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In this article, I will discuss the best apps to buy stocks and crypto, exploring top platforms that offer commission-free trades, advanced tools, and a wide variety of assets.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy entry point or an experienced trader seeking advanced features, these apps provide the functionality and security to help you invest confidently in both stocks and cryptocurrencies.
Key Points & Best Apps To Buy Stocks And Crypto List
Platform | Key Points |
---|---|
Robinhood | Commission-free trades, easy-to-use mobile app, limited research tools, offers stocks, options, crypto. |
Webull | Advanced charting tools, commission-free trading, offers stocks, options, and crypto. |
Charles Schwab | Full-service broker, research, retirement options, no-fee trading, offers stocks, options, mutual funds. |
Interactive Brokers | Low-cost trades, advanced tools, international trading, large asset variety, margin trading. |
E*TRADE | Offers stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, retirement accounts, strong research tools, no commissions. |
Ally Invest | Commission-free trades, good for beginners, offers stocks, options, and ETFs. |
Fidelity | Commission-free trading, strong research tools, retirement accounts, stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds. |
Firstrade | No-commission trades, mutual funds, ETFs, stocks, options, free retirement accounts. |
eToro | Social trading, offers stocks, crypto, forex, and ETFs, beginner-friendly, high fees on crypto. |
TD Ameritrade | Advanced trading tools, commission-free stocks and ETFs, good for beginners, options, mutual funds. |
Cash App | Simplified mobile trading, stocks and Bitcoin, no commissions on stocks. |
Acorns | Automated investing, focuses on micro-investing, ideal for beginners, offers ETFs and retirement accounts. |
Crypto.com | Offers crypto trading, staking, and rewards, crypto debit card, high fees on trading. |
Wealthfront | Automated investment service, focuses on long-term investing, robo-advisory services, retirement accounts. |
KuCoin | Cryptocurrency exchange, wide range of altcoins, low fees, margin trading, no fiat deposits. |
BlockFi | Crypto lending and trading, interest on crypto holdings, limited to crypto assets. |
Bitstamp | Reliable cryptocurrency exchange, low fees for high-volume traders, supports a variety of crypto. |
Paxful | Peer-to-peer crypto exchange, supports various payment methods, focuses on Bitcoin. |
Zerodha | India’s largest retail stock broker, low fees, good for trading stocks, mutual funds, and commodities. |
Upstox | Discount broker in India, low fees, offers stocks, options, mutual funds, and commodities trading. |
20 Best Apps To Buy Stocks And Crypto
1.Robinhood
Robinhood is a very good platform for trading both stocks and crypto as it doesn’t charge commissions. It’s perfect for beginners as it has a very simple mobile design and users can invest in stock options and major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether.
Robinhood also has fractional shares, meaning investors can buy a share for less amount. But, it also has its downsides, one being the lack of advanced researching tools that would be useful for professional users.
Pros And Cons Robinhood
Pros:
- Investing in stocks, options and cryptocurrencies is without any commission fees.
- Their app is user-friendly with an uncomplicated interface which is mobile compatible.
- The cost of investing of expensive stocks is now affordable as one can buy fractional stocks too.
- Above all, there are no policies which should be maintained in terms of the initial investment.
- Instant funds of $1000 can be deposited by the eligible users during registration.
Cons:
- Investors do not have much education and research tools at their disposal.
- The interface doesn’t hold more advanced trading features nor advanced tools.
- Often when users require assistance over the phone, they are unable to reach customer service.
- They do not have the option for retirement accounts, or even mutual funds.
- They provide five different cryptocurrencies, far less than competitors.
2.Webull
Webull is another well-known app for buying stocks and cryptocurrency where you do not have to pay any commission fees. It provides options to utilize advanced charting, real-time market data updates, and even extended hours trading options.
All these are available from Webull who provides for all sorts of assets including stocks, options, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
While quite simple to navigate, its well-developed features may attract intermediate and advanced traders more than beginners. Owing to no commission fees, it can be a good option for economical investors.
