What if the best free stock screener isn’t just about charts? What if it’s about finding the right stock quickly and avoiding the wrong ones?
In this review, we’ll look at top free stock screeners. They let you check technical and fundamental data without spending money upfront. You’ll learn where each tool excels and where it falls short.
This guide is all about U.S. stocks, making it easier to screen NYSE and Nasdaq stocks. If a platform also covers ETFs, crypto, forex, or global markets, we’ll note it.
“Best” means getting practical results fast. This includes quick filtering, a variety of indicators, clean layouts, and useful watchlists. It also means knowing when you might need to pay for more features.
Use this article as a guide. First, decide what you’re looking for—technical, value, or growth. Then, choose the free stock screener that fits your needs. Check your choices with charts, financials, and news.
As you explore, watch out for free-tier limits. These can include delayed quotes, fewer filters, limited alerts, and capped exports. By the end, you’ll know which free stock screener is right for you and which might cost you time.
Why Use a Free Stock Screener for Technical & Fundamental Analysis
Ever scrolled through charts looking for ideas? It quickly becomes overwhelming. A free stock screener brings order to this chaos. It lets you sort the market with clear rules, not guesses.
The best free stock screener also keeps you consistent. You set the rules, and it gives you a consistent list. This way, you focus on important decisions.
How a stock screener helps you filter the market fast
A stock screener narrows down thousands of stocks in seconds. You can filter by price, volume, market cap, sector, and ratios. Then, you can refine your search as you learn what works for you.
This method helps you find stocks for free without getting lost in endless lists. You can scan big indexes or all U.S. stocks. Then, you can check the same criteria the next day to see what’s changed.
When technical indicators beat manual chart scanning
Manual chart scanning is slow and tiring. But, indicator screens work fast and consistently. They spot breakouts, moving-average alignment, RSI strength, and unusual volume with the same standards every time.
This consistency is key when timing is important. The best free stock screener lets you react quickly. It checks the whole universe at once, not one chart at a time.
When fundamentals matter most for long-term picks
If you hold stocks for months or years, fundamentals are key. They help you avoid stocks that seem cheap but aren’t. Look at valuation, profit margins, debt levels, and earnings trends.
Using fundamentals with a free stock screener analysis can also reduce risks. You avoid chasing strong charts with weak cash flow. Or buying a great business at a price that’s too high.
| What you’re trying to do | Filters that help | What you gain | Common pitfall you avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scan quickly across U.S. stocks and ETFs | Price range, market cap, sector, average volume, volatility | Speed and focus so you can find stocks for free in a repeatable way | Wasting time on illiquid names that don’t fit your risk |
| Spot timely technical setups | 52-week high, moving-average cross, RSI threshold, volume spike | Clear entries and tighter watchlists using the same criteria daily | Missing moves because you scanned charts too late |
| Build a longer-term candidate list | P/E, EV/EBITDA, revenue growth, ROE, debt-to-equity, free cash flow | Better quality control behind each ticker you research | Buying “value” that stays cheap due to weak balance sheets |
| Combine chart strength with business strength | Uptrend plus profitability screen; breakout plus earnings trend | A balanced workflow that a best free stock screener can run in minutes | Chasing momentum with no support from fundamentals |
What to Look for in the Best Free Stock Screener Tool
Finding a good free stock screener tool is easier with a checklist. You need speed, accurate data, and filters that fit your trading style. The goal is to avoid unnecessary steps.
First, check the screening depth. Look for a mix of technical and fundamental filters. The best tools offer both, but some might limit certain metrics.
Then, examine usability. A clean layout and quick edits are key when markets change fast. The best sites also let you save screens and build watchlists easily.
| What to check | Why it matters | What to look for in a free tier |
|---|---|---|
| Screening depth | Helps you narrow thousands of tickers into a short, relevant list. | Core technical indicators plus fundamentals like P/E, ROE, revenue growth, and debt ratios. |
| Charting quality | Confirms setups without jumping between tabs or tools. | Multiple timeframes, common indicators, and charts that open directly from screener results. |
| Alerts & automation | Keeps you from staring at screens all day. | Basic price alerts, watchlist alerts, and clear limits on how many alerts you can run. |
| Data coverage | Prevents missed ideas and reduces blind spots in sectors or asset types. | U.S. stocks and ETFs, sector/industry tags, earnings dates, and corporate actions like splits. |
| Data freshness | Stops you from making choices on stale prices or delayed signals. | Clear quote delay labels and a screen that refreshes results on a predictable schedule. |
| Exports & workflow | Lets you move from ideas to research, faster. | CSV export or easy copy/paste of tickers, plus shareable screens when available. |
| Transparency on paywalls | Helps you avoid building a process around locked features. | Plain wording on what’s free vs locked, such as advanced filters, backtesting, or intraday refresh. |
When comparing stock screening tools, watch for limits. Some tools limit advanced filters, reduce refresh rates, or cap alerts. Knowing these limits helps keep your workflow smooth.
