I agree wholeheartedly with your assessments and have a TDA to follow the market. I too do not like the fancy bells and whistles on the Sink-or-Swim platform.
I sent many many customers to Fidelity in my capacity as a financial professional. They are staffed with well trained, knowledgeable and courteous professionals who respond responsibly to every request.
The rate are now $7.95 per trade on any quantity without limitations. The research and market-watch features are the only shortcomings. I use TDA for that purpose.