# AlgoTest vs Smallcase: Backtested Algos or Curated Portfolios?
Author: AlgoTest
Author URL: https://algotest.in/blog/author/algotest/
Published: 2025-07-09
Category: RA Algos
Category URL: https://algotest.in/blog/category/ra-algos/
Tags: algo trading, trading strategies
Tag URLs: algo trading (https://algotest.in/blog/tag/algo-trading/), trading strategies (https://algotest.in/blog/tag/trading-strategies/)
URL: https://algotest.in/blog/ra-algos-vs-smallcase/

![](https://prod.superblogcdn.com/site_cuid_cmbhlz3q0002sxzc513a62pj5/images/blog-thumbnail-8-1752063841045-compressed.png)

If you're a retail investor in India, you've definitely heard of **Smallcase,** a platform that popularized the idea of investing in **curated baskets of stocks**. Clean UI, simple explanations, and direct broker execution make it beginner-friendly.

_But is it meant for traders?_

And how does it compare to a platform like [RA Algos by AlgoTest](https://algotest.in/ra-algos?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=seo), which is built specifically for **transparent, testable, and executable algo strategies by SEBI-registered Research Analysts**?

Let’s break it down.

* * *

### TL;DR

Feature

**RA Algos by AlgoTest**

**Smallcase**

**SEBI Registered Analysts**

Yes (10+ RAs listed)

Not mandatory for all creators

**Backtesting**

Yes (with slippage, taxes)

Not available to users

**Forward Testing**

Yes

No

**Execution via Broker**

Yes

Yes (via Smallcase partners)

**Algo Strategies**

Available

Not supported

**Instrument Coverage**

Stocks, Options, Futures

Stocks & ETFs only

**Customization**

Create custom portfolios

Fixed baskets

**Mobile App**

Web-first

Yes

* * *

### What is Smallcase?

Smallcase is an investment platform that offers **thematic portfolios of stocks and ETFs**. Think of them as professionally researched baskets built around ideas like “EV Revolution”, “Dividend Aristocrats”, or “Low Volatility.”

Users can invest in these baskets through their broker accounts (Zerodha, Upstox, HDFC, etc.) and track them easily. But behind the simplicity lies a key limitation: **no** [**backtesting**](https://algotest.in/feature/backtest) **, no transparency on risk metrics, and no derivatives**.

You know _what_ you're buying, but not _why_ or _how_ it's performing under stress.

## What is RA Algos by AlgoTest?

[RA Algos](https://algotest.in/ra-algo) is a no-nonsense marketplace of **SEBI-registered, rule-based strategies** that are **backtested, forward-tested, and ready for automation**.

You get to:

- View complete strategies' risk metrics

- See risk-adjusted performance

- Add your broker and trade live

- Monitor metrics like drawdowns, win rates, and volatility


And yes, all strategies are by SEBI-registered RAs.

_You can read our_ [_RA Algos product doc_](https://docs.algotest.in/ra-algos/research-analyst/) _for step by step instructions on using the platform._

### 1. **Transparency & Logic**

#### 🟠 Smallcase

- Shows basket name, theme, and stock weights

- No access to **historical performance** or stress testing


#### ✅ RA Algos by AlgoTest​

- Strategies by RAs, can make custom portfolios.

- Full performance metrics: CAGR, Max DD, Sharpe, win-rate


### 2. **Backtesting & Forward Testing**

### Smallcase

- No user-visible backtest performance

- No way to simulate real market conditions before investing

- You rely on themes, not data


#### ✅ RA Algos by AlgoTest

- Backtests with **brokerage, slippage, and taxes**

- Forward test on real-time data using paper trades

- You can stress test strategies before going live


_Would you invest without checking past data? Smallcase wants you to. RA Algos doesn’t let you._

### 3. **Execution & Automation**

#### Smallcase

- Broker integration with multiple DPs

- One-click investment in a basket

- **Manual rebalancing required** based on notifications


#### RA Algos by AlgoTest

- Broker integration for **live algo trading**

- No manual intervention required once deployed

- Trade in Options, Futures, and Stocks


4. **Product Type: Long-Only Portfolios vs Active Algos**

#### Smallcase

- Long-only equity exposure

- No support for options, futures, hedging, or volatility plays

- Ideal for long-term investors


#### RA Algos by AlgoTest

- Covers **different strategies**

- Stocks, Index F&O, and multi-leg algos

- Suitable for intraday, positional, and monthly rebalances


### 5. **Compliance & Regulation**

#### Smallcase

- Some baskets are powered by RAs, but not all


#### RA Algos by AlgoTest

- All algos are listed by verified SEBI-registered Research Analysts


Read more: [Difference Between Backtesting, Forward Testing, and Live Execution in RA Algos](https://algotest.in/blog/difference-between-backtesting-forward-testing-and-live-execution-in-ra-algos/)

### 6. **Who Should Use What?**

User Type

**Platform**

Beginner investor, passive style

✅ Smallcase

Intermediate/advanced trader

✅ RA Algos

Options/Futures user

✅ RA Algos

Wants data-backed decisions

✅ RA Algos

Wants simple stock themes

✅ Smallcase

* * *

## RA Algos by AlgoTest vs Smallcase \| Conclusion

**Smallcase** is a great starting point for long-term investors looking for exposure to themes and stock baskets. But it hides the engine under the hood, you can’t test strategies, understand rules, or automate anything.

**RA Algos by AlgoTest**, on the other hand, is built for **traders who demand risk metrics, data, and automation**. Whether you’re trading options or building diversified strategy portfolios, it puts you in full control, with full transparency.

_Looking for more than just a pretty basket of stocks?_

_Want backtests, execution, and real accountability?_

**RA Algos by AlgoTest is built for you.**

To check other similar platforms, head over to [this article.](https://algotest.in/blog/ra-algos-vs-univest/)

Read more: ​ [**What is RA Algos and how it works on AlgoTest**](https://algotest.in/blog/what-is-ra-algos-and-how-it-works-on-algotest/)


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