Table of Contents
Introduction: Discount Brokers in India
With the rise of tech-savvy discount brokers, India’s stock market landscape has got a surge of retail investors. In this competitive space, there stands the industry pioneer Zerodha and an ambitious contender Fyers. These prominent ones offer distinct advantages to the traders and investors.
Both offer powerful tools, low-cost trading, and advanced platforms with efficient trading solutions. Which to choose between them depends on which one delivers the best value for your investment. Whether you are completely new to this or an experienced trader trying to switch to new platforms, you need to make an informed decision. Here is a comprehensive comparison of Zerodha and Fyers exploring every aspect that would help modern investors pick the one that aligns with your style, budget and goals.
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Company Overview
1: What is a stock?
Zerodha: The Pioneer of Discount Brokerage
Zerodha, founded in Bangalore in 2010, played an important part in transforming India’s stockbroking industry. It was made possible by introducing the discount brokerage model. Zarodha’s vision was to bring down the high-cost brokerage, which made it difficult for common people to get into trading. With discount brokerage as its magic spell, Zerodha thus grew into India’s largest stockbroker with active clients.
Zerodha is bootstrapped, profitable, and known for its robust tech stack and educational initiatives like Varsity. All these factors established it as India’s largest retail broker with about 12 million active clients.
Important Milestones:
- 2010: Company was established.
- 2015: Launched the Kite trading platform.
- 2016: Introduced Coin for mutual fund investments.
- 2020: Crossed 3 million active clients.
- 2024: Made account opening completely free.
Fyers: The Tech-Driven Challenger
It was established in 2015, by the Khoday brothers. Being launched five years later from Zerodha, Fyers directly entered the market as a discount broker that is technology-focused. Being new to the landscape did not stop Fyers from getting recognition. While smaller in user base, Fyers is popular among active traders who crave advanced charting and analytics. With advanced charting tools and Trading View Integration, Fyers found its place in the stock marketing arena.
Important Features:
- Focus on advanced technical analysis tools.
- Integration with global charting platforms.
- Emphasis on algorithmic trading capabilities.
- Importance to visual-first platforms.
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Know morePricing and Brokerage
Feature | Zerodha | Fyers |
Equity Delivery Trading Brokerage | ₹0 (no brokerage) | ₹0 (free) delivery trading |
Intraday / F&O / Commodity | Flat ₹20 per order or 0.03% (whichever is lower) | Also ₹20 per order or similar rates in intraday derivatives. |
AMC / Annual Demat Maintenance Charge | ₹300 per annum for individual demat account | Free in many cases, or lower than Zerodha for certain segments. |
Account Opening / Demat Fees | Trading + Demat accounts: mostly free; demat opening price negligible, but demat AMC exists. | Comparable; many of Fyers’ charges are lower or free for certain services. |
Additional Charges
- Depository charges on dematerialisation or rematerialisation.
- Pledge creation charges.
- Charges for physical statements, courier, certificate handling etc. Zerodha and Fyers both have some little fees for non-electronic or nonstandard services.
Charge Type | Zerodha | Fyers |
Call & Trade | ₹50 per order | ₹50 per order |
DDPI Charges | ₹25 +GST | Not specified |
Best Option: Both offer free delivery and identical intraday charges. Fyers wins on AMC with zero maintenance fees.
Trading Platforms: Zerodha and Fyers
Zerodha Kite
Zerodha’s flagship platform Kite is something that brings simplicity with functionality. Its minimalist design coupled with lightning-fast performance has made it a popular platform on demand. With over 6 million active users, Kite processes about 7 million trades daily.
Main Features:
- Ultra-fast execution with bandwidth consumption under 0.5 Kbps
- 100+ technical indicators and 15+ chart types
- Order slicing for large trades
- Available margin display in order window
- Market depth access directly from order window
- Alert Triggers Order (ATO) feature
- Privacy mode for sensitive information
- Basket orders for multiple stocks
Mobile App Advantages:
- Clean, intuitive interface
- Real-time streaming quotes
- Advanced charting on mobile
- Seamless synchronization across devices
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Fyers: Advanced Charting Powerhouse
Fyers platforms are built with TradingView integration, offering some of the most advanced charting tools in the Indian brokerage industry.
