Introduction
Applying for a Mainboard IPO is no longer just about submitting an application before the issue closes. Today’s investors expect much more from an investment platform—they want a place where they can discover upcoming IPOs, evaluate companies, compare issue details, track subscription status, monitor allotment, and manage their investments after listing.
Whether you’re a first-time IPO investor or someone who regularly participates in public issues, choosing the right platform can make the entire investment journey simpler and more efficient.
The best IPO platforms don’t just facilitate applications—they offer a complete ecosystem for investing. Features such as digital UPI applications, IPO research, subscription tracking, portfolio management, and access to other investment products can significantly enhance the overall experience.
In this guide, we compare some of the best platforms for applying to Mainboard IPOs in India and discuss which type of investor each platform is best suited for.
What Makes a Good Mainboard IPO Platform?
Before choosing an IPO platform, consider whether it offers more than just an application facility.
A good Mainboard IPO platform should provide:
- Access to live and upcoming IPOs
- Digital application through UPI or ASBA
- Company overview and issue details
- IPO subscription tracking
- IPO allotment updates
- Portfolio integration
- Easy navigation
- Access to multiple investment products
Platforms that combine these features help investors make more informed decisions while simplifying the IPO application process.
Best Platforms to Apply for Mainboard IPOs
1. Groww
Groww offers one of the most comprehensive IPO investing experiences for retail investors.
Rather than serving only as an IPO application platform, Groww provides an integrated investment ecosystem where users can discover IPOs, understand company details, submit applications digitally, and continue managing their investments after listing.
Investors can easily access:
- Live and upcoming Mainboard IPOs
- Price band
- Lot size
- IPO opening and closing dates
- Company overview
- Issue size
- Subscription status
- Allotment timeline
- Listing information
What differentiates Groww is that IPO investing is integrated into a broader investment journey.
Users can invest in:
- Stocks
- Mutual Funds
- ETFs
- Bonds
- Gold
- Silver
The platform also supports trading in:
- Equity F&O
- Commodities
- Currency derivatives
This allows investors to manage almost every major asset class from a single platform instead of maintaining multiple investment accounts.
Why Choose Groww?
- End-to-end IPO investing experience
- Easy IPO discovery
- Digital UPI application
- Subscription and allotment tracking
- Integrated portfolio management
- Beginner-friendly interface
- One platform for multiple investment products
Ideal for: Investors looking for an all-in-one investing platform that extends well beyond IPO applications.
2. Zerodha
Zerodha enables investors to apply for Mainboard IPOs through its Console and Kite ecosystem.
Its strength lies in serving existing equity investors who already use Zerodha for stock investing. IPO applications fit naturally into the broader trading ecosystem, allowing users to manage equity investments and IPO participation from the same account.
Highlights
- Digital IPO applications
- Integrated with equity investing
- Strong trading ecosystem
- Suitable for experienced market participants
Ideal for: Active stock market investors already using Zerodha.
3. Upstox
Upstox provides a streamlined IPO application process along with access to equity investing and trading.
The platform focuses on offering a smooth digital experience where investors can review live IPOs, apply online, and track applications without leaving the platform.
Highlights
- UPI-based IPO applications
- IPO dashboard
- Investment tracking
- Mobile-first experience
Ideal for: Investors seeking a simple digital IPO investing platform.
4. Angel One
Angel One combines IPO investing with research tools and a broader investment ecosystem.
Alongside IPO applications, investors can access company information, market insights, and equity investing tools.
Highlights
- IPO application facility
- Market research
- Equity investing
- Trading platform
Ideal for: Investors who value research alongside investing.
5. Dhan
Dhan has built an ecosystem primarily focused on active traders while also supporting IPO applications.
Users can discover IPOs, apply digitally, and continue managing listed investments from the same platform.
Highlights
- IPO investing
- Active trading ecosystem
- Portfolio tracking
- Modern interface
Ideal for: Traders looking for integrated investing.
6. INDmoney
INDmoney positions itself as a wealth management platform rather than only an investing app.
Along with IPO investing, it provides portfolio tracking across multiple asset classes, making it suitable for investors managing diversified investments.
