10 Best Investment Apps

Editor’s Take

Robinhood lets you trade stocks, ETFs, options, and select cryptocurrencies without paying commissions, helping you keep more of your returns. Its clean, intuitive interface makes it appealing for those seeking a simple, streamlined experience. Fractional shares let you start investing with as little as $1, making it easier to diversify on a budget.

While the platform covers the basics with charts and market news, its research tools are limited compared to full-service brokerages. Advanced screeners and detailed analysis are limited, which could hold back those who depend on technical or fundamental research.

Robinhood is best suited for active traders who prioritize speed and low costs over extensive research capabilities. If you’re looking for educational content or detailed portfolio guidance, you may need to supplement the app with external resources.

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Many investors choose Robinhood for its low costs and user-friendly design. The ability to trade without fees is a major advantage, particularly for frequent traders, and the app’s quick execution and straightforward order placement are often highlighted as strengths.

The fractional share feature is also popular, allowing users to invest in high-priced stocks without needing a large initial sum. This makes it easier for individuals to build a diversified portfolio, even on a limited budget.

However, some users report outages during periods of high trading activity and note slow customer service response times. The limited research tools are another drawback, meaning the platform works best for those seeking fast, low-cost trades and simplicity, but may not suit those who need advanced analytics or in-depth market data.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Commission-free trading for stocks, ETFs, and options
• Fractional shares available with low minimum investment
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Fast trade execution

Cons

• Limited research and analysis tools
• Occasional service outages during high traffic
• Customer support can be slow
• No advanced order types compared to some competitors

Editor’s Take

Acorns links your debit or credit cards to round up each purchase to the nearest dollar, automatically investing the extra change. You can select from various low-cost ETF portfolios, from conservative to aggressive, based on your risk tolerance.

The platform has a flat monthly fee starting at $1. This is beneficial for larger balances but may not be cost-effective for small accounts. Higher-tier plans include added features like retirement accounts and a checking account for more comprehensive financial management.

With its simple, beginner-friendly interface, Acorns handles portfolio selection and automatic rebalancing for you. This makes it a strong choice if you prefer a passive investing approach without the need to track market movements daily.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many users like Acorns because it makes investing simple and automatic, with the round-up feature often cited as the main reason they continue using the app. The process feels effortless, helping users invest consistently without much thought.

However, some note that the flat monthly fee can be expensive for smaller balances, such as paying $3 per month on a $100 account, which reduces returns. This makes it less appealing for those starting with very small investments.

The app’s educational content is praised for being clear and beginner-friendly, though seasoned investors may find it too basic. Reviews also highlight the convenience of combining banking, retirement, and investing in one platform, though some wish for more control over specific investment choices.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Automatic micro-investing through purchase round-ups
• Simple interface designed for beginners
• Flat monthly fee starting at $1
• Offers retirement and checking account options
• Portfolios built from low-cost ETFs

Cons

• Flat fee can be expensive for small balances
• Limited control over individual investments
• Educational content may be too basic for advanced users
• No direct stock or crypto trading options
• Withdrawals can take a few business days

Why We Picked It

You can use Fidelity Mobile to manage nearly every type of investment in one place, including stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds. This makes it a strong choice if you want to maintain a diversified portfolio from a single platform.

The app offers real-time quotes, customizable watchlists, and advanced charting tools, along with the ability to schedule calls or video meetings with a financial advisor or Certified Financial Planner. Commission-free trading for U.S. stocks and ETFs helps keep costs low, and you can manage both retirement accounts like IRAs and regular brokerage accounts.

Fidelity’s educational resources are clear and thorough, making it easier to learn about different investment options. This is especially useful if you want to better understand fixed-income products or create a balanced ETF strategy.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many users praise Fidelity Mobile for its stability and intuitive design, making it easy to view account balances, holdings, and recent transactions without unnecessary steps. The straightforward layout is often cited as a major plus for both new and experienced investors.

The app’s built-in research tools are also highly appreciated, offering access to market news, analyst reports, and screeners for ETFs, bonds, and stocks. This allows users to make informed investment decisions without needing multiple platforms.