Pros And Cons Webull
Pros:
- Trading stocks, options, and crypto is free.
- The company provides advanced charting tools and all technical analysis features.
- Extended hours of trading.
- Provides paper trading which is useful to practice without the risk of losing real money.
- Completely hassle-free because there are no minimums for deposit or inactivity fees.
Cons:
- Some first-time users may be put off by the complex interface.
- The only customer support available is through the chat or lack of it all.
- Fractional shares are not available for all stocks and only a few are offered.
- There are no retirement accounts available such as IRAs.
- Some premium services and withdrawals come at a higher cost.
3.Charles Schwab
Charles Schwab is a reliable app for stock and crypto trading with a focus on commission-free trading of stocks, ETF’s, and options contracts.
With its advanced features, retirement plans, and user-friendly interface, it’s equally fit for newbies and seasoned investors. Although it does provide third-party support for crypto trading, they rather focus on standard investments such as stocks and bonds, excellent customer support, and education.
Pros And Cons Charles Schwab
Pros:
- No commissions on the buying or selling of stocks, options, and ETFs.
- Comprehensive educational and research features.
- A wide range of investment vehicles such as mutual funds.
- Excellent customer care and face-to-face assistance from branches.
- Excellent IRA and general retirement account options.
Cons:
- There is no direct crypto trading; only secondary platforms are accepted.
- There are high charges on some mutual funds and some investments.
- A beginner in the field could be completely lost with the platform’s many tools.
- Unlike certain brokers, there is no access to world markets which could be a set back.
- The account verification and setup are particularly slow.
4.Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers ranks as one of the best stock and cryptocurrency buying apps, offering low fees and access to various global markets. It allows buying of stocks, options, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
It is focused on professional traders and advanced trading tools, being a great option for seasoned traders. The pricing is reasonable but once again new traders might find the platform a little convoluted because of its advanced features.
Pros And Cons Interactive Brokers
Pros:
- A decent set of abilities which allow BASIC trading on stocks, options, and crypto trading.
- A lot of markets, including international ones like stocks and bonds.
- Advanced tools for trading for serial traders.
- A wealth of quality research and education material.
- Margin trading and short-sales are available.
Cons:
- Difficult interfaces, not suitable for any first time users.
- Very high inactivity fees for people who do not trade often.
- Relatively few types of support for customers with standard accounts.
- Relatively few advantages for small investors because of minimum deposit.
- Some trades on crypto instruments are higher than those of other companies.
5.E*TRADE
ETRADE is a dependable app to invest in stocks and cryptocurrencies as it offers trades on stocks, options and ETF, with zero commission.
It has great research tools, educational resources, retirement accounts, and is therefore useful for both novice and professional investors.
Although the core of it’s operations is based on conventional investments, ETRADE has partnered with digital asset platforms to offer crypto trading and access to major coins including Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Pros And Cons E*TRADE
Pros:
- Easy to use interface that newcomers can easily understand.
- Considerable magnitude of research and analysis tools for readers.
- Provides a 401k rollover and offers IRAs and even Roth IRAs.
- Support across all platforms via phone, chat and email 24/7.
Cons:
- No cryptocurrency direct trading.
- Some mutual funds and options contracts carry high charges.
- For advanced traders, learning materials are scarce.
- Broker assisted trades can also be very expensive.
- The mobile app has a more basic experience than the desktop version.
6.Ally Invest
Ally Invest is a very basic and simple stock and crypto investing app that has’zero commission’ on stocks, ETFs as well as options for trading. They are quite simple to use which gives them an edge for a beginner user, while also having advanced trading capabilities.
Even though Ally Invest does not provide a specific crypto trading platform, a client can make an investment in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies indirectly through available services. Besides, it has powerful customer support and retirement accounts too.
Pros And Cons Ally Invest
Pros:
- Commission-free trading on stocks, options and ETFs.
- Suitable platform for novices.
- No account minimums and no inactivity fees.
- Extensive educational materials as well as tools available.
- Transfers and money management are easier thanks to Ally Bank’s integration.
