it's $4 a trade unless you have the $10 monthly membership (then you get 6 free trades) which includes charts, reports, etc.
they do have real time trades but it's a LOT more expensive. This type of account is really for long term investors and not traders. I buy all my big board stocks there to hold on to. I also use it for the kids because they have a great custodial account membership.
Scottrade is just for pennies (and it hasn't been used much lately)