Robinhood and Stash Compared in 2025: A Side-by-Side Analysis

Robinhood and Stash: A Comparative Analysis of Two Popular Investment Apps

In the rapidly evolving world of online investing, two names that stand out are Robinhood and Stash. Both platforms have gained significant popularity among beginners and seasoned investors alike, offering unique features and services.

Robinhood: The Active Trader's Haven

Robinhood, a free-trading app, has revolutionised the investment landscape by eliminating commission fees on stock and ETF trades. It extends this service to options, cryptocurrency, American Depositary Receipts for over 650 global companies, and fractional shares. For those seeking a more advanced trading experience, Robinhood Gold, priced at $5 a month, offers additional features. Notably, Gold accounts come with an interest rate of 4%, a significant jump from the 0.01% interest rate for free accounts.

Robinhood's user-friendly mobile and web platforms are renowned for their smooth sign-up, funding, and trading processes. The platform also offers 24/7 chat support and phone support from 7:00 a.m. ET to 9:00 p.m. ET, Monday - Friday.

Robinhood: Accounts and Fees

Robinhood has a minimal account requirement of $0 for brokerage accounts, Robinhood Gold accounts, and IRAs. However, it charges a $100 fee for ACAT outgoing transfer fees. Robinhood also offers a matching program for IRA accounts.

Stash: The Learning Investor's Choice

Stash, on the other hand, caters more to those who want to learn about investing while building their portfolio. It offers access to over 4,000 individual stocks and ETFs in the DIY individual brokerage account. Stash is also known for its Stash Stock-Back® debit card, which provides stock rewards on purchases, albeit without interest-earning capabilities.

Stash: Accounts and Fees

Stash's account minimum is $0 ($5 for Smart Portfolios). It charges a $75 fee for ACAT full or partial transfer fees. For automated investing, Stash levies an account management fee of $3 per month, with a $9-a-month tier available for access to Kids Portfolios (custodial accounts) and higher Stock-Back® rewards.

Customer Support and Operating Hours

Robinhood's customer support is available via phone and email, while Stash offers support via phone and email, with extended weekend hours.

Who are these Apps For?

Robinhood is designed for investors who want to actively trade stocks, options, exchange-traded funds, and cryptocurrency. In contrast, Stash is best for beginners who want to learn how to invest, as well as for those who prefer to choose their own investments and get automated portfolios.

While both platforms have their unique strengths, understanding their offerings can help investors make informed decisions about which platform best suits their investment goals and needs.