Cons:
- Lower number of research and analytical tools as compared to other rivals.
- Crypto trading is not available as an option.
- Broker-assisted trades come with very high fees.
- Investment possibilities such as bonds, mutual funds are limited.
- Execution time for trading is longer as compared to normal periods around high-volume periods.
7.Fidelity
Fidelity is a great app for purchasing stocks and crypto as it allows for commission-free trades on stocks, ETFs, and options. It has a wide range of research tools, education programs, as well as retirement accounts which makes it appropriate for everyone regardless of their investment levels.
Even though Fidelity is mainly about conventional investment, it provides a functionality of trading cryptocurrencies via third parties, which means popular coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum can be utilized utilizing secure and easy-to-use features.
Pros And Cons Fidelity
Pros:
- Doing stocks, options and ETF trading comes without commission costs.
- The firm has many tools for research and also offers education.
- Investment inflows are not limited to maintenance of an account as there are bonds, mutual funds, stocks etc.
- Customer care is also very strong with toll free live assistance.
- There are no charges for the setting up an account and its maintenance.
Cons:
- Cryptocurrencies cannot be bought and no direct trading is allowed except through funds.
- Certain International trades attract prohibitive overhead charges.
- For beginners the advanced tools are a bit too perplexing and thus they are not used.
- Access to margin trading and complex structures is quite limited.
- Fractional shares cannot be purchased for some stocks unlike competitors.
8.Firstrade
Firstrade is ranked as a top stock and cryptocurrency trading platform, ideal for making trades in stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds and cryptocurrencies without any commission costs.
Furthermore, it allows for diverse investing in more common assets and crypto currencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum through its collaboration with digital asset marketplaces.
Firstrade combines good customer service with many educational tutorials making it a good choice for beginners as well as more advanced traders wanting to spend less on their investments.
Pros And Cons Firstrade
Pros:
- No fees are charged for trading stocks, options or ETFs.
- You can invest in almost any vehicle, including bonds and mutual funds.
- There aren’t any minimum balance requirements or penalties for lapse in account activity.
- Research materials and courses are made available at no cost.
- Offers a range of retirement accounts which promote tax-efficient investing.
Cons:
- Very few channels for customer support- email and online chat being the most common.
- Cryptocurrency could not be traded directly on the platform.
- Very user friendly but lacks advanced features and complex trading functions.
- Stocks and ETFs have no fractional shares.
- Compared to more established brokers, access to international markets is limited.
9.eToro
eToro is a trusted app that allows users to invest in various assets, primarily stocks or cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. It does have a social feature that allows users to replicate the trades of top performers, known as copy trading.
eToro has a gentle learning curve but has less favorable rates for crypto trading. It also provides exposure to domestic, foreign exchanges, and other instruments.
Pros And Cons eToro
Pros:
- No commission trading for stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies.
- Social trading feature allows users to copy other trader’s strategies.
- A comprehensive range of crypto currencies as well as assets globally.
- Easy to understand user interface which is great for beginners.
- One can invest in more traditional as well as crypto investments.
Cons:
- Very high withdrawal fees on crypto currencies and also conversion fees.
- Comparatively deficient research tools suitable for basic use.
- Certain complex features of trading cannot be directly accessed.
- Minimal customer care services, mostly available via chat.
- Less available in many areas in comparison to competing trading applications.
10.TD Ameritrade
TD Ameritrade is one of the best applications for purchasing stocks and cryptocurrencies, as it has no fees on stock, ETFs, or options trades.
The app contains other excellent trading features such as in-depth charting and analysis that are suitable for advanced traders as well as novice traders.
Besides dealing with standard investments, the app offers support for crypto trading via a third-party service enabling clients to access prominent cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and Ethereum which are secured.
Pros And Cons TD Ameritrade
Pros:
- No fee trading of stocks, options and ETFs.
- Base tools aided by advanced trading tools such as thinkorswim for further insights.
- Available research and educational material for all levels available.
- Also available are coins, bonds, options, mutual funds, futures.
