Investing can seem intimidating if you’re just starting out, but technology has made it easier than ever to take the first step. Investment apps, with their user-friendly interfaces and educational resources, have opened the doors to financial markets for beginners. These apps simplify investing, offering features such as automated portfolios, low fees, and intuitive tools that help newcomers make informed decisions.
If you’re considering starting your investment journey but don’t know where to begin, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll explore the top investment apps for beginners in 2025, highlight their key features, and provide tips to help you choose the one that aligns with your financial goals.
Why Investment Apps Are Perfect for Beginners
Traditional investing often required financial advisors or meticulous tracking of complex markets, but investment apps have changed the game. Here’s why they’re a fantastic tool for beginners:
- Accessibility. Most apps allow you to start investing with just a few dollars, making it easy to break into the market without a significant upfront cost.
- Ease of Use. Clean and intuitive interfaces make navigation simple, even for those with no prior experience.
- Educational Resources. Many platforms offer articles, videos, and even gamified tools to teach users the fundamentals of investing.
- Flexibility. Investment apps allow you to monitor and adjust your portfolio anytime and from anywhere.
- Low Cost. Unlike traditional brokers, most apps come with low or no fees, making them an affordable starting point.
Now that you understand the benefits, let’s look at the best investment apps for beginners in 2025.
Best Investment Apps for Beginners in 2025
1. Robinhood
Robinhood has become one of the most well-known names in investing, particularly for younger audiences entering the market for the first time.
- Features:
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- Commission-free stock, ETF, and cryptocurrency trades
- Fractional shares, enabling users to invest with as little as $1
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Fees:
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- No trading fees for basic users
- $5/month for “Robinhood Gold,” which offers access to margin investing and premium research tools
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Robinhood’s straightforward approach makes it easy for new investors to execute trades without unnecessary complexity. The app also provides quick access to small-scale cryptocurrency investments, a popular choice among younger investors.
2. Acorns
Acorns is perfect for beginners who prefer a hands-off approach to investing. It focuses on micro-investing, automating your savings and investment process.
- Features:
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- “Round-ups” automatically invest spare change from everyday purchases
- Pre-built, diversified portfolios managed by experts
- Educational content like financial literacy tips
- Fees:
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- Monthly plans start at $3
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Acorns is ideal for those who aren’t ready to actively manage portfolios but still want to grow their money gradually. Its automation ensures consistent investing without requiring constant attention.
3. Stash
Stash combines investment tools with financial education, offering a platform that not only lets you invest but teaches you how to manage your money effectively.
- Features:
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- Investment options include stocks, ETFs, and fractional shares
- Financial literacy resources tailored to beginners
- Budgeting tools to manage spending and savings
- Fees:
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- Plans start at $3 per month for beginners and go up to $9 for advanced features
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Stash empowers users with knowledge, making it easier to understand the “why” as much as the “how” of investing. It’s great for those looking to actively learn while they invest.
4. Betterment
Betterment is a robo-advisory platform that focuses on automated, goal-based investing.
- Features:
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- Personalized investing plans based on your financial goals
- Automated rebalancing and tax-loss harvesting
- Easy-to-use interface
- Fees:
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- 0.25% annual fee for digital plans; premium plans charge 0.40% but include access to financial advisors
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Betterment’s low-maintenance approach offers professional-level portfolio management without needing in-depth market knowledge. Its goal-based tools are perfect for new investors saving for specific objectives like retirement or buying a home.
5. Wealthfront
Wealthfront is another robo-advisor that makes investing simple and affordable for beginners.
- Features:
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- Automated investment options in diversified portfolios
- Cash management accounts with competitive interest rates
- Free financial planning tools
- Fees:
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- 0.25% annual fee on managed accounts
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Wealthfront’s comprehensive approach makes it easy to set up a diversified portfolio and track progress toward long-term goals.
6. Fidelity Spire
Fidelity Spire is a newer app catering to goal-oriented beginner investors, combining savings tools with entry-level investing.
- Features:
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- No account minimums or maintenance fees
- Fractional share investing
- Tools to create and track financial goals
- Fees:
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- No trading fees for stocks, ETFs, or mutual funds
- Why it’s great for beginners:
Fidelity Spire integrates goal tracking with accessible investments, making it perfect for those starting their financial journeys.
How to Choose the Right Investment App
With so many apps available, how do you decide which one suits you best? Here are some factors to consider:
1. Your Investment Goals
Are you building an emergency fund, saving for a specific goal, or starting long-term investing? Apps like Acorns work well for automating savings, while Fidelity offers goal-oriented planning.
2. Fee Structure
Review the app’s cost structure carefully. While many apps are free, some charge monthly fees or percentages of your portfolio. Choose one that aligns with your budget.
3. Portfolio Options
Consider the types of investments offered. Do you want to trade individual stocks, invest in ETFs, or experiment with cryptocurrency? Make sure your chosen app supports your preferred investment style.
4. Educational Resources
Apps like Stash and Acorns come with plenty of educational tools, which can be invaluable if you’re learning as you go.
5. Ease of Use
A clean, intuitive interface can make all the difference when you’re getting started. Test out demo versions or read user reviews to ensure the app suits your needs.
Tips for Getting Started With Investing
Once you’ve chosen an investment app, here are some tips to guide you as you start your financial journey:
- Start Small. Don’t feel pressure to invest large sums immediately. Begin with an amount you’re comfortable with, even if it’s just a few dollars.
- Be Consistent. Set up automatic contributions to build your portfolio consistently over time.
- Diversify Your Investments. Avoid putting all your funds in one place—spread your investments across different asset types to reduce risk.
- Educate Yourself. Take advantage of the educational tools available in your app to boost your understanding of market trends and strategies.
- Maintain a Long-Term Perspective. Investing is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t get caught up in daily market fluctuations; focus on your long-term goals.
Begin Your Investment Journey Today
Investing isn’t reserved for the wealthy or the finance-savvy—it’s a tool anyone can use to build wealth and secure their financial future. With the user-friendly apps available in 2025, there’s never been a better time for beginners to take that first step.
Explore the apps mentioned above, consider your own financial goals, and start small. The best time to start investing is today—your future self will thank you.