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Last Updated: October 2025

Best Online Stock Trading Apps of

Build your wealth with the best stock trading apps on the market. Sign up and start trading today.

  • Secure
  • Competitive
  • Easy To Use

What Are Stock Trading Apps?

Stock trading apps allow you to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, and sometimes other asset types like crypto or options—all from a phone or desktop. These platforms replace traditional brokers by offering simplified, self-directed investing tools with lower costs and more flexibility. They’re especially useful for individuals who want to manage investments on their own time and terms.

What Can You Trade?

While all apps offer stock and ETF trading, many now include crypto, bonds, treasuries, and options as well. Some also support fractional shares, letting you invest in high-priced companies with smaller amounts. This broader access helps users diversify their portfolios more easily, even when starting with limited capital.

Key Features to Compare

Not all trading apps are the same. When comparing options, look for differences in fees, tools, and flexibility. Here are common features users often prioritize:

  • Commission-free trading – Trade stocks and ETFs without per-trade fees.
  • Fractional shares – Invest with as little as a few dollars.
  • Automated portfolios – Hands-off investing through robo-advisors.
  • Crypto or options access – Available on select apps for broader investing.
  • Market tools – Alerts, screeners, and real-time performance tracking.

Why People Use Trading Apps

Stock trading apps are popular because they’re efficient and user-friendly. Most platforms allow fast sign-up, instant deposits, and trade execution without hidden fees. You can view portfolio performance, research stocks, and place trades all in one place—without relying on a financial advisor or desktop software.

Benefits for Beginners and Budget-Conscious Investors

Trading apps are well-suited for users looking to start small. Many require no account minimum and support recurring deposits or micro-investing. For more experienced users, features like margin, extended trading hours, and charting tools offer added control—often without paying for a traditional brokerage experience.

How to Choose the Best App

Choosing the right app depends on your goals. Beginners may want guided help and educational tools. Frequent traders might look for real-time data or options access. Whatever your priorities, comparing features like cost, interface, and asset support can help you find the best fit for your investing style.

Next Steps

Use the comparison table above to review your top options. Once you find an app that matches your needs, you can open an account and begin trading in minutes. Whether you’re investing for the first time or switching platforms, a trading app can help you stay informed and in control.

Disclaimers

Public.com: All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Open to the Public Investing, member FINRA & SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Cryptocurrency trading services are offered by Bakkt Crypto Solutions, LLC (NMLS ID 1890144), which is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity by the NYSDFS. Cryptocurrency is highly speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and has the potential for loss of the entire amount of an investment. Cryptocurrency holdings are not protected by the FDIC or SIPC.
*APY as of 10/21/25, offered by Public Investing, member FINRA/SIPC. Rate subject to change.
**Terms and Conditions apply.

SoFi: INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE
Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA (www.finra.org) / SIPC (www.sipc.org).
Probability of Member receiving $1,000 is a probability of 0.026%; If you don’t make a selection in 30 days, you’ll no longer qualify for the promo. Customer must fund their account with a minimum of $50.00 to qualify.
Other fees, such as exchange fees, may apply. Please view our fee disclosure to view a full listing of fees.
Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire investment Before trading options please review the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options: https://www.theocc.com/getmedia/a151a9ae-d784-4a15-bdeb-23a029f50b70/riskstoc.pdf

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

All of the stock trading apps on our list offer low fees. Some apps may offer access to their trading tools in exchange for a low, monthly fee. Others might be free-to-use, but charge a small percentage on commissions from the trades you make.
The best stock trading apps for beginners typically offer simple interfaces, educational resources, and low or no account minimums. Features like guided onboarding, practice accounts (or “paper trading”), and step-by-step trade execution can help new investors build confidence.
Yes, many stock trading apps offer both crypto and stock trading under one account. These platforms let you manage multiple asset types—such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and U.S. stocks—without switching services.
Most reputable trading apps are regulated and offer protections through SIPC or FDIC. Security features like encryption, two-factor authentication, and regulatory oversight help protect your funds and personal information.
Yes, many apps allow recurring investments into portfolios, ETFs, or even individual stocks. This can help users follow a consistent investing plan and build long-term wealth without needing to time the market.
Several of our stock trading apps allow users to start with as little as $1 or $5. These platforms are ideal for those who want to begin investing gradually or test out features before committing more funds.
Yes, stock trading apps allow users to invest in the stock market, and all of the apps listed on our site are vetted and legitimate. It’s important to note that the stock market is inherently volatile. When investing, always be prepared for the potential loss of your principal.