If you’ve been using Robinhood but feel like it’s too basic or you’re ready to level up your trading game, you’re not alone. Many traders — both beginners and experienced — seek platforms with better tools, more asset choices, advanced analysis, or stronger research resources. Below, we’ve rounded up the top Robinhood alternatives you should consider in 2025, organized for beginners and advanced traders alike.
Why Look for Alternatives to Robinhood?
Robinhood is loved for its simple interface, commission-free trades, and easy onboarding — making it perfect for first-time traders. But as your skills grow, you may find its features limited:
- Basic charts and research tools
- Fewer investment choices than full-service brokers
- Less professional analysis and technical features
- No retirement accounts or broad asset classes on some platforms
That’s where alternatives step in — offering deeper tools and flexibility while still keeping costs low.
Best Alternatives for Beginners
These platforms keep things simple without overwhelming new investors but still offer room to grow.
1. Webull — Best All-Around Beginner + Intermediate Platform
- Zero commissions on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto
- Advanced charting + technical indicators (better than Robinhood)
- Paper trading to practice strategies risk-free
- Extended trading hours and customizable watchlists
- Slightly steeper learning curve than Robinhood but great for growth
💡 Best for: New traders ready to step up from basics.
2. SoFi Invest — Simple + Automated
- Commission-free trades and optional robo-advisor automated investing
- Easy integration with other financial services like loans and savings
- Educational tools for beginners
💡 Best for: Hands-off investors or those who want automatic portfolio help.
3. Firstrade — Zero-Fee & Beginner-Friendly
- Zero commissions on stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds
- Intuitive interface and multilingual support
- Great option for cost-conscious beginners with no hidden fees
💡 Best for: Beginners who want a free, no-frills platform.
📈 Best Alternatives for Advanced Traders
Looking for pro-grade tools, deep analytics, and serious market access? These platforms deliver.
4. Interactive Brokers — Power User Choice
- Extremely low trading costs and wide global market access
- Sophisticated tools for stocks, futures, forex and more
- Strong data and analytics for technical traders
⚠️ Not the simplest for total beginners — worth it if you’re serious about advanced trading.
5. TradeStation — Professional Features & Customization
- Advanced order types and backtesting tools
- Custom scripting (EasyLanguage) for automated strategies
- Good for day traders, options traders, and active investors
💡 Best for: Traders who want full control and automation.
6. Charles Schwab (Thinkorswim) — Blend of Research + Pro Tools
- Combines beginner-friendly features with industry-leading charts and analysis
- Great for more advanced strategies like options and technical setups
- Long history of reliability and customer support
💡 Best for: Traders planning to scale into complex investing.
🧩 More Alternatives to Explore
Here are additional platforms worth checking out depending on your focus:
- Moomoo — More advanced research and international markets access than some basic apps.
- Public.com — Social investing features and easy onboarding for new investors.
- E*TRADE & Ally Invest — Balanced choice with strong research and a good mix of tools.
🆚 Quick Feature Comparison
| Platform | Best For | Commissions | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Webull | Beginners → Intermediate | $0 | Advanced charting + paper trading |
| SoFi Invest | Casual / Beginner | $0 | Simple + auto investing |
| Firstrade | Beginners | $0 | No fees, easy interface |
| Interactive Brokers | Advanced | Low | Global markets + pro tools |
| TradeStation | Advanced | $0−options fees | Automation + backtesting |
| Charles Schwab | Intermediate → Advanced | $0 | Powerful research + Thinkorswim |
| Moomoo | Intermediate | $0 | Deep analytics & global access |
| Public.com | New traders | $0 | Social investing features |
📊 Choosing the Right One for You
Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
- 🎓 Total beginner? Start with Webull, SoFi, or Firstrade
- 📈 Interest in technical analysis? Try Interactive Brokers, TradeStation, or Schwab
- 🌍 Want broader markets? Look at Moomoo or Interactive Brokers
- 🤝 Enjoy social learning? Explore Public.com
Every trader’s needs are different — try a demo or paper trading account first to see what fits you best.
As your experience grows, don’t stick to just one platform — many seasoned traders use multiple accounts: one for simple trades, another for advanced strategies. Always compare fees, tools, and asset options before committing.