Platform Comparison

Public vs Robinhood

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

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
RH

Robinhood

★4.2

The app that brought commission-free trading to the masses, with a sleek mobile experience and $1 fractional shares.

Full Review

Feature Comparison

FeaturePublicRobinhood
Our Rating4.4/54.2/5
Trading Commissions$0$0
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional Shares$1 minimum$1 minimum
DRIPFreeFree
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForTransparency-Focused InvestorsBeginners & Young Investors

Pros & Cons

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)

Robinhood

Pros

  • + Commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, options, and crypto
  • + Industry-leading mobile app design and user experience
  • + Fractional shares starting at just $1
  • + Free dividend reinvestment (DRIP) for eligible securities
  • + 24-hour trading available for extended market access

Cons

  • - Very limited research tools compared to Fidelity or Schwab
  • - No mutual funds, bonds, or fixed income investments
  • - Dividend data is basic—missing ex-dividend dates and payment details
  • - Uses payment for order flow (PFOF) which may affect execution quality

Which Platform is Right for You?

Choose Public if you...

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

Choose Robinhood if you...

  • Want beginners & young investors focused features

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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.