Quick access to human support is another standout feature, with the ability to connect directly to a financial advisor or Certified Financial Planner for complex questions. However, some beginners note that the wealth of tools and data can be overwhelming at first, requiring time to get fully comfortable.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Wide range of investment options: stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds
• Commission-free trades for U.S. stocks and ETFs
• Access to financial advisors and Certified Financial Planners
• Strong research tools and educational content
• Supports both taxable and retirement accounts

Cons:

• Interface can feel complex for new investors
• Bond trading tools are less intuitive than stock and ETF tools
• Some advanced features require extra learning time
• Certain account services may require desktop access

Editor’s Take

Public offers simple investing options combined with a social community, allowing users to see real-time investment choices from others and exchange advice. This social aspect makes it appealing for those who want to learn from peers while managing their own portfolios.

The platform is praised for its transparency, with no hidden fees and a policy of not accepting payments for order flow. It also shares options revenue with customers, which sets it apart from most competitors.

However, as a relatively new brokerage firm, Public doesn’t provide as many features and tools as some long-established companies. Still, it’s a great choice for new investors seeking straightforward pricing and an active community to connect with.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Users praise Public’s user-friendly interface, fractional share options, and educational resources, making it a good fit for beginners. Its engaging social features also enhance the overall investing experience.

However, the app faces significant criticism in several areas. Users report concerns about withdrawals, customer support, and technical glitches, as well as issues with unexpected fees and misleading promotions. These challenges raise doubts about the app’s reliability and transparency.

Review scores reflect this mixed feedback, with strong ratings for UI and ease of use, but low marks in fees, charges, security, and data protection. While Public offers attractive features for new investors, these drawbacks may be important to consider before committing.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Commission-free trading for stocks, options, ETFs, and fractional shares
• Social investing community that allows investors to connect with peers
• Access to educational resources for all experience levels
• Fractional share investing for greater portfolio flexibility
• Transparent pricing with no hidden trading fees

Cons:

• Limited investment options, with no mutual funds and few international funds
• No custodial accounts for minors or dependent investing
• No telephone-based customer service support
• Limited diversification opportunities compared to full-service brokerages
• Fewer advanced trading tools for experienced investors

Disclosures

Investing always carries risks, and Public Investment provides self-directed brokerage services for U.S.-listed securities, options, and bonds. As a member of FINRA and SIPC, it offers regulatory oversight and certain protections, though market losses remain possible.

Its tools and resources are educational and not personalized investment advice, so investors should research independently or consult a financial advisor. Public’s approach combines transparency, investor control, and regulatory safeguards to support informed decision-making.

Editor’s Take

You gain access to a well-established brokerage with decades of experience and a reputation for reliability. Schwab’s platform is user-friendly and stable, whether you’re using the desktop site or mobile app. It offers thousands of mutual funds, many with no transaction fees, along with IRAs and other retirement accounts that have no minimum deposit requirements.

For those who prefer automated investing, Schwab Intelligent Portfolios charges no advisory fee, though a set percentage must remain in cash. Active traders benefit from integrated research tools and screeners at no additional cost, making it a versatile choice for different investing styles.

Schwab’s customer service stands out with phone, chat, and in-person support at physical branches, a rare feature among online brokers. This level of accessibility is particularly valuable if you want the option for face-to-face assistance alongside digital tools.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many investors appreciate Schwab for its reliable service and low trading costs. Reviews frequently highlight the broad selection of mutual funds and commission-free trades as major advantages, making it appealing to cost-conscious traders.

Retirement investors value the variety of IRA options and the convenience of managing multiple account types in one place. Schwab’s robo-advisor earns praise for its simplicity, though some users see the required cash allocation as a downside.

While the platform is dependable, a few note that its charting tools aren’t as advanced as those on specialized trading platforms. The mix of features appeals to both new and experienced investors, with branch access being a valued and convenient benefit.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No commissions for online stock and ETF trades
• Large selection of no-transaction-fee mutual funds
• Multiple retirement account options with no minimum deposit
• Robo-advisor with no advisory fee
• Access to physical branches for in-person help

Cons:

• Required cash allocation in robo-advisor portfolios
• Research tools less advanced than some specialized platforms
• Some mutual funds may still have transaction fees
• Interest on cash holdings may be lower than market rates

Editor’s Take

M1 Finance is designed for investors who want automation without losing control over their portfolio choices. You can choose from “Expert Pies” or build your own asset mix, and the platform automatically rebalances over time.

