Learn · Index futures
ES vs NQ futures
Two CME E-mini index futures that follow different indices and carry different dollar values per point. Educational content, not trading advice.
ES tracks the S&P 500 at $50 per point; NQ tracks the Nasdaq-100 at $20 per point. Both tick in 0.25 points: $12.50 per ES tick and $5 per NQ tick (CME Group).
What differs
Different index
ES is priced off the S&P 500 Index; NQ off the Nasdaq-100 Index (CME contract units).
Point value
$50 on ES vs $20 on NQ.
Same tick size
Both move in 0.25-point ticks, so the dollar gap comes only from the multiplier.
Same hours
Both trade on CME Globex 6:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. ET with a daily break.
Specs side by side
| Feature | ES | NQ |
|---|---|---|
| Index | S&P 500 | Nasdaq-100 |
| Point value | $50 | $20 |
| Tick value | $12.50 | $5 |
| NQBacktest plan | Pro / Pro+ | Free (last 6 months) · full history on Pro |
Contract values per CME Group; confirm before trading.
Sources: CME Group: E-mini S&P 500 specs (opens in a new tab) · CME Group: E-mini Nasdaq-100 specs (opens in a new tab)
Practise both
Same day, two charts
Replay one date on NQ, then ES, and compare.
Divergence ideas
Many traders watch ES and NQ together for SMT-style divergences.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for beginners?
Neither is objectively better; pick the one whose dollar risk fits your plan, and consider micro contracts.
Can I replay both here?
NQ is on the free plan (last 6 months) and Pro; ES needs Pro (257 ES sessions from October 29, 2025 through October 26, 2026). Every ES date also exists for NQ.
Related
Replay ES and NQ
ES is included with Pro and Pro+; eligible new accounts can try Pro for $1 for 3 days, then $12.99/month unless cancelled.