Best Investing Apps for Beginners in the USA (2025 Edition)
Top Investing Apps for Beginners in the USA (2025 Edition)
Starting your investment journey can be both exciting and intimidating, especially with the numerous options available. Choosing the right investment app is crucial for beginners to navigate the world of investing effectively.
In 2025, the landscape of investment apps has evolved, offering more user-friendly and accessible platforms. The top investment apps are designed to be intuitive, providing features that help new investors make informed decisions.
With so many options, it's essential to identify the beginner-friendly investment apps that offer the right balance of functionality and ease of use. This guide will help you explore the best investing apps available, making it easier to start your investment journey.
Key Takeaways
- Identify the top investment apps suitable for beginners.
- Understand the key features to look for in an investment app.
- Explore beginner-friendly investment apps available in 2025.
- Learn how to choose the right investment app for your needs.
- Get started with investing using the best beginner-friendly apps.
Why Investing Apps Are Revolutionizing Personal Finance
Investing apps have revolutionized personal finance by making it more accessible and user-friendly. The traditional barriers to investing, such as high minimum balance requirements and complex trading platforms, are being dismantled.
The Rise of Mobile Investing
Mobile investing has seen a significant surge in popularity over the past few years. The convenience of being able to manage investments on-the-go has attracted a new generation of investors. Top stock market apps now offer a range of features, from real-time market data to advanced trading tools.
Benefits for Beginners in 2025
For beginners, investing apps offer a range of benefits. They provide easy access to investment products, educational resources, and user-friendly interfaces. Some key advantages include:
- Low or no minimum investment requirements
- Simplified investment processes
- Access to a variety of investment products
- Educational resources to help make informed decisions
These features make it easier for new investors to get started and learn as they go, revolutionizing the way personal finance is managed.
What to Look for in Beginner-Friendly Investment Apps
Beginner-friendly investment apps are designed to make investing easy and accessible, but what makes an app truly beginner-friendly? When choosing an investment app, there are several key features to consider.
User Interface and Experience
A user-friendly interface is crucial for beginners. It should be intuitive, easy to navigate, and provide a seamless experience. Look for apps with clear menus, simple language, and minimal clutter.
Fees and Minimum Investments
Fees can eat into your investment returns, so it's essential to understand the fee structure of any app you're considering. Some apps charge management fees, trading fees, or other expenses. Additionally, check the minimum investment requirements. Some apps have low or no minimums, making it easier to get started.
Educational Resources
Good investment apps provide educational resources to help beginners learn about investing. Look for apps that offer tutorials, webinars, articles, or videos that can help you understand investment strategies and risks.
Best Investing Apps for Beginners (2025 Edition)
Beginner investors in 2025 have a variety of excellent investing apps to choose from. These apps are designed to be user-friendly, educational, and accessible, making it easier for new investors to start their investment journey.
Robinhood
Overview
Robinhood is a popular commission-free trading app that has revolutionized the way people invest. It offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it ideal for beginners.
- Commission-free trades: Robinhood offers free trades, which is a significant advantage for beginners who are just starting out.
- Simple interface: The app's design is clean and easy to navigate, even for those who are new to investing.
Cons
- Limited research tools: While Robinhood offers some basic research tools, it may not be enough for more advanced investors.
- No retirement accounts: Robinhood currently does not offer retirement accounts, which might be a drawback for some users.
Features
- Fractional shares: Robinhood allows users to buy fractional shares, making it easier to diversify their portfolios.
- Recurring investments: The app offers a feature to set up recurring investments, helping users invest regularly.
Acorns
Overview
Acorns is another highly-regarded app that helps beginners start investing with small amounts of money. It rounds up purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the difference.
Pros
- Micro-investing: Acorns allows users to invest as little as $5, making it accessible to those with limited funds.
- Automated investing: The app automates the investment process, making it easy for users to invest regularly.
Cons
- Fees: While Acorns is affordable, it charges a monthly fee, which might be a consideration for some users.
- Limited control: Users have limited control over their investments, as the app automatically invests their money.
Features
- Found Money: Acorns offers cashback rewards through its "Found Money" program, which can help users earn more.
- Educational content: The app provides educational resources to help users learn more about investing.
Top Commission-Free Trading Apps
For beginners, navigating the world of investing just got easier with the advent of commission-free trading apps. These platforms have democratized access to the stock market, allowing new investors to start building their portfolios without the burden of high trading fees.