Platform Options:
- Fyers Web Trader – TradingView-powered web platform.
- Fyers Mobile App – Feature-rich mobile trading.
- Fyers One – Installable trading terminal.
Important Features:
- TradingView charts with 100+ indicators
- Multi-chart layouts (up to 8 charts simultaneously)
- Price ladder trading for quick execution
- Options Scalper Terminal with 3-in-1 interface
- Drag & drop order placement from charts
- 24+ years of historical data
- AI-powered screeners and insights
- Smart orders with trailing stops
Platform | Zerodha | Fyers |
Web & Mobile | Kite (minimalist, fast) | Fyers Web & App (visual-rich) |
Charting Tools | 100+ indicators, API access | Advanced TradingView integration |
Education | Varsity, Sensibull, Streak | Fyers School (basic) |
Best Option: Fyers wins on charting and visual tools. Zerodha offers a more complete ecosystem for learning and strategy.
Product Offerings: Zerodha and Fyers
Zerodha’s Comprehensive Ecosystem
Zerodha offers a complete investment ecosystem through multiple platforms.
Important Products:
- Stocks – NSE, BSE
- Futures and Options
- Currencies – USD-INR, EUR-INR, GBP-INR, JPY-INR
- Commodities – Gold, Silver, Crude Oil, etc.
- Government Securities
- Corporate Bonds
Investment Platforms:
- Coin – Direct mutual fund investments (commission-free)
- Console – Portfolio analytics and reporting
- Smallcase – Thematic investing in stock baskets
- IPO applications
- SGB (Sovereign Gold Bonds)
Fyers’ Focused Offerings
Fyers concentrates on core trading and investment products with advanced tools.
Important Products:
- Equities – NSE, BSE
- Derivatives – Futures & Options
- Currencies
- Commodities – MCX
- Mutual Funds (direct and regular)
- IPOs
- SGBs
Advanced Features:
- Thematic investing baskets
- Margin Trading Facility (MTF) up to 4x leverage
- Portfolio analytics
- Trading journal for strategy tracking
- API for algorithmic trading
Best Option: Zerodha offers a broader investment universe with bonds, government securities, and comprehensive educational resources.
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Know moreAccount Opening Process
Zerodha
Timeline:
Typically 24-48 hours for activation.
Process:
- Visit zerodha.com and sign up.
- Enter personal details and upload documents.
- Complete e-KYC with Aadhaar.
- E-sign the application.
- Complete video verification (if required).
- Account activation within 1-2 days.
Required Documents:
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank account proof
- Income proof (for derivatives)
- Passport-size photograph
Fyers
Timeline:
Within 24 working hours for activation.
Process:
- Visit fyers.in and sign up.
- Enter email and mobile number.
- Complete OTP verification.
- Upload identity and address documents.
- Provide bank account details.
- Select trading segments.
- E-sign and complete verification
Features:
- Paperless KYC process.
- 5-minute online application.
- Instant demo access while the account is being processed.
- Multiple account types (Individual, NRI, Corporate, Minor).
Best Option: Fyers edges ahead with faster processing and more streamlined experience.
Customer Service
Zerodha
Support Channels:
- Phone Support: Limited to critical issues
- Ticket System: Primary support method
- Email Support: General queries
- Branch Network: Physical locations across India
Response Time:
- Email/Tickets: 24-48 hours average
- Phone Support: Available but limited
Educational Support:
- Extensive FAQ section
- Varsity educational content
- Community forums
- YouTube tutorials
Customer Feedback Issues:
- Long response times during peak periods.
- Limited phone support availability.
- Repetitive/template responses for complex issues.
