Thinking about switching from Robinhood? You’re not alone.

While Robinhood made trading accessible and user-friendly, many investors now feel it falls short—especially when it comes to research tools, customer support, and investment variety. Whether you’re looking for deeper insights, more trading options, or just a smoother experience, there are better platforms out there.

This blog explores the top Robinhood alternatives—each with its own unique strengths. From beginner-friendly apps to advanced trading platforms, we’ve got you covered. Whether you trade stocks, options, or crypto, you'll find an app that fits your style and goals.

Let’s explore the best brokerage apps that give you more than just a sleek interface.

Why Look for a Robinhood Alternative?

Robinhood changed how people think about investing. It made the stock market feel more accessible—especially for first-time traders. But now, many users are exploring better Robinhood alternatives. They want more control, smarter tools, and platforms that grow with their financial goals.

If you're wondering whether it’s time to switch, this section will guide you through the limitations of Robinhood, common user frustrations, and the regulatory concerns that make people look elsewhere.

Limitations of Robinhood

At first glance, Robinhood seems perfect. It's sleek, free to use, and beginner-friendly. But once you go deeper, you start noticing the gaps.

Robinhood lacks advanced research tools, in-depth market data, and retirement account options like IRAs. There's also no support for mutual funds or bonds. If you're planning long-term or want to explore more asset classes, Robinhood can feel restrictive.

Traders looking for options trading tools, better analytics, or tax-advantaged accounts often turn to investing apps better than Robinhood like Fidelity or Interactive Brokers.

Common Concerns Among Users

Many users on Reddit and other forums discuss how Robinhood competitors offer better transparency and customer service. Common complaints include:

• Trade delays during high market volatility
• Limited customer support, especially during outages
• Poor portfolio tracking features
• Lack of dividend reinvestment (DRIP) options until recently

Robinhood is improving, but for users who want more confidence and control, apps like Webull, Public.com, or M1 Finance often feel more reliable.

Searches for “best Robinhood alternatives Reddit” and “top Robinhood alternatives for beginners” have steadily increased, showing that the demand for better solutions is real.

Regulatory and Security Issues

Robinhood has faced its share of regulatory setbacks. In 2021, the SEC fined Robinhood $70 million for misleading customers and causing widespread outages [source].

Its practice of payment for order flow (PFOF)—where trades are routed through market makers in exchange for compensation—raises concerns about transparency and best execution for investors.

Many users prefer free stock trading apps that don’t rely on PFOF, like Public.com, which routes trades directly to the exchange. That difference alone has caused a shift toward more trusted brokerage apps.

The 10 Best Robinhood Alternatives to Consider

Looking for the best Robinhood alternatives? You’re not alone. With the rise of zero commission trading apps and powerful mobile stock trading platforms, investors now expect more—better research, advanced tools, and strong customer support.

Whether you're new to investing or already a seasoned trader, choosing the right app can make all the difference. Let’s explore the top Robinhood competitors that bring more value, flexibility, and features to your trading journey.

1. Webull

Webull is one of the most popular apps like Robinhood—especially for options traders and active investors. It offers a sleek, data-rich platform with powerful tools for both beginners and pros.

You get commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options. Plus, you can access crypto and futures through Webull Pay. Webull also supports paper trading, which is perfect for practice without any risk.

Key Features

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto
• Advanced mobile and desktop platforms
• Over 20 technical indicators
• Paper trading with $100,000 virtual cash
• High-yield cash account and robo-advisor options

Pros

• Wide range of tradable assets
• Deep research and charting tools
• 24/7 support via app and email
• No account minimums

Cons

• No mutual funds
• $75 fee for outgoing transfers

Why Choose Webull?

If you want a platform that evolves with your skills, Webull is one of the top Robinhood alternatives for beginners and pros alike.

Pricing

• $0 for stocks, ETFs, and options
• $0.55 per contract on non-equity options
• No annual or inactivity fees

2. Fidelity Investments

Fidelity is one of the best brokerage apps and a powerful Robinhood alternative for investors who want more than just stock trading.

