Best Backtesting Software 2024

Jeremy Biberdorf Image
Updated
Sep 07, 2024
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means we earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase a product through our links.
Quick Breakdown

Best Backtesting Platforms

Backtesting software is pivotal in the realm of trading, providing traders with a safety net before they dive into the tumultuous financial waters. At its core, this tool facilitates a real-time rehearsal, allowing traders to run simulations based on past market data. This ensures they aren't going in blind — trusting a strategy that hasn't been battle-tested.

As financial markets continue their dance of unpredictability, the right backtesting tool can often stand as the sentinel that determines whether you sail smoothly toward profit or stumble into losses.

This article will unpack the intricacies of the best backtesting software available, aiming to guide you toward a decision that aligns seamlessly with your trading aspirations.

The Best Backtesting Software Companies in 2024

TradeZella Logo

TradeZella

4.5 stars
Learn More
Main Features Trading Journal
Cost Structure $399/year or $49/month for Pro
$288/year or $29/month for Basic
Best For Strategy refinement
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Intuitive trading journal with automatic entry logging.
  • Detailed analytics for individual trade review and strategy improvement.
  • Trade replay feature to learn from past trades.
  • Customizable reports for in-depth trade analysis.
  • Comprehensive educational resources to enhance trading skills.
  • Cloud-based platform for easy access from anywhere.
TradeZella emerges as a comprehensive trading journal platform, designed to cater to traders who prioritize the analytical review of their trades and strategies. Its standout feature is the automated journaling, which simplifies the task of keeping a detailed record of all trades.

The platform offers a unique blend of features including trade replay, which allows traders to revisit their trades and understand their decision-making process, and customizable reports that provide deep insights into trading habits and performance.

The backtesting tool in TradeZella stands out for its user-friendliness and depth, enabling traders to simulate trading strategies with historical data to gauge their effectiveness. This feature is integral for those looking to refine their trading approach based on solid, historical evidence.

With its focus on continuous learning and strategy enhancement, TradeZella is poised to be a valuable ally for traders looking to elevate their trading game through meticulous analysis and review.

TradeZella, while newer to the scene compared to its counterparts, has quickly established itself as a reliable tool for serious traders. The platform's development was guided by the understanding that continuous improvement and learning are key to trading success.

By offering a platform that not only serves as a repository for trade data but also as a tool for deep analytical insight, TradeZella is dedicated to supporting traders in their journey toward becoming more proficient and strategic in their trading endeavors.

The company prides itself on its commitment to data security and user privacy, ensuring that all trading data and journal entries are securely stored and protected. With a focus on innovation and user-centric features, TradeZella is set to become an indispensable tool for traders who value the power of reflection and analysis in mastering the markets.

Trade Ideas Logo

Trade Ideas

4.5 stars
Learn More
Main Features Algorithm-based ideas, Paper Trading
Cost Structure Subscription-based
Best For Algorithm trading
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Advanced algorithms for stocks.
  • Intuitive backtesting interface.
  • Excellent backtesting charts.
  • Wealth of tools available.
  • Trade Ideas Premium offers more features.
  • Supports paper trading.
  • Promo: Coupon Code MODEST25 for 25% off
Trade Ideas is more than just a name. It's the answer for traders hungry for that real-time, actionable pulse on the market. What makes this platform shine? The backtesting feature. Picture this: an intuitive blend of simplicity and analytical depth, all tailored to give you a unique trading edge. And the engine behind it? Sophisticated algorithms crafted especially for the stock market.

Trade Ideas stands out for its advanced algorithmic trade ideas and a highly intuitive backtesting interface, which enables traders to validate their strategies with historical data effortlessly. This backtesting capability, coupled with its real-time market data and analytics, positions Trade Ideas as a top choice for traders looking for data-driven trading insights.

Dive in, and you can test your strategies against historical data. We're talking years of market movements and patterns. And with Trade Ideas Premium? You're in the cockpit of a powerful trading jet, ready to soar through the markets no matter your experience level.

Trade Ideas was conceived to provide traders with unparalleled tools. More than just a platform, it represents a new age in algorithm-powered insights. For them, innovation isn’t merely a term — it's the foundation, clearly showcased in tools like their backtesting feature.

