Do you want to know which is the best demat account in India to trade in futures and options in 2025? As the trading in derivates has increased and the SEBI regulations have changed, selecting the correct demat account will help in your trading experience and profitability in a big way. Be it an experienced F&O trader or someone in early days of derivative trading, this guide aims to assist you in making a right choice, with an insight as to why Upstox is the best F&O trading platform in India in 2020.
Trading in futures and options (F&O) requires accuracy, minimal transaction fee, and a strong trading platform. In 2025, the Indian derivatives market is the most competitive ever with the brokers providing innovative features and very competitive pricing. Choosing the best demat account will help you to optimize your earnings and save on the expenses. The article, which uses the most up-to-date verified information provided by the top industry sources, will guide you through the most suitable demat accounts to trade F&O in India, including features, fees, and the reasons why Upstox is the best choice of an active derivatives trader.
Top 7 Demat Accounts for Futures and Options Trading in India (2025)
1. Upstox (Our Top Pick)
Why Choose Upstox?
Upstox dominates the F & O segment in 2025 with its clear pricing, superior trading platform and hassle-free onboarding. The platform has been designed to suit high-frequency traders as well as retail traders with a flat 20 per order charge on F&O trades, powerful analytics and zero account opening fees. The SEBI and CDSL compliances of Upstox provide a safe and trust-worthy trading experience.
Key Features
- Brokerage F&O: 20 rupees per order executed or 0.05 per cent of the value of the transaction (whichever is less) in case of futures and flat 20 rupees per order (options)
- Charges to open an account: Free
- Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC): 300 rupees a year after the first year (first year free)
- Platform: Pro Web, mobile App, TradingView integration
- Transactions Cost: NSE Futures 1250 per crore (0.0125 percent), NSE Options 6250 per crore (0.0625 percent) on premium
- STT: 0.01 percent on sell trade (futures), 0.05 percent on sell trade (options)
- SEBI Charges: 0.0001 percent ( 10 rupees per crore )
- Options strategy builder and real time margin calculator
- F&O trader support services Dedication
Updates of 2025
- Zero demat transaction fee on F&O
- Automatic activation of accounts and digital KYC
- Emerging risk management technology and analytics
2. Zerodha
Why Choose Zerodha?
Zerodha is a pioneer in discount broking, offering a flat ₹20 per order for F&O trades and a powerful Kite trading platform. It is favored for its transparency, educational resources, and robust compliance..
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹20 per order or 0.03% (whichever is lower)
- Account Opening Charges: ₹0 (online)
- AMC: ₹300 per year
- Platform: Kite web and mobile, TradingView charts
- Advanced APIs for algo trading
3. Groww
Why Choose Groww?
Groww is popular among new-age traders for its simple interface and affordable pricing. It offers flat ₹20 per order for F&O trades and is known for its user-friendly mobile app.
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹20 per order
- Account Opening Charges: Free
- AMC: ₹0 for first year, then ₹300 per year
- Platform: Web and mobile trading, advanced charting
4. Angel One
Why Choose Angel One?
Angel One combines full-service features with discount pricing. It is recognized for its research-driven approach and strong advisory services.
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹20 per order
- Account Opening Charges: Free
- AMC: ₹240 per year
- Platform: Web, mobile, ARQ Prime research
5. 5paisa
Why Choose 5paisa?
5paisa is a tech-driven broker offering competitive F&O trading charges and a feature-rich mobile app. It is ideal for DIY traders seeking low-cost solutions.
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹20 per order
- Account Opening Charges: Free
- AMC: ₹300 per year
- Platform: Web, mobile, robo-advisory
6. ICICI Direct
Why Choose ICICI Direct?
ICICI Direct is a top choice for those seeking a 3-in-1 account (bank, demat, trading) and premium advisory services. It offers a wide range of investment products and instant fund settlement1.
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹25 per order for options, 0.05% for futures
- Account Opening Charges: Free
- AMC: ₹700 per year
- Platform: Web, mobile, eATM instant settlement
7. Fyers
Why Choose Fyers?
Fyers is a discount broker focused on advanced analytics and a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for tech-savvy F&O traders.
