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

 

BrokerCharges
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

 

BrokerCharges
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

 

BrokerCharges
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

 

BrokerCharges
Zerodha₹20 or 0.03% whichever is lower, per executed order
GrowwNot Offered

Winner: ✅ Zerodha

Commodity Trading Brokerage

 

BrokerCharges
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.

BrokerDP 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 order

  • Interest 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

FeatureZerodhaGroww
MTF Brokerage₹20 or 0.3% (lower)0.1%
Daily Interest~0.04%~0.045%
Cost EfficiencyLowerSlightly Higher
TransparencyHighModerate

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)

 

Investor TypeBetter Broker
Active TradersZerodha
F&O TradersZerodha
Long-term InvestorsZerodha
MTF UsersZerodha
BeginnersGroww

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.

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