Top 10 Stock Trading Apps for All Levels You Can Trust

In todays fast-moving financial landscape, having access to a reliable, secure, and user-friendly stock trading app is no longer a luxuryits a necessity. Whether youre a complete beginner taking your first steps into investing or a seasoned trader seeking advanced tools and real-time analytics, the right app can make all the difference. But with hundreds of platforms available, how do you know which ones are truly trustworthy? This guide cuts through the noise to present the top 10 stock trading apps you can trust across all experience levels. Weve evaluated each based on security protocols, fee structures, educational resources, customer support transparency, regulatory compliance, and real-world performance. No hype. No sponsored bias. Just facts you can rely on to grow your wealth with confidence.

Why Trust Matters

When it comes to managing your money, trust isnt just a nice-to-haveits the foundation of every successful investment decision. Unlike traditional banking, where physical branches and regulated oversight have long established credibility, the world of mobile trading apps is relatively new and rapidly evolving. This creates opportunitiesbut also risks. Unregulated platforms, hidden fees, data breaches, and misleading marketing can erode your capital before you even realize whats happening.

Trust in a trading app begins with regulatory oversight. Apps licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), or equivalent global regulators like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK or the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) are held to strict standards. These bodies require transparent reporting, segregation of client funds, and robust cybersecurity measures. Choosing an app without this backing is like driving a car without brakestechnically possible, but dangerously unpredictable.

Equally important is transparency in pricing. Many apps advertise zero commissions but make money through payment for order flow, currency conversion fees, or premium subscriptions buried in fine print. Trusted platforms clearly disclose how they earn revenue and never hide costs behind flashy headlines. They also provide full access to account statements, trade confirmations, and historical data without requiring a paid upgrade.

Security is another non-negotiable. Look for apps that use end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, biometric login options, and regular third-party security audits. A trustworthy app will also notify you immediately of unusual activity and offer account recovery protocols that dont rely on easily compromised email addresses.

Finally, trust is built through consistency. A platform thats been around for years, has a large user base, and maintains a clean record with consumer protection agencies is far more reliable than one that launches with viral marketing but vanishes after a year. Reviews matterbut not just any reviews. Look for patterns: Are users consistently praising execution speed? Are complaints about withdrawal delays rare or nonexistent? These are the real indicators of trustworthiness.

With these criteria in mind, weve curated the following list of the top 10 stock trading apps you can trusteach vetted for security, fairness, and suitability across beginner, intermediate, and advanced investor profiles.

Top 10 Stock Trading Apps for All Levels

1. Fidelity

Fidelity stands as one of the most trusted names in American finance, with over 75 years of experience managing assets for millions of investors. Its mobile app combines institutional-grade tools with an interface designed for everyday users. Fidelity offers commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and options, with no account minimums. What sets Fidelity apart is its depth of researchaccess to over 10,000 mutual funds, real-time market data, and proprietary analyst reportsall available without subscription fees.

Beginners benefit from Fidelitys extensive educational hub, featuring video tutorials, webinars, and interactive simulators. Intermediate traders appreciate the customizable watchlists, advanced charting with 100+ technical indicators, and paper trading capabilities. Advanced users can execute complex orders like limit stops, trailing stops, and conditional trades with precision. Fidelity also offers tax-loss harvesting and automatic dividend reinvestment at no extra cost.

Security features include biometric login, encrypted messaging, and FDIC-insured cash balances up to $500,000 through its cash management account. The app integrates seamlessly with Fidelitys full-service brokerage, making it easy to scale from self-directed investing to personalized advice when needed. With a 4.8-star rating on both the App Store and Google Play, Fidelity consistently ranks as one of the most reliable platforms for long-term wealth building.

2. Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab has built its reputation on integrity, transparency, and customer-centric innovation. Its mobile app delivers a clean, intuitive experience that avoids overwhelming users with cluttered dashboards. Like Fidelity, Schwab offers commission-free trading on U.S. equities and ETFs, with no hidden fees for options or mutual fund purchases. One of its strongest advantages is the absence of inactivity fees or account maintenance chargesregardless of balance size.

For new investors, Schwab provides a robust Learn & Explore section with curated content on portfolio basics, market cycles, and behavioral finance. The app includes a powerful portfolio analyzer that breaks down asset allocation, risk exposure, and performance benchmarks against the S&P 500. Intermediate traders enjoy real-time Level 2 quotes, streaming news from Dow Jones, and the ability to set custom alerts based on price, volume, or news triggers.

Advanced users benefit from Schwabs Active Trader Pro platform, accessible via the mobile app, which supports algorithmic trading strategies, direct market access (DMA), and advanced order types. Schwab also offers fractional shares, allowing investors to buy portions of expensive stocks like Amazon or Google with as little as $5. The app supports tax-efficient investing tools, including cost basis tracking and automated tax document generation.

