What displayed option bid and ask size can show

Scans run June 1 to June 26, 2026 via Spreadsearch

Editorial note (September 25, 2026): This page was substantially revised to replace the original scan-data summary with a methodology note. The original URL and reporting period have been retained for continuity.

Purpose of the scans

The June tests added another field to the review of wide displayed spreads: the size shown at the best bid and ask.

Quoted size provides useful context. It should not, however, be treated as a prediction or as proof that an order will execute at a particular price.

What bid and ask size show

Bid size is the quantity displayed at the best bid price. Ask size is the quantity displayed at the best ask price.

The following examples are hypothetical and are not market data:

Both examples have the same displayed spread. Example A shows more size at the bid, while Example B shows more size at the ask. This difference describes the visible quote at that moment.

Why a size imbalance needs caution

Displayed size can change quickly. Orders may be added, executed, modified, or cancelled after the scan.

The ratio does not explain intent. More size at the bid does not establish that the option price will rise, just as more size at the ask does not establish that it will fall.

Top-of-book size is not full market depth. It shows the quantity available at the best displayed prices, not every order at other price levels.

Execution remains separate. A quote is not a promise that a new order of any size will receive the displayed price.

How Spreadsearch uses size

Bid and ask size can help place a wide spread in context and can be used as an additional sorting field. It should remain supplementary information, not a trading signal or a measure of expected profit.

This public summary uses only hypothetical figures. For a product overview, see How It Works. General explanations of option quotes and liquidity are also available from the Options Industry Council.