It offers zero-commission trading and no management fees for basic accounts. However, you will need the paid M1 Plus membership for extras like lower borrowing rates and higher cash yield.

The interface is clean and easy to navigate, but it lacks advanced charting and real-time trading tools. This makes it better suited for long-term investors than active day traders.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many users appreciate the ability to manage investing, borrowing, and spending in one account. Reviews often highlight the simplicity of the pie-based portfolio system, which makes diversification straightforward.

Some investors value automation because it removes the need for constant monitoring. Some people see the absence of intraday trading as a disadvantage for reacting swiftly to market changes.

Customer feedback also points to strong satisfaction with account setup and mobile app performance. However, a smaller group has raised concerns about limited customer service hours and slower response times during peak periods.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No management fees for standard accounts
• Customizable portfolios with automated rebalancing
• Integrated investing, borrowing, and banking features
• Fractional shares available
• Clean, easy-to-use interface

Cons:

• No real-time or intraday trading
• Limited research and advanced charting tools
• Some features locked behind paid M1 Plus membership
• Customer service not 24/7
• Best suited for long-term investors, not active traders

Editor’s Take

Webull stands out for blending a clean, mobile-friendly interface with features that appeal to experienced traders. You can use technical indicators, drawing tools, and customizable charts that rival desktop trading platforms.

It supports extended hours trading from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, which can help you react to pre-market and after-hours news. The app also includes paper trading, allowing you to practice strategies without risking real money.

While Webull supports beginners, its learning curve is steeper than apps like Robinhood. The research tools, while free, require some market knowledge to use effectively. If you value analytics and active trading capabilities over basic simplicity, Webull offers a strong balance of cost and functionality.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Users appreciate Webull for its commission-free trades and advanced tools. Active traders especially value the real-time market data and the ability to execute complex order types without additional costs.

For beginners, the platform’s extensive features can feel overwhelming, making the learning curve steeper than with more streamlined apps. The depth of tools and analytics may intimidate those with little prior trading experience.

Customer reviews often highlight Webull’s fast execution speeds and dependable performance, even during heavy market activity. While the desktop platform offers flexibility for larger-screen trading, the mobile app remains the preferred choice for most users, particularly those who actively manage their portfolios.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• $0 commissions for stocks, ETFs, and options
• Advanced charting and technical analysis tools
• Extended trading hours (4 a.m.–8 p.m. ET)
• Paper trading for risk-free practice
• No account minimum required

Cons

• Limited access to mutual funds and bonds
• May overwhelm beginners with advanced features
• No fractional share trading for all securities
• Customer support can be slower than some competitors
• Limited educational content compared to beginner-focused apps

Editor’s Take

Wealthfront is a robo-advisor that uses algorithms to design and manage your portfolio with minimal effort on your part. You simply set your goals, risk tolerance, and timeline, and the platform builds a diversified portfolio for you. Its core holdings include low-cost ETFs across various asset classes, with features like automated rebalancing and tax-loss harvesting.

The platform charges a competitive 0.25% annual advisory fee and requires just a $500 minimum to get started, making it accessible to a wide range of investors. This combination of affordability and automation appeals to those seeking a hands-off investment approach.

In addition to investment accounts, Wealthfront offers a high-interest cash account that blends checking and savings features. It includes free transfers, bill payment, and ATM access, while often paying higher interest rates than traditional banks.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many users praise Wealthfront for its hands-off investing approach, noting the ease of having portfolios managed automatically while keeping all financial goals in one place. The ability to set objectives and let the platform handle day-to-day management is a major draw for busy investors.

The interface is frequently described as clean and intuitive, making it simple to check balances, adjust goals, and monitor performance through the mobile app. Reviewers often highlight how effortless it is to navigate compared to more complex investment platforms.