Review tools based on outcomes, not features. Can you find candidates, verify them on charts, and track them with alerts? A good tool will feel intuitive, even in chaotic markets.
best free stock screener
If you’re searching for the best free stock screener, you want to narrow down your options quickly. You might be looking for stocks to swing trade, building a long-term portfolio, or scanning for value in a retirement account.
This review method makes your process simple. First, screen stocks, then verify them. This way, you spend less time searching and more time checking what’s important.
Who this guide is for and how you’ll use it
This guide is most useful if you follow a consistent process. Start with broad filters, narrow down to a few stocks, and then check the charts and financials.
- Screen to find candidates that match your rules
- Shortlist 10–30 tickers you can review in one sitting
- Confirm trend, support/resistance, volume, and key fundamentals
- Set alerts or add to a watchlist, then track earnings and major news
If you prefer more control, free stock screener software can also fit this workflow. It’s great for those who like exports, custom fields, or offline notes.
What “free” really means: limits, delays, and paywalls
“Free” usually means you can run basic screens, but you give up speed and depth. Many tools show delayed quotes, limit saved screens, or restrict alerts and intraday scans.
Paywalls often block features that active traders need: real-time data, advanced indicators, deeper financial fields, backtesting, and multi-condition alerts. When reading a stock screener review, watch for these limits. They can change your results and timing.
| Common free-tier limit | What you notice | Who it impacts most | Typical paid unlock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delayed market data | Prices and percent moves lag the tape | Day traders and fast swing entries | Real-time quotes and faster refresh |
| Fewer saved screens | You rebuild filters each session | Anyone running weekly routines | More saved screens and syncing across devices |
| Limited alerts | You miss breakouts or pullbacks unless you watch all day | Part-time traders | More alerts, multi-condition triggers, SMS/push options |
| Reduced indicators or filters | Can’t combine rules like RSI + volume + trend | Technical traders with strict setups | Advanced indicators, custom conditions, more timeframes |
| Capped exports and history | Harder to track results in spreadsheets | Systematic investors and researchers | CSV exports, deeper history, broader coverage |
How to choose the right screener for your strategy
Choose a tool that fits your decision-making style, not just what looks good. The best free stock screener for you depends on whether you focus on price action, fundamentals, or speed.
- Fast idea generation: choose a quick web screener with broad filters and clean sorting
- Chart-first setups: use a platform built around charts, alerts, and indicator presets
- Fundamentals-first research: prioritize strong financial statements, ratios, and sector context
Be honest about what you’ll actually use. If you won’t export data or set alerts, don’t look for those features. If you want local control and repeatable scans, free stock screener software might be better than a browser-only tool.
Top Stock Screening Tools and Best Stock Screening Websites (Free Options)
When comparing stock screening tools, focus on what they do best and what’s free. Look at where the free tier might feel limited and who it suits. This helps you choose the right tool quickly, even in fast markets.
No single tool is the best for everyone. The key is to find one that fits your workflow. Then, save your screens for quick runs later.
Finviz (best for fast filters and market heatmaps)
Finviz is all about speed. It lets you filter quickly, scan large lists, and see market trends with heatmaps. It’s great for getting a quick market overview.
The free version is good for finding big movers and trends. But, some data and advanced features are only for paid users. This might limit your precision for quick trades.
TradingView (best for chart-based screening and alerts)
TradingView is perfect for chart lovers. It lets you screen right from your charts, making your workflow smooth. It’s a top choice for visual checks before trading.
Alerts are a big plus. They help you stay on top of market changes without constant watching. Free plans have alert limits, so keep your setup simple.
Yahoo Finance (best for simple screening and watchlists)
Yahoo Finance is easy to use. It lets you build simple screens, check quotes, and scan news and earnings. It’s great for beginners and everyday research.
It’s perfect for quick checks on fundamentals and managing watchlists. But, it might not handle complex technical filters well.