Webull
Webull is a popular commission-free trading app that has gained traction among beginners and experienced traders alike. It offers a robust trading platform with a wide range of features.
Overview
Webull is known for its sleek interface and comprehensive trading tools, making it an attractive option for those looking to dive into the world of investing.
Pros
- Commission-free trades: Webull offers free trades on stocks, ETFs, and options.
- Advanced trading tools: The app provides a range of technical indicators and charting tools.
- Extensive research capabilities: Users have access to a wealth of market data and research reports.
Cons
- Limited investment products: Webull doesn't offer mutual funds or cryptocurrencies.
- Complex interface: While powerful, the app's features can be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
Features
Webull's features include extended trading hours, real-time market data, and a user-friendly mobile app.
Public
Public is another commission-free trading app that's making waves in the investment community. It focuses on simplicity and social interaction.
Overview
Public allows users to invest in stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies with a user-friendly interface that's designed to be accessible to everyone.
Pros
- Social investing: Public allows users to follow and learn from other investors.
- Simple and intuitive: The app is designed to be easy to use, even for those new to investing.
- Fractional shares: Users can buy fractional shares, making it easier to diversify.
Cons
- Limited advanced features: Public is more geared towards casual investors.
- Customer support: Some users have reported issues with customer service responsiveness.
Features
Public's features include a social feed where users can share their investment strategies, a simple and clean interface, and the ability to invest in fractional shares.
Best Robo-Advisor Apps for Hands-Off Investing
Robo-advisor apps are changing the investment landscape by offering automated, hands-off investment management. These platforms use sophisticated algorithms to manage your investments, making it easier for beginners to get started without needing extensive investment knowledge.
Betterment
Overview
Betterment is one of the pioneers in the robo-advisor space, offering a comprehensive investment solution that is both user-friendly and cost-effective. It provides a fully automated investment management service that is tailored to your financial goals.
Pros
- Low Fees: Betterment charges a low management fee of 0.25% per year, making it an affordable option.
- Tax Efficiency: It offers tax-loss harvesting to minimize your tax liability.
- User-Friendly Interface: The app is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those new to investing.
Cons
- Limited Investment Options: While it offers a range of ETFs, the investment options are somewhat limited compared to traditional brokerages.
- No Retirement Accounts for Businesses: Betterment currently doesn't support retirement accounts for businesses.
Features
Betterment offers a range of features, including automated portfolio rebalancing, tax-loss harvesting, and financial planning tools. These features help in optimizing your investment portfolio and achieving your financial goals.
Wealthfront
Overview
Wealthfront is another leading robo-advisor that offers a sophisticated investment management service. It is known for its low costs and advanced features.
Pros
- Low Management Fees: Wealthfront charges an annual management fee of 0.25%, which is competitive in the industry.
- Advanced Tax-Loss Harvesting: It offers advanced tax-loss harvesting features, including a feature called "Tax-Loss Harvesting Plus."
- High Account Minimum: There is no minimum to open an account, making it accessible to a wide range of investors.
Cons
- Limited Human Interaction: As a robo-advisor, Wealthfront doesn't offer the option to speak with a financial advisor unless you have a significant amount invested.
- No Cryptocurrency Support: Wealthfront does not currently support cryptocurrency investments.
Features
Wealthfront's features include automated investment management, financial planning tools, and college savings plans. It also offers a feature called "Path," which provides a financial plan tailored to your goals.
Top Apps for Fractional Share Investing
With the rise of investment apps, fractional share investing is now more accessible than ever for those new to investing. This method allows beginners to buy a fraction of a share rather than a full share, making it easier to diversify their investment portfolios with less capital.
SoFi Invest
Overview
SoFi Invest is a popular investment app that offers fractional share investing among its features. It allows users to invest in stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies with as little as $1.
Pros
- No commission fees for trading stocks and ETFs.
- Diverse investment options, including cryptocurrencies.
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
Cons
- Limited research and analysis tools compared to other platforms.
- No retirement accounts available.
Features
SoFi Invest offers a range of features, including cash management accounts and financial planning tools. It also provides access to human financial advisors for a fee.
M1 Finance
Overview
M1 Finance is another app that supports fractional share investing, allowing users to create customized investment portfolios or "pies." It combines the benefits of robo-advisors with the flexibility of self-directed investing.
Pros
- Customizable portfolios with fractional shares.