It offers access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and more. Fidelity is trusted for its award-winning customer support, deep research tools, and commitment to transparency (no payment for order flow).

Key Features

• $0 commission on stocks and ETFs
• $0.65 per options contract
• Access to fixed income, mutual funds, and IRAs
• Best-in-class research and screeners
• No payment for order flow

Pros

• Excellent for retirement planning and long-term investing
• Wide asset selection and account types
• Smart order routing and fast execution
• High interest on uninvested cash

Cons

• Interface may feel overwhelming to new users
• No direct crypto trading (only via ETFs)

Why Choose Fidelity?

If you're after a reliable all-in-one solution for investing and retirement, Fidelity is one of the top Robinhood alternatives you can trust.

Pricing

• $0 for stocks and ETFs
• $0.65 per options contract
• No minimum balance or annual fees

3. Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab, now combined with TD Ameritrade, is a standout among Robinhood competitors. It offers an extensive range of investment options and access to the thinkorswim platform.

From stocks and ETFs to mutual funds, bonds, and futures, Schwab caters to both casual investors and active traders.

Key Features

• $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options
• Access to futures, mutual funds, and broker-assisted trades
• thinkorswim trading platform
• Robust educational library

Pros

• Diverse portfolio options
• Advanced tools for pro traders
• Great customer service
• No account minimums

Cons

• No direct crypto trading (supports Bitcoin futures only)
• Low interest on uninvested cash

Why Choose Charles Schwab?

If you want flexibility, deep research, and a well-rounded platform, Schwab is a strong Robinhood alternative for beginners and experienced traders alike.

Pricing

• No account minimums or hidden fees
• $0 online base commission + $0.65 per contract fee for options

4. E*TRADE

E*TRADE is a pioneer among apps like Robinhood, offering a powerful mix of advanced tools and beginner-friendly features. Backed by Morgan Stanley, E*TRADE supports a wide range of investments—from stocks and ETFs to bonds and mutual funds.

Its Power E*TRADE platform is built for active traders, while the standard mobile and web apps cater to everyday investors with clean, intuitive interfaces.

Key Features

• Commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options
• Power E*TRADE desktop platform with live-action scanners and advanced charting
• Extensive research tools, including Morningstar and Trefis visualizations
• Broad investment offerings: stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, and bonds

Pros

• Professional-grade research and screening tools
• Intuitive platform for all skill levels
• Rich educational resources: articles, webinars, videos
• No account minimum

Cons

• No direct cryptocurrency trading
• Real-time data requires either a $3/month fee or a $10,000 balance
• Educational content may feel overwhelming for beginners

Why Choose E*TRADE?

If you're looking for a platform that supports your growth as an investor, E*TRADE is a solid Robinhood alternative for options trading and long-term wealth building.

Pricing

• $0 commission on stocks, ETFs, and options
• $0.65 per options contract (reduced to $0.50 for active traders)
• No annual or inactivity fees

5. M1 Finance

M1 Finance is one of the most innovative investing apps better than Robinhood, offering automation, personalization, and smart cash management in one platform.

It’s perfect for hands-off investors who want to build wealth over time. M1’s signature “Pie” system lets users build custom portfolios or select from expert-curated models—automatically rebalanced over time.

Key Features

• Zero commission on stocks and ETFs
• Fractional share investing and auto-rebalancing
• Automated investing through customizable “Pies”
• Access to retirement accounts, trusts, and select crypto
• High-yield savings account (4.00% APY as of June 2025)

Pros

• Ideal for portfolio diversification and automation
• Options for DIY and set-it-and-forget-it investing
• Built-in tax minimization tools
• Low entry point: $100 minimum for brokerage, $500 for IRAs
• Margin lending with competitive rates

Cons

• No mutual funds, futures, or options trading
• Crypto access limited to M1 Plus subscribers
• No live advisor support
• Trades occur in set daily windows, not real-time

Why Choose M1 Finance?