Google Finance (best for quick research workflows)
Google Finance is fast and easy. It’s great for tracking portfolios, news, and quick ticker checks. It’s ideal for initial idea checks.
and more about sorting ideas than deep screening. Pair it with other tools for deeper analysis.
StockCharts (best for classic technical workflows)
StockCharts is for those who love traditional charting. It supports classic studies and scanning, perfect for consistent chart review. It’s great for disciplined traders.
The free version is good for learning and simple checks. But, for deeper scans and richer controls, you might need to pay.
| Tool | Best at | What you get free | Key limitations to expect | Who it fits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finviz | Fast filters, heatmaps, quick market snapshots | Preset filters, overview tables, visual sector context | Some data/features reserved for paid users; less ideal for precise intraday timing | You want quick idea generation and broad market context |
| TradingView | Chart-first screening with alerts and layouts | Core charts, basic screening access, limited alerts | Caps on alerts and indicator counts; screening depth can be restricted on free plans | You trade technical setups and want alerts to reduce screen time |
| Yahoo Finance | Simple screening, watchlists, headline checks | Basic screen creation, quote pages, news and earnings visibility | Less power for complex technical rule sets | You want straightforward research and quick fundamentals review |
| Google Finance | Fast research workflow and lightweight tracking | Clean navigation, quick snapshots, portfolio and watchlist tracking | Not designed for deep, multi-factor screening | You want rapid idea triage before deeper analysis elsewhere |
| StockCharts | Classic technical charting and scan routines | Core chart styles, basic technical views for review | Advanced scanning, saves, and richer controls often sit behind paid access | You follow traditional indicators and a consistent chart review process |
Free Stock Screener Software vs Web-Based Screeners
Sorting stocks by price, ratios, and volume is key. The format of your tool matters a lot. A free stock screener tool in a browser is easy to use. But, free stock screener software can be more precise and hands-on.
This comparison is about how you work. Do you need quick scans or deep research? The choice depends on your workflow.
Browser tools: convenience, updates, and cross-device access
Most free screeners are in your browser. They’re quick to start and don’t need installs. You can access your watchlist anywhere, anytime. Updates happen automatically, so you don’t have to worry about versions.
But, browser tools might not offer much customization. You might see ads, slower loading, and need to pay for extra features. If you want simplicity, a browser tool is good for basic needs.
Desktop and open-source tools: control, customization, and data handling
Free stock screener software is better for those who want control. You can use custom indicators and save templates. This way, you can scan stocks the same way every week.
But, this control comes with more work. You might need to connect data feeds or handle updates yourself. The benefit is flexibility, but you must keep your data up to date.
Data quality and refresh rates: what impacts your results
Two screeners can show different results, even with the same filters. Quotes might be delayed, and data comes from different sources. Refresh rates and sector labels can also change.
Match the data speed to your trading style. Fast updates are key for intraday trading. But, steady data is more important for monthly investments.
| Factor | Web-based screeners | Desktop and open-source approaches | What it changes for your results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | Fast start, no install, easy login | Install, configure, and maintain | You scan sooner vs you build a repeatable workflow |
| Customization depth | Often limited to built-in filters and presets | More room for custom indicators and rules | Your scan can be broad vs tightly defined |
| Device access | Strong cross-device sync on laptop and phone | Usually tied to one machine unless you sync files | You can react anywhere vs you research in one place |
| Data refresh | Varies; free tiers may have delays | Depends on your feed and settings | Time-sensitive setups can appear or vanish based on timing |
| Data sourcing | Provider-selected vendors and definitions | You may choose sources or merge datasets | Different fundamentals can shift “cheap” or “high growth” lists |
Free Stock Screener Analysis for Technical Setups
Free stock screener analysis works best with clear chart patterns. Then, turn them into simple filters. You’re not trying to predict the market. Instead, you’re narrowing thousands of tickers into a short list for fast review.
Focus on four setup families: trend continuation, breakouts, mean reversion, and liquidity. Most top stock screening tools let you combine price action, volume, and a few indicators. This way, your scan isn’t too strict.
For trend continuation, look for price above key moving averages and a steady climb. You can screen for “price above the 50-day” and “new 20-day high.” Also, “relative volume above normal” helps spot strength. This keeps you away from flat charts that look busy but go nowhere.
For breakouts, look for tight ranges and then a push through resistance with participation. Screen for 52-week highs, volatility contraction, and a volume expansion signal. On many tools, add an “above average volume” rule to avoid chasing thin moves.
