This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you open an account through one of the links below, at no additional cost to you. This is not financial or investment advice. The platforms listed are for informational purposes only. Always do your own research before making any financial decision.
Beginner-friendly platforms
to start investing today
These platforms are designed for people who are just getting started. No prior experience required. We have outlined what each one offers so you can decide what fits your situation.
Compare your options
M1 Finance lets you build a custom portfolio of stocks and ETFs and then automates the investing for you. You choose what to invest in, M1 handles the execution. No trading commissions and no management fees â ideal for long-term, hands-off investors.
Open an account with M1 Finance âRobinhood is one of the most recognized names in beginner investing. It offers commission-free trading for stocks, ETFs, and options with a clean, simple mobile app. Good for people who want to start small and learn as they go.
Open an account with Robinhood âAcorns rounds up your everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the spare change automatically. It is one of the lowest-friction ways to start investing â you barely notice the money leaving your account. Best for people who struggle to set money aside.
Open an account with Acorns âSoFi combines banking, investing, and lending in one app. Their investing platform offers commission-free trades and automated portfolios with no management fees. A good option if you want to consolidate your finances and investing in one place.
Open an account with SoFi â