Best Apps for Online Stock Trading

Best Apps for Online Stock Trading is among the main topics for most investors today. Discover the best apps for online stock trading in 2025. Compare top platforms for real-time market tracking, easy investments, low fees, and user-friendly features. Start trading today with the most reliable stock trading app.

Investing has changed dramatically with the rise of online stock trading. No longer confined to traditional brokerage firms, investors now have access to a vast array of stock trading platforms at their fingertips. Mobile apps have made trading more accessible than ever, allowing anyone with a smartphone to manage their investments from anywhere.

Whether you’re looking to buy stocks, ETFs, or options, trading apps have simplified the process while offering a broad range of features to enhance your experience. If you’re considering starting, choosing the best apps for online stock trading in the United States is essential. Learn more about how to choose the right app here.

Online stock trading apps have revolutionized the way we invest, offering several advantages over traditional methods. For one, many apps offer commission-free trading, which means you can buy and sell stocks without incurring hefty fees.

These apps also provide powerful tools such as real-time market data, charting, and research resources, empowering investors to make informed decisions on the go. They often come with no minimum deposit requirements, making them an appealing choice for beginners. To help you find the best app for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top apps available for stock trading in the U.S. Discover more about the best trading apps here.

The Table Below shows a sample of an App for Online Stock Trading

Not all stock trading apps are created equal, and choosing the right one for your investment strategy requires understanding what each app offers. Some apps are designed for beginners and focus on ease of use, while others cater to advanced traders with sophisticated tools for technical analysis. Features such as real-time quotes, the ability to trade fractional shares, and access to retirement accounts are some of the key aspects that can make a trading app stand out. Our guide will help you explore the essential features of each platform to ensure you choose the best app for your trading goals. Continue reading to find out more about these features.

With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the best stock trading app for your needs. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive guide to the 15 best apps for online stock trading in the United States. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look at each app, covering their unique features, pricing, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, this guide will help you navigate the world of online trading apps and find the perfect platform to suit your investment style. Explore the full list of the best trading apps here..

This article will explore the 15 best apps for online stock trading in the United States. We’ll highlight each app’s best features, pros, and cons and provide a detailed comparison in tables. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the most popular stock trading platforms, helping you decide which is right.

1. TD Ameritrade

Best for: Comprehensive Trading Tools and Research

TD Ameritrade is one of the most well-known names in online trading. Its mobile app allows users to trade stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds. The platform is known for its powerful tools and educational resources, making it a top choice for beginners and experienced traders.

Best Features:

• Real-time quotes and charting
• Paper trading to practice without real money
• Access to in-depth research and analysis
• 24/7 customer support

Pros:

• Extensive educational resources
• Wide range of investment options
• Advanced charting and technical analysis tools
• No commission fees for stock and ETF trades

Cons:

• Somewhat overwhelming for beginners due to the number of tools
• No fractional shares available

Summary Table

Read more @ https://www.schwab.com

2. Robinhood

Best for: Beginners and Commission-Free Trading

Robinhood is a popular trading app that disrupted the industry by offering commission-free trades. It is especially popular among new investors who want to trade stocks, ETFs, and options without paying hefty commissions. The app is user-friendly and offers fractional shares, which makes it ideal for beginners with small budgets.

Best Features:

• Commission-free trading
• Fractional shares
• Easy-to-use interface
• Instant deposit for faster trading

Pros:

• Simple, beginner-friendly design
• No commissions or account minimums
• Access to cryptocurrencies and options trading

Cons:

• Limited research and educational tools
• Customer support can be slow

Summary Table

Read More at https://robinhood.com

3. E*TRADE

Best for: Comprehensive Research and Retirement Accounts

ETRADE is another major player in the online trading space. Its app allows users to trade stocks, bonds, options, ETFs, and mutual funds. ETRADE also provides powerful research tools and resources to help traders make informed decisions. It’s an excellent choice for investors looking to build retirement accounts like IRAs.

Best Features:

• Comprehensive research and analysis tools
• Access to retirement accounts and financial planning tools
• Commission-free stock and ETF trades
• Mobile check deposit for adding funds

Pros:

• Great customer service
• Wide selection of investment options
• Advanced charting and research tools

Cons:

• Some fees for options trading
• The interface may feel cluttered for beginners

Summary Table

Read more at @ https://us.etrade.com

4. Fidelity Investments

Best for: Long-Term Investors and Low-Cost Trading

Fidelity is well-regarded for its low-cost trading platform and its excellent customer service. The app offers many investment products, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, and retirement accounts. It also provides in-depth research and educational resources.

