Top 10 Demat Accounts in India for Easy and Smart Investing
Looking to dip your toes into the world of investing but feeling lost in the sea of options? Whether you’re a beginner taking your first step into the stock market or a seasoned trader scouting for a smarter, low-cost platform, choosing the right Demat account is your golden key to effortless and efficient investing. In India, where the financial markets are more active than ever, having a reliable and feature-rich Demat account can make all the difference.
From zero-brokerage platforms to AI-powered insights and lightning-fast trading apps, the landscape has evolved — and so should your investment tools. We break down the Top 10 Demat accounts in India that combine ease of use, powerful features, minimal charges, and trust. These platforms are not just tools, they’re your partners in building smart wealth. Let’s look at the top contenders that can turn your investing game from average to ace with their account opening charges and Demat account annual maintenance charges.
How to Choose the Top 10 Demat Accounts in India?
With a growing appetite for investing among Indians, choosing the right Demat account can make or break your financial journey. Whether you’re a cautious first-time investor or a seasoned trader, these six factors will help you pick the perfect match:
Account Opening & Annual Charges
Many popular brokers let you open an account without charges and do not require an annual fee in the first year. Nonetheless, some plans may ask for as much as ₹750 every year after the first one. Select brokers who don’t require AMC if your investments will be regular or long-term, so that you lose less of your returns.
Brokerage Structure
Brokerage fees vary widely, from flat ₹20 per trade to percentage-based charges. If you’re an active trader, platforms like Zerodha or Upstox with low, transparent fees can save you thousands over time. Prioritize brokers with simple, predictable pricing.
User-Friendly Interface
A good app or online dashboard makes it easy for you to navigate your account. Check other users’ reviews to see how quick, stable and user-friendly the app is for trading. If the interface is too difficult to use, it can result in lost chances or financial mistakes.
Diverse Investment Options
A well-rounded Demat account should let you invest in more than just stocks. Check that the platform has support for mutual funds, ETFs, IPOs, bonds and derivatives so you can diversify and expand your portfolio.
Research Tools & Insights
Advanced charting tools, expert recommendations, and market reports can turn decisions from guesswork into strategy. Choose a broker that empowers you with data-driven insights.
Customer Support and Security
Customers should be able to count on good customer service and platforms that are regulated, encrypted and meet the required rules. If users receive prompt help, issues with transfers or technical failures are solved more easily.
Top 10 Demat accounts in India
| Broker | Account Opening Prices | Annual Maintenance Charges for Brokers |
|---|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹0 | ₹300 + 18% GST (₹75 + GST quarterly) |
| Upstox | ₹0 | ₹0 for 1st year, then ₹150 + GST/year |
| Angel One | ₹0 | ₹20 + GST/month BSDA: ₹0 (if holdings < ₹4L); ₹100 + GST (₹4–10L) |
| Groww | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| ICICI Direct | ₹0 | ₹700/year from 2nd year BSDA: ₹0–₹700 based on holding size |
| HDFC Securities | ₹0 | ₹750/year from 2nd year BSDA: ₹0–₹750 based on holding size |
| 5paisa | ₹0 | ₹300/year (₹25/month) |
| Kotak Securities | ₹0 | ₹600/year |
| Edelweiss (Nuvama) | ₹0 | ₹500/year (1st year free) |
| SBICAP Securities | ₹0 | N/A |
Here are the Top Demat accounts 2025 to consider. Most of the platforms are providing the customers with a Free Demat account opening India to begin the investment journey smoothly and hassle-free.
Zerodha
Zerodha is known to be India’s leading online broker, offering low prices to buy and sell stocks, derivatives and various investments. It gives users an easy way to trade and invest, emphasizing both affordability and tech. Because Zerodha has low fees, a flat rate structure, and clear prices, it appeals to investors of all types. Zerodha now leads all other retail brokers in India by number of active users, showing that it is very popular among the Top 10 Demat accounts in India.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: ₹0
- Equity Intraday & F&O: the charge is ₹20 per order or 0.05%, whichever amount is less.
Key Features: Kite app for trading, Coin for mutual funds, Console for reports, robust API for developers, and transparent pricing.