Mean reversion scans look for stress, not strength. Filter for RSI oversold readings, a sharp pullback, and a large distance below a short moving average. If the broader trend is up, find dips that may snap back, not breakdowns that keep falling.
Liquidity matters in U.S. markets, for cleaner fills and less noise. Add minimum price, average daily volume, and market cap rules to reduce slippage. This step often improves your list more than adding extra indicators.
| Setup type | Screener rules you can combine (3–6) | What you check on the chart next | Common free-tier limits to watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trend continuation | Price above 50-day MA; price above 200-day MA; higher 20-day high; relative volume > 1.2; weekly trend up | Pullback zones near prior highs; support/resistance levels; volume profile around the base; earnings date proximity | Fewer saved screens; limited refresh rate; delayed volume data; fewer alert conditions |
| Breakouts | 52-week high or near-high; tight range over 10–20 days; ATR or volatility falling; price breaking prior resistance; volume today > 150% of average | Clean range boundaries; breakout level retest; gap risk; nearby overhead supply; news or catalyst context | Intraday scans may be capped; alerts may require upgrades; fewer custom filters for volatility |
| Mean reversion | RSI(14) < 30 or < 35; price < 20-day MA by X%; down 3–7 days from swing high; 200-day MA; volume spike on selloff | Where selling stopped before; wick and reversal candles; support from prior base; upcoming earnings risk | Indicator choices can be limited; fewer lookback settings; no multi-timeframe filters |
| Liquidity filter (U.S.) | Price > $5; average volume > 500K; market cap > $1B; spread and volatility reasonable; avoid OTC lists | Bid/ask spread behavior; premarket gaps; abnormal prints; whether volume is consistent day to day | Some tools don’t show real-time spreads; delayed quotes; limited exchange coverage |
The key is translating each setup into rules that don’t fight each other. Combine trend, volume, volatility, and price in a short stack. Then, keep one “escape hatch” so the scan isn’t empty. Free stock screener analysis is most useful when it produces a manageable list, not a perfect one.
After the scan, move from the list to chart review. Mark support and resistance, check volume at past turning points, and note recent catalysts. Also, flag the next earnings date, as a clean setup can swing hard overnight.
For consistency, saved screens and alerts matter more than most traders admit. The top stock screening tools usually offer basic alerts, but free tiers may limit how many you can set or how often scans refresh. If you rely on active trading, those limits can change what you see and when you see it.
Fundamental Filters That Help You Find Stocks for Free
Fundamental screens narrow the market to a manageable list. With a free stock screener, you can quickly sort by valuation, business strength, and risk. This helps you focus on companies that meet your criteria, not just your mood.
Begin with basic metrics that match your investment goals. As you learn, refine your criteria. This is a fast way to find stocks without following every headline.
Valuation filters you can apply quickly (P/E, P/S, EV/EBITDA)
P/E (price-to-earnings) shows what the market pays for profit. It’s best when earnings are steady. Forward P/E lets you see what investors expect, not just past results.
P/S (price-to-sales) is useful for companies with fluctuating profits. EV/EBITDA offers a clearer view, ignoring debt.
Be cautious with negative P/E. Use P/S or EV/EBITDA instead. Always check the business’s margins and cash flow. Screen within a sector first, then rank results.
Profitability and quality metrics (margins, ROE, free cash flow)
Profitability filters help avoid value traps. Gross and operating margins show cost absorption. ROE highlights strong operators but can be skewed by debt.
Free cash flow is harder to fake. Combine reasonable valuation with steady cash flow for a solid list. Many use the best free stock screener for this.
Growth and stability signals (revenue growth, debt ratios, earnings trends)
Growth filters spot momentum in the business. Revenue growth is cleaner than EPS alone. Earnings trends are key, showing consistency over time.
Debt ratios control risk. Debt-to-equity flags balance sheet stress. Interest coverage shows if profits can handle borrowing costs. High leverage can amplify risks, so screen early.
Sector and industry context to avoid misleading comparisons
Sector context keeps filters honest. Banks, software, and energy can’t be judged the same. A low P/E may be normal in one industry but alarming in another.
