Platform Comparison

Public vs Charles Schwab

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

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.

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Higher Rated
CS

Charles Schwab

★4.8

A trusted full-service broker with zero commissions, 400+ branches, and powerful thinkorswim trading platform.

Full Review

Public vs Charles Schwab: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeaturePublicCharles Schwab
Our Rating4.4/54.8/5
Trading Commissions$0$0
Account Minimum$0$0
Fractional Shares$1 minimumS&P 500 only
DRIPFreeFree
Research ToolsBasicExcellent
Best ForTransparency-Focused InvestorsBeginners Who Want Support

Public vs Charles Schwab: Pros and 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)

Charles Schwab

Pros

  • + Zero commissions on stocks, ETFs, and options
  • + No account minimums or inactivity fees
  • + 24/7 customer support with knowledgeable representatives
  • + 400+ physical branches for in-person help
  • + Free automatic dividend reinvestment (DRIP)

Cons

  • - Fractional shares limited to S&P 500 stocks with $5 minimum
  • - Mobile app can feel clunky compared to newer brokers like Robinhood
  • - DRIP is not enabled by default—you must turn it on manually
  • - Robo-advisor requires $5,000 minimum to start

Which Is Better for Dividend Investors: Public or Charles Schwab?

Choose Public if you...

  • Are in Public's core audience: transparency-focused investors

Choose Charles Schwab if you...

  • Are in Charles Schwab's core audience: beginners who want support
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

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