Upstox
Upstox is one of the Best online Demat accounts because of the services and trust shown by many users. Many like Upstox in India for its simple interface and low trading costs. If you are a beginner or a seasoned investor, you can open an account, use Upstox apps, and pay less for brokerage services. Upstox offers users zero commissions on IPOs and mutual funds, low rates on trades, and the flexibility to invest and trade in equities, commodities, and foreign currencies.
Features & Brokerage Details
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: ₹0
- Intraday & F&O: the cost is ₹20 per order or 0.05%, whichever amount is lower.
Key Features: Upstox Pro app, Smart Order Routing, AI-powered market insights, and direct mutual fund investments.
Angel One
Angel One is known in India for offering comprehensive brokerage with a wide selection of investment choices. With Angel One’s user-friendly platforms and mobile app, it is easy for investors to place trades in equities, commodities, currencies, and other instruments. Users can take advantage of research materials, advice from industry experts, and portfolio management software on the platform.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: ₹0
- Intraday & F&O: ₹20/executed order
Key Features: Smart API for algorithmic trading, ARQ Prime (AI-powered advisory engine), free stock advisory reports, mutual fund SIPs, and IPO investments.
Groww
Groww has experienced rapid growth in India and is widely recognized for being very user-friendly and supplying services free of commission. It helps users easily invest their money in stocks, mutual funds, ETFs and diverse investments. Beginners usually prefer Groww because its easy-to-use apps and website require little effort. With so many impressive and simple features, it is considered one of the best Demat accounts in India for beginners.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: ₹0
- Intraday & F&O: A fee of ₹20 per trade or 0.05%, whichever is smaller, will be applied.
Key Features: Simple interface ideal for beginners, fast KYC process, direct mutual fund investments with no commission, dedicated mobile-first experience, and easy IPO applications.
ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct provides its customers with a complete 3-in-1 account that covers banking, trading, and Demat requirements. The user-friendly system allows users to buy and sell equities, derivatives, mutual funds, and different products easily. ICICI Direct offers detailed research, suggestions for investing, and an approachable platform that helps both expert and new investors.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage (iSelect/Prime Plan):
- Equity Delivery: 0.55% (can go lower in advanced plans)
- Intraday: 0.275%
- F&O: ₹20–₹50 per order, depending on the plan
Key Features: Integrated 3-in-1 account, robust research tools, model portfolios, eATM for instant payouts, IPO tracking, and in-depth technical & fundamental reports.
5paisa
5paisa offers competitive pricing and advanced technology to help people invest. The platform, being one of the Top 10 Best Demat accounts in India, is convenient for both new and professional traders, helping them access stocks, derivatives, mutual funds, and insurance effortlessly. Thanks to its AI recommendations, paperless registration, and flat pricing structure, 5paisa gives investors the chance to save money.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage (Power Investor Plan)
- Equity Delivery, Intraday & F&O: Flat ₹20 per order
Key Features: Paperless account setup, Robo-advisory & portfolio analysis, Investment options in stocks, mutual funds, insurance & gold, Powerful mobile app with personalized watchlists
Kotak Securities
Kotak Securities is a reliable broker in the country and offers a 3-in-1 account, allowing you to easily link up your bank, trading, and Demat facilities. Kotak Mahindra supports the platform, making it possible a solid and safe way to invest in stocks, IPOs, mutual funds, and other options. Kotak Securities makes it easier for investors to build wealth through detailed real-time reports and useful charting tools, making it one of the Top 10 Demat accounts in India.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage (Trade Free Plan):
- Equity Delivery: ₹0
- Intraday & F&O: ₹20/order
Key Features: 3-in-1 account integration, Smart research tools & live market updates, IPO & mutual fund investment options, Real-time charts & in-depth analytics.
HDFC Securities
HDFC Securities is considered to be the best Demat account for beginners in India, combining banking, trading, and Demat services all in one account. Because of its powerful platform, investors may easily engage in trading in equities, derivatives, mutual funds, and more. HDFC Securities offers extensive research, advice on investments, and an intuitive app that can be used by all investors.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: ~0.50% (varies by plan)
- Intraday: 0.05%
- F&O: ₹20/order or per-lot rates depending on segment
Key Features: Integrated bank-trading Demat account, Strong research & advisory reports, IPO, NCD, and ETF investments, Advanced trading terminal and mobile app.
