It works well for me. As far as TT is concerned I simply refuse to spend the 15-18k (or whatever it is now) per year on the flaming pile of bloatware that is TT.
Note that in order to use Ninjatrader's static dome you have to pay $0.10 per side for each contract executed through the static dome (TT settlement). The application defaults to their dynamic dome, which doubles as a headache machine. You contact technical support to get switched over to the static. It's a great interface otherwise.
I am not sure what you mean by 15-18k. A lot of brokers provide it free of charge, but you pay a bit higher commission ($5 round trip for e-minis), or you can pay subscription and then the commission is being slashed about in 1/2. Check velocity futures as one of the brokers. If you want a full pro version, than it is about 15K per year, but the fact that you need a pro version says that 15K is not a big deal. NOTHING BEATS GREAT EXECUTION AND RELIABILITY.
$5 per RT?!?! Good God man this not 2001 anymore. Try about 10% of that. Besides, I used TT for years. I know what I'm not missing.
ive used TT for 4 years and generally like it but am getting interested in ecco trader. alledgedly its faster, only cost 600 a month for access to all exchanges and has static price ladder. not sure about hot keys. anyways, worth investigating...
I'm using CQG now. If you're merely placing orders (limits, stops, oco's ect) it is great. If you need speed, for scalping or quick order placement, this is probably not for you. It is, however very reliable. Also, the charting package is unmatched. It depends on what your priority is.