M1 is a top Robinhood alternative for beginners and passive investors. It's great if you want to invest, save, and borrow—all in one platform with minimal effort.

Pricing

• $0 commission on stocks, ETFs, and basic crypto
• $10/month for M1 Plus (24/7 crypto access and extra perks)
• $100 outgoing account transfer fee

6. Public.com

Public.com is one of the best Robinhood competitors for investors who value transparency, education, and community. It combines commission-free investing with social networking—allowing users to follow others, view trades, and learn from experts.

Unlike Robinhood, Public.com does not participate in payment for order flow (PFOF), meaning your trades go directly to the market for improved transparency.

Key Features

• Commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies
• Fractional investing starting at $1
• Social investing features to follow other investors and creators
• No payment for order flow
• Built-in educational tools and guides

Pros

• Transparent business model
• Engaged investor community and educational resources
• Access to both traditional and crypto assets
• Simple and friendly mobile experience

Cons

• No access to options or mutual funds
• Limited selection compared to legacy brokers
• Not ideal for technical traders seeking complex tools

Why Choose Public.com?

Public.com is a great Robinhood alternative for those who want a social, transparent, and educational trading experience. It's especially appealing to younger investors entering the market.

Pricing

• $0 commission on all stocks, ETFs, and crypto
• No account minimums
• No hidden fees

7. Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers is a powerhouse among apps like Robinhood, especially favored by active and advanced traders. It provides access to over 150 global markets and supports trading across stocks, options, futures, forex, and crypto. The platform stands out with professional-grade tools, competitive fees, and paper trading to help you practice without risk.

Key Features

• Trade in 150+ markets and 27 currencies
• Commission-free U.S. stock and ETF trading (IBKR Lite)
• Advanced analytics and risk management tools
• 18,000+ no-transaction-fee mutual funds
• Powerful desktop and mobile platforms

Pros

• Extensive investment options
• Some of the lowest margin rates
• No account minimum or inactivity fees
• Paper trading support

Cons

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Slow customer service response times
• Crypto trading is not commission-free

Why Choose Interactive Brokers?

Choose Interactive Brokers if you need global reach, low costs, and advanced trading functionality. It’s one of the best trading platforms for serious investors and global diversification.

Pricing

• U.S. stocks/ETFs: $0 (IBKR Lite), $0.005/share (IBKR Pro)
• Options: $0.15–$0.65 per contract
• Crypto: 0.12%–0.18% of trade value (minimum $1.75)

8. Ally Invest

Ally Invest is a versatile Robinhood alternative, ideal for both beginners and experienced investors. It offers commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options, along with the choice between self-directed and automated portfolios. Seamless integration with Ally Bank makes it a convenient all-in-one platform.

Key Features

• Free trades on stocks, ETFs, and options
• Self-directed and managed portfolio options
• Access to mutual funds and fixed income securities
• 24/7 customer service
• Integrated with Ally Bank for easy money movement

Pros

• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Low fees and no account minimum
• Interest on uninvested cash
• Easy portfolio management

Cons

• No crypto, forex, or futures trading
• No fractional shares
• Limited tools for advanced traders

Why Choose Ally Invest?

Ally Invest is perfect if you want a low-cost, all-in-one solution for banking and investing. It’s one of the best brokerage apps for simplicity, flexibility, and ease of use.

Pricing

• Stocks/ETFs: $0 commission
• Options: $0.50 per contract
• No annual or inactivity fees

9. TradeStation

TradeStation is a favorite among Robinhood competitors for active traders who want advanced tools and customization. It offers free trades on stocks and options, plus access to automated strategies, crypto, and futures. The powerful desktop platform is ideal for technical analysis and frequent traders.

Key Features

• $0 commission on stocks, ETFs, and options
• Industry-leading charting and technical tools
• Automated strategy integration
• Access to crypto and futures markets
• Robust desktop and mobile platforms

Pros

• Highly customizable tools
• Built for active, technical traders
• Wide selection of tradable assets
• Paper trading available for practice

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Some fees for less active accounts
• Customer service can be slow

Why Choose TradeStation?

