i am a big fan of interactive brokers. orders can be created and transmitted instantaneously if you want (eg 1 click to buy a specified quantity at the ask price - I do not use this feature). cheap (bro is 0.08%/$6 and options $3 per contract). Main problem is no company issued options and no shorting.
I am also a Prime customer. I don't like them. I find the interface clunky. In addition, some relatively unpopular secs are not listed and if you want to trade them you have to call and ask and wait 24hrs. They interpret the ASX Listing Rules in such a way to restrict orders from time to time on illiuid stocks (eg I want to sell into the Bid on XYZ. They will not allow this if it results in a big change in % terms).