Best Features:

• Commission-free stock and ETF trades
• Access to retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s
• Wide range of investment options
• Powerful research and analysis tools

Pros:

• No account minimums
• Excellent customer service and educational content
• Robust mobile app with strong charting tools

Cons:

• Limited options for options trading
• The mobile app may be slow at times

Summary Table

Read more @ https://www.fidelity.com

5. Charles Schwab

Best for: All-around Trading Experience

Charles Schwab offers a robust trading app that supports stocks, ETFs, options, and futures trading. With no commissions on stock and ETF trades, the platform is cost-effective for investors. Schwab also has a wide array of educational tools and research options.

Best Features:

• Commission-free stock and ETF trades
• Access to options and futures trading
• Extensive research and educational resources
• No account minimums

Pros:

• Excellent customer service
• No commission fees on most trades
• Great for both beginners and experienced traders

Cons:

• Advanced tools may be overwhelming for beginners
• The mobile app could use a more streamlined design

Summary Table

Read more @ https://www.schwab.com

6. Webull

Best for: Advanced Traders Looking for Tools

Webull is an excellent choice for traders who need advanced tools and features. The app allows users to trade stocks, options, and ETFs, and it offers advanced charting and technical analysis tools. It’s particularly well-suited for active traders who need real-time data and quick trade execution.

Best Features:

• Commission-free stock, options, and ETF trading
• Advanced charting and technical analysis
• Real-time market data
• Paper trading feature to practice strategies

Pros:

• Advanced tools for serious traders
• No commissions or fees
• Fractional shares available

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming for beginners
• Limited educational resources

Summary Table

Read more @https://www.webull.com

7. SoFi Invest

Best for: Socially Conscious Investors

SoFi Invest is a unique platform that combines investment trading with personal finance services. The app allows you to trade stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrency, and it offers fractional shares. It’s particularly appealing to young investors who want to align their investments with their personal values.

Best Features:

• Socially responsible investing options
• Fractional shares
• Cryptocurrency trading
• No commissions on stock and ETF trades

Pros:

• Great for beginners
• Offers a variety of investment options
• Easy-to-use app interface

Cons:

• Limited research and educational resources
• Fewer investment choices compared to some competitors

Summary Table

8. Merrill Edge

Best for: Seamless Integration with Bank Accounts

Merrill Edge is a brokerage service offered by Bank of America, and it integrates smoothly with your Bank of America accounts. The app allows you to trade stocks, ETFs, and options, and it offers great research tools, making it ideal for active investors who want a seamless experience across their financial products.

Best Features:

• Integration with Bank of America accounts
• Research tools from Bank of America analysts
• No commission fees for online stock and ETF trades

Pros:

• Great integration with Bank of America
• Excellent research and analysis tools
• No commissions for stock and ETF trades

Cons:

• No cryptocurrency trading
• Limited investment options compared to some competitors

Summary Table

9. Acorns

Best for: Hands-Off Investors and Micro-Investing

Acorns is an app that specializes in micro-investing, helping users automatically invest their spare change into diversified portfolios. It’s perfect for beginners or people who prefer a hands-off approach to investing.

Best Features:

• Automatic rounding up of purchases to invest the spare change
• Investment portfolios based on risk tolerance
• Retirement accounts like IRAs

Pros:

• Ideal for beginners
• Easy-to-use automated investing
• Low-cost options for investors with little capital

Cons:

• Limited control over investments
• Higher fees compared to some other apps

Summary Table

10. Stash

Best for: Budget-Conscious Investors

Stash is a beginner-friendly app that allows users to invest in stocks, ETFs, and bonds. It’s especially good for individuals who are new to investing and want to start with small amounts of money. Stash also offers educational resources to help guide users through the investing process.

Best Features:

• Commission-free trades
• Fractional shares
• Educational tools and financial advice
• Retirement accounts available

Pros:

• Low-cost entry
• Fractional shares
• Strong educational content

Cons:

• Fees for premium plans
• Limited investment options

Summary Table

11. Public.com

Best for: Socially Engaged Investors

Public.com is a social trading app that blends investing with social interaction. You can follow other investors, share your trades, and discuss the markets. Public offers commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs.