Security is a top priority: Schwab uses multi-factor authentication, device recognition, and real-time fraud monitoring. All client assets are protected by SIPC insurance up to $500,000, including $250,000 for cash. With over 30 million client accounts and a track record spanning decades, Schwab remains a gold standard for reliability and trust.

3. Robinhood

Robinhood revolutionized retail investing by introducing commission-free trading to the masses. While it has faced scrutiny in the past, the platform has significantly improved its infrastructure, compliance, and transparency over the last five years. Today, Robinhood offers a streamlined, mobile-first experience ideal for beginners and casual traders who prioritize simplicity over complexity.

The apps minimalist design makes it easy to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies with just a few taps. Fractional shares are available with no minimum investment, allowing users to start with as little as $1. Robinhoods educational content, though less comprehensive than Fidelity or Schwab, includes bite-sized articles and video explainers that demystify key concepts like dividends, market orders, and volatility.

For intermediate users, Robinhood Gold (a paid subscription) unlocks margin trading, extended-hours trading, and higher instant deposit limits. The app also offers real-time market data and basic charting tools with common technical indicators. Advanced traders may find the lack of Level 2 data and limited order types restrictive, but for those focused on long-term holding or swing trading, Robinhoods speed and ease of use remain compelling.

Security has improved dramatically: Robinhood now offers two-factor authentication, biometric login, and encrypted data transmission. Client funds are protected by SIPC insurance up to $500,000. While Robinhoods business model includes payment for order flow, the company now discloses this practice clearly in its terms and provides users with the option to opt out of certain data-sharing features. Its clean interface, low barrier to entry, and consistent uptime make it a trusted choice for those just starting out.

4. E*TRADE

E*TRADE, now part of Morgan Stanley, remains a powerhouse for investors seeking a balance between user-friendly design and professional-grade tools. The mobile app delivers a seamless experience whether youre checking your portfolio on the go or placing complex trades during market hours. Commission-free trading on U.S. stocks and ETFs is standard, with options trading available at $0.65 per contracta competitive rate in the industry.

Beginners will appreciate E*TRADEs Learn & Grow library, which includes interactive courses, live webinars, and a simulated trading environment with $100,000 in virtual cash. The apps Portfolio Heatmap visually displays performance by sector and asset class, helping users spot imbalances quickly. Intermediate traders benefit from advanced charting with 130+ technical indicators, customizable layouts, and real-time news feeds from CNBC and Bloomberg.

Advanced users gain access to E*TRADE Pro, a desktop-grade platform available via mobile browser, offering direct market access, algorithmic order routing, and advanced order types like iceberg and hedge orders. The app also supports automated investing, dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs), and tax-advantaged account management for IRAs and 401(k)s.

E*TRADE is fully regulated by the SEC and FINRA, with SIPC protection up to $500,000. The app uses bank-level encryption, requires two-factor authentication, and monitors for suspicious activity 24/7. With over 5 million active users and decades of operational history, E*TRADE remains one of the most dependable platforms for investors who want room to grow without switching services.

5. Webull

Webull has rapidly gained popularity among tech-savvy traders by offering institutional-grade tools at no cost. The app is particularly well-suited for intermediate and advanced users who demand real-time data, advanced charting, and powerful analytics without paying for premium subscriptions. Webull offers commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, options, and fractional shareswith no minimum balance required.

One of Webulls standout features is its extensive suite of technical analysis tools. The app includes over 120 technical indicators, customizable drawing tools, and real-time Level 2 quotes for free. Users can create custom watchlists, set price alerts, and receive news alerts from major financial outlets. The Smart Money Flow indicator tracks institutional buying and selling patterns, giving retail traders insight typically reserved for professionals.

Beginners may find the interface dense at first, but Webull offers a guided onboarding experience and a library of educational videos explaining trading concepts. The app also includes a paper trading mode with $1 million in virtual funds, allowing users to test strategies risk-free. For those interested in global markets, Webull supports trading in U.S. and Hong Kong stocks, with plans to expand further.

Security is robust: Webull uses AES-256 encryption, two-factor authentication, and biometric login. Client assets are protected by SIPC insurance up to $500,000. While Webull does engage in payment for order flow, it provides clear disclosures and allows users to review their order routing preferences. With a 4.7-star rating and consistent performance during high-volume trading days, Webull has earned its place as a trusted platform for serious traders on a budget.

6. SoFi Invest

SoFi Invest combines investing with personal finance in a single, beautifully designed app. Originally built for young professionals seeking financial wellness, SoFi has evolved into a comprehensive platform trusted by over 5 million users. The app offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, with no account minimums and no hidden fees.

Beginners love SoFis automated investing feature, which creates a diversified portfolio based on risk tolerance and goals. The app also includes free financial planning tools, credit score tracking, and debt management resourcesall in one place. Educational content is presented in digestible, visually engaging formats, making it easy to learn about compound interest, asset allocation, and market fundamentals.

