Introduction
Investing has never been easier than it is today. Thanks to technology, anyone can start building wealth directly from their smartphone. Whether you’re saving for retirement, building a side portfolio, or learning how the stock market works, there’s an app for every need.
But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming — especially for beginners. In this article, we’ll explore the best investing apps for beginners in the USA, analyze their features, pros, and cons, and help you find the perfect fit for your goals.
If you’ve been searching for “investing apps USA”, this guide is your go-to resource for 2025.
Why Use Investing Apps?
Investing apps have transformed how people grow their money. Instead of visiting a bank or brokerage, you can buy stocks, ETFs, or even crypto right from your phone. Here are a few key reasons to start using an investing app:
- Accessibility – No need for large sums of money or prior experience. Many apps let you start investing with just $1.
- Automation – Most apps offer auto-investing, portfolio rebalancing, and even AI-powered recommendations.
- Education – Top apps include built-in learning tools, tutorials, and articles for beginner investors.
- Low Fees – Traditional brokers often charge commissions; apps typically offer commission-free trading.
- Flexibility – You can invest anywhere, anytime, and easily track your portfolio.
Top Investing Apps for Beginners in the USA
Below are the top 10 investing apps in the USA for beginners in 2025 — based on ease of use, features, and reputation.
1. Robinhood – Best for Commission-Free Trading
Overview:
Robinhood revolutionized investing by introducing zero-commission trading. It’s perfect for beginners who want to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, and even cryptocurrencies without fees.
Key Features:
- $0 commission on trades
- Simple and intuitive mobile interface
- Access to stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto
- Real-time market data
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners
- No account minimum
- Quick and easy to start investing
Cons:
- Limited research tools
- Encourages frequent trading rather than long-term investing
Best for: New investors who want to learn by doing and prefer a sleek mobile experience.
2. Acorns – Best for Hands-Off Investors
Overview:
Acorns is perfect for those who want to invest automatically without thinking about it. It rounds up your daily purchases and invests the spare change in diversified portfolios.
Key Features:
- “Round-Up” feature automatically invests spare change
- Pre-built portfolios designed by experts
- Optional retirement and checking accounts
- Educational content via “Grow”
Pros:
- Great for beginners with no investment experience
- Set-it-and-forget-it investing model
- Educational and user-friendly
Cons:
- Monthly fees can eat into small balances
- Limited investment customization
Best for: Beginners who prefer passive investing and automation.
3. Fidelity – Best for Comprehensive Investing
Overview:
Fidelity is one of the most trusted names in finance. It offers an excellent mobile app with no trading fees and strong research tools — making it beginner-friendly but also powerful enough to grow with you.
Key Features:
- No commission fees
- Robust research tools and learning resources
- Access to mutual funds, ETFs, and fractional shares
- Excellent customer support
Pros:
- Great long-term investing platform
- Strong reputation and reliability
- Free access to professional-grade research
Cons:
- Interface can feel complex for complete beginners
Best for: Investors who plan to stay long-term and value research and stability.
4. Stash – Best for Learning and Building Habits
Overview:
Stash combines education with investing, making it one of the most beginner-friendly investing apps in the USA. It allows you to buy fractional shares and learn while you invest.
Key Features:
- Educational content tailored to beginners
- Fractional shares for as little as $5
- Automatic investing options
- Bank and debit card integration
Pros:
- Easy to understand for first-time investors
- Teaches users financial literacy
- Combines banking and investing in one app
Cons:
- Monthly subscription fee
- Fewer advanced tools for experienced investors
Best for: Beginners who want to learn as they invest.
5. SoFi Invest – Best for All-in-One Financial Management
Overview:
SoFi Invest offers a unique blend of investing, banking, and lending — all in one ecosystem. It’s great for users who want a single platform for managing money and investments.
Key Features:
- Commission-free stock and ETF trades
- Crypto investing available
- Automated investing portfolios
- Access to financial advisors
Pros:
- Great for holistic money management
- Free access to human financial advisors
- No fees for basic investing
Cons:
- Limited research tools
- Crypto selection smaller than competitors
Best for: Investors seeking a well-rounded financial app with personal support.