Best Features:

• Social trading features
• Commission-free trading
• Fractional shares
• No account minimums

Pros:

• Social networking features
• Commission-free
• Great for beginners

Cons:

• Limited research tools
• Not suitable for advanced traders

Summary Table

12. Interactive Brokers

Best for: Advanced and International Traders

Interactive Brokers is known for its powerful platform and low-cost trading. The app is perfect for experienced traders who need advanced features, access to international markets, and a wide range of investment products.

Best Features:

• Advanced trading tools and charting
• Access to international markets
• Wide selection of investment options

Pros:

• Low commissions for high-volume traders
• Access to global markets
• Excellent charting and research tools

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly
• High fees for low-volume traders

Summary Table

13. Tastyworks

Best for: Options Traders

Tastyworks is an online brokerage specializing in options trading. The app offers low commissions on options trades, powerful tools, and educational resources.

Best Features:

• Low fees for options trading
• Powerful options analysis tools
• No commission fees for stocks and ETFs

Pros:

• Excellent for options traders
• Powerful charting tools
• No commissions for stock/ETF trades

Cons:

• Limited investment options beyond options
• Not suitable for beginners

Summary Table

14. Vanguard

Best for: Long-Term Investors and Retirement Accounts

Vanguard is renowned for its low-cost mutual funds and ETFs. The app is designed for long-term investors, especially those looking to build retirement portfolios.

Best Features:

• Low-cost mutual funds and ETFs
• Retirement accounts like IRAs
• Commission-free stock and ETF trades

Pros:

• Low-cost investing
• Ideal for retirement accounts
• Solid educational tools

Cons:

• Limited options for active traders
• Fees for some mutual funds

Summary Table

15. Betterment

Best for: Robo-Advisor and Passive Investors

Betterment is a robo-advisor that offers a fully automated investment platform. The app is ideal for those who want a passive investing experience, with portfolios tailored to individual goals and risk tolerance.

Best Features:

• Automated investing and portfolio management
• Low-cost fees
• Goal-based investing

Pros:

• Fully automated investing
• Low fees for portfolio management
• Great for passive investors

Cons:

• Limited control over individual stock selection
• Not ideal for active traders

Summary Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Stock Trading Apps

1. What are online stock trading apps?
   • Online stock trading apps are mobile applications that allow users to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, options, and other financial instruments via their smartphones or tablets. These apps provide access to real-time market data, trading tools, and other resources to help users manage their investments.
2. Are online stock trading apps safe to use?
   • Yes, most reputable online stock trading apps are safe to use. They are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), which ensures that they meet strict security standards. However, it’s essential to use apps from well-established companies with a good reputation for security.
3. Do I need to pay commissions to use stock trading apps?
   • Many of the best apps for online stock trading, such as Robinhood, Webull, and E*TRADE, offer commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options. However, some platforms may charge fees for specific trades, like options or mutual funds, or may have other account fees. Always check the fee structure before signing up.
4. Which app is the best for beginners?
   • Apps like Robinhood, SoFi Invest, and Acorns are considered the best for beginners due to their simple and user-friendly interfaces. These apps typically offer commission-free trades and educational resources to help new investors get started.
5. Can I trade stocks on my phone using these apps?
   • Yes, online stock trading apps are designed for mobile use, and you can trade stocks directly from your smartphone or tablet. Most apps offer both iOS and Android versions, allowing you to manage your portfolio on the go.
6. Do I need a large amount of money to start trading on these apps?
   • No, many apps like Robinhood, Webull, and Acorns allow users to start trading with very little capital. Robinhood, for example, requires no minimum deposit, and apps like Acorns allow you to invest your spare change with as little as $5.
7. Are there any hidden fees in online stock trading apps?
   • While many apps advertise commission-free trading, some may charge hidden fees for specific transactions, such as account maintenance, options contracts, or withdrawal fees. It’s important to read the app’s fee structure thoroughly before you start using it.
8. What types of investments can I trade on stock trading apps?
   • Most stock trading apps allow users to trade stocks, ETFs, and options. Some, like Robinhood and Webull, also offer access to cryptocurrencies. Other apps, such as TD Ameritrade and E*TRADE, provide additional investment options like mutual funds, bonds, and futures contracts.
9. Can I trade stocks internationally using these apps?
   • Most stock trading apps primarily focus on U.S. stocks and ETFs. However, some platforms like Interactive Brokers offer access to international markets, allowing users to trade stocks and ETFs from other countries.
10. What is fractional trading, and do all stock trading apps offer it?