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Fyers
Support Channels:
- Phone Support: 080-6000 1111 (Extended hours)
- Email Support: Multiple specialized teams
- Live Chat: Available during trading hours
- Dedicated NRI Support
Working Hours:
- General Support: Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM – 11:55 PM, Sat: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Account Opening: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- API Support: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Specialized Team:
- Account opening support
- API and technical support
- NRI-specific assistance
- Partner support
Support Channel | Zerodha | Fyers |
✅ | ✅ | |
Phone | ✅
(Call & Trade ₹50/order) |
✅ |
Chat | ❌ | ✅ |
Help Portal | ✅ | ✅ |
Best Option: Fyers provides better accessibility with extended phone support hours and specialized teams.
Research and Educational Resources
Zerodha’s Educational Excellence
Varsity Platforms:
- 12+ comprehensive modules covering entire spectrum
- Free certification programmes
- Interactive learning with practical examples
- Multi-language support
- No signup required – completely open access
Research Offerings:
- Weekly market updates
- Quarterly earnings analysis
- Economic calendar
- Corporate action updates
- Blog with market insights
Learning Programmes:
- Varsity Live – Interactive training sessions
- Warren Buffett letter summaries
- Technical analysis workshops
- Fundamental analysis courses
Fyers’ Research Tools
Research Features:
- AI-powered screeners
- SWOT analysis for stocks
- Fundamental and technical analysis
- Corporate action tracking
- Market news integration
Limited Educational Content:
- Basic trading guides
- Platform tutorials
- Market updates
Best Option: Zerodha dominates with a comprehensive educational ecosystem and free certification programmes.
API and Algorithm Trading
Zerodha Kite Connect API
API Features:
- HTTP/JSON based
- RESTful API
- WebSocket for real-time data
- Historical data access
- Portfolio management capabilities
- Order management system
Pricing:
- ₹2,000 per month for API access
- Comprehensive documentation
- Developer community support
- Third-party integrations available
Fyers API
Technical Specifications:
- RESTful API architecture
- Real-time data streaming
- Historical data access
- Paper trading support
- Multiple programming languages supported
Advantages:
- Competitive pricing
- Robust performance
- Good documentation
- Technical support during business hours
Best Option: Both offer solid API solutions, with Zerodha having a larger developer community and Fyers providing better technical support.
NRI Services
Zerodha
Account Types:
- NRI Non-PIS accounts
- NRI PIS accounts
Brokerage for NRIs:
- Non-PIS: 0.5% or ₹50 per order (whichever is lower)
- PIS: 0.5% or ₹200 per order (whichever is lower)
- AMC: ₹500 + GST annually
Process Issues:
- Complex documentation requirements
- Lengthy approval process
- Limited customer support for NRIs
Fyers
Simplified Structure:
- ₹100 per executed order for both equity and F&O
- Dedicated NRI support team
- Streamlined documentation process
- Faster account opening
Support:
- Specialized NRI helpline
- Extended support hours
- Better communication process
Best Option: Fyers provides better NRI services with dedicated support and clearer pricing.
Security and Regulatory Compliance
Both Zerodha and Fyers maintain equivalent security standards and regulatory compliance. Here is why they are the best.
Regulatory Compliance:
- SEBI registered stockbrokers
- NSE and BSE membership
- Depository participants with CDSL/NSDL
- Investor protection fund coverage
Security Features:
- Two-factor authentication
- SSL encryption
- Bank-grade security
- Regular security audits
- Segregated client funds
Pros and Cons
Zerodha
✅ Pros |
Largest client base and market trust |
Comprehensive educational resources |
Simple, intuitive platform |
Extensive product range |
Strong brand reputation |
Free account opening |
Direct mutual fund investments |
❌ Cons |
Annual maintenance charges (₹300) |
Limited customer service accessibility |
Basic charting tools compared to competitors |
No 3-in-1 account facility |
Higher NRI charges |
Fyers
✅ Pros |
Lifetime free AMC |
Advanced TradingView charts |
Better customer support accessibility |
Superior technical analysis tools |
Faster account opening |
Competitive NRI services |
AI-powered features |
❌ Cons |
Smaller client base and market presence |
Limited educational content |
Fewer investment products |
No direct mutual fund platform |
Less brand recognition |
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Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Zerodha if You:
- Value simplicity over advanced features.
- Want comprehensive education and learning resources.