- Great customer care with no time limits.
Cons:
- Purchase and sale of crypto currency can only be done indirectly via external sources.
- More expensive when taking broker-assistance services.
- Unwanted features abound especially to new entrants to the site interface.
- The mobile application has fewer options than the browser version.
- Some types of accounts may need an inactivity charge.
11.Cash App
Cash App is a straightforward app and probably the easiest there is to purchase crypto and stocks, the app even allows commission-free trading on Bitcoin and stocks.
It enables the user to invest in fractional share which is a good thing for starting or low-cap investors. Though it focuses on Bitcoin and stocks, it does not have many cryptocurrencies or high-end trading methods.
Cash App best suits customers who need to make basic investments and are looking for low channels to withdraw their funds.
Pros And Cons Cash App
Pros:
- Trades in stocks and bitcoins that come commission-free.
- Very straightforward interface which is simple for new customers.
- Users can transfer funds up to $1,000 with no waiting period for verification.
- Users can buy fractional shares which makes entry cheap.
- Easy to use in conjunction with Cash App’s Core Peer to Peer Payment system.
Cons:
- Very few virtual currency alternatives (just bitcoin).
- No coverage of other products, such as mutual funds and options.
- Large costs associated with instant cashing out of Bitcoins.
- There are no sophisticated methods of trade and no charts whatsoever.
- Support is limited to mostly online chats and some written responses.
12.Acorns
Acorns is a very interesting app to buy stocks and shares through micro-investing which means that whenever you make a purchase, spare around-up change is invested.
Acorns also provides its customers with commission-free stock investments in ETFs and retirement accounts which are ideal for beginners. Even though Acorns does not offer customers direct access to trading cryptocurrencies
It helps them increase their investments through automated portfolio management features. Acorns is ideal for long-term investors who prefer a passive buy-and-hold approach without much focus.
Pros And Cons Acorns
Pros:
- Spare change from purchases is rounded off and invested automatically.
- Has a range of ETF portfolios, ideal for passive investors.
- Has a basic interface which is intuitive and easy to understand.
- Active management accounts such as IRAs are tax-beneficial.
- Helps the users in saving and investing for specific goals through effective strategies.
Cons:
- The monthly fees for the subscriptions may be trade prohibitive for low size accounts.
- Very few options for bulk portfolio management with regards to rebalancing.
- Cannot buy or sell cryptocurrencies directly.
- Does not provide the features and tools required for day traders.
- Does not have as many account types as are found with other conventional brokers.
13.Crypto.com
In case you’re in search of an app to buy stocks and cryptocurrencies, such as bitcoin, ethereum, or even altcoins, Crypto.com should be your choice. It offers users staking, crypto credit cards, and the ability to earn a good return on their crypto accounts.
However, primarily crypto assets are traded in this application, but there is also an option for stock trading through a partner brokerage. Thanks to the fees and rewards offered by Crypto.com this app will be suitable for both crypto traders and investors.
Pros And Cons Crypto.com
Pros:
- Variety in the lists of cryptocurrencies available both for trading and staking.
- Provides a crypto rewards card that has an option for cash back.
- Offers competitive rates on trades and other crypto transactions.
- Through the Earn program, there is a provision to earn interest for crypto.
- Suited for buying, selling as well as earning from the same platform.
Cons:
- The charges for withdrawal and some transactions are very high.
- Usual integration of traditional assets such as stocks or bonds is absent.
- Customer service tends to have a delayed response.
- For newbies, the fee structure is also quite complicated.
- For prospective investors of the crypto space, limited literature available.
14.Wealthfront
Wealthfront is a robo-advisor app aimed at investing only in ETFs and so is perfect for people who prefer a passive approach. Commission free trades are also available and several strategies are given to promote investment that is tax efficient.
Although Wealthfront does not allow direct trading of crypto, it does let clients invest in funds to indirectly access the cryptocurrency space.
Wealthfront is tailored for long term and goal oriented investors as it is very focused on retirement accounts and is therefore a good fit for conservative investors who want a low touch portfolio.