- No trading fees for stocks and ETFs.
- Reinvest dividends automatically.
Cons
- Limited investment options outside of stocks and ETFs.
- No cryptocurrency trading.
Features
M1 Finance offers features like auto-investing and dynamic rebalancing to help users manage their portfolios efficiently.
|
App |
Minimum Investment |
Fees |
Fractional Shares |
|
SoFi Invest |
$1 |
No commission fees |
Yes |
|
M1 Finance |
$100 (for custom
portfolios) |
No trading fees |
Yes |
Both SoFi Invest and M1 Finance are excellent choices for beginners looking to start investing with fractional shares. They offer user-friendly interfaces and competitive features that cater to the needs of new investors.
Best Apps for Cryptocurrency Investing
Cryptocurrency investing has become more accessible thanks to innovative mobile applications. These apps provide users with the tools needed to navigate the complex world of digital currencies.
Coinbase
Overview
Coinbase is one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchange platforms, known for its user-friendly interface and robust security measures. It allows users to buy, sell, and store various cryptocurrencies.
Pros
- Easy to Use: Coinbase offers an intuitive interface that makes it accessible to beginners.
- High Security: The platform employs advanced security measures, including insurance for stored assets.
Cons
- Fees: Coinbase charges fees for transactions, which can be relatively high compared to other platforms.
- Limited Cryptocurrency Options: Although it supports several major cryptocurrencies, the selection is not as extensive as some other exchanges.
Features
Coinbase offers a range of features, including recurring buys, price alerts, and a mobile app for on-the-go management. It also provides educational resources to help users understand cryptocurrency investing.
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Gemini
Overview
Gemini is a cryptocurrency exchange that emphasizes security, compliance, and user experience. It is known for its strong regulatory compliance and transparent operations.
Pros
- Regulatory Compliance: Gemini is fully compliant with relevant financial regulations.
- High Security: The platform uses robust security measures, including cold storage and two-factor authentication.
Cons
- Limited Cryptocurrency Options: Gemini supports a limited number of cryptocurrencies compared to some other exchanges.
- Complexity: The platform may be more challenging for beginners due to its focus on advanced features.
Features
Gemini offers features such as price charts, transaction history, and a simple interface for buying and selling cryptocurrencies. It also provides a Gemini Earn program for interest on cryptocurrency holdings.
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Security Features to Look for in Investment Apps
Security is paramount when it comes to investment apps, and there are several key features to look out for. Ensuring that your chosen app has robust security measures in place is crucial for protecting your financial information and investments.
Two-Factor Authentication and Encryption
One of the most critical security features is two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds an extra layer of security to the login process. This means that even if someone obtains your password, they won't be able to access your account without the second form of verification. Additionally, look for apps that use encryption to protect your data both in transit and at rest. Encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be read without the decryption key.
- Verify that the app offers 2FA.
- Check if the app uses end-to-end encryption.
Insurance and Regulatory Compliance
Another important aspect is whether the investment app is insured and complies with relevant regulatory bodies. For example, in the U.S., apps that offer brokerage services should be SIPC (Securities Investor Protection Corporation) insured, which protects your securities in case the brokerage firm fails. Regulatory compliance, such as registration with the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission), is also a good indicator of an app's legitimacy and adherence to industry standards.
By focusing on these security features, you can significantly reduce the risk associated with using investment apps and ensure a safer investment experience.
Top Apps with Strong Educational Resources
For beginners looking to dive into investing, having access to robust educational resources within their investment app is crucial. These resources can range from tutorials and webinars to articles and videos, all designed to educate users on various investment strategies and market trends.
TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade is renowned for its comprehensive educational platform, offering a wide array of resources to help beginners get started with investing.
Overview
TD Ameritrade's educational content includes in-depth guides on investment strategies, market analysis, and retirement planning.
Pros
- Extensive library of educational articles and videos
- Regular webinars on various investing topics
- Mobile app allows for learning on-the-go
Cons
- Some users may find the amount of information overwhelming
- Not all educational content is available on the mobile app
Features
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E\*TRADE
E\*TRADE also offers a robust educational platform, with a variety of tools and resources designed to help beginners learn about investing.
Overview
E\*TRADE's educational content includes market insights, investment guides, and planning tools, all aimed at empowering users to make informed investment decisions.
