Top 5 Investment Apps for Beginners in the United States
Top 5 Investment Apps for Beginners in the United States
Description: Ready to start investing but not sure where to begin? Discover the top 5 beginner-friendly investment apps that make it easy to build wealth with low fees, intuitive design, and educational tools—perfect for first-time U.S. investors in 2025.
1. Why Investment Apps Are Ideal for Beginners
Investment apps have transformed the way Americans start building wealth. They offer intuitive interfaces, educational content, no account minimums, and fractional share options—making investing accessible even if you only have $5 to spare.
For beginners, this is a game-changer. You no longer need to call a broker or have thousands to start investing. You just need a smartphone—and a little curiosity.
2. Robinhood – Commission-Free Simplicity
Robinhood pioneered the commission-free trading model and remains one of the most popular apps among new investors.
Key Features:
- Zero commissions on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto
- User-friendly design and instant deposits
- Fractional shares and recurring investments
It’s ideal for those who want control and are comfortable making their own decisions without hand-holding.
3. Acorns – Investing Spare Change Automatically
Acorns is perfect for passive investors who want to build wealth without thinking about it. It rounds up your everyday purchases and invests the difference.
Key Features:
- Round-up investing from linked debit/credit cards
- Automated portfolio based on risk profile
- Educational tools and retirement accounts included
For people who say, “I don’t have time to invest,” Acorns proves otherwise.
4. Fidelity – Trusted Platform with No Minimums
Fidelity is a traditional brokerage adapting brilliantly to the mobile generation. It’s robust enough for advanced users but friendly enough for beginners.
Key Features:
- $0 account minimums and zero commissions
- Fractional shares and ETFs
- High-rated customer service and research tools
It’s a smart choice if you want to grow into more advanced investing over time.
5. SoFi Invest – Investing with Career Tools
SoFi combines investing with financial planning, career coaching, and student loan tools—ideal for young professionals.
Key Features:
- Commission-free trading of stocks, crypto, and ETFs
- Access to financial advisors and educational events
- SoFi Member Rewards and integration with loans and banking
You’re not just opening an investment account—you’re entering an ecosystem.
6. Public – Investing with Social Context
Public is an investing app that combines finance with social networking, letting you follow other investors, learn from their moves, and share your own thoughts.
Key Features:
- Fractional shares with no commission
- Community insights and transparency
- No payment for order flow (unlike Robinhood)
If you like learning through community and conversation, Public is a top contender.
Did you know?
A 2024 Gallup poll revealed that 63% of Americans under age 35 now use an investment app to manage some portion of their finances. What’s more, beginner investors who used apps with automatic contributions (like Acorns or SoFi) were 2.5x more likely to stick with investing long-term. Simplicity + consistency = growth.
1. Do I need a lot of money to start investing with these apps?
Not at all. Most apps allow fractional investing with as little as $1. Acorns, for example, automatically invests your spare change without requiring large deposits.
2. Is it safe to use investment apps?
Yes. Reputable apps are insured by SIPC, use bank-level encryption, and are regulated by the SEC or FINRA. Always use two-factor authentication for added security.
3. What if I make a mistake in my first investment?
Start small and diversify. Most apps offer educational tools, and making minor mistakes is part of learning. The key is consistency and long-term thinking.
4. Can I access my money anytime?
Yes, but consider market timing and taxes. Most apps allow free withdrawals, though it may take a few business days to transfer to your bank.
5. Which app is best for totally passive investing?
Acorns and SoFi Invest are great for passive strategies. They automate the process so you can invest without checking the market every day.