Intermediate traders can switch to active investing mode, where they gain access to real-time quotes, customizable watchlists, and basic charting tools. SoFi also offers fractional shares and dividend reinvestment at no cost. The apps Investing Insights feature provides curated market summaries and analyst ratings without overwhelming users with jargon.

SoFi is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, with SIPC protection up to $500,000. The app uses end-to-end encryption and requires two-factor authentication. While SoFi doesnt offer options trading or advanced order types, its focus on simplicity, transparency, and holistic financial health makes it one of the most trustworthy platforms for beginners and those seeking a balanced approach to investing.

7. Interactive Brokers (IBKR Mobile)

Interactive Brokers is the go-to platform for professional traders, hedge funds, and institutional investorsand its mobile app brings that same power to retail users. Known for its low-cost global access and advanced trading capabilities, IBKR Mobile is ideal for intermediate and advanced traders who need precision, flexibility, and global market exposure.

Commission-free trading is available on U.S. stocks and ETFs, while international equities, futures, options, bonds, and forex are offered at highly competitive rates. The app supports over 135 markets across 33 countries, making it one of the few platforms that truly enables global diversification. Advanced order typesincluding bracket orders, OCO (one-cancels-other), and trailing stopsare fully supported.

Interactive Brokers offers one of the most comprehensive research libraries in the industry, including real-time analyst ratings, economic calendars, and proprietary market sentiment indicators. The mobile app integrates seamlessly with the desktop Trader Workstation (TWS), allowing users to switch between devices without losing context.

Security is unparalleled: IBKR uses multi-layered encryption, hardware security keys, and real-time transaction monitoring. Client assets are protected by SIPC and additional private insurance up to $10 million. While the interface may seem intimidating to beginners, IBKR offers a robust learning center with tutorials, webinars, and a simulated trading environment. For those ready to scale beyond basic investing, Interactive Brokers is among the most trustworthy and capable platforms available.

8. Public

Public stands out as a socially driven investing platform that combines trading with community learning. Designed for millennials and Gen Z investors, Public makes investing feel collaborative rather than intimidating. The app offers commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and fractional shareswith no account minimums.

What makes Public unique is its social feed, where users can follow other investors, share insights, and discuss market trends in real time. This peer-to-peer learning environment helps beginners understand market behavior through real examples rather than abstract theory. The app also features Investing 101 guides, video lessons, and daily market recaps written in plain language.

Intermediate users benefit from customizable watchlists, price alerts, and basic charting tools. Public also offers automated investing through Goals, which lets users set targets (e.g., Save $5,000 for a car in 12 months) and automatically invests a set amount each week. Dividend reinvestment is automatic and free.

Security is strong: Public uses bank-grade encryption, two-factor authentication, and SIPC protection up to $500,000. The platform is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, and its business model is transparentrevenue comes from optional premium subscriptions (Public Plus), not hidden fees or order flow manipulation. Publics commitment to education, transparency, and community makes it a trusted choice for investors who value learning alongside their portfolio growth.

9. TD Ameritrade (now part of Charles Schwab)

Though TD Ameritrade has been fully integrated into Schwab, its mobile app remains a powerful and widely used platform. Known for its exceptional research tools and educational resources, TD Ameritrades legacy continues to benefit millions of investors. The app offers commission-free trading on U.S. stocks, ETFs, and optionswith no account minimums.

Beginners benefit from the Investing Classroom, a comprehensive library of video courses, articles, and quizzes covering everything from how to read a balance sheet to understanding market cycles. The apps Thinkorswim platform (available via mobile browser) provides professional-grade charting with over 400 indicators, real-time streaming data, and backtesting capabilities for trading strategies.

Intermediate and advanced traders appreciate the depth of analysis tools: options strategy labs, heat maps, volume profile indicators, and customizable scanners that identify stocks based on technical or fundamental criteria. The app also supports paper trading with $100,000 in virtual funds, allowing users to test complex strategies before risking real capital.

Security remains top-tier: biometric login, two-factor authentication, encrypted communications, and SIPC protection up to $500,000. The app is fully compliant with SEC and FINRA regulations. Even after the Schwab merger, TD Ameritrades app continues to receive updates and performance improvements, ensuring it remains one of the most reliable and feature-rich platforms for serious investors.

10. M1 Finance

M1 Finance redefines investing by blending automated portfolio management with the flexibility of manual trading. Often called the Robinhood for long-term investors, M1 allows users to build custom Pies (portfolios) of stocks and ETFs, then automatically rebalances them to maintain target allocations. The app offers commission-free trading, fractional shares, and no account minimums.

