I've only used IB for futures trading so I'm no expert, but I do know that their software is very stripped down so it depends what you need. There is no Level II, no charts etc...only an order execution window. Of course if you go with IB you can get all the extras through Qcharts or many other platforms. On a side note, I believe the Prudential deal sounds the best by far for your situation. If they really offer you that structure (no ecn fees), and the use of BTRD!! Wow.