Established in 2002, Trade Ideas has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a mere market scanner. Today, it stands as one of the best idea generation platforms, serving a community of over 50,000 traders spread across 19 countries. Its core expertise? Monitoring the US and Canadian equity markets and utilizing artificial intelligence to pinpoint effective strategies that align with current market dynamics.

A brainchild of financial technology enthusiasts, the name "Trade Ideas" captures the essence of their initial mission: to discover valuable stock picks in real time. The company was not just built on a vision; it drew upon the founders' past experiences. They learned a costly $50 million lesson from their prior venture, understanding the pitfalls of over-relying on venture capital and the distractions of endless meetings. This experience anchored their focus on business essentials.

Today, Trade Ideas boasts a thriving live chatroom moderated by seasoned professionals and an active trader community. Dan Mirkin, one of the co-founders and an active day trader himself, often shares his insights on Twitter, echoing the company's commitment to its user base.

TrendSpider Logo

TrendSpider

4.4 stars
Learn More
Main Features Point-and-click backtesting, Technical Tools
Cost Structure Subscription-based
Best For Technical analysis
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Point-and-click backtesting.
  • Advanced technical analysis tools.
  • Automated trading features.
  • Multiple time frames available.
  • Wealth of technical indicators.
  • Visual reference with trades on charts.
  • Promo: Coupon Code MM20 for 20% off

TrendSpider is an innovative tool in the realm of technical analysis, bridging the gap between time-tested methodologies and today's need for swift automation. At its core, it operates using a machine learning algorithm, which means it's not static; it fine-tunes its operations based on the interactions of its users.

For those frightened by the complexities of coding for backtesting, TrendSpider offers solace. Users can effortlessly test out their trading strategies, all with simple point-and-click maneuvers. Whether you're just stepping into the world of trading or you're a seasoned player familiar with stocks' unpredictable nature, TrendSpider is designed to meet everyone’s needs.

TrendSpider is at the forefront of automated technical analysis, offering a robust backtesting tool that allows traders to evaluate their strategies against historical data without needing any coding knowledge. This feature, combined with its suite of technical analysis tools, makes TrendSpider a comprehensive platform for traders looking to automate and optimize their trading strategies.

The platform doesn't just stop at charting. It provides an extensive toolkit to monitor price movements, dive deep into data analytics, and, ultimately, make well-informed trading decisions. Features? There's a plethora. From multi-chart viewing layouts, an extensive array of indicators, timely alert notifications, to a market scanner – all the options are there.

Plus, for those who like their tools a certain way, customization options abound. In essence, TrendSpider aims to refine and bolster trading strategies while making the process less cumbersome.

TrendSpider, established in 2016, stands out as a brainchild of tech enthusiasts with deep roots in trading. Spearheaded byDaniel Ushman, who has been entrenched in the tech entrepreneurial landscape since 2001 and trading since 2008, the platform boasts a pedigree of real-world experience. Before laying the foundation of TrendSpider, Ushman played a pivotal role as the CMO of SingleHop, another tech venture he co-founded, which garnered significant attention until its acquisition in 2018.

The philosophy behind TrendSpider is clear-cut: a platform sculpted by traders, exclusively for their peers. With a global footprint, TrendSpider maintains offices in diverse hubs such as Russia, Ukraine, India, and the U.S.

The platform is more than just about charts. It's a haven for traders to dive into nuanced data analyses, whether through singular charts or the expansive multi-view feature. What truly sets it apart is the ingenious incorporation of machine learning algorithms, letting traders revolutionize their strategies with automated technical analysis.

TradingView Logo

TradingView

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features Community-driven insights
Cost Structure Freemium
Best For Community strategies
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Community-driven insights.
  • Advanced technical analysis tools.
  • Intuitive charting system.
  • Collaboration tools for traders.
  • Multiple device compatibility.
  • Customizable indicators and scripts.
Launched as a comprehensive charting solution, TradingView is now an integral tool for over 30 million traders globally. The platform, known for its real-time charts and in-depth technical analysis tools, caters to a spectrum of trading needs. Whether you're delving into stocks, ETFs, or even the ever-evolving realm of cryptocurrencies, TradingView provides the necessary data and tools.

TradingView, known for its extensive charting capabilities and vibrant trading community, also offers traders the ability to test strategies with its backtesting tools. These tools allow users to apply their strategies to historical data and gauge performance, enhancing the platform's value as a comprehensive tool for informed trading decision-making.

