So you are talking about full service brokers like Merrill and others who suggest trades to clients and you pay $30 - $50 a side? Yeah I guess you would need to be selective about those kind of folks... and switch if they aren't making you money.
haha, i am making money! and yes, etrade is slow and java based, commission is really bad, etc. only good for occasional traders. when I got three screens, etrade pro blew major chunks
A broker is definitely not like marriage, you can and should have more than one; each has its own advantage.
================================= A good broker [like including but not limited to Ib & OXPS]is more like a brother or sister; you dont have to get along with any of them , but its to everbodys advantage to. For crazy kinfolks, if applicable; avoid them.
Every broker I used behaved differently. I switched to a discount broker and I am very pleased with their service. Not all brokers are good. Some brokers are expensive or have computer problems. I don't need a broker to lose money. I am quite capable of losing money all by myself.