Want the best online broker? How do you rate an online broker?

Investments in the stock market are beginning to see a surge again. During the economic crisis many online brokers jockeyed for position knowing there would be some great opportunities once the market rebounded. You can take advantage of these competitive changes.

Online brokers got their start by offering different trading programs that made it cheaper for small investors to remain active in the market. Without the human cost fees are much lower. So just what makes a site one of the best online brokers?

Review the Tools – The best online brokers understand tools consumers want. Robust trading tools can help both novice and experienced traders. Not all the tools are used by all investors, the larger the selection of tools the better equipped the online trader is.

Compare the Price -  The best online brokers do not participate in price gouging. They should offer a fair and simple to understand pricing structure. If there are hidden fees and complicated pricing, move on. A clean and simple pricing structure lets you know exactly what to expect.

Support Services - This one is dependent on your experience level. Rookies should look into paying a little more for their service because you will have questions and you will want to speak to a live person. Veteran traders don’t necessarily need extra support. They just want the rock bottom prices.

Here are 5 of the best online brokers based on price and customer satisfaction:

1. Scottrade
2. Etrade
3. Fidelity Investments
4. MB Trading
5. TradeStation Securities