This page uses CSS to present the content in the best possible manner. If you can see this message, then CSS (or JavaScript) is not enabled in your browser, and the page will not appear as the designer intended.
I have an online account with Interactive Brokers. IB is here I use their real time data feed and display it with MetaStock. A free piece of software called Hyperserver is the data bridge between IB and MetaStock. Get it here Other software that runs with IB is located here. There are charting as well as order entry programs.
I also use another free program for order entry/tracking. It's called TSimPlus. Get it here. It has a trade simulation mode that is great for paper trading your latest ideas and practicing your proven method.
This setup costs only $15 per month for the emini's if you are not actively trading. If you trade more than a certain amount (changes occasionally. See IB), this fee is waived. I believe in minimizing the monthly overhead. Save your capital for your trading account.
This same setup can be used to trade other securities as well. Forex is usually traded on platforms supplied by the broker.