ThinkorSwim's platform is very impressive and is much faster on my PC than IB. I opened a paper money (demo) account with them without having a funded live account initially.
The demo appears to be fully functional - giving one a good chance to see how their software works. They have a heap of instructional videos on the "help" tab. Very powerful, fast software and still learning new features after being with them for a few weeks now.
Excellent variety of flexible conditional orders available which are great as a safety net and reduces the need to be up all night. They also have heaps of free educational material on their site.
As a member of the Yahoo Option Club group, I was able to have their ticket charge removed for live trading. From what I read on option forums, I understand TOS is negotiable with their fees and will apparently match other broker fees.