ComparisonInvesting apps · updated 26 October 2026

Robinhood vs Public

Two popular investing apps, side by side. Robinhood is best for commission-free trading in a simple app; Public is best for US investors who want stocks, bonds and more. Here is how they differ and how to choose.

Best for commission-free trading in a simple app

Robinhood

Investing app that popularised commission-free trading of stocks, ETFs, options and crypto.

Full Robinhood profile →

Best for US investors who want stocks, bonds and more

Public

US investing platform for stocks, ETFs, bonds, options and crypto.

Full Public profile →

Heads-up: some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you sign up through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Tools are listed alphabetically; paid placements are always labelled "Featured". How we make money.

Robinhood vs Public at a glance

RobinhoodPublic
Best forCommission-free trading in a simple appUS investors who want stocks, bonds and more
Pricing modelFree planFree plan
Available inUS, UK, EUUS
Key featuresCommission-free stock and ETF trades
Retirement accounts in the US
Optional paid Gold plan
Stocks, ETFs, bonds and options
High-yield cash account
Research and analysis
WebsiteVisit Robinhood ↗Visit Public ↗

Pricing

Both use the same pricing model: each has a free plan, with paid upgrades. We never publish exact prices because they change too often; check the current plans on each website.

Where they work

Robinhood is available in US, UK, EU; Public in US. Check that the one you like works in your country first.

Which one should you choose?

  • Choose Robinhood: the better fit for commission-free trading in a simple app.
  • Choose Public: the better fit for US investors who want stocks, bonds and more.

Still unsure? Run through these before you sign up for either:

  • Regulation in your country and investor protection if the broker fails.
  • All fees: commission, currency exchange, custody and fund costs.
  • Which markets, ETFs and account types (such as tax-advantaged accounts) it offers.
  • Whether you pick investments yourself or let a robo-adviser do it.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between Robinhood and Public?

Robinhood is built for commission-free trading in a simple app. Public is built for US investors who want stocks, bonds and more. Both use the same pricing model: each has a free plan, with paid upgrades.

Is Robinhood or Public available in my country?

Robinhood is available in US, UK, EU; Public in US. Check that the one you like works in your country first.

Is Robinhood cheaper than Public?

It depends on how you use it, and prices change often, so we only list the pricing model. Both use the same pricing model: each has a free plan, with paid upgrades. Compare the current plans on each website before you sign up.

Not sold on either?

There are 13 other investing apps in the directory. Compare them all →

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Information checked 26 October 2026. NxtGenFin is an independent directory, not affiliated with Robinhood or Public unless marked as featured, sponsored or affiliate link. Not financial advice.

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