Customers appreciate the transparency of Wealthfront’s fees and the clear explanations of its investment strategies. While some miss having access to human advisors, others find the automated approach efficient. The cash account’s competitive interest rates and no-fee structure also receive praise, though a few note that customer support can be slower during peak times.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Fully automated investing with diversified core portfolios
• Low 0.25% annual advisory fee
• Tax-loss harvesting and automated rebalancing included
• Cash account with competitive interest and no monthly fees
• Easy-to-use web and mobile platforms

Cons:

• No access to live human financial advisors
• Limited customization beyond core portfolios
• $500 minimum investment required
• Customer support can be slower during busy periods
• No direct fractional share investing outside ETFs

Editor’s Take

SoFi’s automated investing service charges a competitive 0.25% annual management fee and requires no minimum deposit, making it accessible to new investors or those with limited funds. Portfolios are built and rebalanced automatically using a diversified mix of ETFs tailored to your goals and risk tolerance.

For those who prefer more control, SoFi also offers active investing with access to stocks, ETFs, and select cryptocurrencies. The platform includes free career coaching, financial planning sessions, and educational resources to help you make informed choices.

Its user-friendly interface simplifies decision-making, and integration with SoFi Money and SoFi Loans lets you manage banking, debt, and investments in one place. This all-in-one approach makes SoFi especially appealing for users who want to simplify their financial management.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Many users praise SoFi for its intuitive design and the ability to start investing without a large initial deposit. The free access to financial advisors is frequently highlighted as a major advantage, particularly for beginners who want guidance.

Reviews highlight the convenience of using a single app for investing, banking, and lending, which simplifies financial management and eliminates the need for multiple platforms. This integrated approach is a key reason many users stick with SoFi.

Some critics note that SoFi’s investment options are more limited than traditional brokers, lacking mutual funds and offering fewer bond choices. While mobile app ratings are generally high for stability and ease of use, a few users report occasional delays in trade execution during peak market hours.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No account minimum for automated investing
• Competitive 0.25% annual management fee
• Free financial planning and career coaching
• Simple, intuitive mobile and web interface
• Integration with SoFi banking and lending products

Cons:

• Limited investment product selection (no mutual funds)
• Less advanced research tools than some competitors
• Occasional trade execution delays during high-volume periods
• Fewer customization options for automated portfolios

Why We Picked It

You can use Betterment to invest in diversified ETF portfolios without selecting individual stocks, as the platform tailors your portfolio to your goals—whether that’s retirement, building wealth, or general investing. Its 0.25% annual management fee is competitive, and investors with $100,000 or more can opt for the premium plan with access to human advisors at 0.40%.

Automation features like tax-loss harvesting can help lower your tax liability, while automatic rebalancing ensures your portfolio stays aligned with your chosen risk tolerance. This hands-off approach appeals to those who want to invest consistently without constant monitoring.

Betterment also provides cash management accounts, allowing you to earn interest on uninvested funds while staying within the same ecosystem. This integration makes it convenient to manage both your investments and cash in one place.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Low annual management fee of 0.25% for digital plan
• Automatic rebalancing and tax-loss harvesting included
• Goal-based investing with clear progress tracking
• Option for human advisor support at higher tier
• Cash management accounts with competitive interest rates

Cons:

• No direct stock or individual bond investing
• Premium plan requires $100,000 minimum balance
• Limited customization beyond ETF selection
• No margin investing or advanced trading tools

Details

Betterment invests your money in low-cost ETFs across U.S. and international stocks, bonds, and other asset classes, tailoring the mix to your financial goals and risk profile. You can set multiple goals, such as retirement, emergency savings, or a major purchase; Betterment will manage each portfolio separately.

Its daily tax-loss harvesting feature helps reduce your tax bill by selling investments at a loss to offset gains, potentially boosting after-tax returns over time. The mobile and web apps make it easy to track your progress, adjust goals, or change your risk level, with deposits and withdrawals handled without trading commissions.

For more personalized advice, the Premium plan includes unlimited calls with a certified financial planner for a higher fee. This option can be especially valuable if you have complex financial needs or want hands-on guidance.