First steps in trading: demo account for trading simulation

Trading platforms have become more user-friendly for beginners. It's true. The interface is pleasant. The user experience is top-notch. Plus, there are demo accounts. They allow new traders to play with the system without the risk of real money.

Well, let's consider how this works. And in general, why would anyone need this in 2025?

What is the purpose of a trading simulator

A demo account is something like a virtual wallet. A training ground. Here you can learn and experiment without fear. You won't lose any real money. Beginners explore features and try different strategies. It's a kind of safe sandbox.

It seems that in 2025 the best simulators are offered by Interactive Brokers, eToro, and ProRealTime. Many platforms have somehow focused on futures trading. Spot is fading away. Perhaps because futures are riskier. Plus, their interfaces are more complex. Without preparation, it’s easy to make mistakes there.

There is a lot in common between futures and spot orders. If you master one, you will understand the other. Therefore, beginners should start with a demo.

How to use the demo account

You just go to the website, register. And that's it. You can trade virtual assets. Cool! Usually, there are no time restrictions. If you want, you can reset everything to the initial state.

On the main page, you immediately see the trading terminal. Log in – and full access is yours. The homepage usually contains basic information. It's worth reading. Sometimes there are video guides and quizzes. It won't hurt.

The difference between demo and live accounts

In 2025, the difference still exists:

1. Live accounts have real spreads and commissions. It doesn’t feel quite the same on demo.
2. Real trading is real stress. Not like virtual.
3. Price slippage? Partial order execution? You won't see this in the demo.

Important: the money in the demo account is not real. You cannot transfer it anywhere. Losses or profits in the simulator are just numbers. Nothing will change on the main balance.