About Stock Market Computers: The Top 5 Recommended Software Applications to Easily Master the Market [2025 Complete Guide]

In the era of investing and wealth management, computer-based stock viewing tools have become essential for many investors. Although checking markets on mobile devices is quite convenient, serious stock investors still rely heavily on the powerful features of desktop software. This article will introduce five high-quality stock viewing applications for computers, helping you find the most suitable trading tools.

Why Must Investors Use Computers to View Stocks?

Compared to mobile devices, there are three main reasons why desktop stock viewing tools are recommended. First, computers have larger screens and greater processing power, allowing for more detailed technical charts and data analysis tools. Imagine trying to view MACD lines or complex options calculators on a 6-inch phone screen—it’s very difficult. On a computer, this is not an issue.

Second, computers have superior hardware performance, enabling quick data processing and multitasking. When markets experience sudden changes, investors can easily monitor multiple markets such as Taiwan stocks, Japanese stocks, commodities, and more simultaneously on a computer—something nearly impossible on a phone.

Third, security is higher. Unlike mobile phones, which can be lost or run out of battery, computers do not have these risks, allowing you to monitor markets around the clock with peace of mind.

In-Depth Comparison of Five Stock Viewing Software for Computers

Different types of investors have varying needs. The following five recommended stock viewing applications each have unique features, covering from beginner to professional levels.

San-Take Stock — Taiwan’s Top Local Stock Viewing Software

San-Take Stock is highly recognized in Taiwan’s investment community. Founded in the 1990s, San-Take Information Co., Ltd. has long been committed to developing stable and accurate trading platforms. Its initial version was launched in the early 1990s, when Taiwan’s stock market was just starting out. San-Take quickly gained market recognition with its first software. As technology advanced, San-Take continued updating features to meet modern investors’ needs.

Main Features:
San-Take offers 24 technical indicators (including RSI, KD, and other common tools), with ten customizable market viewing modes. The software includes strategy-based stock selection tools and AI-powered stock picking functions, with abundant post-market data. The system runs very stably, rarely crashing or producing data errors.

Target Users:
For investors focusing on Taiwan stocks, San-Take is the most reliable choice. However, San-Take does not provide order placement services. In 2023, it introduced a “multi-broker order” feature, connecting with Yuanta, E.SUN, and Uni-President Securities. Investors must select the broker within the app to place orders, which is somewhat cumbersome. Additionally, its international stock offerings are limited, with delays in US stocks and ADRs.

Mitrade — International Market Stock Viewing Software

Mitrade was established in 2011, headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. It specializes in forex and CFD trading services. Investors can trade forex, commodities, popular US stocks, and cryptocurrencies via its desktop software.

Main Features:
Mitrade offers both web-based (no download needed) and desktop versions. The interface is clean and intuitive, suitable for beginners. It provides access to global markets including US and Australian stocks, covering individual stocks, indices, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, forex, and precious metals—over 100 asset types. Localized support in Taiwan is mature, supporting NTD deposits and withdrawals without complicated currency exchanges.

The desktop trading is fast, supporting various order types and automated trading. Technical analysis tools include trend lines, moving averages, RSI, and more. The platform employs advanced encryption and multi-layer security measures to ensure safe trading. New users receive a 90-day demo account with $50,000 virtual funds, and real trading can earn a welcome bonus of up to $100.

Target Users:
Among recommended stock viewing tools, Mitrade is best suited for investors wanting to trade international markets, especially active traders needing leverage. Its downside is that margin trading is not suitable for long-term holding.

Futu NiuNiu — Hong Kong and US Stock Viewing Software

Futu NiuNiu’s influence in Chinese-speaking regions has grown rapidly. Listed on NASDAQ in 2019 (ticker: FUTU), and holding licenses in Hong Kong, the US, and Singapore, it is a top choice for many Asian investors trading Hong Kong and US stocks.

