The 11 Best Apps for Investing: Your Comprehensive Guide for 2025 and Beyond

In the modern digital age, almost everything we do—from grocery shopping to communicating with friends—can be managed right from our smartphones. The world of finance is no exception. Whether you’re a novice investor looking to dip your toes in the stock market or an experienced trader seeking advanced research tools, there’s an app for that. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best apps for investing, highlighting their key features, cost structures, advantages, and potential drawbacks. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the information you need to select the investment app that suits your financial goals and personal preferences.

Table of Contents

1. Why Invest Through an App?
2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Investing App
3. The 11 Best Investing Apps
   1. Robinhood
   2. M1 Finance
   3. Acorns
   4. Webull
   5. Fidelity Mobile
   6. E*TRADE
   7. TD Ameritrade Mobile
   8. Charles Schwab Mobile
   9. SoFi Invest
   10. Public
   11. Vanguard
4. Frequently Asked Questions
5. Conclusion

1. Why Invest Through an App?

Before diving into the apps themselves, let’s establish why investing through a smartphone app is a game-changer.

1.1 Convenience at Your Fingertips

Traditional methods of investing often involve a considerable amount of legwork—physically visiting a brokerage office, making phone calls to place trades, or sitting at a desktop computer for lengthy periods. Investing apps eliminate these hassles. Whether you’re on a lunch break, commuting, or relaxing at home, you can check your portfolio and even execute trades instantly. It’s a level of convenience that’s become almost indispensable in today’s fast-paced world.

1.2 Lower Fees and Commissions

Over the past several years, many brokerages have moved to a commission-free model, especially on trades for stocks and ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds). This change has greatly reduced the barrier to entry, enabling beginners to start trading without worrying about high transaction fees eating into their returns. Many investing apps also offer fractional shares, allowing you to purchase a portion of a share even if you can’t afford the full share price.

1.3 Accessibility and Education

Many investing apps incorporate educational resources designed to help beginners. These resources include basic tutorials, videos, blogs, and even simulation features that allow new investors to test the waters without committing real money. Moreover, the best investing apps come packed with tools and insights—from market news to advanced charting—that users can readily tap into.

1.4 Automated Investment Options

Not everyone wants or has the time to actively pick and trade individual stocks. The rise of robo-advisors and automated investing platforms means you can set your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon, and let the algorithm do the rest. This hands-off approach is particularly useful for long-term investors who’d rather not concern themselves with daily market fluctuations.

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Investing App

With so many investing apps vying for your attention, it’s crucial to narrow down which features matter most. Here are some key factors to weigh when choosing the best app for your specific needs:

1. Costs and Fees: Not every “free” app is created equal. Some may charge hidden fees like management fees, expense ratios for ETFs, or withdrawal fees. Always read the fine print to understand what you’ll be charged.
2. Investment Options: If your primary goal is day trading, you’ll want an app that offers a wide range of stocks, ETFs, options, and perhaps cryptocurrencies. For long-term investing, an app with robo-advisor functionalities might be more appealing.
3. Usability and Interface: A cluttered, confusing interface can hamper your investing experience. Make sure the app you choose feels intuitive and easy to navigate.
4. Research and Tools: Advanced traders often rely on technical indicators, charts, market news, and in-depth analyses. Make sure your chosen app provides the level of detail you need.
5. Customer Support: When you run into an issue—like a delayed transaction or questions about your account—customer support can be a lifesaver. Check whether the app offers customer service via phone, email, chat, or a combination of these.
6. Security: Always ensure the app you use is regulated by reputable authorities and employs robust security measures such as two-factor authentication and encryption.

3. The 11 Best Investing Apps

In this section, we’ll go through our curated list of the 11 best investing apps. Each one brings unique features to the table, so pay close attention to see which one aligns best with your investment style and objectives.

3.1 Robinhood

Overview

Launched in 2013, Robinhood quickly garnered a massive user base with its promise of commission-free trading. The company’s user-friendly interface and the ease of signing up attract a largely millennial and Gen Z audience. If you’re new to investing and looking for simplicity, Robinhood could be a great place to start.

Key Features

• Commission-Free Trades: No fees for trading stocks, ETFs, and options.
• Cryptocurrency Trading: One of the few apps that let you trade various cryptocurrencies alongside stocks.
• Fractional Shares: Ideal for beginners who can’t afford high-priced stocks.
• Cash Management: Robinhood offers a cash management feature with competitive interest rates on your uninvested cash.

Pros

• Extremely user-friendly interface.
• Zero minimum balance requirements.
• Instant funding of up to a specific limit (usually $1,000) upon account opening.