Key Features
- Brokerage for F&O: ₹20 per order
- Account Opening Charges: Free
- AMC: ₹300 per year
- Platform: Web, mobile, advanced charting
Comparison Table: Best Demat Accounts for F&O Trading (2025)
| Broker | F&O Brokerage | Account Opening | AMC (Yearly) | Platform Features | Transaction Charges (Futures/Options) | STT (Futures/Options) | Unique Offerings |
| Upstox | ₹20/order or 0.05% (lower) | Free | ₹300 (1st yr free) | Pro Web, Mobile, TradingView | ₹1250/Cr (0.0125%) / ₹6250/Cr (0.0625%) | 0.01% / 0.05% | Zero demat txn for F&O, advanced analytics |
| Zerodha | ₹20/order or 0.03% (lower) | Free | ₹300 | Kite, TradingView | Similar to Upstox | Similar | Extensive educational tools |
| Groww | ₹20/order | Free | ₹0 (1st yr), ₹300 | Simple UI, Mobile | Similar | Similar | Largest client base |
| Angel One | ₹20/order | Free | ₹240 | ARQ Prime, SmartAPI | Similar | Similar | Full-service research |
| 5paisa | ₹20/order | Free | ₹300 | Robo-advisory, Mobile | Similar | Similar | Subscription plans |
| ICICI Direct | ₹25/order (options), 0.05% (futures) | Free | ₹700 | 3-in-1, eATM, Research | Similar | Similar | Instant fund settlement |
| Fyers | ₹20/order | Free | ₹300 | Analytics, Simple UI | Similar | Similar | Tech-driven tools |
How to Choose the Best Demat Account for F&O Trading
When comparing demat accounts for futures and options trading, consider these factors:
- Brokerage Charges: Opt for brokers with flat, low fees—Upstox’s ₹20 per order or 0.05% (whichever is lower) offers significant savings for active F&O traders.
- Account Opening & AMC: Many brokers now offer free account opening and competitive annual maintenance charges. Upstox provides the first year free, then ₹300 per year.
- Platform Quality: Advanced charting, margin calculators, and real-time analytics are essential for F&O trading. Upstox integrates TradingView and offers a robust Pro Web platform.
- Transaction Charges: Pay attention to NSE and SEBI transaction fees, as these can impact high-volume traders.
- Customer Support: Dedicated support for F&O traders is crucial for timely issue resolution.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure your broker is SEBI-registered and CDSL-compliant for safety and transparency.
- Value-Added Services: Tools like options strategy builders, instant margin calculators, and educational resources can enhance your trading experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the best demat account for F&O trading in India 2025?
Upstox is the top pick for F&O trading in 2025, offering flat ₹20 per order, advanced analytics, and zero demat transaction charges for F&O.
2. What are the brokerage charges for F&O trading at Upstox?
Upstox charges ₹20 per executed order or 0.05% of the transaction value (whichever is lower) for futures, and flat ₹20 per order for options.
3. Are there any account opening charges at Upstox?
No, Upstox offers free account opening for all customers.
4. What is the AMC for Upstox demat accounts?
The annual maintenance charge is free for the first year and ₹300 per year thereafter.
5. Does Upstox charge for demat transactions in F&O?
No, Upstox does not charge demat transaction fees for F&O trades.
6. Which broker has the largest client base in 2025?
Groww has the largest number of active clients in 2025, followed by Zerodha, Angel One, and Upstox.
7. Can I open a demat account for F&O trading online?
Yes, brokers like Upstox, Zerodha, Groww, and others offer instant online account opening.
8. What is the STT on F&O trades?
For futures, STT is 0.01% on the sell side; for options, it is 0.05% on the sell side.
9. Are there any hidden charges in F&O trading?
Most brokers disclose all charges, but always review transaction, SEBI, and stamp duty fees before trading.
10. Which broker is best for advanced F&O analytics?
Upstox stands out for its integration with TradingView, real-time margin calculators, and options strategy tools.
Conclusion
Selecting an ideal demat account in India to trade in futures and options is an important one by all derivatives traders. Upstox is unique with its low and flat brokerage, zero demat transaction charges on F&O, advanced analytics, and its smooth digital onboarding in 2025. Being the best among the F&O trading platform, Upstox has amazing features that a new trader or a professional trader can easily use with its transparent pricing structure. Take a look at the choices, assess your trading requirements, and open your Upstox account today and feel the difference!