Selecting the right stock broker in 2026 is no longer just about brand popularity—it’s about total trading cost, margin efficiency, and long-term suitability. Among India’s discount brokers, Zerodha and Groww continue to dominate the market with millions of active users.
However, when you closely examine brokerage charges, DP costs, and Margin Trading Facility (MTF) charges, meaningful differences emerge. This in-depth comparison breaks down Zerodha vs Groww across all major cost parameters to help traders and investors make an informed decision.
Broker Overview (2026)
Zerodha
India’s largest discount broker, Zerodha is widely preferred by:
Active traders
F&O participants
Cost-conscious long-term investors
It offers a transparent pricing structure and advanced platforms like Kite, Console, and Coin.
Groww
Groww remains one of the most popular platforms for:
First-time investors
Long-term equity investors
Mobile-first users
Its simple UI and easy onboarding make it beginner-friendly, though costs are slightly higher in several segments.
1. Brokerage Charges Comparison (2026)
Equity Intraday Brokerage
| Broker | Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹20 or 0.03% per order (whichever is lower) |
| Groww | ₹20 or 0.1% per order (minimum ₹5, whichever is lower) |
Analysis:
Zerodha’s lower percentage cap makes it significantly cheaper for high-volume intraday traders. Groww’s higher percentage can increase costs as trade value rises.
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
Equity Delivery Brokerage
| Broker | Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹0 (Free) |
| Groww | ₹20 or 0.1% per order (minimum ₹5) |
Analysis:
Zerodha’s zero delivery brokerage is a major advantage for long-term investors. Groww still charges brokerage on delivery trades, increasing holding costs over time.
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
Equity F&O Brokerage
| Broker | Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹20 per order |
| Groww | ₹20 per order |
Analysis:
Both brokers are equally priced, but Zerodha’s trading tools and execution speed give it an operational edge for professional F&O traders.
Winner: 🤝 Tie (pricing)
Currency Trading Brokerage
| Broker | Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹20 or 0.03% whichever is lower, per executed order |
| Groww | Not Offered |
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
Commodity Trading Brokerage
| Broker | Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹20 or 0.03% whichever is lower, per executed order |
| Groww | ₹20 per order |
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
2. DP (Depository Participant) Charges
DP charges are applicable when selling shares from the Demat account.
| Broker | DP Charges |
|---|---|
| Zerodha | ₹13 + GST |
| Groww | ₹20 + GST |
Analysis:
Zerodha continues to offer one of the lowest DP charges in India, benefiting investors who frequently sell delivery shares.
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
3. MTF (Margin Trading Facility) Charges – Detailed Comparison (2026)
MTF usage has increased significantly in 2026 as traders aim to leverage delivery positions. MTF cost includes brokerage per order and daily interest.
Zerodha MTF Charges
MTF Brokerage:
₹20 or 0.3% per MTF order execution (whichever is lower)Interest Rate: ~0.04% per day (≈14–15% annually)
Interest Calculation: Daily, transparent
Risk Controls: Strong margin monitoring and reporting
Best suited for:
Active traders and disciplined investors using leverage selectively.
Groww MTF Charges
MTF Brokerage:
0.1% per orderInterest Rate: ~0.045% per day
Ease of Use: Simple activation and beginner-friendly interface
Best suited for:
New investors experimenting with margin trading in delivery stocks.
MTF Cost Comparison Summary
| Feature | Zerodha | Groww |
|---|---|---|
| MTF Brokerage | ₹20 or 0.3% (lower) | 0.1% |
| Daily Interest | ~0.04% | ~0.045% |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower | Slightly Higher |
| Transparency | High | Moderate |
Winner: ✅ Zerodha
👉 Learn About Margin Trading Facility (MTF):
Want to understand how MTF works, its benefits, risks, interest costs, and brokerage charges? Read our detailed guide here:
https://comparestockbrokerages.in/what-is-mtf-margin-trading-facility-benefits-risks-broker-charges-explained/
Strengths & Weaknesses (2026)
Zerodha – Strengths
✔ Lowest overall trading & MTF costs
✔ Free equity delivery
✔ Lower DP charges
✔ Supports equity, F&O, currency & commodity
✔ Advanced trading tools
Zerodha – Weaknesses
❌ Not beginner-focused
❌ No advisory or stock tips
Groww – Strengths
✔ Extremely beginner-friendly
✔ Clean UI and mobile-first experience
✔ Simple MTF onboarding
Groww – Weaknesses
❌ Brokerage on delivery trades
❌ Higher DP charges
❌ No currency trading
❌ Higher MTF brokerage and interest
Final Verdict: Zerodha vs Groww (2026)
Conclusion
In 2026, Zerodha clearly outperforms Groww in terms of overall cost efficiency, especially for delivery investors, traders, and MTF users. Groww remains a solid entry-level platform, but Zerodha offers superior long-term value.
You can compare our handpicked best stock brokerages in India with detailed charges and features on our comparison page:
https://comparestockbrokerages.in/compare-stock-brokerages/
Disclaimer:
Brokerage charges, MTF interest rates, and other fees mentioned in this article are based on publicly available information as of 2026 and are subject to change from time to time. Investors and traders are strongly advised to verify the latest charges, terms, and conditions directly on the official websites of Zerodha and Groww before making any investment or trading decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.
