Platform Comparison

Betterment vs Public

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

Higher Rated
BT

Betterment

★4.5

The pioneer of robo-advising with automatic portfolio management, tax-loss harvesting, and dividend reinvestment—designed for truly hands-off investing.

Full Review
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

FeatureBettermentPublic
Our Rating4.5/54.4/5
Trading CommissionsN/A$0
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional SharesN/A$1 minimum
DRIPAutomaticFree
Research ToolsAutomatedBasic
Best ForHands-Off InvestorsTransparency-Focused Investors

Pros & Cons

Betterment

Pros

  • + Automatic portfolio rebalancing and dividend reinvestment
  • + Tax-loss harvesting can offset advisory fees through tax savings
  • + Goal-based investing with clear progress tracking
  • + Low 0.25% annual fee (even lower for high balances)
  • + 80+ expert-built portfolio strategies

Cons

  • - Management fee adds up on larger balances
  • - Limited control over individual investments
  • - No direct stock picking in traditional portfolios
  • - ETF expense ratios are in addition to advisory fee

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 Betterment if you...

  • Want hands-off investors focused features
  • Need automatic dividend reinvestment
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Choose Public if you...

  • Want transparency-focused investors focused features

Compare Other Platforms

Not sure these are the right fit? Explore more comparisons.

StashvsWebullAcornsvsFidelityeTorovsCharles SchwabMerrill EdgevsWellsTradeGreenlightvsRobinhood
View All Platforms

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.