- Prefer established, trusted platforms.
- Need diverse investment options (bonds, government securities).
- Are a beginner looking for guidance.
- Want direct mutual fund investments.
- Don’t mind paying AMC for additional services.
Choose Fyers if You:
- Prioritize advanced charting and technical analysis.
- Are a day trader or active trader.
- Want to save on AMC charges.
- Need better customer support accessibility.
- Prefer TradingView charts and tools.
- Are an NRI investor.
- Focus on core trading rather than diverse investments.
GOAL | ZERODHA | FYERS |
Long-term investor / buy & hold | Because delivery trades are free; good ecosystem; robust reporting; strong trust record. | Good option if you want lower demat AMC, want advanced tools even for occasional trading. |
Active trader / intraday / derivatives trader | Solid performance, decent tools, but some gaps in very advanced chart customization. | Elite in charting flexibility, quick order types, custom workspace; built for the trader who cares about every edge. |
Just starting / beginner | Easier learning curve with broad educational content; less overwhelming. | Might have a steeper curve but potential payoff if you plan to use advanced features. |
Cost-sensitive (every rupee count) | You pay demat AMC, but many brokerage and delivery trades are free; transparent fees. | Frees up cost in some areas (AMC etc.), but fees in some tools or add-ons might come in. |
Conclusion: The Ultimate Choice
With this extensive and elaborate inspection, it must be clear that both Zerodha and Fyers are excellent choices for traders. Their competitive brokerage rates and solid trading platforms cater to various investor needs. Zerodha is the ideal choice for investors looking for a full-fledged investment ecosystem. Fyers, on the other hand, is ideal for traders who prioritize charting with speed and simplicity.
Beginners and Long-term Investors can go for Zerodha as it offers a comprehensive educational environment, different investment options, and being a trusted platform.
For Active Traders and Technical Analysis Enthusiasts, Fyers turns out to be the perfect choice. In addition to the superior charting tools and lifetime free AMC, the TradingView integration makes it ideal for serious traders.
Your choice can exclusively depend on the trading style you opt, your experience level, and the unique features you prioritize. Both brokers offer excellent value propositions in their respective strengths. Make an informed decision and start right away.
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Know moreFrequently Asked Questions
Which one is better for beginners - Zerodha or Fyers?
Zerodha is generally better for beginners as it has a simple user interface. More importantly, it has comprehensive educational resources through Varsity and extensive learning materials.
Does Fyers support mutual fund investments?
No. Fyers currently does not offer any mutual fund investment options.
Can I trade commodities on both platforms at the same time?
Yes, that is possible. Both Zerodha and Fyers support MCX commodity trading.
Which broker is ideal for an active trader?
Zerodha is the one as it offers more tools and flexibility for active traders.
Are Zerodha and Fyers safe and regulated?
Yes, both Zerodha and Fyers are SEBI-registered. They also maintain bank-grade security as well as follow every regulatory compliance requirement. They are members of NSE and BSE, and depository participants with CDSL.
Are there any hidden charges with either Zerodha or Fyer?
Both brokers follow transparent pricing models. In addition to brokerage, statutory charges like GST, stamp duty, STT, and exchange transaction charges will apply. Zerodha charges AMC, while Fyers does not. Always check the contract note for complete charge breakdown.
Does Fyers charge AMC for Demat accounts?
In many cases Fyers offers free Demat AMC. It depends on the user type or promotional offers. Always check current terms.
Are there downtimes or reliability issues with either platform?
Both platforms perform largely well. Zerodha, having a very large user base, has had occasional outages during high volatility. Fyers is newer with smaller scale, so less reported, but all platforms face stress during market extremes.
Does Fyers or Zerodha offer promotional schemes or discounts?
From time to time, yes. Fyers sometimes runs “30-day challenge” or brokerage refund offers. Zerodha occasionally has offers tied to partners, referral benefits etc. Always check current promotions.
Can I do algorithmic trading with Zerodha and Fyers?
Yes. Zerodha has Kite Connect API; Fyers also offers API, including bridges, advanced tools.