TradeStation is ideal if you’re a trader who values advanced features, customization, and speed. It’s one of the top Robinhood alternatives for options and day trading.

Pricing

• Stocks/ETFs: $0 commission
• Options: $0.60 per contract
• Futures: $1.50 per contract
• No minimum balance for most accounts

10. Firstrade

Firstrade is one of the top Robinhood alternatives for beginners looking for simplicity and cost-efficiency. It offers commission-free trading across stocks, ETFs, options, and even mutual funds. The platform is easy to navigate and includes helpful research tools and multilingual support.

Key Features

• Free trading on stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds
• No account minimums or hidden fees
• Intuitive web and mobile apps
• Free options trading
• Chinese-language customer support available

Pros

• Zero commission across all products
• No annual or inactivity fees
• Straightforward onboarding
• Helpful educational resources

Cons

• No access to crypto trading
• Fewer advanced features compared to competitors
• Limited research tools for in-depth analysis

Why Choose Firstrade?

If you want a beginner-friendly, no-fee platform, Firstrade is one of the best free stock trading apps on the market—ideal for cost-conscious investors starting out.

Pricing

• Stocks/ETFs: $0 commission
• Options: $0 commission
• Mutual funds: $0 commission
• No annual or inactivity fees

What to Look for in a Robinhood Competitor

Not all investing apps are created equal. If you're exploring Robinhood alternatives, it’s important to look beyond just the “free trading” label. Many users today want smarter tools, more asset options, and a platform that supports long-term growth.

Whether you’re looking for apps like Robinhood for crypto, or the top Robinhood alternatives for beginners, here’s exactly what to consider before switching.

Commission-Free Trades

Let’s start with the basics.

The rise of zero commission trading apps changed the game. But free trading isn't enough if you're compromising on execution speed or transparency. Some platforms—like Public.com—avoid payment for order flow, giving you clearer trades. Others, like Fidelity, offer $0 commissions while still focusing on execution quality.

If free trading is a must, make sure the platform doesn’t cut corners elsewhere.

Advanced Trading Tools

Robinhood is simple—but simplicity often means fewer tools.

If you're into charting, technical analysis, or tracking real-time market depth, you’ll want advanced platforms like Webull or TradeStation. These apps provide more than just basic graphs—they offer custom indicators, screeners, and trading alerts. They're ideal if you’re transitioning from beginner to intermediate trader.

These tools matter if you're making real money decisions.

Options and Futures Support

Robinhood offers basic options trading, but it’s far from robust.

For serious traders, platforms like E*TRADE and Interactive Brokers lead the list of Robinhood alternatives for options trading. You get access to multi-leg strategies, futures, and even global derivatives. If you’re trading for income or hedging, this is where Robinhood falls short.

Explore apps that don’t just allow options—but help you master them.

Research and Education Resources

One of the biggest complaints about Robinhood? Lack of insights.

Top investing apps better than Robinhood come with built-in education and research libraries. Think Morningstar ratings, analyst reports, and real-time news feeds. Fidelity and Charles Schwab shine in this area, offering everything from beginner tutorials to in-depth market reports.

If you're learning or planning for the long term, solid research tools are non-negotiable.

Retirement Accounts and IRAs

Robinhood doesn’t make retirement investing easy.

If you're thinking beyond day trading, look for platforms that offer IRAs, Roth IRAs, and 401(k) rollovers. M1 Finance, Fidelity, and Ally Invest let you build tax-advantaged portfolios, automate contributions, and plan for retirement—all within one app.

A good Robinhood alternative should support your future, not just your present.

Crypto Trading Features

Interested in crypto? Robinhood lets you buy a few coins—but not withdraw them.

For real crypto ownership, apps like eToro, Public.com, and Interactive Brokers offer more flexibility. You can access dozens of coins, store them securely, and even move them off-platform. These are far more advanced apps like Robinhood for crypto if you're serious about blockchain assets.