Run separate screens by sector or industry. Then rank peers on the same criteria. This makes a free stock screener more precise, even with limited data. It highlights candidates for the right reasons.
| Filter | What it tells you | When it can mislead | Quick guardrail you can apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| P/E (trailing or forward) | How much you pay for earnings | Negative or one-time earnings distort the ratio | Use forward P/E when available; skip P/E when earnings are negative |
| P/S | How much you pay for revenue | High sales with weak margins can destroy value | Pair with operating margin or free cash flow to confirm business quality |
| EV/EBITDA | Valuation that accounts for debt and cash | Capital-heavy firms and cyclical EBITDA can skew results | Compare within the same industry; check debt ratios alongside it |
| Operating margin | Core profitability after operating costs | Temporary cost cuts can boost margins short term | Look for multi-period stability, not a single strong quarter |
| ROE | Profitability relative to shareholder equity | High leverage can inflate ROE | Cross-check with debt-to-equity or interest coverage if available |
| Free cash flow | Cash left after operating needs and capital spending | Working-capital swings can make one period look better or worse | Prefer positive FCF across multiple periods and compare within peers |
Stock Screener Comparison: How These Free Tools Stack Up
When comparing free stock screeners, remember that “free” means different things to different platforms. This review aims to help you find the best fit for your screening needs. Consider how often you screen, the speed you need, and your screening style.
Every stock screener can find new ideas, but they don’t all fit the same workflow. Knowing each tool’s strengths helps you avoid switching between tabs too often.
Filter depth: technical indicators vs fundamental coverage
For chart enthusiasts, TradingView and StockCharts are great. They offer many indicators and visual tools. Finviz, on the other hand, is quick for broad filtering but might require a paid tier for detailed analysis.
For those focusing on fundamentals, Yahoo Finance is a good starting point. It provides basic ratios and company context. Without cash flow details, margins, or EV/EBITDA, you’ll need to check other sources, slowing you down.
Usability: saved screens, watchlists, and exports
Consistency comes from saving screens and running them the same way each week. TradingView excels in saved layouts and chart alerts. Finviz is known for quick presets and easy scanning.
Watchlists are key. You might need one for swing setups and another for long-term investments. Plus, a simple way to export tickers to a spreadsheet is essential for notes and sizing.
Charts and research: news, earnings, and financial statements
After scanning, the research layer decides your next move. TradingView and StockCharts focus on charting. Yahoo Finance and Google Finance are more research-focused, with headlines and stats.
Earnings can change everything. It’s helpful to see the next report date, recent results, and major headlines in one view. This way, you can spot timing risks before trading.
Ads, limitations, and upgrade triggers you should expect
Free tiers often have ads, capped alerts, limited exports, and fewer indicators. You might see delayed data, fewer saved screens, or history restrictions.
This comparison also highlights friction. If you rely on daily alerts, need frequent refreshes, or want deeper fundamentals, upgrades might be necessary. The best stock screening websites keep your workflow smooth, even in fast markets.
| Tool | Best for | Strength in free tier | Common limit that slows you down | Typical upgrade trigger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finviz | Rapid market-wide filtering | Fast preset screens, heatmap-style views, broad filter list | Some data depth and refresh features are tighter on free access | You want more granular filters, fewer constraints, or smoother repeat scans |
| TradingView | Chart-led screening and alerts | Strong charting, indicator variety, clean watchlists | Alert counts and certain advanced workflows can be capped | You need more alerts, more saved items, or heavier daily monitoring |
| Yahoo Finance | Simple screening plus company context | Quick access to key metrics, headlines, and watchlists | Deep fundamental fields can require extra digging across pages | You want faster research flow and fewer interruptions in your review |
| Google Finance | Fast research workflow | Clean quote pages and easy tracking for quick checks | Less dedicated screening depth compared with full screener platforms | You outgrow quick checks and want advanced filters and saved scans |
| StockCharts | Classic technical routines | Solid chart views and a familiar technical workflow | Some advanced scans, views, or saved tool features can be limited | You want deeper scanning, more saved workspaces, or more flexibility |
Conclusion
Your best free stock screener depends on how you make decisions. If you trade on momentum, patterns, and breakouts, focus on technical scans and alerts. If you invest for the long haul, start with fundamentals, then confirm the chart before you commit.
Start simple with the top stock screening tools you’ll actually open every day or week. Save one to three core screens and follow the same loop each time: screen → verify → watchlist → alert. This routine beats hopping between dozens of filters and never acting on what you find.
Keep your expectations realistic about “free.” A best free stock screener is great for learning, building watchlists, and testing ideas with end-of-day data. Once you need heavy alerting, deeper datasets, or faster updates, you may hit limits that push you toward paid plans.
If you want a clear next step, pick one option from the list, then run two quick tests. Do one technical scan and one fundamental scan, and track which feels faster and more reliable. After that, stick with it—whether you prefer a browser tool or free stock screener software—and refine your screens over time.