Stan Bokov's innovative freemium model pairs a wealth of free offerings with premium features, making the platform accessible to both novices and seasoned traders. Users benefit from its multifaceted offerings — from multiple technical indicators, historical data, to even perspectives from a vast trading community. This collaborative environment, combined with its charting capabilities, ensures traders are well-equipped to make informed decisions.

Beyond charting, TradingView has expanded its horizons to include paper trading, allowing individuals to practice without financial risk. Fundamental data, connections to brokers, and platform accessibility across browsers, desktop software, and mobile apps further solidify its reputation as a trusted trading companion.

Established by Stan Bokov, Denis Globa, and Constantin Ivanov, TradingView began as a fusion of real-time data, top-tier analysis software, and a communal space for traders and investors. What started modestly in TechStars, Chicago, in 2013, has blossomed into a platform frequented by over 15 million active users monthly.

This growth wasn't merely organic; it was propelled by the founders' previous experience with MultiCharts, ensuring TradingView was primed to deliver premium charting right from its inception.

TradingView's journey isn't just about numbers. It's about a global team, now boasting more than 200 professionals, dedicated to refining and expanding the platform. By 2018, the company's trajectory was punctuated by a significant milestone—a $37 million Series B funding round steered by Insight Partners. Following this influx of capital, 2019 saw the acquisition of TradeIT, a strategic move aligning with TradingView's broader vision.

Beyond its impressive features, the platform's essence is its community. Traders from all walks of life converge on TradingView, exchanging strategies, dissecting indicators, and sharing insights, all contributing to a dynamic trading ecosystem.

TradeStation Logo

TradeStation

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features Integrated trading platform
Cost Structure Fee-based
Best For Integrated trading
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Integrated trading platform with advanced analysis.
  • Support for futures, stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies.
  • Customizable charts and scanning tools.
  • Algorithmic trading capabilities.
  • Mobile app for on-the-go trading.
  • Comprehensive educational resources for both beginners and pros.
TradeStation is celebrated for its integrated platform that seamlessly marries advanced trading functionalities with robust backtesting capabilities. It's a haven for traders seeking a comprehensive environment where analysis, strategy development, and execution converge effortlessly.

The platform’s backtesting tool stands out, offering a deep dive into historical market data, enabling traders to simulate and refine their strategies with precision..

This, combined with its broad asset support including stocks, futures, options, and cryptocurrencies, as well as a highly customizable interface, makes TradeStation an indispensable tool for traders aiming for a meticulous approach to market engagement.

With a rich history that spans over three decades, TradeStation has been a beacon of innovation in the trading world. Their philosophy is rooted in empowering traders through cutting-edge technology and educational resources.

Their commitment to continual evolution and their receptive approach to trader feedback have cemented their reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking platform.

Finviz Logo

Finviz

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features Comprehensive stock screener
Cost Structure Freemium
Best For Stock screening
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Comprehensive stock screener.
  • Real-time stock quotes.
  • Advanced charting tools.
  • Data-driven insights.
  • Sector performance breakdown.
  • News and analysis aggregation.

Finviz, short for Financial Visualizations, serves as a beacon for traders leaning towards visual data comprehension and stock screening. Its backtesting feature might be straightforward, but it's ingeniously designed for efficacy, allowing traders to validate their strategies against historical data with ease.

The platform's strength lies in its ability to amalgamate advanced charting tools, real-time quotes, and a wide array of data-driven insights, making it a powerhouse for traders who value a blend of simplicity and depth in their market analysis.

Established in 2007 by Juraj Duris in Slovakia, Finviz began with a clear mission: to simplify financial data for traders and investors. Duris, who remains the company's president, initially saw Finviz as a way to present complex market information in a digestible manner.

Since its inception, the platform has witnessed significant growth, drawing the attention of various users ranging from individual investors to professional traders and even academic institutions.

Finviz offers three distinct service tiers: a free version that doesn't necessitate registration, a registered version without a fee, and a premium subscription. With over a decade in the industry, Finviz's longevity speaks to its commitment to delivering consistent value to its users. The platform stands out as a reliable resource, offering indispensable tools for informed trading and investment decisions.

