Public.com vs Robinhood 2024

Jeremy Biberdorf
By: Jeremy Biberdorf
 

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Online trading platforms have revolutionized how we invest. Gone are the days when only experienced investors with deep pockets could access the stock market.

Now, with platforms like Public.com and Robinhood, even beginner investors can start with small amounts and grow their portfolios. While both platforms offer commission-free trading, they differ in key aspects. Let’s dive into this comparison to determine which platform is superior.

Public.com is Better for:Robinhood is Better for:
First-time investors looking to grow with the community.Active traders keen on instant deposits and quick trades.
Hands-off investors who value social features.Cryptocurrency enthusiasts due to a wider range.
Traders wanting a broad selection of investment products.Advanced traders wanting specialized tools.
Users prioritizing financial literacy and educational tools.

Introducing the Platforms

Public.com

public.com website

Public.com is not just an investment app. It introduces a unique twist – the power of community. Public.com blends the world of social media with stock trading, letting you see what others are buying, discussing, and thinking.

Moreover, its commitment to financial literacy makes it an ideal platform for beginners. With Public.com, you’re not just investing — you’re joining a community of investors. For a deeper dive into Public.com specifically, check out our dedicated review of the platform.

 

Robinhood

robinhood.com website

Robinhood, on the other hand, was one of the pioneers in commission-free trading. Featured in our Robinhood Review, it disrupted the online brokerage world with its easy-to-use interface and quick access to trades. Primarily known for its appeal to the younger demographic, Robinhood focuses on simplified stock trading and has expanded into cryptocurrency trading.

Check out our full review of Robinhood for a closer look.

Public.com logo Robinhood logo
Type of Service Social Investing Platform Online Stock Trading Platform
Best Use Social Features, Financial Literacy Instant Deposits, Cryptocurrency Trading
Customer Support Engaging Community Support Engaging Community Support
Social Integration Deep Social Features, Community Discussions Limited
Crypto Options Limited Selection Wide Variety of Cryptos, including Bitcoin, Ethereum
Educational Materials Rich Resources, Active Community Discussions Basic Tutorials
Current Promotion

More Info

More Info

Modest Money Overall Rating
4.5 rating based on 5 ratings
4.5 rating based on 5 ratings
Public.com logo
Type of Service Social Investing Platform
Best Use Social Features, Financial Literacy
Customer Support Engaging Community Support
Social Integration Deep Social Features, Community Discussions
Crypto Options Limited Selection
Educational Materials Rich Resources, Active Community Discussions
Current Promotion

More Info

Modest Money Overall Rating
4.5 rating based on 5 ratings
Robinhood logo
Type of Service Online Stock Trading Platform
Best Use Instant Deposits, Cryptocurrency Trading
Customer Support Engaging Community Support
Social Integration Limited
Crypto Options Wide Variety of Cryptos, including Bitcoin, Ethereum
Educational Materials Basic Tutorials
Current Promotion

More Info

Modest Money Overall Rating
4.5 rating based on 5 ratings

Factor 1: User Experience and Interface:

Public.com offers a seamless experience with a strong social element

  • Robinhood provides a simplified, quick trading interface.
  • TDue to its engaging interface and social features, Public.com is preferred.

Public.com elevates the user experience by incorporating a strong social element. New investors can learn from seasoned ones, join discussions, and even follow influential traders. This social touch makes investing less daunting and more engaging. Public’s interface is intuitive, making navigation simple even for the first-time investor.

Robinhood, while offering a clean and straightforward interface, lacks the depth of community engagement. It’s designed for quick trades and simplicity. However, this can sometimes feel too basic for users who seek a richer, more interactive investing experience.

Factor 2: Investment Options and Variety:

Public.com provides a wide selection of stocks and ETFs

  • Robinhood excels in offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies.
  • With its diverse selection of investment products, Public.com takes the lead.

Diversifying is key to managing risk. Public.com offers a wide selection of stocks and ETFs. Whether you’re interested in international stocks, penny stocks, or a mix of asset classes, Public.com has got you covered. The platform also lets users buy fractional shares, allowing them to own a slice of stock without buying the whole share.

Robinhood has its strengths. While it does offer thousands of stocks and ETFs, its standout feature is cryptocurrency trading. With Robinhood, users can trade popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, providing an avenue for alternative investments.

Factor 3: Educational Resources and Tools:

Public.com prioritizes financial literacy with rich educational materials

  • Robinhood offers basic tutorials and market news.
  • For its commitment to empowering users with knowledge, Public.com wins this round.

Public.com is not just about investing. It’s about learning. The platform offers a wealth of educational tools tailored for every level of investor. From articles on investment strategies to active community discussions, Public ensures users are well-equipped to make informed investment decisions.

In contrast, Robinhood provides basic tutorials and market news. While this is helpful, it doesn’t match the depth and breadth of resources available on Public.com. The platform’s approach is more about active trading rather than deepening financial literacy.

Factor 4: Social Integration and Community Engagement:

Public.com emphasizes deep social features and community interactions

  • Robinhood offers limited social integration.
  • With its unique blend of investing and social networking, Public.com is the clear choice.

Public.com has truly disrupted the online brokerage scene by merging social media dynamics with stock trading. This platform provides a transparent environment where users can share their investment strategies, discuss market activity, and even follow portfolios of experienced investors. Such a social element makes investing relatable, less intimidating and fosters a sense of community.

Robinhood, while pioneering in many aspects, does not have a significant social integration feature. Its focus remains predominantly on the trading experience, with minimal emphasis on community engagement or shared financial goals.

Factor 5: Fees and Pricing:

Robinhood shines with its Robinhood Gold offering and commission-free trading

  • Public.com offers commission-free stock and ETF trades.
  • Due to its premium features with Robinhood Gold, Robinhood takes this factor.

Both platforms revolutionized the investment world with their commission-free trading models. At Public.com, you can trade individual stocks and ETFs without worrying about commission fees. This transparent approach is appealing, especially to beginner investors who might be wary of hidden costs.

Robinhood, on the other hand, while also providing commission-free trades on stocks and ETFs, offers a premium service called Robinhood Gold. For a monthly fee, Robinhood Gold users benefit from advanced features like larger instant deposits, professional research reports, and level II market data. This value proposition, especially for advanced traders, gives Robinhood an edge in the fees and pricing department.

The Verdict

When it comes to choosing between Public.com and Robinhood, the decision boils down to what you value more in an online brokerage.

For those who seek a more engaging, community-driven platform that emphasizes financial literacy, Public.com is the standout choice. Its blend of social features with investing tools makes it an excellent platform, particularly for newer investors wanting to grow in a supportive environment. Click here to get started with Public.com.

Robinhood, while lacking in social features, is still a robust platform, especially for those who prioritize cryptocurrency trading and are looking for advanced features with Robinhood Gold. Its streamlined process and focus on the essentials make it suitable for users who want quick and efficient trading. Go here to sign up with Robinhood.

In the end, while both platforms have their strengths, Public.com offers a richer, more holistic investing experience.
Learn More About Public.com
Learn More About Robinhood