Pros And Cons Wealthfront
Pros:
- Offers low-cost automated investment management services.
- Earns income through tax-loss harvesting.
- Access to different ETFs which can take time to grow.
- There is no minimum balance requirement for investment accounts.
- Offers IRA accounts and other retirement savings accounts on a tax-advantaged basis.
Cons:
- There is no option for buying or selling cryptocurrencies.
- Customization of the investment portfolios is minimal.
- Only participates in the buying of ETFs, individual shares are not available.
- There are no options for day trading or utilizing leverage accounts.
- Circular fees are charged on smaller balances as there is a fixed rate across the board.
15.KuCoin
KuCoin is a well-known cryptocurrency buying app that allows users to buy different cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins.
The app has low trading fees and advanced features such as margin trading and staking which make it appealing for crypto lovers and seasoned traders. KuCoin is focused on the digital assets but has passive income products through staking, lending, and other crypto services.
Pros And Cons KuCoin
Pros:
- Promotions and contests always await the users at the KuCoin platform.
- The company offers cashback.
- Amazing security for the assets which clients have.
- Various forms of investments are instead of various forms of techniques.
- Wide selection of coins which support and encourage innovation.
- Utilizing their special tokens for discounts on fees can be extremely advantageous.
- Possibility of using the first version of the platform for lower skilled investors.
Cons:
- Low liquidity for certain assets.
- For newcomers, the interface is somewhat difficult as KuCoin is geared towards professionals.
- Support is not on demand and may be slow to respond.
- There are regions where KuCoin may face restrictions.
- Irregular markets may lead to hacks even though there are many security measures in place.
16.BlockFi
BlockFi is an application that allows multiple purchases of cryptocurrency for its users, as their stock includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other stablecoins.
Apart from that, it is unique in its services since it is able to lend cryptoassets and earn interest on deposits made by users. There is also a BlockFi credit card that gives Bitcoin as a reward for purchases.
While the platform does not allow stock trading, it is nevertheless an excellent platform for passive earnings and very moderate-cost transactions for all crypto enthusiasts.
Pros And Cons BlockFi
Pros:
- Earn competitive interest on crypto assets without any restrictions.
- Allows borrowers to take out a crypto collateralized loan.
- Accepts various cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum.
- Issues a BlockFi Rewards Visa credit card that has Bitcoin credit.
- High security level has been maintained with 2FA and there is also digital asset insurance.
Cons:
- Should have customers services other than email, support is also email based.
- Some cryptocurrencies can charge high withdrawal losses.
- There is no trading option for stocks or traditional assets.
- Interest can be lower because some digital currencies are less well known.
- Difficulty in time for the completion of transactions or withdrawal of an account at the times.
17.Bitstamp
Bitstamp is a reliable application for purchasing cryptos, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin among others. With its low fees, high security, and reliable customer service, it is suitable for both newbies and experienced traders.
Even though Bitstamp specializes in cryptocurrencies – which is the main product – the platform is cash-currency agnostic, permitting the purchase, sale, and exchange of digital assets while granting advanced trading options to professionals.
Pros And Cons Bitstamp
Pros:
- It is a credible and safe exchange having existed for a number of years.
- It charges low fees, mostly suited for bulk users.
- Allows for trading on a high number of popular cryptocurrencies.
- Facilitates advanced charting and multiple trading options.
- Allows cash deposits and withdrawals alongside crypto ones.
Cons:
- Offers only a few cryptocurrencies relative to other exchanges.
- High rates are charged for some fiat deposits and withdrawals.
- Does not offer margin trading or derivatives.
- The speed of resolving customers’ issues may take too long.
- The interface of the exchange can be difficult for novice traders.
18.Paxful
Bitstamp is a reliable application for purchasing cryptos, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin among others. With its low fees, high security, and reliable customer service, it is suitable for both newbies and experienced traders.
Even though Bitstamp specializes in cryptocurrencies – which is the main product – the platform is cash-currency agnostic, permitting the purchase, sale, and exchange of digital assets while granting advanced trading options to professionals.
