: October 2026
See comparison
Freedom24
LightyearSummary
Freedom24 has a higher rating of 4.2/5 compared to Lightyear (4.1/5). Freedom24 offers 5 instrument types, while Lightyear offers 3. The minimum deposit is lower at Freedom24 with 0 €. Freedom24 is BaFin-regulated, while Lightyear is supervised by FCA/EFSA. Freedom24 offers options trading, while the other does not.
Freedom24Access to US and EU exchanges with real options and savings plans
LightyearCommission-free stock trading with multi-currency accounts
At a glance
| Criterion | Freedom24 | Lightyear |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | Freedom24 App, Freedom24 Web | Lightyear App, Lightyear Web |
| Product types | Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, Futures | Stocks, ETFs, Government Bonds |
| Options trading | Yes, real US options | No |
| Fee model | from $0.02 per share (min. $2), options from $0.65 per contract | €0 commission on US/EU stocks, 0.35% FX fee |
| Minimum deposit | 0 € | 1 € |
| Regulation | CySEC/BaFin | FCA/EFSA |
| More information | Details | Details |
Freedom24 App, Freedom24 Web
Lightyear App, Lightyear Web
Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, Futures
Stocks, ETFs, Government Bonds
Yes, real US options
No
from $0.02 per share (min. $2), options from $0.65 per contract
€0 commission on US/EU stocks, 0.35% FX fee
0 €
1 €
CySEC/BaFin
FCA/EFSA
Product access and costs depend on market, account and permissions.
Detailed comparison
Compare total costs, not just the order fee.
Freedom24LightyearThe relevant costs depend on market, currency, order size and trading style.
Order type, venue and liquidity affect execution.
Freedom24Check the provider’s execution policy and available order types for your account.
Provider informationLightyearCheck the provider’s execution policy and available order types for your account.
Provider informationFreedom24LightyearCategories come from broker profiles. Check specific markets and permissions before deciding.
Freedom24Freedom24 App · Freedom24 Web
Freedom24 offers its own web platform and mobile app for iOS and Android. The platform enables trading of stocks, ETFs, options, futures, and bonds across over 15 global exchanges. It provides real-time quotes, portfolio overviews, savings plan features, and basic analytical tools. The user interface is functional, though it could benefit from a more modern design.
Explore platformLightyearLightyear App · Lightyear Web
Lightyear offers its own mobile app for iOS and Android as well as a web platform. The app impresses with a modern, minimalist design and intuitive user experience. Users can trade stocks, ETFs, and government bonds, create watchlists, and track their portfolio in real time. The platform supports multi-currency accounts and provides basic charting features.
Explore platformRegulation does not prevent market losses. The relevant authority depends on the contracting entity.
Your investor profile
Freedom24Access to US and EU exchanges with real options and savings plans
LightyearCommission-free stock trading with multi-currency accounts
Find the broker that fits
Side by side. Decided with knowledge.
See the differences that matter, and the Academy lessons that explain them.
Your questions
Your next step
Freedom24Access to US and EU exchanges with real options and savings plans
Open accountRead reviewLightyearCommission-free stock trading with multi-currency accounts
Open accountRead reviewThe guides worth reading before your first trade, whichever of the two you choose.
