Platform Comparison

Public vs TD Ameritrade

Compare Public and TD Ameritrade 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.

Full Review
Higher Rated
TD

TD Ameritrade

★4.7

The legendary thinkorswim platform lives on under Schwab. All TD Ameritrade accounts have been migrated—new customers should open a Schwab account directly.

Full Review

Public vs TD Ameritrade: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeaturePublicTD Ameritrade
Our Rating4.4/54.7/5
Trading Commissions$0N/A
Account Minimum$0N/A
Fractional Shares$1 minimumN/A
DRIPFreeVia Schwab
Research ToolsBasicGood
Best ForTransparency-Focused InvestorsFormer TD Ameritrade Customers

Public vs TD Ameritrade: 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)

TD Ameritrade

Pros

  • + thinkorswim platform retained and integrated into Schwab
  • + All former TD Ameritrade accounts successfully migrated
  • + Commission-free trading continues under Schwab
  • + 400+ technical analysis tools in thinkorswim
  • + Trading simulator for practice without risk

Cons

  • - TD Ameritrade no longer accepts new accounts
  • - TD Ameritrade API permanently shut down
  • - Some interface changes during Schwab transition
  • - Former TD-only features may differ slightly

Which Is Better for Dividend Investors: Public or TD Ameritrade?

Choose Public if you...

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

Choose TD Ameritrade if you...

  • Are in TD Ameritrade's core audience: former td ameritrade customers
  • Prefer a higher-rated overall platform

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