Pros And Cons Paxful
Pros:
- Global P2P crypto marketplace
- Various modes of payment to buy crypto.
- No fees on P2P transactions.
- Safeguards buyers and sellers via an escrow account.
- Users can exchange BTC and numerous altcoins.
Cons:
- Customer support is mostly through email with little other channels.
- P2P trading induces chances of fraud and scam.
- More fees for buying instantly which is non P2P type of transaction.
- Lacks common P2P features that other larger exchanges have.
- Payment methods used can cause delays in the process of withdrawing funds.
19.Zerodha
Zerodha is one of the best stock trading apps in India because it allows users to trade option, stocks, ETFs and commodities without paying commissions.
Considered as an easy to use app, Zerodha has advanced charting tools and research resources, making it suitable for both novice and advanced traders.
It also offers various traditional investing options such as bonds and mutual funds although it doesn’t allow for crypto trading directly.
Pros And Cons Zerodha
Pros:
- Affordable brokerage rates suitable for traders with limited financial means.
- Simple interface that allows the use of advanced charts.
- Suitable for investment in stocks, ETFs, commodities, and many more.
- Investing in mutual funds with no commission fees is worth considering.
- Traders can benefit from educational material and webinars offered by Tinkin.
Cons:
- Users cannot trade in cryptocurrency directly on the platform.
- Less comprehensive research tools are observed as compared with the industry peers.
- May cater to basic levels of trading but nothing advanced for the elite traders.
- Possibility of margin trading for specific asset classes does not exist.
- International market exposure is lesser than what larger brokers provide.
20.Upstox
Upstox is an apple of one’s eye in India which specializes in low brokerage services for purchasing — stocks, options, ETFs or mutual funds.
There are lots of advanced trading tools integrated into the app and the system’s interface is intuitive and easy to use for everybody. Although there is no such option as direct trading of cryptocurrency
Upstox is very solid in other areas. It offers a broad selection of traditional investments supplemented by numerous research and charting tools.
Pros And Cons Upstox
Pros:
- Cost efficient for traders because of the low brokerage fees.
- Convenient services because of mobile and web platforms.
- A diverse array of products including stocks, options and even ETF’s.
- More advanced traders are provided with advanced charting and trading tools.
- No minimum deposit requirement placed.
Cons:
- Only chat and email support are provided, which is quite limited.
- Only provide trading services for crypto but not direct trading.
- Only fundamental research tools such as ‘broad reports’ provided for traders, as opposed to larger brokerage firms.
- Investment options are quite the few, such as mutual funds and bonds.
- No advanced emplyyee retirement accounts are available, such as IRAs.
Here are the key factors we use to Choose Best Apps To Buy Stocks And Crypto
Fees & Commissions: Owing to low or zero commission for buying and selling stocks and cryptocurrencies.
Asset Variety: A broad range of assets is available such as stocks, ETFs, crypto, other investment vehicles.
User Interface: Self-explanatory and intuitive apps designed especially for new learners as well as seasoned traders.
Security: Comprehensive safeguards such as encryption or two-factor authentication, as well as insurance for digital assets.
Research & Tools: Research, charts, tools, all of them are crucial for educated choices.
Customer Support: Trustworthy customer service is available for any troubleshooting or issues involving going accounts.
Regulation & Licensing: Does the platform come under the regulation of well-known and trusted financial organizations?
Mobile App Experience: Markedly responsive mobile apps that allow easy trading anywhere.
Educational Resources: Comprehensive guides, explanatory tutorials, and educational materials to assist users with the investment basics.
Conclusion
Platforms with the best apps for stocks and cryptocurrency buying have low fees, extensive asset availability, enhanced security, and simplicity of use. For beginners and professionals, there are platforms like Robinhood, Webull, and Crypto.com.
More sophisticated services are offered by, for example, Interactive Brokers and KuCoin. Depending on fees, tools available, and current security measures, users may wish to use one or another app in accordance with their investment objectives.