Main Features:
The desktop interface is simple and intuitive. The top-left area shows a default price chart with trend lines and technical tools; the top-right displays company financials and valuation info; the bottom-left is for options trading; the bottom-right shows order book data—comprehensive and detailed. Notably, Futu includes an options pricing calculator, helping options traders easily understand intrinsic and extrinsic values, saving research time.

It covers real-time quotes and trading for Hong Kong, US, and A-shares (Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Connect). Available on Windows and Mac, it allows seamless synchronization between mobile and desktop.

Target Users:
Futu NiuNiu is versatile and especially suitable for investors interested in multiple markets. Its drawback is that it does not support credit card deposits; funding is limited to bank wire transfers and ACH.

Interactive Brokers — Professional Trader’s Choice

Interactive Brokers (IB), founded in 1977 and headquartered in Connecticut, USA, initially focused on options trading and has grown into a leading global electronic trading platform. By trading volume, IB is one of the largest brokers worldwide. Its desktop platform, Trader Workstation (TWS), is extremely powerful, designed for professional traders requiring advanced tools.

Main Features:
IB offers highly customizable trading interfaces, allowing users to set up multiple windows and tools according to preferences. TWS supports various order types and algorithmic trading, ideal for high-frequency traders. It provides extensive technical analysis features, including real-time charts, indicators, market scanners, and strategy testing. As a global broker, IB offers access to over 120 markets worldwide.

Target Users:
IB is best suited for professional and institutional investors, especially those interested in bonds and international markets. Its complexity can be daunting for beginners; a certain level of trading experience is necessary to fully utilize its capabilities.

TradingView — Chart Analysis for Stock Viewing

Founded in 2011 by technical experts and traders in the US, TradingView has become a leading global platform for financial charting and analysis. Many brokerage platforms and even Yahoo Finance embed its data.

Main Features:
TradingView’s charting capabilities are among the best. Users can draw lines, add labels, color charts, and overlay over 100 technical indicators and drawing tools. Its database covers Taiwan stocks, US stocks, forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and even Indian stocks. The platform includes a social community where users can view stock profiles, discuss investments, and access news updates. Its interface is simple and user-friendly, suitable for quick learning.

Available as web and desktop versions.

Target Users:
TradingView is essential for chart analysis enthusiasts. Its main limitation is that it does not support order placement directly; users need to open accounts with brokers separately. The free version offers sufficient features for general market viewing, with paid subscriptions unlocking advanced tools.

Desktop vs Mobile: Key Differences in Stock Viewing

The user experience between desktop and mobile versions of these tools varies significantly. San-Take, as Taiwan’s largest mobile trading app (developed and maintained by over 47 brokers, with more than 90% of Taiwanese brokers using it), has less comprehensive company info and less smooth price charting on mobile compared to the desktop version.

Mitrade’s mobile app maintains the simplicity of its desktop version, making it easy for beginners, though some advanced technical analysis features need improvement. Futu NiuNiu’s desktop version is feature-rich, but on mobile, some functions require multiple taps or are less intuitive to access.

Interactive Brokers’ mobile app faces similar issues: its complex features are harder to navigate on small screens, and security verification can slow down trading. TradingView’s charting is excellent on desktop, but on mobile, the limited screen size hampers detailed analysis and drawing.

Choosing the Right Stock Viewing Tool for You

In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for the best desktop stock viewing software. It depends on individual needs. If you prioritize a simple, user-friendly interface, Mitrade is a good choice. For comprehensive features, TradingView excels. If you want multi-market trading, Interactive Brokers is unmatched. For focused Taiwan market trading, San-Take is ideal. For a balanced approach, Futu NiuNiu is recommended.

Quant traders might also consider MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which offers advanced technical analysis, automated trading (EAs), and strategy backtesting—more suitable for advanced users. However, MT5 requires an account with a broker, and Mac users may need virtual machines or web versions for full functionality.

Regardless of your choice, continuous learning and developing sound investment strategies are key to long-term success. We hope this guide helps you find the most suitable tools to start a more professional investment journey.