Cons

• Limited research and analysis tools.
• Customer support primarily conducted via email or in-app messages, which can be slow.
• No retirement accounts (traditional, Roth, or rollover IRAs) until recently; though they now offer IRAs, it’s still relatively new.

3.2 M1 Finance

Overview

M1 Finance has gained notoriety for combining DIY (do-it-yourself) investing with automation and robo-advisor features. The app is designed around “Pies,” which are essentially custom portfolios you can build or choose from pre-built templates.

Key Features

• Pie-Based Investment Management: Create multiple “Pies” that reflect different investment strategies or goals. Each Pie can contain various stocks and ETFs.
• Automated Contributions: Schedule deposits that are automatically allocated according to your Pie percentages.
• Fractional Shares: Allows you to invest smaller amounts and still maintain a diversified portfolio.
• M1 Borrow and M1 Spend: The platform also offers low-interest lines of credit against your portfolio and a checking account with debit card features.

Pros

• Combines active and passive investing options.
• No trading fees or commissions.
• Strong focus on long-term investing through an intuitive rebalancing system.

Cons

• Limited trading window (once or twice daily).
• Not ideal for day traders due to restricted trading times.
• No direct cryptocurrency trading.

3.3 Acorns

Overview

Acorns is well-known for its micro-investing premise. By rounding up your daily purchases to the nearest dollar and investing the difference, Acorns makes it practically effortless to grow your portfolio without feeling a pinch in your daily budget.

Key Features

• Round-Ups: Connect your credit or debit card, and Acorns automatically invests your spare change.
• Pre-built Portfolios: The app offers several ETF-based portfolios, each corresponding to different risk levels.
• Found Money: Acorns partners with select retailers to give you bonus investments when you shop with them.
• Acorns Later (IRAs): Allows you to set up traditional, Roth, or SEP IRAs for retirement investing.

Pros

• Incredibly beginner-friendly and hands-off.
• Automatic micro-investing strategy helps build saving habits.
• Straightforward monthly fee structure.

Cons

• Monthly fees (starting at $3) can be relatively high if your account balance is small.
• Limited customization; you’re restricted to Acorns’ ETF portfolios.
• No individual stock or cryptocurrency trading options.

3.4 Webull

Overview

Webull is often compared to Robinhood because of its commission-free model, but it sets itself apart with more comprehensive research tools and a sleeker interface for more active traders. While still relatively new in the U.S. market, Webull has grown rapidly due to its advanced charting and real-time data.

Key Features

• Commission-Free Trading: Covers stocks, ETFs, and options; crypto trading is also available in certain regions.
• Advanced Charting Tools: Offers multiple chart styles, technical indicators, and customization options.
• Paper Trading: Users can practice trading with virtual money to hone their skills.
• Extended-Hours Trading: Allows pre-market and after-hours trading.

Pros

• Robust research tools suitable for intermediate to advanced traders.
• Paper trading is a valuable feature for beginners learning to trade.
• No minimum deposit requirement.

Cons

• Limited product range; no mutual funds or bonds.
• Customer service can sometimes be slow to respond.
• No fractional shares, which may deter small-scale investors.

3.5 Fidelity Mobile

Overview

Fidelity is a well-established brokerage with a long history, making its mobile app an excellent choice for those who prefer working with a trusted, large-scale institution. The Fidelity Mobile app provides access to a full spectrum of investment offerings, from stocks and ETFs to mutual funds and retirement accounts.

Key Features

• Wide Range of Products: Invest in stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds, and more.
• In-App Research: Offers news, market updates, and robust research tools, including Fidelity’s proprietary analysis.
• Retirement Accounts: Easily manage IRAs, 401(k)s, and other retirement plans.
• Fractional Shares (Stocks by the Slice): Invest in high-priced stocks with smaller amounts of capital.

Pros

• Comprehensive set of investment options, including many no-fee mutual funds.
• Strong customer service and educational resources.
• Long-standing reputation for reliability and security.

Cons

• The interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
• Commission-free trades are mostly limited to U.S. equities; other products may incur costs.
• Learning curve for advanced features.

3.6 E*TRADE

Overview

ETRADE pioneered online trading and has maintained a strong reputation ever since. The platform offers two mobile apps: The regular ETRADE app for casual investors and Power E*TRADE for more advanced traders. This makes it versatile for a range of users.

Key Features

• Multiple Platforms: Users can choose between the standard ETRADE app or Power ETRADE, depending on their expertise and needs.
• Commission-Free Trades: Covers stocks, ETFs, and options (with contract fees).
• Wide Range of Investments: From common stocks and ETFs to futures and bonds.
• Retirement and Managed Portfolios: Offers a variety of retirement accounts and managed portfolios guided by advisors.

