Platform Comparison

TD Ameritrade vs WellsTrade

Compare TD Ameritrade and WellsTrade on fees, DRIP, fractional shares and research for dividend investing.

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.

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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.

Full Review

TD Ameritrade vs WellsTrade: Fees, Minimums & DRIP Compared

FeatureTD AmeritradeWellsTrade
Our Rating4.7/53.8/5
Trading CommissionsN/A$0
Account MinimumN/A$0
Fractional SharesN/AYes (min $10)
DRIPVia SchwabFree
Research ToolsGoodBasic
Best ForFormer TD Ameritrade CustomersWells Fargo Banking Customers

TD Ameritrade vs WellsTrade: Pros and Cons

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

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: TD Ameritrade or WellsTrade?

Choose TD Ameritrade if you...

  • Are in TD Ameritrade's core audience: former td ameritrade customers
  • 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 TD Ameritrade review and WellsTrade 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.