We often get asked about the difference between NinjaTrader’s Static SuperDOM and the Dynamic SuperDOM. For those of you unfamiliar with what a SuperDOM is, it’s NinjaTrader’s way of displaying the instrument’s currently traded price, buy and sell prices, and allows for order placement among other things. Some platforms call the DOM a “price ladder” or “matrix.”
What’s the difference?
In the following picture, we can see a Dynamic SuperDOM on the left and a Static SuperDOM on the right both set to the same instrument. Is there a visual difference? Yes! On the Static, the price rows are “static,” meaning the rows stay in place regardless of price movement. When price reaches the lower portion of the DOM and exceeds it, the Static price ladder is “climbed down”. The inverse is true when price rises to the highest rung of the price ladder. In comparison, the Dynamic DOM constantly shifts prices in each rung of the price ladder – it does not wait for price to reach the upper or lower limits of the ladder.
How do you tell them apart?
The following was true in NinjaTrader 7, however, in NinjaTrader 8, the DOMs look identical. You’ll have to remember what you opened or note the behavior of the DOM (as described above) to discern the type. When in doubt, you can close the DOM and open the version you want.
The Dynamic SuperDOM has a HOLD button on the top left. The HOLD button assists you with submitting and modifying orders. During volatile conditions, you can “freeze” the price movement. The button will then change to HELD.
Why are there two types of SuperDOMS?
The first reason is trader preference.
The second reason is that the Static SuperDOM uses patented technology from a company called Trading Technologies (TT). Quick history lesson – TT was granted patents after NinjaTrader already adopted the behavior of the static SuperDOM. Since TT can blow the whistle on companies infringing on its static DOM patents, NinjaTrader was proactive and agreed with TT to charge NinjaTrader users $0.10 per side for trading futures via the Static SuperDOM. This fee and agreement has been established within NinjaTrader since 2006.
Do I get a choice between Dynamic and Static?
Some brokers may require use of one type of SuperDOM over another. We find that both are suitable, although we prefer the Dynamic SuperDOM because there are no extra fees to use it. In some cases, brokers will provide Static SuperDOM credits. Otherwise, the credits can be purchased from NinjaTrader: https://ninjatrader.com/purchase-transaction-credits
Where can I learn more?
Use this free and helpful NinjaTrader 8 reference page. Also, it’s a good idea to sign up for our free Get Started Trading Guide.
