Platform Comparison

Acorns vs Public

Detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the best platform for dividend investing

AC

Acorns

★4.1

The micro-investing app that turns your spare change into investments through Round-Ups—perfect for beginners who struggle to save consistently.

Full Review
Higher Rated
PB

Public

★4.4

A transparent, community-focused investing platform that rejects payment for order flow in favor of optional tipping—putting your interests first.

Full Review

Feature Comparison

FeatureAcornsPublic
Our Rating4.1/54.4/5
Trading CommissionsN/A$0
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional SharesN/A$1 minimum
DRIPAutomaticFree
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForBeginner SaversTransparency-Focused Investors

Pros & Cons

Acorns

Pros

  • + Round-Ups automatically invest spare change from purchases
  • + No account minimum—start investing with $5
  • + Automatic dividend reinvestment included
  • + Diversified portfolios using Vanguard and iShares ETFs
  • + Free for college students with .edu email

Cons

  • - Flat monthly fee is expensive for small balances
  • - No tax-loss harvesting (unlike Betterment/Wealthfront)
  • - Cannot choose individual stocks or ETFs
  • - Limited customization of portfolios

Public

Pros

  • + No payment for order flow—potentially better trade execution
  • + Commission-free stocks, ETFs, and options trading
  • + Fractional shares starting at just $1
  • + Free dividend reinvestment with fractional share support
  • + High interest rate on uninvested cash

Cons

  • - No mutual funds available
  • - Limited research and screening tools
  • - Extended hours trading costs $2.99 per order (non-Premium)
  • - Penny stocks cost $2.99 per trade (non-Premium)

Which Platform is Right for You?

Choose Acorns if you...

  • Want beginner savers focused features
  • Need automatic dividend reinvestment

Choose Public if you...

  • Want transparency-focused investors focused features
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

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Investment Disclaimer

Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.