11 Best Trading Apps for Beginners

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Choosing the right trading app as a beginner can make all the difference in your investing journey. The ideal platform should be intuitive, cost-effective, and rich in educational resources—helping you learn while building wealth. After analyzing 19 brokers based on trading costs, user experience, customer support, and key features, we’ve curated a list of the top 11 trading apps perfect for those just starting out.

Whether you're interested in stocks, ETFs, crypto, or automated investing, these platforms offer beginner-friendly interfaces and tools designed to simplify your entry into the financial markets.

Our Top Picks for Beginner-Friendly Trading Apps

Before diving into each app, here’s a quick overview of what makes these platforms stand out:

👉 Discover a seamless way to start your investment journey today.

1. SoFi Invest

Best for: No-fee trading, all-in-one financial services, beginner investors

SoFi Invest delivers a clean, easy-to-navigate interface ideal for new investors. It offers $0 commission trades on stocks, ETFs, and options, with no hidden fees. What sets SoFi apart is its holistic financial ecosystem—users can access banking, loans, retirement accounts, and even speak with a financial planner at no extra cost.

The platform also features automated investing through its robo-advisor, making it effortless to build a diversified portfolio. Plus, new users may receive up to $1,000 in stock when opening and funding an account (terms apply).

SoFi’s combination of simplicity, zero fees, and comprehensive financial tools makes it one of the most attractive options for beginners.

2. Plus500 US

Best for: Futures trading

Plus500 specializes in derivatives like CFDs and futures, offering competitive flat-rate commissions: $0.89 per side for standard contracts and $0.40 for micro contracts. It supports trading across indices, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies.

With no platform, deposit, withdrawal, or account maintenance fees—and a low $100 minimum deposit—it's highly accessible. Its 24/7 customer support via live chat adds to its appeal for newcomers exploring alternative asset classes.

While not ideal for traditional stock investors, Plus500 is a strong choice for beginners interested in futures and global markets.

3. Robinhood

Best for: User experience, crypto investing, IRA match

Robinhood revolutionized mobile trading with its sleek design and commission-free model. Trade stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies without paying per-trade fees. Crypto spreads are among the lowest in the industry at just 0.65%.

For $5/month, Robinhood Gold subscribers unlock benefits like Level 2 market data, Morningstar research, a 3% IRA match, and up to 4% APY on uninvested cash.

Its straightforward interface lowers the barrier to entry, though advanced tools are limited unless you upgrade. Still, Robinhood remains a top pick for beginners who value simplicity and low costs.

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4. Interactive Brokers (IBKR GlobalTrader)

Best for: Multi-asset investing, automated portfolios

Interactive Brokers offers a powerful yet beginner-accessible platform through IBKR GlobalTrader. Enjoy $0 commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options, plus access to mutual funds, precious metals, and crypto.

The platform includes a robo-advisor for hands-off investing and provides extensive research tools. While more complex than others on this list, its mobile app simplifies navigation for new users.

With global market access and low fees, Interactive Brokers is excellent for beginners planning long-term growth.

5. OPTO

Best for: Thematic investing, commission-free trades

OPTO focuses on trend-based investing with over 50 themes like AI, Blockchain, Clean Energy, and Pet Care. This makes it easy for beginners to invest in industries they believe will shape the future.

The app offers $0 commission trades on stocks and ETFs and features “Folios”—customizable portfolios that auto-rebalance. You can even mirror top-performing community-managed Folios.

With a focus on innovation and ease of use, OPTO is perfect for forward-thinking beginners.

6. Public.com

Best for: High yields, transparent fee structure

Public stands out with its ethical stance—no payment for order flow—and high-yield investment options. Earn up to 6.4% on bond accounts and 4.1% APY on cash holdings.

It offers commission-free trades on stocks, ETFs, and options with rebates on options contracts. The platform emphasizes community-driven learning and transparency.

Public’s clean design and strong yield potential make it ideal for beginners focused on long-term wealth building.

7. Webull

Best for: Research tools, mobile trading

Webull combines $0 commission trading with powerful analytics. Its learning center offers over 500 courses, and the paper trading feature lets you practice risk-free.

Webull Premium members earn 4.10% APY on cash balances and get a 3.5% IRA contribution match. The app also includes social features where users share insights.

For beginners who want to learn actively while trading, Webull is an outstanding choice.

8. Stash

Best for: Starting small, investing for kids

Start investing with just $5. Stash makes entry-level investing accessible with fractional shares, automated investing, and curated portfolios.

It also offers banking services and a debit card that invests in stock with every purchase. Parents can open custodial accounts for children.

Stash excels at financial education and habit-building—perfect for absolute beginners.

9. M1 Finance

Best for: Automated investing, custom portfolios

M1 Finance uses a “pie” system to let users build personalized portfolios with automatic rebalancing. All trades are commission-free.

Its hybrid model blends automation with control—ideal for beginners who want structure without sacrificing flexibility.

With banking integration and retirement accounts available, M1 supports full financial lifecycle management.

10. Cash App

Best for: Simplicity, minor investing

Cash App is known for fast peer-to-peer payments but also allows stock and Bitcoin trading from as little as $1.

Its interface is incredibly simple—great for teens or first-time investors. View company news, earnings reports, and basic charts directly in-app.

While not packed with advanced tools, it's one of the easiest ways to start small.

11. Fidelity Investments

Best for: Low costs, research tools, wide investment selection

Fidelity offers $0 commissions across stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds—with no account fees or transfer charges.

It provides free financial planning sessions, robo-advisory services, educational content, and 24/7 support. Minors can also have custodial accounts.

With exceptional research tools and IRA options (including Roth IRAs), Fidelity is a gold standard for beginners seeking reliability and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which trading app is best for absolute beginners?

SoFi Invest is widely regarded as the best choice due to its simple interface, $0 fees, financial planning access, and educational resources.

Are commission-free trading apps safe?

Yes. Most reputable apps are SIPC-insured (up to $500,000), use encryption, and offer two-factor authentication to protect your funds and data.

Can I start investing with less than $10?

Absolutely. Many apps like Stash and Cash App allow investments starting at $1 or even less through fractional shares.

Do beginner apps offer retirement accounts?

Yes. Platforms like SoFi, Fidelity, Webull, and M1 Finance offer IRAs—both Traditional and Roth—with automatic contributions and matching incentives.

Is automated investing good for new traders?

Yes. Robo-advisors simplify portfolio management by automatically allocating assets based on your risk tolerance—ideal for hands-off beginners.

How do I choose the right app for my needs?

Consider your goals: low fees? education? crypto access? retirement planning? Match your priorities with platform strengths using this guide.

Final Thoughts: Start Smart

The best trading apps for beginners balance simplicity with powerful features—offering low costs, intuitive design, educational support, and room to grow. Whether you prefer automation (M1 Finance), thematic exposure (OPTO), or high yields (Public), there’s a platform tailored to your style.

👉 Take the next step toward financial independence with tools that grow with you.

Remember: Success isn’t just about the app you choose—it’s about consistency, learning continuously, and staying aligned with your long-term goals. Start small, stay informed, and let compounding work in your favor.

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