Stock Rover Logo

Stock Rover

4.4 stars
Learn More
Main Features Fundamental Analysis, Stock Screening
Cost Structure Subscription-based
Best For Long-term investing
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Detailed fundamental analysis.
  • Criteria for stock selection.
  • Portfolio building tools.
  • Historical database for stocks.
  • Comprehensive stock screening.
  • Ideal for growth stocks.
  • Promo: Save 25% during 2 week trial

Stock Rover is tailored for the discerning investor who places a premium on in-depth fundamental analysis and long-term investment strategies. Its backtesting tool allows for an exploration of investment strategies against extensive historical data, offering a clear window into the potential future performance of stocks.

This focus on fundamental analysis is complemented by comprehensive portfolio management tools and a wealth of data on historical stock performance, making Stock Rover an invaluable ally for investors committed to building and maintaining robust, growth-oriented portfolios.

In 2008, software engineers Andrew Martin and Howard Reisman recognized a gap in the market. They found themselves navigating through multiple websites to analyze stocks for personal investment. Determined to streamline this process, they developed Stock Rover, aiming to consolidate and improve investment research.

Now, Stock Rover stands as a versatile tool catering to diverse investor needs. It seamlessly integrates features such as portfolio analysis equipped with technical indicators, dividend assessment, access to historical stock data, and daily analyst ratings complemented by rankings. For those wanting to stay updated, Stock Rover provides customizable email alerts and the option for SMS notifications.

Beyond mere stock research, Stock Rover is renowned for its capabilities in comparing stocks and ETFs, advanced screening, and in-depth portfolio analytics. This platform encapsulates the founders' vision to simplify investment decisions, offering a comprehensive research tool for the modern investor.

MetaStock Logo

MetaStock

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features Advanced analytics
Cost Structure Subscription-based
Best For Professional traders
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Advanced analytics for seasoned traders.
  • Real-time data tracking.
  • Comprehensive market research tools.
  • Customizable charting.
  • Third-party add-on compatibility.
  • Proprietary RMO system.
MetaStock is a sanctuary for the advanced trader who thrives on detailed market analysis and sophisticated trading tools. Known for its robust backtesting capabilities, MetaStock enables traders to rigorously test their strategies against an exhaustive repository of historical data.

The platform distinguishes itself with customizable charting options, a proprietary RMO trading system, and compatibility with third-party add-ons, catering to traders who demand a high degree of control and flexibility in their trading endeavors.

With a legacy that stretches across decades, MetaStock's mission has been consistent: to equip traders with unparalleled analysis tools. Their ongoing collaboration with third-party developers ensures that they remain on the cutting edge, always evolving in tandem with the market's demands.
Tickeron Logo

Tickeron

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features AI-driven insights
Cost Structure Freemium
Best For AI-based predictions
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • AI-driven market predictions.
  • Real-time scanning.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • Tailored trading advice.
  • Portfolio management tools.
  • Comprehensive educational resources.
Tickeron stands at the intersection of artificial intelligence and market analysis, offering traders AI-driven insights and predictions with remarkable precision. Its backtesting tool leverages AI to afford traders a more predictive edge, allowing for simulations that are both insightful and forward-looking.

The platform is designed to demystify market trends and patterns, making it an ideal choice for traders who seek to harness the power of AI to inform and enhance their trading decisions.

Driven by a vision of making AI accessible to all traders, Tickeron places innovation at its core. Their emphasis on education and tailored trading advice speaks volumes about their commitment to nurturing well-informed, confident traders.
QuantConnect Logo

QuantConnect

4.2 stars
Learn More
Main Features Algorithmic trading platform
Cost Structure Freemium
Best For Programmers and coders
Benefits
Overview
Company
  • Tailored for programmers and coders.
  • Open-source algorithmic trading platform.
  • Supports multiple languages and brokerages.
  • Cloud-based optimization.
  • Real-time data feeds.
  • Community-driven libraries and tools.
QuantConnect is a haven for the tech-savvy trader with a flair for programming and algorithmic trading. The platform offers an open-source environment where backtesting is not merely a feature but a core component, providing unparalleled depth and control over strategy simulation.

Supported by a vibrant community of developers, QuantConnect empowers traders to share, collaborate, and refine algorithms, making it a dynamic and continually evolving ecosystem for algorithmic trading excellence.