• Fractional trading allows investors to buy a fraction of a share rather than the whole share, making it easier to invest in high-priced stocks like Amazon or Tesla with a small amount of money. Apps like Robinhood, Webull, and SoFi Invest offer fractional share trading.

11. What are some of the risks of using online stock trading apps?

• Some of the risks include the potential for losing money due to market fluctuations, technical issues like system outages, or making poor investment decisions. It’s essential to research investments thoroughly and only invest money you can afford to lose.

12. Can I use stock trading apps to create retirement accounts?

• Yes, several stock trading apps, such as E*TRADE, Fidelity, and SoFi Invest, offer options to create retirement accounts like IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts). These accounts allow you to take advantage of tax benefits while saving for retirement.

13. Do stock trading apps provide research and analysis tools?

• Many of the best stock trading apps, including TD Ameritrade, E*TRADE, and Fidelity, offer advanced research and analysis tools. These tools include charting features, technical analysis, real-time data, and expert research reports to help users make informed investment decisions.

14. How can I withdraw money from a stock trading app?

• To withdraw money from your stock trading app, you typically need to transfer funds from your trading account to your linked bank account. Most apps offer easy withdrawal options, but some may charge fees for certain types of withdrawals or transfers.

15. Can I automate my trades on these apps?

• Some apps, like Acorns, allow you to automate your investment strategy by setting up automatic contributions or round-ups. Other apps, like TD Ameritrade and E*TRADE, offer advanced order types (like stop-loss orders) to help automate trades, but full automation depends on the platform’s features.

16. Can I trade cryptocurrencies on stock trading apps?

• Some stock trading apps, such as Robinhood, Webull, and SoFi Invest, offer the ability to trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. However, other apps, like E*TRADE and TD Ameritrade, do not support crypto trading at this time.

17. Are there tax implications for using stock trading apps?

• Yes, any capital gains (profits) you make from trading stocks or other securities on these apps are subject to taxes. The IRS requires you to report these gains on your tax return. Many apps provide year-end tax documents (such as 1099 forms) to help you with tax filing.

18. Can I use multiple stock trading apps at once?

• Yes, you can use multiple stock trading apps. Many investors use different apps for specific features—such as one for commission-free trading, another for research tools, or one for retirement accounts. Just make sure to keep track of your investments across platforms.

19. How long does it take to execute a trade on stock trading apps?

• Trades on most stock trading apps are executed quickly, often in real-time, as long as there are no technical issues. The speed of execution may vary depending on the app and the type of trade (stocks, options, crypto, etc.).

20. Do stock trading apps offer customer support?

• Yes, most stock trading apps offer customer support, but the quality and availability can vary. Apps like TD Ameritrade and Fidelity are known for having excellent customer service, while apps like Robinhood may have slower response times.

21. Can I trade options on stock trading apps?

• Yes, many of the top stock trading apps, such as TD Ameritrade, E*TRADE, Webull, and Robinhood, offer options trading. However, you may need to apply for options trading approval, as these types of trades carry additional risks.

22. What happens if I forget my login details or lose access to my account?

• Most stock trading apps provide recovery options for forgotten passwords or lost accounts, such as resetting your password via email or phone number. If you encounter further issues, you can usually contact customer support for assistance.

23. Can I access my stock trading app outside of the U.S.?

• It depends on the platform. Some stock trading apps, like Interactive Brokers, offer international access, while others, like Robinhood, are only available to U.S. residents.

24. Do I need an advanced degree to start using a stock trading app?

• No, you don’t need an advanced degree to start using most stock trading apps. Many platforms, such as Robinhood and SoFi Invest, are designed to be user-friendly for beginners. However, it’s important to understand the basics of investing before you start trading.

25. How can I make the most out of using a stock trading app?

• To make the most of your stock trading app, take time to learn about different investment options, utilize the educational tools available, and start with small, manageable investments. Regularly monitor your investments and adjust your strategy as needed based on market conditions.

Conclusion

The best apps for online stock trading in the United States offer a range of features, from commission-free trading to advanced research tools and educational resources. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy way to start investing, or an experienced trader seeking powerful tools, there’s an app for you. Make sure to consider factors such as fees, account minimums, and the types of investments available when choosing the right platform for your needs.

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