6. Charles Schwab – Best for Long-Term Investing
Overview:
Charles Schwab’s mobile app combines decades of experience with modern convenience. It offers an all-inclusive investment platform with great customer service and tools.
Key Features:
- No account minimums
- Access to stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs
- Robo-advisor and self-directed options
- Excellent educational resources
Pros:
- Trusted financial institution
- Excellent for retirement and wealth building
- Strong customer support
Cons:
- App design not as modern as new startups
Best for: Investors focused on long-term, diversified portfolios.
7. Webull – Best for Data-Driven Beginners
Overview:
Webull is known for its advanced charts and data, but it’s still beginner-friendly. You can trade stocks, ETFs, and crypto — all commission-free.
Key Features:
- Advanced charts and analytics
- Extended trading hours
- Free stock promotions for new users
- No account minimum
Pros:
- Great tools for learning technical analysis
- Intuitive mobile and desktop app
- No fees or commissions
Cons:
- Limited educational content
- Overwhelming for total beginners
Best for: Beginners who are ready to dive into data and charts.
8. Public.com – Best for Social Investing
Overview:
Public.com adds a social twist to investing. It lets users follow other investors, see what they’re buying, and learn from their strategies — perfect for those who want a community feel.
Key Features:
- Commission-free trading
- Fractional investing
- Social feed with investor discussions
- Crypto and alternative assets available
Pros:
- Community-based learning
- Transparent and ad-free
- Easy to use for beginners
Cons:
- Limited research tools
- Smaller investment selection
Best for: Beginners who enjoy learning from others and sharing insights.
9. Betterment – Best for Automated Investing
Overview:
Betterment is a robo-advisor that builds and manages a diversified portfolio for you. It’s ideal for beginners who want professional-level investing without the complexity.
Key Features:
- Automated portfolio management
- Tax-loss harvesting
- Goal-based investing
- No trading fees
Pros:
- Hands-off and stress-free
- Professional-grade algorithms
- Great for long-term investors
Cons:
- No self-directed trading
- Annual management fees
Best for: Passive investors who want to “set it and forget it.”
10. M1 Finance – Best for Customizable Automation
Overview:
M1 Finance blends automation with customization. You can create “pies” (custom portfolios) and automate your investments while maintaining control over where your money goes.
Key Features:
- Automated investing with custom portfolios
- No commission fees
- Fractional shares
- Integrated borrowing and cash management
Pros:
- Combines automation with flexibility
- Perfect for goal-based investing
- No trading fees
Cons:
- No real-time trading
- Limited research tools
Best for: DIY investors who want automated but customizable investing.
How to Choose the Best Investing App for You
When selecting from the top investing apps USA, consider these factors:
- Ease of Use: Does the app have a simple interface for beginners?
- Minimum Deposit: Some apps allow investing with $1, others require more.
- Fees: Check for management or subscription fees.
- Investment Options: Stocks, ETFs, crypto, or mutual funds — what fits your goal?
- Education Tools: The best apps teach you while you invest.
- Customer Support: A must-have for first-time investors.
Pro Tip: Start small, explore the app’s learning resources, and invest consistently. Long-term growth beats quick profits.
Final Thoughts
The world of investing can seem intimidating, but with today’s technology, anyone can start — even with a few dollars. The key is choosing the right app that matches your experience level, goals, and comfort.
Whether you prefer Robinhood for active trading, Acorns for automation, or Fidelity for long-term security, the most important step is simply to start investing.
With the right investing app in the USA, your journey toward financial independence is just a few taps away.
FAQs about Investing Apps in the USA
1. Are investing apps safe?
Yes. Most apps are regulated by the SEC and insured by SIPC, protecting your funds up to $500,000.
2. Can I start investing with $1?
Yes, apps like Robinhood, Stash, and Acorns allow fractional investing.
3. Do investing apps charge fees?
Many apps are commission-free, but some charge subscription or management fees.
4. Can I buy crypto on investing apps?
Yes, apps like Robinhood, Webull, and SoFi Invest allow cryptocurrency trading.
5. What’s the best app for total beginners?
Acorns or Stash are great for complete beginners who want automation and learning tools.