Founded with the aim of democratizing algorithmic trading, Founded with the aim of democratizing algorithmic trading, QuantConnect has established itself as a hub for coder traders worldwide. Their open-source approach and unwavering support for community-driven development have made them a standout in the realm of algorithmic trading platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is backtesting software?

+
Backtesting software is a technological tool that allows traders to simulate trades using historical market data. By inputting a specific trading strategy, traders can see how it would have performed in past market conditions. This process is vital for validating and refining trading strategies before live trading, reducing potential risks.

How reliable are backtesting results?

+
Backtesting provides valuable insights, but it's essential to understand its limitations. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Factors like market changes, slippage, and data accuracy can influence results. However, with accurate data and a realistic approach, backtesting can significantly enhance a trader's confidence in a strategy.

Why is backtesting essential for traders?

+
Backtesting serves as a risk mitigation tool. By simulating how trading strategies would have performed in the past, traders gain insights into their potential successes or failures. This understanding helps in refining strategies, ensuring they align with specific profit targets, and minimizing potential losses during live trading.

Does backtesting guarantee future results?

+
No, backtesting doesn't guarantee future outcomes. It merely showcases how a strategy would have performed under historical market conditions. Financial markets are influenced by countless variables, and past conditions might not perfectly replicate in the future.

What factors can affect backtesting results?

+
Several factors can influence backtesting outcomes. These include:

● Data Quality: Inaccurate or incomplete data can skew results.

● Market Changes: Evolving market conditions can impact the relevance of historical data.

● Slippage: Differences in expected transaction prices vs. actual can vary results.

● Overfitting: Tailoring a strategy too closely to historical data can lead to poor future performance.

How does paper trading differ from backtesting?

+
While both are risk-free methods to test strategies, backtesting uses historical data to evaluate performance, whereas paper trading involves executing mock trades in real-time without real capital, giving traders a feel for current market conditions.

How do technical indicators factor into backtesting?

+
Technical indicators, such as moving averages or RSI, can be integrated into backtesting to simulate how trading strategies that rely on these indicators would have performed. Incorporating them ensures a comprehensive understanding of a strategy's efficiency.

Is programming knowledge necessary for backtesting?

+
While some platforms require programming skills for intricate backtesting scenarios, many modern tools, like TrendSpider, offer point-and-click methods, making backtesting accessible to traders without a coding background.

Are backtesting platforms expensive?

+
Cost varies across platforms. Some offer basic backtesting features for free, while advanced tools may come with a monthly or annual subscription fee. It's essential to balance cost with the platform's features and reliability.

Can I backtest forex trading strategies?

+
Yes, many backtesting software options, like MetaStock or TradingView, support forex trading strategies, allowing traders to test them against historical forex market data.

How do I ensure the reliability of my backtesting software?

+
Researching user reviews, testing the software's customer support, and verifying its data sources can provide insights into its reliability. It's also advisable to start with a free or trial version before committing financially.

What's the difference between automated trading and backtesting?

+
Automated trading involves executing trades automatically based on pre-set criteria while backtesting evaluates how those criteria would have worked in the past. Backtesting is typically a precursor to automated trading to ensure strategy efficacy.

Can backtesting be applied to all financial instruments?

+
Backtesting can be utilized across a variety of financial instruments, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. The software's ability to offer relevant historical data for the specific instrument is the determining factor.

Does the time frame of backtesting matter?

+
Absolutely. The selected time frame can significantly influence results. A strategy might work well on a daily chart but fail in a 5-minute scenario. It's vital to backtest the time frames relevant to your intended trading style.

How do advanced traders use backtesting differently?

+
Experienced traders might employ backtesting not just to validate a strategy but also to optimize it. They might perform iterative backtesting, tweaking parameters with each run, or even use advanced tools to simulate different market conditions.

Are there any limitations to backtesting?

+
While backtesting offers valuable insights, it has its limitations. For instance, it assumes perfect liquidity, meaning every trade gets executed at the expected levels, which isn't always the case in real markets. Moreover, the software is only as good as the data it uses; poor-quality data can lead to misleading results.
Jeremy Biberdorf

About the Author:

Jeremy Biberdorf is the founder of Modest Money. He’s a father of 2 beautiful girls, a dog owner, a long-time online entrepreneur and an investing enthusiast.