Edelweiss
Nuvama Wealth (formerly Edelweiss) is a well-known financial platform in India that offers trading in equity, derivatives, mutual funds, and wealth management, among others. It operates with user-friendly platforms like Nuvama Markets and TX3, assisting more than 1.2 million clients.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage
- Equity Delivery: ₹10/order
- Intraday & F&O: ₹10/order
Key Features: AI-powered advisory tools, Mutual funds, IPOs, and PMS services, Nuvama Markets & TX3 trading platforms, Expert-led wealth management and portfolio planning.
SBICAP Securities
SBICAP Securities Ltd. is a stock broking company owned by SBI and is part of SBI Capital Markets Ltd. The bank offers stock broking, online trading and depository participant services. The platform has designed a 3-in-1 account for its customers, making it easier to use savings, a Demat account and online trading all at once and without paperwork.
Features & Brokerage Details:
Brokerage:
- Equity Delivery: 0.50%
- Intraday: 0.08%
- F&O: ₹25/lot
Key Features: 3-in-1 account with SBI Bank, Integrated mutual fund and NPS investing, Good for NRIs and senior citizens, Offline support at SBI branches.
Conclusion
Selecting the right one from the list of the Top 10 Demat accounts in India is an important first step for anyone aiming for smart investments. Check if the platform charges anything, is easy to use, and offers features worth paying for before deciding. If you have the right Demat account, you can trade safely, make smart investments, and grow your funds more efficiently.
FAQs – Top 10 Demat Accounts in India
What is a Demat account, and why should I have one?
Dematerialised (Demat) accounts allow your shares and certificates to be kept in electronic form instead of using paper. It is required for anyone looking to invest or trade in stocks, mutual funds or IPOs. It helps you complete your trades and share transfers quickly and securely, so your investment process is simple.
What is the best Demat account available in India in 2025?
The most suitable Demat account for you is based on your desires as an investor. Zerodha and Upstox are suitable for cost-sensitive traders because they have low brokerage and simple systems. If you need a full-service brokerage, you can rely on ICICI Direct, SBICAP Securities and HDFC Securities for assistance and various resources. Opt for a platform whose fees, features, and support best meet what you require.
Can I open a Demat account online for free?
You can open a Demat account for free or for nearly nothing using popular brokers like Zerodha, Groww, and Upstox. Opening an account may not cost anything, but most brokers impose an annual fee; always consider all the fees before getting started. Some of the brokers are known because of Low brokerage trading platforms.
What are the annual charges for Demat accounts in India?
Depending on your broker and type of account, Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC) are usually between ₹300 and ₹750 each year. Some brokers will not charge an annual maintenance fee for the first year, and they may even have BSDA plans with no or low AMC for entities with small stock holdings. There could be extra transaction or service fees for some transactions.
Which Demat account provides the best experience for first-time traders in India?
Groww, Zerodha and Upstox are among the most popular platforms for new traders since they are user-friendly, cost little and include educational materials. With these brokers, signing up for an account is easy, and their apps make it simple for new investors to navigate the stock market.
Are there any costs that aren’t clearly stated in Demat accounts?
You may find the full chart and breakdown of charges on the website, but some may still add on transaction fees, custodian fees, inactivity penalties, or other costs. Examine how the broker charges for each transaction and make sure you discuss any doubts you have with support.
Can I have more than one Demat account in India?
Yes, it is possible to start and maintain separate Demat accounts with various Depository Participants (DPs). People use index funds to either diversify their holdings or have a more convenient approach. Still, overseeing several accounts calls for careful tracking of your investments, and some brokers could have unique rules.
Is a Demat account mandatory for investing in mutual funds or IPOs?
You cannot purchase stock shares or participate in an IPO without opening a Demat account since they are all stored digitally. Sometimes, individuals do not require a Demat account. They can purchase mutual funds online or via their broker’s website.
How much time will it take to open a Demat account online?
Opening your account is usually done between 1 and 3 business days after you apply online. Thanks to Aadhaar-backed e-KYC and digital signatures, some brokers can approve and activate accounts in a single day. There could be delays if the necessary documents are lacking or are being checked.
Which broker provides the safest and most secure Demat account?
The platforms ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities and Zerodha make sure to protect your information by encryption, verification and follow all regulations. Be sure to pick SEBI registered brokers India with a positive reputation so your investments are protected and your details are safe.