Platform Comparison

Public vs TradeStation

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.

TS

TradeStation

4.1

A powerful platform built for active traders with advanced tools, customizable strategies, and futures trading—not ideal for passive dividend investors.

Feature Comparison

FeaturePublicTradeStation
Our Rating4.4/54.1/5
Trading Commissions$0$0
Account Minimum$0N/A
Fractional Shares$1 minimumNo
DRIPFreeNo
Research ToolsBasicBasic
Best ForTransparency-Focused InvestorsActive Day Traders

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)

TradeStation

Pros

  • + Commission-free stock and ETF trading (up to 10,000 shares)
  • + Industry-leading platform for active traders
  • + Extensive backtesting and strategy development tools
  • + Futures and micro-futures trading available
  • + Advanced charting with hundreds of indicators

Cons

  • - No dividend reinvestment (DRIP) program
  • - No fractional shares available
  • - $10/month inactivity fee (unless active or $5K+ balance)
  • - Higher account fees than competitors ($125 ACAT, $35 IRA)

Which Platform is Right for You?

Choose Public if you...

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

Choose TradeStation if you...

  • Want active day traders focused features

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.