Highlights
- IPO investing
- Portfolio consolidation
- Mutual funds
- US stocks
- Wealth tracking
Ideal for: Long-term investors managing diversified portfolios.
7. ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct integrates IPO investing with banking and wealth management services.
Existing ICICI Bank customers can seamlessly apply for IPOs using ASBA while managing investments through a unified platform.
Highlights
- ASBA support
- Banking integration
- Research
- Wealth management
Ideal for: Existing ICICI customers.
8. HDFC Sky / HDFC Securities
HDFC Securities offers IPO investing as part of its broader wealth and banking ecosystem.
The platform is particularly useful for investors who prefer bank-backed investment services.
Highlights
- IPO investing
- Banking integration
- Research
- Portfolio services
Ideal for: HDFC banking customers.
Platform Comparison
| Platform | IPO Discovery | Company Information | UPI/ASBA | Allotment Tracking | Portfolio Management | Multi-Asset Investing |
| Groww | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Zerodha | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Limited |
| Upstox | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Limited |
| Angel One | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Yes |
| Dhan | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Yes |
| INDmoney | ✓ | ✓ | UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Yes |
| ICICI Direct | ✓ | ✓ | ASBA/UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Yes |
| HDFC Securities | ✓ | ✓ | ASBA/UPI | ✓ | ✓ | Yes |
Which Platform is Right for You?
If You’re a Beginner
Look for a platform that offers:
- Simple interface
- Easy IPO application
- Clear issue information
- Portfolio management
Platforms like Groww are designed to make the IPO journey easier for new investors.
If You Already Trade Stocks
You may prefer staying within your existing brokerage ecosystem, such as Zerodha, Upstox, Angel One, or Dhan.
If You Prefer Banking Integration
Investors who already bank with ICICI or HDFC may appreciate the convenience of applying through their integrated investment platforms.
If You Want One Platform for All Investments
If your goal is to manage stocks, IPOs, mutual funds, ETFs, bonds, gold, silver, and other investments through a single platform, an integrated investing platform offers greater convenience over maintaining multiple accounts.
Factors to Compare Before Choosing an IPO Platform
Before deciding, compare platforms based on:
- Ease of IPO discovery
- IPO application process
- Subscription status updates
- Allotment tracking
- Company information
- Portfolio management
- Other investment products
- Customer support
- Overall investing experience
The best platform is not necessarily the one with the most features—it is the one that aligns with your investing style and long-term financial needs.
Conclusion
The process of applying for Mainboard IPOs has become significantly more convenient thanks to digital investment platforms. Today’s investors can discover IPO opportunities, review company information, apply online, and manage investments through a single interface.
While many platforms offer IPO application facilities, they differ in the overall investing experience they provide. Some focus primarily on trading, while others offer broader wealth management capabilities.
For investors looking for an integrated investment ecosystem that combines IPO investing with stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, bonds, gold, silver, and derivatives, Groww offers a comprehensive platform designed to simplify investing from discovery to portfolio management.
Ultimately, the right platform depends on your investment goals, preferred investing style, and the level of support and features you expect throughout your IPO journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best platform to apply for Mainboard IPOs?
The best platform depends on your investment needs. Investors generally look for platforms that offer digital IPO applications, IPO tracking, company information, and portfolio management in one place.
Can I apply for Mainboard IPOs online?
Yes. Most investment platforms allow investors to apply online through UPI or ASBA without visiting a bank branch.
Do I need a demat account to apply for a Mainboard IPO?
Yes. Shares allotted through a Mainboard IPO are typically credited to a demat account.
What features should I look for in an IPO platform?
Look for IPO discovery, company information, digital applications, subscription tracking, allotment updates, portfolio management, and access to other investment products.
Is there any fee for applying to an IPO?
Most platforms do not charge a separate application fee. The application amount is blocked in your bank account through the UPI or ASBA process until allotment is completed.
Can I manage my IPO investments along with other investments on the same platform?
Many modern investment platforms allow investors to manage IPOs alongside stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, bonds, and other investment products from a single account.