Pros
- Comprehensive market insights and analysis
- User-friendly investment guides
- Robust planning tools for retirement and other goals
Cons
- Some educational content is behind a paywall
- Not all features are available on the mobile app
Features
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Best Apps for Socially Responsible Investing
Investors are increasingly looking for ways to align their investments with their values, driving the growth of socially responsible investing apps. These platforms allow users to invest in companies and funds that adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, making it easier to make a positive impact.
Stash
Overview: Stash is a popular micro-investing app that also offers options for socially responsible investing. It allows users to invest small amounts into a variety of ETFs, including those focused on ESG themes.
Overview
Stash provides an easy-to-use interface and educational resources to help beginners understand their investment options, including those aligned with socially responsible investing principles.
Pros
- Low minimum investment requirement
- Variety of ESG-themed investment options
- Educational content for new investors
Cons
- Limited advanced features for experienced investors
- Some fees for certain services
Features
Stash offers a range of features, including automatic investments, retirement accounts, and a banking service. Its socially responsible investing options are designed to be accessible and easy to understand.
Aspiration
Overview: Aspiration is an investment app that focuses on sustainable and socially responsible investing. It offers a range of portfolios designed to align with different ESG criteria.
Overview
Aspiration allows users to invest in companies that are making a positive impact. The app provides transparent reporting on the social and environmental impact of investments.
Pros
- Strong focus on sustainability and ESG criteria
- Transparent reporting on investment impact
- Option for users to choose their level of impact
Cons
- Some users may find the fee structure complex
- Limited investment options compared to traditional brokerages
Features
Aspiration offers features like impact measurement, carbon-neutral investing, and the ability to invest in companies that are working towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
How to Get Started with Investment Apps in 2025
Investment apps have revolutionized the way we invest, and getting started with them in 2025 is easier than ever. With numerous options available, beginners can feel overwhelmed, but by following a few simple steps, they can set themselves up for success.
Setting Up Your First Account
To begin, choose an investment app that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Most apps offer a straightforward sign-up process that includes verifying your identity, linking a bank account, and setting up a funding source. It's crucial to understand the fees associated with the app, including any management fees, trading fees, or other charges.
Once your account is set up, familiarize yourself with the app's interface. Many apps offer tutorials or demo accounts to help you get comfortable with their features. Take advantage of these resources to understand how to navigate the app, execute trades, and monitor your investments.
Creating a Beginner Investment Strategy
Developing an investment strategy as a beginner involves setting clear financial goals and understanding your risk tolerance. Start by deciding what you want to achieve, whether it's saving for retirement, a down payment on a house, or another goal. Then, consider how much risk you're willing to take on. Most investment apps offer diversified investment portfolios or robo-advisor services that can help you get started with a strategy tailored to your needs.
A beginner-friendly strategy often includes starting with a small investment, diversifying your portfolio, and gradually increasing your investment amount over time. Many apps also offer educational resources to help you make informed decisions. By following these steps, you can confidently begin your investment journey in 2025.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Using Investment Apps
While investment apps offer a convenient way to start investing, beginners often fall into traps that can be detrimental to their financial goals. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for a successful investment journey.
Overtrading and Emotional Decisions
One of the most significant mistakes beginners make is overtrading, driven by emotions rather than a well-thought-out strategy. This can lead to higher transaction costs and poor investment decisions. To avoid this, it's essential to:
- Set clear investment goals
- Develop a disciplined investment strategy
- Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market fluctuations
Ignoring Fees and Tax Implications
Another critical error is neglecting to consider the fees associated with investment apps and the tax implications of investment decisions. Management fees, trading fees, and tax liabilities can significantly impact overall returns. Beginners should:
- Carefully review the fee structure of their investment app
- Understand the tax implications of buying and selling investments
- Consider tax-efficient investment strategies
Conclusion
As we have explored the top investing apps for beginners in 2025, it's clear that there are numerous options available, each catering to different needs and preferences. The best investing apps for beginners (2025 edition) offer a range of features, from commission-free trading to robo-advisory services, making it easier than ever to get started with investing.
When choosing a top investment app, consider factors such as user interface, fees, and educational resources. The recommended investing apps for beginners discussed in this article provide a solid foundation for building a successful investment strategy. Whether you're interested in traditional stock trading or cryptocurrency investing, there's an app that suits your goals.
Take the next step in your investment journey by exploring these top investment apps and finding the one that best fits your needs. With the right tools and knowledge, you can start building a brighter financial future today.
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