NinjaTrader Free - Is This The Best Option For You?

Let's answer some of the most common questions about the NinjaTrader free version and get them out of the way.

Yes, NinjaTrader is free and that "free period" does not expire.
You can use a free demo account and get free data for forex and futures markets without paying anything
All of the features are available to be used except for 1. This 1 feature is the ability to place a live trade.

The question you should be asking yourself is do you need to place a live trade through NinjaTrader right now or at all?

What is the point of the NinjaTrader Free version?

The free version can best be used for many different reasons such as:

charting
scanning
alerting
being your "work horse" for creating opportunities.
using a free demo account

If you trade the forex market you can also get your data for free and if you trade futures and stocks you can pull in your data from your existing broker (like interactive brokers, td ameritrade etc..) and still not have to pay for the platform.

This will give traders like yourself the chance to use the software, and build up your account with it. At that point NinjaTrader will hope you convert to a lifetime full licensed user. It has seemed though based off their actions they are having a harder time convincing people to make that switch as many are deciding to stay with the free version and just submit their orders through their existing brokers platform and using it like an "order machine".

You can use all the features - only thing you can't do is place an order directly to your broker.

The Advantages of the Paid NinjaTrader License?

The free version can best be used for many different reasons such as:

The convenience of placing your order through the NT8 platform and only having the one platform to worry about.
Utalizing some of the features of handling orders through NinjaTrader 8 like ATM Strategies

ATM Strategies will probably allow you to handle orders in a more complex way then what your broker will allow you. This will allow you to automate some of the functions that you might do manually or not be able to do with your broker. For example, if you want to move stops up to break even once you hit 55 pips or 20 ticks, then you can create an ATM strategy to do that..

But is this enough of an advantage?

Do Professional Traders Use the NinjaTrader Free or Purchased Version?

It's really going to depend on your own needs as there is no right or wrong answer. Here is what I mean by a situation that might have you buying or not buying a license. One particular user as a good example:

The Net Liquid cash in this account is $623,000 in US Dollars. I'm going to assume that this might be more than the average person reading this post.

This particular trader I know for a fact is using NinjaTrader free version and has no need or requirement to upgrade. One of the reasons why this user decided to continue without purchasing a lifetime license is because NinjaTrader doesn't have a mobile app. You would need to use the brokers mobile app in order to monitor, change and execute any orders. Since this particular trader is very mobile, it doesn't suit his needs even if he executes orders through NT8.

This might also be a factor for you when considering the Ninjatrader free or paid versions but for this user it was a deal breaker. I think this is a good example because if you have an account of this size, clearly the money for a paid license is not an issue.

Any questions regarding this feel free to ask but hopefully we've given you a non-objective way of deciding if you need the NinjaTrader free or paid version. Regardless, if you're just starting out, getting a license key right away is not going to give you any advantage over others. Building up your account first is always a good idea.

When Should You Get A License?

If you were considering getting a license, NinjaTrader usually does 1 promotion a year in the month of December (at least they have for the past 2 years). If this will remain true you can get a promotional deal for your NT8 license. What was the past deal?

Single Broker Lifetime License: Only $895 ($100 savings)
Multi Broker Lifetime License: Only $1195 ($300 savings)
Upgrade to a Multi Broker Lifetime License: Only $300 ($200 savings)

So if you're not in a huge hurry, you can wait and save some cash - totally up to your needs.

What is A Free Tool That All NT8 Users Must Have?

If your using NT8, you'll want to download our XABCD News tool which is free to the community of NT8 users. You can download our XABCD News tool and add it into your platform with minimal effort - just follow the instructions and we'll send you the software and license key.

100% free and yours to enjoy. Always know when a news event is coming up before it happens and don't get caught without knowing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NinjaTrader free to use?

NinjaTrader offers a free version that allows users to access advanced charting, market analysis tools, and a trade simulation environment at no cost. However, live trading and certain premium features may require a paid license or a funded brokerage account.

What features are included in the NinjaTrader free plan?

The NinjaTrader free plan typically includes advanced charting, technical analysis tools, backtesting capabilities, and simulated (demo) trading. Some advanced order types, automated strategy features, and additional add-ons may only be available with a paid license upgrade.

Can I trade live with a free NinjaTrader account?

You can use NinjaTrader in simulation mode for free, but live trading generally requires either a paid platform license or opening a funded brokerage account through NinjaTrader. This allows the platform to remain free for practice while requiring a commitment for real-money trading.

How do I download NinjaTrader for free?

You can download NinjaTrader for free directly from the official NinjaTrader website by providing your name and email address. Once downloaded, you can install the platform and immediately begin using its charting, analysis, and simulated trading tools without entering any payment information.

What is the difference between NinjaTrader free and the paid license?

The free version of NinjaTrader provides core charting, analysis, and simulation features, while the paid license unlocks enhanced capabilities such as advanced order types, automated trading strategies, and reduced commission rates. Upgrading to a paid license is typically recommended for active live traders who need the full suite of professional tools.