Getting started with investing can feel intimidating, but the good news is that it doesn't have to be. Over the past few years, investing platforms have embraced simplicity, making it easier than ever for beginners to put their money to work. Whether you want to invest spare change or manage a small portfolio, there are platforms designed specifically to guide you every step of the way. Here are five beginner-friendly investing platforms that anyone can use to kick-start their financial growth.

1. Robinhood

Robinhood has become one of the most well-known platforms for new investors, offering a user-friendly app that lets you trade stocks, ETFs, options, and even cryptocurrencies—all with zero commissions.

What Makes It Great for Beginners:

Robinhood’s simple interface makes it easy to get started, even if you have no prior experience with investing. It also has resources like news updates and notifications to help you stay informed.

Standout Features:

  • No account minimums or trading fees.
  • The ability to purchase fractional shares (you can invest as little as $1 in big-name companies).
  • Streamlined design for effortless navigation.

Robinhood is perfect for those who want a minimalist app that gets them into the market quickly and clearly.

2. Acorns

Acorns is a unique platform that simplifies investing by automatically putting your spare change to work. It’s geared toward people who want to make investing a regular habit without worrying about micromanaging their portfolio.

What Makes It Great for Beginners:

With Acorns, you don’t have to pick individual stocks or funds. The platform selects diversified ETFs for you based on your goals and risk tolerance.

Standout Features:

  • “Round-Up” feature that invests spare change from everyday purchases.
  • Automated portfolio management based on expert strategies.
  • Access to a checking account and retirement accounts through the app.

Acorns is ideal for beginners who want to get started with small, consistent investments that build up over time.

3. Betterment

Betterment is one of the leading robo-advisors, meaning it uses technology to manage your investments for you. This is a hassle-free option for anyone hesitant to make decisions about where to put their money.

What Makes It Great for Beginners:

Betterment crafts a personalized portfolio for you based on your financial goals, whether that’s saving for retirement, building wealth, or something in between.

Standout Features:

  • Automated portfolio rebalancing and tax-saving strategies.
  • Goal-based planning tools to keep you on track.
  • Low annual fees compared to traditional financial advisors.

If you're looking for a platform that takes care of the heavy lifting, Betterment is a smart choice for beginner investors.

4. Stash

Stash blends investing with financial education, making it great for beginners who want to learn as they grow. The app offers fractional shares and curated investment options to match your values or interests.

What Makes It Great for Beginners:

Stash provides tips and guidance along the way, making it easy to understand the “why” behind your investments. It even includes banking tools to help you save and spend smarter.

Standout Features:

  • Curated investments, like funds focusing on clean energy or tech.
  • Fractional shares starting at just $5.
  • Integrated learning tools and personalized advice.

Stash is a fantastic platform if you’d like a mix of hands-on investing and educational resources to build your confidence.

5. Wealthfront

Wealthfront is another robo-advisor that appeals to beginners who want automated investing with an extra helping of technology-driven features. It uses algorithms to build and balance your portfolio, ensuring it's optimized for your financial goals.

What Makes It Great for Beginners:

Wealthfront simplifies investing while providing a high degree of customization. Plus, it offers tools like financial planning calculators to help you see the bigger picture.

Standout Features:

  • Low account minimum of $500 to start.
  • Sophisticated tax optimization features, even for beginners.
  • Automated retirement and college savings options.

For those who want a highly polished, goal-driven investing experience, Wealthfront delivers.

Take the First Step Toward Investing

Starting your investment journey can feel like a big step, but beginner-friendly platforms like these make it manageable, educational, and even exciting. Whether you prefer automated advice or hands-on trading, there’s a platform tailored to your needs.