Platform Comparison

Invstr vs Public

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

IV

Invstr

★3.8

Practice investing with $1M in virtual money, learn through gamified courses, then graduate to real trading—the complete beginner-to-investor journey.

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

FeatureInvstrPublic
Our Rating3.8/54.4/5
Trading CommissionsN/A$0
Account MinimumN/A$0
Fractional SharesN/A$1 minimum
DRIPN/AFree
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForAbsolute BeginnersTransparency-Focused Investors

Pros & Cons

Invstr

Pros

  • + Free investing course with 85 lessons and certificate
  • + Fantasy Finance: Practice with $1M virtual money
  • + Compete in fantasy leagues and win real prizes
  • + Commission-free real stock and crypto trading
  • + Fractional shares starting at $5

Cons

  • - Real trading has minimum fees ($2.99 full shares, $0.99 fractional)
  • - $5 registration fee for real trading through DriveWealth
  • - Very limited research tools for experienced investors
  • - No mutual funds, bonds, forex, or OTC trading

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 Invstr if you...

  • Want absolute beginners focused features

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.