Pros

• Comprehensive trading tools, especially in Power E*TRADE.
• Extensive educational resources, including webinars and articles.
• Bonus offers for new accounts, like cash incentives based on deposit size.

Cons

• Options contract fees can be more expensive than some competitors.
• The interface, while feature-rich, can be daunting to new users.
• Not as streamlined as simpler apps like Robinhood or Acorns.

3.7 TD Ameritrade Mobile

Overview

With TD Ameritrade, you get a highly reputable brokerage that merges robust research, broad investment choices, and top-tier customer service. TD Ameritrade offers two main mobile apps: The standard TD Ameritrade Mobile app for general users and the thinkorswim app, which caters to advanced traders.

Key Features

• thinkorswim Platform: Provides advanced charting, backtesting, and a wide array of technical indicators, making it a favorite among serious traders.
• Commission-Free for Stocks and ETFs: Options trades come with a standard contract fee.
• Educational Library: Rich video content, quizzes, and immersive curriculums for investors of all levels.
• 24/7 Customer Support: Known for its reliable and responsive customer service.

Pros

• A wealth of investment options, including futures, forex, and bonds.
• Advanced platform for expert traders, with in-depth research tools.
• Excellent customer service, both online and at physical branches.

Cons

• Interface can be intimidating for complete novices.
• Advanced features may go unused if you only need a simple buy-and-hold strategy.
• Options and futures fees may add up.

3.8 Charles Schwab Mobile

Overview

Charles Schwab is another brokerage powerhouse with a track record of reliability and a broad range of services. Schwab’s mobile app focuses on providing an easy experience for everyday investors, while also offering more advanced functionalities for those who need them.

Key Features

• Commission-Free Trading: For stocks, ETFs, and many mutual funds.
• Broad Investment Selection: Including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and more.
• Robo-Advisor (Schwab Intelligent Portfolios): Automated investing features for hands-off investors.
• Fractional Shares (Stock Slices): Buy portions of S&P 500 companies for as little as $5.

Pros

• Highly reputable brokerage with extensive customer support.
• Commission-free trades on a wide range of products.
• Robo-advisor option for automated investing.

Cons

• The app interface may feel less intuitive compared to some mobile-first competitors.
• Account setup can involve more steps than simple apps like Robinhood.
• Some advanced features require using the website or advanced trading platforms.

3.9 SoFi Invest

Overview

SoFi (short for Social Finance) started as a student loan refinance provider but has since expanded into a one-stop-shop for financial services—banking, personal loans, and, of course, investing. SoFi Invest appeals particularly to young professionals and beginner investors who appreciate a user-friendly interface and community-focused approach.

Key Features

• Commission-Free Trading: Covers stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrency.
• Fractional Shares: Invest in major companies with just $5.
• Automated Investing Option: Robo-advisor that automatically rebalances your diversified portfolio.
• Integrated Ecosystem: If you also use SoFi loans or SoFi Money, it’s all under one digital roof.

Pros

• Simple, approachable interface.
• Crypto trading available alongside traditional assets.
• Various other financial services integrated, including loans and checking/savings accounts.

Cons

• Research tools are relatively basic.
• Limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to dedicated crypto exchanges.
• Customer service may not be as specialized as that of larger brokerages.

3.10 Public

Overview

Public brands itself as the social investing app for the next generation. It allows users to follow the investments of friends, influencers, and thought leaders, creating a community-based environment where you can share ideas, insights, and milestones.

Key Features

• Fractional Investing: Enables purchasing fractional shares of stocks and ETFs.
• Social Community: Follow friends and experts to see what they’re investing in, and share your own portfolio allocations if you wish.
• Commission-Free Trades: Zero fees on standard stock and ETF trades.
• Themed Portfolios (Themes): Curated lists of stocks around specific themes like “Women in Charge” or “Green Power.”

Pros

• Community-driven approach that can encourage beginners to learn from others.
• User-friendly, aesthetically pleasing interface.
• Emphasis on financial literacy and transparency.

Cons

• Limited research tools and advanced features for serious traders.
• The social aspect may lead to “FOMO” (fear of missing out) trades if not careful.
• Not ideal for those needing detailed technical analyses.

3.11 Vanguard

Overview

Vanguard is synonymous with low-cost, index fund investing. Founded by John C. Bogle, the company popularized index-based investing and is a go-to resource for passive, long-term investors. Though its mobile app is less flashy, Vanguard remains a top choice for those who emphasize low fees and a conservative, buy-and-hold approach.