Not all crypto platforms are equal—so choose one that puts you in control.

Mobile App Experience

Mobile-first is no longer optional—it’s expected.

Robinhood competitors like Webull, M1 Finance, and Public.com have invested heavily in intuitive mobile apps. They offer fast navigation, secure access, and real-time notifications without being clunky. Whether you’re trading during lunch or checking markets at night, the mobile experience should feel seamless.

You shouldn’t have to open your laptop just to place a trade.

Which Robinhood Alternative is Best for You?

The best Robinhood alternative depends on your goals, experience level, and the kind of investing you want to do. Some apps offer better tools for day traders, while others focus on long-term wealth building. Instead of trying to fit every investor into one platform, let’s match the right app to the right need.

Explore the options below to find the one that fits your investing style.

For Beginners: M1 Finance or Ally Invest

If you're just starting out, you want simplicity with enough flexibility to grow.

M1 Finance automates the investing process with its “Pie” system. You choose your portfolio slices—up to 100 stocks or ETFs—and M1 handles the rest. It's easy, visual, and ideal for building habits without the pressure of active trading.

Ally Invest is another beginner-friendly app. It combines free stock trading with a clean interface and built-in educational tools. If you already bank with Ally, it’s a smooth, all-in-one experience.

Both platforms offer zero commission trading apps that make investing easy from day one.

For Options Trading: E*TRADE or tastytrade

If you’re into options, not all apps are created equal.

E*TRADE is a veteran in this space. It gives you access to multi-leg strategies, detailed risk analytics, and the Power E*TRADE platform. It’s user-friendly but deep enough to scale with your skills.

tastytrade (formerly tastyworks) is made for options traders by options traders. You get fast execution, visual trade analysis, and customizable layouts. It's one of the top-rated Robinhood alternatives for options trading on Reddit.

Both platforms go beyond what Robinhood offers and help you trade smarter.

For Advanced Traders: Interactive Brokers or TradeStation

Looking for pro-level tools? These platforms don’t hold back.

Interactive Brokers gives access to 150+ markets, low margin rates, and the Trader Workstation—a powerhouse for serious investors. You also get risk metrics, portfolio analysis, and global trading features.

TradeStation stands out for its deep customization and automation capabilities. Its desktop platform is perfect for technical analysis, algorithmic trading, and active day traders.

If you're ready to level up, these Robinhood competitors offer everything you need and more.

For Long-Term Investing: Fidelity or Charles Schwab

When you're thinking decades ahead, you need more than free trades.

Fidelity is a trusted name with deep research tools, high-yield cash options, and no payment for order flow. It offers everything from IRAs to 529 plans and consistently ranks as one of the best brokerage apps for retirement.

Charles Schwab offers a similar full-service approach. You get access to the thinkorswim platform, mutual funds, financial advisors, and fractional shares. Both are top investing apps better than Robinhood for serious wealth-building.

For Crypto: Public.com or Webull

Robinhood’s crypto tools are limited—and you can’t move your coins.

Public.com offers crypto trading alongside stocks and ETFs, with a transparent, no-PFOF model. It’s perfect for learning, tracking, and trading crypto in a social environment.

Webull allows you to trade major cryptocurrencies 24/7 with live charts, depth of book, and instant execution. It's a leading choice among apps like Robinhood for crypto, especially if you're focused on price action and speed.

If you want control, insights, and flexibility with crypto, these apps are ahead of the curve.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Robinhood alternative depends on your goals, trading style, and the features you value most. While Robinhood works for many beginners, it lacks the depth serious investors often need. Whether you want better tools, more assets, or stronger support, platforms like Fidelity, Webull, and Public.com offer powerful options. Each of the apps like Robinhood we’ve covered brings something unique to the table. Take your time, compare what matters most, and pick the one that helps you grow your portfolio with confidence. The best investing app is the one that works best for you—today and in the future.