Getting started with investing can feel overwhelming—but the right app makes it simple, even exciting. In 2025, beginners have access to powerful, intuitive investing platforms that offer $0 commissions, educational resources, and user-friendly designs.
Here are the best stock trading apps for beginners in the U.S., carefully reviewed for features, usability, and long-term value.
📱 1. Robinhood
Best for: Total beginners looking for a sleek, no-frills experience
- No account minimum
- Commission-free stock, ETF, and crypto trades
- Fractional shares (invest with as little as $1)
- Instant deposits up to $1,000
✅ Robinhood is ideal for first-time investors who want to dip their toes into the stock market quickly and with minimal friction.
🔍 Note: Lacks deep research tools, which advanced users may miss.
📱 2. Fidelity Investments
Best for: Beginners who want to grow into more advanced strategies
- Trusted name in investing for over 75 years
- $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options
- Robust educational center and tools
- 24/7 U.S.-based customer support
- Access to Fidelity ZERO index funds
✅ Fidelity offers a perfect mix of beginner accessibility and long-term potential—great for users serious about building wealth.
🔍 Slightly more complex interface compared to Robinhood.
📱 3. SoFi Invest
Best for: Goal-driven investing and financial education
- No fees, no minimums
- Supports stocks, ETFs, crypto, and automated investing
- Educational blog and live events
- Bonus: Access to career coaching, financial planning, and loans
✅ SoFi is a powerful all-in-one platform for young professionals starting their financial journey.
🔍 Not ideal for frequent traders or users needing advanced charts.
📱 4. Webull
Best for: Beginners interested in technical analysis
- $0 commissions, paper trading, and extended hours
- Advanced charting tools with indicators
- Crypto and options available
- Real-time market data
✅ Webull is perfect for beginners ready to learn more sophisticated trading techniques.
🔍 May feel overwhelming at first due to the rich interface.
📱 5. Public
Best for: Visual learners and social investing
- Invest with $1 (fractional shares)
- Clean, ad-free interface
- Transparent, community-driven model
- Follow experts and ask questions in-app
✅ Public combines education, community, and investing in a fun, low-pressure format.
🔍 Doesn’t offer options or as many advanced features as Webull or Fidelity.
📊 Quick Comparison Chart
| App | Fees | Fractional Shares | Crypto | Education | Advanced Tools |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robinhood | $0 | ✅ | ✅ | ⚪️ | ⚪️ |
| Fidelity | $0 | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| SoFi | $0 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚪️ |
| Webull | $0 | ✅ | ✅ | ⚪️ | ✅ |
| Public | $0 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚪️ |
🔐 How to Choose the Right App:
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Do I want to trade crypto or just stocks and ETFs?
- Am I looking for education and simplicity or advanced tools?
- Will I use this app long-term, or is it just to get started?
For a deeper guide on how to start investing, visit:
📘 Investor.gov: How to Start Investing
✅ Final Thoughts
There’s no “one best app” for everyone—but the five above are standouts for beginners in 2025. Whether you want a streamlined experience like Robinhood, educational support from SoFi, or powerful tools from Webull, the key is to start now and stay consistent.
📌 Start small. Learn as you go. Let your money grow.