Etrade vs. ScottsTrade vs. ING Direct

Question

How do they differ? Which would you choose and why? Particularly if I am only starting out so would probably not invest more then 5k at first. How do they compare with the fees they charge?

Answer 1

At Scottrade, you can open up an account for just $500, while on Etrade, it will cost you $2,000. Scottrade charges $7 per trade, while Etrade charges $9.99. On the other hand, ing direct costs $4 per trade and one can open an account for free.