Platform Comparison

Ellevest vs Public

Compare Ellevest and Public on fees, DRIP, fractional shares and research for dividend investing.

Ellevest

★3

Ellevest discontinued its robo-advisor service in February 2025—existing accounts were transferred to Betterment. Private wealth management continues for $500K+ clients.

Full Review

Higher Rated

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

Ellevest vs Public: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

Feature	Ellevest	Public
Our Rating	3/5	4.4/5
Trading Commissions	N/A	$0
Account Minimum	N/A	$0
Fractional Shares	N/A	$1 minimum
DRIP	N/A	Free
Research Tools	Automated	Basic
Best For	High-Net-Worth Women	Transparency-Focused Investors

Ellevest vs Public: Pros and Cons

Ellevest

Pros

+ Private wealth management still available ($500K+ minimum)
+ Existing robo clients transitioned to Betterment (solid alternative)
+ Betterment offers similar features with good reputation
+ Historical focus on women's financial needs was innovative
+ Career coaching services continue separately

Cons

- Robo-advisor service discontinued February 2025
- Regular investors can no longer open new accounts
- $500K minimum for remaining wealth management services
- Transition to Betterment may not suit all former clients

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 Is Better for Dividend Investors: Ellevest or Public?

Choose Ellevest if you...

Are in Ellevest's core audience: high-net-worth women

Choose Public if you...

Are in Public's core audience: transparency-focused investors
Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Want the full breakdown of fees, DRIP, and research tools? Read our Ellevest review and Public review.

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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.