Investing in stocks has never been easier thanks to the rise of mobile trading apps. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can buy and sell stocks, manage your portfolio, and stay up-to-date with the latest market news and trends. But with so many stock trading apps out there, how do you choose the right one for your needs?
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the top 10 best stock trading apps for 2021. We’ll cover everything from fees and features to user interface and customer support, so you can make an informed decision about which app is right for you. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, there’s an app on this list that will meet your needs.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Stock Trading Apps
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s take a look at the criteria we used to evaluate each app. Here are the factors we considered:
- User experience: Is the app easy to use and navigate?
- Fees and commissions: How much does the app charge for trades and other services?
- Investment options: What types of investments can you make through the app?
- Research and analysis: Does the app provide tools and resources for researching and analyzing stocks?
- Customer support: How responsive and helpful is the app’s customer support team?
Now that we’ve covered our criteria, let’s dive into our top picks for the best stock trading apps.
1. Robinhood
Robinhood is one of the most popular stock trading apps on the market, and for good reason. The app offers commission-free trading for stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies, making it a great choice for beginners or those on a budget. Robinhood’s user interface is also intuitive and easy to use, with features like customizable watchlists and real-time market data.
However, Robinhood has faced criticism for its lack of customer support and limited investment options. The app currently only offers trading for US-listed stocks and ETFs, which may not be ideal for more advanced investors. Additionally, Robinhood has faced controversy over its business practices, including its reliance on payment for order flow.
2. TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade is a well-established brokerage firm that also offers a mobile app for trading. The app offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options. TD Ameritrade also offers a variety of research and analysis tools, such as market news and real-time quotes.
However, TD Ameritrade’s fees are higher than some other apps on this list. The app charges $0 commission for online stock and ETF trades, but options trades are $0.65 per contract. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, with a lot of information and options to navigate.
3. E*TRADE
E*TRADE is another well-established brokerage firm that offers a mobile trading app. The app offers a variety of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options. E*TRADE also offers a range of research and analysis tools, such as real-time quotes and market news.
However, E*TRADE’s fees are higher than some other apps on this list. The app charges $0 commission for online stock and ETF trades, but options trades are $0.65 per contract. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, with a lot of information and options to navigate.
4. Fidelity
Fidelity is a well-known brokerage firm that also offers a mobile trading app. The app offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options. Fidelity also offers a variety of research and analysis tools, such as real-time quotes and market news.
However, Fidelity’s fees are higher than some other apps on this list. The app charges $0 commission for online stock and ETF trades, but options trades are $0.65 per contract. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, with a lot of information and options to navigate.
5. Charles Schwab
Charles Schwab is another well-established brokerage firm that offers a mobile trading app. The app offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options. Charles Schwab also offers a variety of research and analysis tools, such as real-time quotes and market news.
However, Charles Schwab’s fees are higher than some other apps on this list. The app charges $0 commission for online stock and ETF trades, but options trades are $0.65 per contract. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be overwhelming for beginners, with a lot of information and options to navigate.
6. Webull
Webull is a newer stock trading app that offers commission-free trading for stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies. The app’s user interface is sleek and modern, with features like real-time market data and customizable watchlists. Webull also offers a variety of research and analysis tools, such as technical indicators and financial calendars.
However, Webull has faced criticism for its lack of customer support and limited investment options. The app currently only offers trading for US-listed stocks and ETFs, which may not be ideal for more advanced investors.
7. M1 Finance
M1 Finance is a unique app that offers a hybrid of robo-advisory and self-directed investing. The app allows you to create a customized portfolio of stocks and ETFs, and then automates the buying and selling process to keep your portfolio balanced. M1 Finance also offers a variety of investment options, including individual stocks, ETFs, and pre-built portfolios.
However, M1 Finance’s user interface can be confusing for beginners, and the app does not offer as many research and analysis tools as some other apps on this list. Additionally, while M1 Finance does not charge commissions, it does charge a monthly fee for its premium service.
8. Acorns
Acorns is a unique app that allows you to invest your spare change. The app rounds up your purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the difference in a portfolio of ETFs. Acorns also offers a variety of other investment options, such as pre-built portfolios and retirement accounts.
However, Acorns charges a monthly fee for its service, and the app’s investment options are more limited than some other apps on this list. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be confusing for beginners.
9. Stash
Stash is a mobile app that offers a variety of investment options, including individual stocks, ETFs, and pre-built portfolios. The app also offers educational resources and tools to help users learn more about investing.
However, Stash charges a monthly fee for its service, and the app’s investment options are more limited than some other apps on this list. Additionally, the app’s user interface can be confusing for beginners.
10. Stockpile
Stockpile is a unique app that allows you to buy fractional shares of stocks and ETFs. The app also offers gift cards for stocks, making it a great option for giving the gift of investing.
However, Stockpile’s fees are higher than some other apps on this list. The app charges $0.99 per trade, plus 0.5% of the trade value. Additionally, the app’s investment options are more limited than some other apps on this list.
Conclusion
Choosing the right stock trading app can be overwhelming, but hopefully this list has helped you narrow down your options. Remember to consider factors like fees, investment options, and user interface when making your decision. And as always, do your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
People Also Ask
What is the best stock trading app for beginners?
The best stock trading app for beginners will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some good options to consider include Robinhood, Webull, and M1 Finance, all of which offer commission-free trading and an intuitive user interface.
Do any stock trading apps offer free trades?
Yes, several stock trading apps offer commission-free trading for stocks, ETFs, and other investments. Some popular options include Robinhood, Webull, and M1 Finance.
What should I look for in a stock trading app?
When choosing a stock trading app, consider factors like fees, investment options, user interface, and customer support. You may also want to look for apps that offer research and analysis tools, educational resources, and other features that can help you make informed investment decisions.