Beginners benefit from pre-built portfolios curated by financial experts, such as High Growth, Dividend Income, or ESG Focus. The apps visual interface makes it easy to understand how your money is allocated across sectors and asset classes. Automated investing features allow users to set up recurring deposits and let M1 handle the restideal for those who want to set it and forget it.

Intermediate users can customize their Pies with over 4,000 securities and manually buy or sell individual holdings. M1 also offers a margin account (M1 Plus) for those who want to borrow against their portfolio at low rates. The app includes tax-loss harvesting for M1 Plus subscribers and generates detailed annual tax reports.

Security is robust: M1 uses 256-bit encryption, two-factor authentication, and SIPC protection up to $500,000. The platform is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, and its fee structure is entirely transparentno hidden charges, no payment for order flow, and no commissions. While M1 doesnt offer options trading or real-time Level 2 data, its focus on automation, simplicity, and long-term growth makes it one of the most trustworthy platforms for investors who prioritize consistency over speculation.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Are these apps safe for beginners?

Yes, all apps on this list are regulated by major financial authorities like the SEC and FINRA, and they offer robust security features including two-factor authentication and encryption. Apps like SoFi, Public, and M1 Finance are especially beginner-friendly due to their educational resources and simplified interfaces. Even more advanced platforms like Fidelity and Schwab provide guided onboarding to help new users build confidence.

Do I need to pay for premium features to trust these apps?

No. All apps on this list offer core trading servicesincluding commission-free stock and ETF tradingwithout requiring a paid subscription. Premium features (like margin trading or advanced analytics) are optional and clearly labeled. Trusted platforms do not lock essential tools behind paywalls or hide fees in fine print.

Can I trade international stocks on these apps?

Yes, but availability varies. Interactive Brokers offers the broadest global access, including stocks in the UK, Hong Kong, Canada, and more. Fidelity, Schwab, and E*TRADE support major international ETFs and ADRs. Robinhood and Public currently focus on U.S. markets only. Always check the apps asset offerings before investing in non-U.S. securities.

What happens if the app shuts down?

If a regulated app shuts down, your assets are protected. All platforms listed here hold client securities in custodial accounts separate from their own funds. In the event of bankruptcy, SIPC insurance covers up to $500,000 per account (including $250,000 for cash). Your holdings can be transferred to another broker without loss of value.

Do these apps report to the IRS?

Yes. All regulated trading apps are required by law to issue IRS forms such as 1099-B (for capital gains) and 1099-DIV (for dividends). These documents are automatically generated and made available in your account dashboard by January 31 each year.

Which app is best for long-term investing?

Fidelity, Charles Schwab, and M1 Finance are ideal for long-term investors. They offer automated dividend reinvestment, tax-efficient tools, low-cost index funds, and comprehensive retirement account options. Their focus on stability, research, and portfolio growth aligns with buy-and-hold strategies.

Which app is best for active day traders?

Webull and Interactive Brokers are the top choices for active traders. Both offer real-time Level 2 data, advanced charting, low-cost options trading, and fast order execution. Webull is more accessible for retail traders, while Interactive Brokers suits those with larger portfolios and complex strategies.

Can I use multiple apps at once?

Absolutely. Many investors use one app for long-term holdings (like M1 Finance) and another for active trading (like Webull). As long as you manage your accounts securely and keep records organized, using multiple platforms is a smart way to diversify your tools and access different features.

How do I know if an app is truly regulated?

Check the apps website for regulatory disclosureslook for SEC and FINRA registration numbers. You can also verify a firms status directly on the SECs Investment Adviser Public Disclosure (IAPD) website or FINRAs BrokerCheck tool. Trusted apps prominently display this information in their footer or About section.

Is it safe to link my bank account to these apps?

Yes, if the app is regulated and uses bank-level encryption. All apps on this list use 256-bit SSL encryption and partner with trusted financial institutions to process deposits and withdrawals. Look for bank-grade security or encrypted connection indicators in the apps settings or FAQ section.

Conclusion

Choosing a stock trading app isnt just about finding the lowest fees or the flashiest interfaceits about building a relationship with a platform that prioritizes your financial safety, transparency, and long-term success. The top 10 apps listed here have been rigorously evaluated not just on features, but on integrity: their regulatory standing, security practices, fee clarity, and commitment to user education. Whether youre taking your first step into investing or managing a sophisticated portfolio, theres a trusted platform here that fits your needs.

Remember, the best app is the one youll use consistently. A powerful tool is useless if its too confusing to navigate. A simple interface is meaningless if it lacks the tools to grow your wealth. The winners on this list strike the right balanceoffering depth without complexity, security without secrecy, and accessibility without compromise.

Start with one platform that aligns with your current goals. Learn its tools. Monitor its performance. Reassess annually. As your experience grows, you may expand to additional platformsbut always prioritize trust over trends. In the world of investing, the most valuable asset isnt the stock you buyits the platform you trust to protect it.