If you have outgrown Robinhood or just want to see what else is out there, you are not alone. Robinhood made commission-free investing mainstream, but the app market has grown crowded with strong choices. Some offer more asset types, others focus on crypto, and a few add tools Robinhood does not.
This guide covers what Robinhood does well, why people shop around, and three apps worth comparing. A quick reminder before we start: all investing carries risk, and you can lose money, including your original investment. Past performance never guarantees future results.
What Robinhood Offers in 2026
Robinhood built its name on commission-free trades. As of July 2026, you can trade stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto with no commission, buy fractional shares for as little as $1, and access more than 5,000 stocks and ETFs. It also supports dozens of cryptocurrencies and has expanded into newer areas like futures and event contracts. For many beginners, the clean, simple app is the whole appeal.
Why People Look for Apps Like Robinhood
Robinhood is not perfect for everyone. Some investors want assets it handles differently, such as bonds and Treasuries. Others want deeper research tools, a wider crypto selection, or high-yield cash options. And a few simply want to compare fees and features before committing. Whatever your reason, the apps below each bring something different to the table.
Robinhood: Still a Strong All-in-One Pick
Even on a list of alternatives, Robinhood earns a spot for a reason. It packs stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto into one simple app with no trading commissions.
Robinhood
Robinhood
Robinhood is a trading platform that brings stocks, ETFs, options, futures, prediction markets, crypto, and retirement accounts together in one app.
Standout feature
One platform for stocks, ETFs, options, futures, prediction markets, and crypto
Fees
$0 commission on stocks, ETFs, and options.
Pros
Zero-commission trading on stocks, ETFs, and options
Cons
Best perks (high APY, lower margin rates) require Gold subscription ($5/month)
Its fractional shares let you start with a single dollar, which is great for new investors testing the waters. Robinhood Gold adds features like higher instant deposits and more research for a monthly fee, and our guide on whether Robinhood Gold is worth it runs the break-even math. Keep in mind that a simple interface can make trading feel casual, so set a plan and avoid impulse trades. As with any brokerage, your investments can lose value.
Public: Multi-Asset Investing With Yields
Public stands out if you want more than stocks in one place. It offers commission-free stocks, ETFs, and options, plus bonds, Treasuries, and crypto in a single app.
Public
Public
Investing for those who take it seriously. Invest in stocks, bonds, options, crypto & more.
Standout feature
A 5%+ yield Bond Account paired with 3.3% APY on cash — Public is one of the only consumer apps where idle and conservative money is treated as seriously as the equity portfolio.
Fees
Free
Pros
• Invest in stocks, bonds, crypto & more• Earn 3.3% APY* on your cash with no fees• 1% match when you transfer your portfolio• Lock in a 5%+ yield with a Bond Account
Cons
Customer support is in-app and email only, no phone
As of June 2026, Public also advertised a high-yield cash account around 3.3% APY with no subscription fee or minimum balance, along with a bond account for locking in yields. It layers in AI-powered data and analysis for a monthly cost if you want deeper research. Rates on cash and bonds change over time and are not guaranteed, so check the current terms before you rely on them.
Gemini: For Crypto-Focused Investors
If crypto is your main interest, Gemini is worth a look. It offers more than 70 cryptocurrencies and has grown into a broader platform with staking, a rewards card, and more.
Gemini
Gemini
Buy, sell, and trade 70+ cryptocurrencies on one of America's most trusted and regulated exchanges. Founded by the Winklevoss twins, Gemini makes crypto simple and secure — plus get $15 in free Bitcoin when you trade $100.
Standout feature
Highly regulated exchange. Get $15 in free Bitcoin with $100 trade. 70+ coins available.
Fees
Free
Pros
One of the most regulated crypto exchanges. Strong security standards. Get $15 in free Bitcoin.
Cons
Higher fees than some competitors on the basic platform.
Gemini is known for strong security controls and regulated custody, with both a simple mobile app and an ActiveTrader platform that carries lower fees. Its trade-off is cost: fees can run higher than some rivals, and card deposits carry a 3.99% charge as of July 2026. Crypto is especially volatile, so only invest money you can afford to lose. If crypto is your whole focus, our roundup of apps like Coinbase compares more coin-focused platforms.
How to Choose the Right App
Think about what you actually plan to invest in:
- Want simple, all-in-one stock and crypto trading? Robinhood is hard to beat for ease of use.
- Want stocks, bonds, Treasuries, and cash in one app? Public covers more ground.
- Focused mainly on crypto? Gemini offers depth and strong security.
Also weigh fees, research tools, and whether you want extras like a high-yield cash account or staking.
A Word on Risk
No investing app removes market risk. Prices rise and fall, and you can lose money regardless of which platform you use. Diversifying, investing for the long term, and only using money you do not need soon can help manage that risk, but nothing eliminates it. If you are unsure, consider speaking with a licensed financial advisor before you invest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Robinhood still worth using in 2026?
Robinhood remains a solid choice for beginners who want a simple, commission-free way to trade stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto. Whether it is right for you depends on whether you need assets or tools it handles differently, such as bonds or advanced research.
Which app is best for both stocks and crypto?
Robinhood and Public both let you trade stocks and crypto in one app, while Gemini specializes in crypto with a wider selection of coins. Your best pick depends on how much of your portfolio you want in crypto versus traditional assets.
Are these investing apps safe?
Reputable apps use strong encryption, and brokerage accounts are typically protected by SIPC up to legal limits, which covers failure of the firm, not market losses. Crypto is generally not covered by that protection, so understand what is insured before you invest.
Can I lose money with these apps?
Yes. Every investment carries risk, and you can lose part or all of your money on any of these platforms. The app itself does not change the underlying risk of the stocks, funds, or crypto you buy.
Next Steps
Start by deciding what you want to invest in and how hands-on you want to be. Compare Robinhood, Public, and Gemini on the assets, fees, and tools that matter to you. Open an account only when you have a plan and are comfortable with the risk. Investing steadily over time tends to beat chasing quick wins, so start small and stay consistent.
