Platform Comparison

Invstr vs WellsTrade

Compare Invstr and WellsTrade on fees, DRIP, fractional shares and research 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.

WF

WellsTrade

3.8

WellsTrade is Wells Fargo's self-directed brokerage (not the advisor-led Wells Fargo Advisors) for existing customers who want banking and investing under one roof—basic but functional.

Invstr vs WellsTrade: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeatureInvstrWellsTrade
Our Rating3.8/53.8/5
Trading CommissionsN/A$0
Account MinimumN/A$0
Fractional SharesN/AYes (min $10)
DRIPN/AFree
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForAbsolute BeginnersWells Fargo Banking Customers

Invstr vs WellsTrade: Pros and 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

WellsTrade

Pros

  • + Commission-free online stock and ETF trades
  • + Free dividend reinvestment with per-security selection
  • + Fractional shares through Stock Fractions program (min $10)
  • + Integration with Wells Fargo banking accounts
  • + No management fees for self-directed accounts

Cons

  • - Very basic investing platform with limited tools
  • - High margin rates (8.5%-12.5%)
  • - No pre-market trading available
  • - Limited after-hours trading (mobile only, until 6:30 PM)

Which Is Better for Dividend Investors: Invstr or WellsTrade?

Choose Invstr if you...

  • Are in Invstr's core audience: absolute beginners
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

Choose WellsTrade if you...

  • Are in WellsTrade's core audience: wells fargo banking customers

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

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.