Investing in the stock market is one of the most reliable ways to build long-term wealth. Thanks to modern investing platforms, you no longer need thousands of dollars or a financial advisor to get started. Whether you’re looking to invest small amounts, automate your portfolio, or learn how to trade stocks safely, the right platform makes all the difference.
Below are the three best platforms to start investing in stocks—ideal for beginners who want simplicity, low fees, and educational support.
🏦 1. Fidelity Investments — Best Overall for Beginners
Why it stands out: Fidelity consistently ranks as one of the best stock trading platforms for beginners because it combines no-fee investing with powerful research tools and top-rated customer support. It’s one of the oldest and most trusted brokers in the U.S., and it offers a full suite of products: stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and retirement accounts (IRAs and 401(k) rollovers).
Key features:
- $0 commissions on U.S. stock and ETF trades
- No account minimums — start with any amount
- Access to fractional shares, so you can buy pieces of big-name companies like Apple or Amazon
- Strong research and education center for new investors
- Optional robo-advisor (Fidelity Go) if you prefer automated investing
Best for: New investors who want a long-term, reliable platform with both do-it-yourself and automated investing options.
Why it’s great for beginners: Fidelity keeps investing transparent—no hidden fees, strong educational support, and an easy-to-navigate app that lets you track performance and dividends with a few taps. It’s a great first home for anyone learning how to invest in stocks or ETFs for retirement or passive income.
📱 2. Robinhood — Best for Commission-Free Mobile Trading
Why it stands out: Robinhood popularized commission-free stock trading and made investing accessible for everyone. It’s a sleek, mobile-first app that’s perfect if you want to start small and invest from your phone. Robinhood allows you to buy stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto with no account minimums.
Key features:
- $0 commissions on stock, ETF, and crypto trades
- Fractional shares available (start with as little as $1)
- Simple, intuitive mobile experience built for new investors
- Cash sweep feature earns interest on uninvested cash
- Access to retirement accounts (IRAs with match incentives for subscribers)
Best for: Beginners who want a simple app-based experience and the freedom to invest in both stocks and crypto.
Why it’s great for beginners: Robinhood removes barriers—no fees, no jargon, no high balances. You can easily see your portfolio, watch your favorite stocks, and learn the basics of how the stock market works. While it’s not a full-service broker, it’s an excellent platform for learning through action.
Tip: Start with small, diversified investments (like ETFs) before trading individual stocks to manage risk.
💻 3. Charles Schwab — Best for Long-Term Investors and Retirement Savers
Why it stands out: Schwab blends the trust of a traditional financial institution with the innovation of an online platform. It’s one of the most comprehensive investing platforms available, offering everything from basic stock investing to automated portfolios, IRAs, and financial planning tools.
Key features:
- $0 commissions on online stock and ETF trades
- Fractional shares via Schwab Stock Slices (invest as little as $5 in S&P 500 companies)
- Free access to Schwab Intelligent Portfolios (automated investing)
- Excellent customer support and education tools
- Wide range of retirement accounts and index funds
Best for: Investors who want a trusted, all-in-one platform that grows with their financial goals—especially those focused on retirement investing or long-term wealth building.
Why it’s great for beginners: Schwab offers stability, educational guidance, and access to both manual and automated investing options. It’s ideal if you want to start simple but eventually expand into IRAs, mutual funds, or other long-term investments.
🧭 How the Investing Process Works
Starting your investing journey is easier than most people think. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Choose a platform that fits your goals — day trading, long-term investing, or hands-off portfolios.
- Open your account (usually takes minutes online). You’ll need to provide identification and link a bank account.
- Deposit money — even $10 is enough to start buying fractional shares.
- Research and diversify — mix a few individual stocks with ETFs or index funds for stability.
- Invest consistently — set up automatic deposits to grow your portfolio over time.
Pro tip: Stay consistent. The key to success isn’t timing the market—it’s time in the market. Even small, regular contributions compound over years into real wealth.
💡 Why Stock Investing Helps Build Wealth
Investing in the stock market lets your money work for you. Historically, the S&P 500 has returned an average of 7–10% per year over the long term. By investing early and consistently, you can beat inflation, grow your savings, and reach major financial goals like buying a home or retiring comfortably.
Even if you’re new, today’s investing platforms make it easy to start small and learn as you go. Whether you choose Fidelity, Robinhood, or Charles Schwab, you’ll get access to professional-grade tools, low fees, and flexible ways to grow your wealth.
🏁 The Recap
The best platform to start investing depends on your goals:
- Fidelity offers trust, tools, and full-service investing for the long haul.
- Robinhood makes it effortless to start with just a few dollars from your phone.
- Charles Schwab combines traditional reliability with modern automation for long-term investors.
No matter which you choose, the key is to get started today—because the sooner you invest, the longer your money has to grow.