Key Features

• Low-Cost Index Funds and ETFs: Vanguard pioneered the concept and continues to offer some of the lowest expense ratios in the industry.
• Retirement Accounts: Offers traditional, Roth, rollover IRAs, 401(k) options, and more.
• Target-Date Funds: Simplify retirement investing by automatically adjusting asset allocation over time.
• Personal Advisor Services: For those who want a blend of human advisor support and automated investing, though minimum balance requirements apply.

Pros

• Ideal for long-term, buy-and-hold investors.
• Extremely low expense ratios, especially on Vanguard funds.
• Strong focus on retirement planning.

Cons

• App interface can feel outdated.
• Less suitable for active or day traders due to fewer real-time tools.
• High minimums for certain fund investments.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

4.1 Which Investing App Is Best for Beginners?

For complete beginners, Acorns is extremely user-friendly due to its automated micro-investing, while Robinhood offers a simple interface and no-commission trades. SoFi Invest also caters to novice investors with a clean interface and the ability to invest in stocks, ETFs, and crypto all in one place.

4.2 Are These Apps Safe?

Each investing app mentioned here is regulated by major financial authorities like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). They also offer SIPC insurance, which protects your investment account up to $500,000 (including $250,000 for cash). However, investment risks still apply, and your securities can lose value due to market fluctuations.

4.3 Can I Trade Crypto on All of These Apps?

Not all the apps listed offer cryptocurrency trading. Robinhood, Webull, and SoFi Invest do. Public also introduced cryptocurrency trading for popular coins. If crypto is a crucial part of your investment strategy, be sure to choose a platform that supports it.

4.4 How Do Fractional Shares Work?

Fractional shares let you buy a “slice” of a stock rather than a whole share. This is especially beneficial when dealing with high-priced stocks (like Amazon or Tesla). You allocate the dollar amount you wish to invest, and the platform calculates the fraction of the share you own. Not all platforms offer fractional shares, so confirm this feature if it’s important to you.

4.5 What About Taxes?

Regardless of which app you use, you’re responsible for paying capital gains taxes on any profits you make. Most brokerages will provide you with tax forms (Form 1099-B in the U.S.) to simplify your tax filings. If you have complicated trades (like options or crypto transactions), it’s wise to consult a tax professional.

4.6 How Much Money Do I Need to Start?

One of the big advantages of modern investing apps is the low or nonexistent account minimums. Apps like Robinhood, Webull, and M1 Finance allow you to start with as little as $1—particularly if they offer fractional shares. With Acorns, you can start simply by activating round-ups on your daily purchases. However, if you’re interested in mutual funds or certain managed portfolios, some may require minimum balances that could be in the hundreds or thousands of dollars.

5. Conclusion

Choosing the right investing app is a highly personal decision that depends on your financial goals, investing style, and experience level. If you’re a beginner who wants a hands-off approach, Acorns and SoFi Invest provide simplified solutions that don’t require much market knowledge. For intermediate users intrigued by research, charts, and perhaps some active trading, Webull, Fidelity, and TD Ameritrade’s thinkorswim platform are good options. If you’re passionate about long-term, cost-effective portfolio building, it’s hard to go wrong with Vanguard or M1 Finance, which both champion diversified, low-cost strategies.

Below is a quick recap to guide your choice:

• Robinhood: Simplicity, commission-free trading, user-friendly interface.
• M1 Finance: Combines robo-advisory with customizable portfolios.
• Acorns: Automated micro-investing perfect for beginners.
• Webull: Commission-free trades with advanced charting tools.
• Fidelity Mobile: Broad range of investment options from a reputable firm.
• E*TRADE: Versatility with two mobile apps tailored to different levels of expertise.
• TD Ameritrade Mobile: Comprehensive educational resources and advanced trading via thinkorswim.
• Charles Schwab Mobile: Trusted name with a wide array of investing and retirement products.
• SoFi Invest: Integrated financial ecosystem with commission-free investing and crypto trading.
• Public: Social investing experience that encourages community learning.
• Vanguard: Low-cost funds and ETFs, ideal for long-term, passive investing.

Regardless of which platform you choose, remember that investing involves risk, and there’s no guarantee of returns. It’s vital to conduct your own research, understand the fundamentals of the market, and only invest amounts you’re prepared to see fluctuate or potentially lose. Starting small and gradually building confidence is often the key to long-term success.

In the grand scheme of things, the best investing app is the one that aligns with your personal goals, comfort level, and financial situation. Don’t be afraid to explore different platforms—most are free to open and maintain accounts. Whether you’re just starting your investment journey or looking to optimize an existing portfolio, the options listed here can help you take control of your financial future, one trade at a time.