Pair Parade vs PairTrade Finder v3 (UA3): Detailed Comparison
Quick Answer
PairParade is a web-based, streamlined pairs screener built to help you find and evaluate cointegrated US stock pairs quickly. PairTrade Finder v3 (UA3) (PairTrade Finder®) is a more feature-rich desktop platform focused on end-to-end pair trading workflows (pair discovery, backtesting, alerts, and broker integration). If you value simplicity and low-cost access, PairParade is usually the better starting point. If you want maximum features and deeper automation, PairTrade Finder is likely the better fit.
Note: This comparison is for education only, not investment advice. Features and pricing can change—always verify on the vendor sites.
At a Glance
PairParade
- Best for: fast screening + simple decision-making
- Platform: web app (browser)
- Core workflow: filter cointegrated pairs, inspect metrics, review charts, set alerts
- Pricing: free plan + low-cost monthly plans (see below)
PairTrade Finder v3 (UA3)
- Best for: deeper tooling (signals/backtesting/integration) and power users
- Platform: downloadable desktop software (per vendor)
- Core workflow: build/backtest systems, monitor watchlists, receive signals, execute via broker integration
- Pricing: marketed as $83/month (payable annually) on the vendor site
Source: PairTrade Finder® website
Feature Comparison (Practical)
| Category | PairParade | PairTrade Finder v3 (UA3) |
|---|---|---|
| Onboarding / learning curve | Generally faster to start; focused feature set and web UI. | Typically steeper learning curve due to broader toolset (backtesting, watchlists, integrations). |
| Pair discovery & screening | Screener-style workflow with filters (industry, market cap, z-score, correlation, cointegration, similarity). | Vendor positions it as large-scale discovery + ranking + pre-loaded universes. |
| Fundamental alignment (company similarity) | Built-in Similarity Score based on company profile language analysisto help ensure the two businesses actually “match” fundamentally (not just statistically). | Not positioned as a native “company similarity via profile-language analysis” feature; you’ll typically validate fundamentals separately. |
| Statistical selection | Emphasis on cointegration metrics + trading-ready spread/z-score context. | Supports cointegration-driven selection and robustness measures (per vendor marketing). |
| Backtesting / system optimization | Primarily focused on screening + analysis; (not positioned as a full strategy backtester UI). | Strong emphasis on built-in backtesting and system parameter optimization (per vendor). |
| Alerts & signals | Includes alerts (plan feature) and a workflow designed around actionable metrics. | Market “radar” style signals + alerts (including email), per vendor. |
| Broker integration / execution | Signals-first; you execute at your broker (no desktop execution module). | Strong focus on integration with Interactive Brokers for semi-auto / auto execution (per vendor). |
| Data feeds | Included as part of the service; your workflow is “open the app and screen.” | Multiple data feed options via broker/data vendors (per vendor), which may add complexity and/or cost. |
| Best fit | Newer pairs traders, discretionary execution, “keep it simple” workflows, cost-sensitive users. | Power users who want an all-in-one desktop platform with deep tooling and broker integration. |
Important: “Has more features” isn’t always better. More tooling can increase setup time, cognitive load, and the number of ways to misconfigure a strategy. Many traders do better with a simpler, repeatable process.
Pricing Comparison
| Product | Entry price | Typical monthly cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PairParade | Free plan (limited access) | $15/mo Basic, $25/mo Premium | Plans include features like 10-year historical data and alerts; Premium expands the stock universe. The app may run limited-time promotions. |
| PairTrade Finder v3 (UA3) | Vendor offers a 15-day trial (per website) | $83/mo (payable annually), per website | May require/benefit from specific broker/data setup (e.g., IBKR, data vendors), which can add costs. |
PairTrade Finder pricing reference: pairtradefinder.com
Simplicity vs Power: What Actually Matters
If you’re newer (or time-constrained)
- You’ll likely benefit more from a simple, repeatable workflow than from lots of knobs.
- The goal is to spend your time on pair selection, execution, and risk management—not tool configuration.
- PairParade tends to be a better fit when you want to get to a shortlist fast.
If you’re a system builder / optimizer
- You may care most about backtesting depth, more configurable signal logic, and workflow automation.
- You’ll accept a steeper learning curve and more setup work to get those capabilities.
- PairTrade Finder is positioned for that “power-user” profile.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose PairParade if…
- You want the fastest path from “idea” → “tradeable shortlist”.
- You prefer a modern web UI and minimal setup.
- You want a low-cost tool (with a free tier) to learn or trade consistently.
- You execute manually at your broker and don’t need an execution module.
Choose PairTrade Finder if…
- You want a more “all-in-one” desktop environment.
- You care heavily about strategy backtesting/optimization inside the tool.
- You want tight integration with Interactive Brokers (signals → execution).
- You’re comfortable paying more for a broader feature set.
Try PairParade (Free) and Compare in Practice
The fastest way to decide is to run your workflow end-to-end: screen, shortlist, check charts, set alerts, and place a paper trade. PairParade’s free plan is designed to let you do that with minimal setup.