10 Best Micro Investing Apps to Consider

You don’t need thousands of dollars to start investing, sometimes, a few spare dollars and the right app are enough. Micro investing platforms have lowered the barrier to entry, allowing beginners to buy fractional shares, automate contributions and build diversified portfolios right from their phones. In 2026, these apps are more sophisticated than ever, blending automation, education and customization. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to supplement a broader strategy, the right micro investing app can help you put your money to work sooner rather than later.

Working with a financial advisor can help you not only find the right way to invest but also can help manage your entire portfolio.

Data and Methodology

We identified the apps below through exhaustive research and analysis of the of the micro investing market. They are listed in an order that’s in direct correlation with their individual composite score based on our methodology, which includes consumer ratings from multiple popular online app stores as well as the fees for trading on each platform.

1. Wealthfront

Wealthfront is a robo-advisor platform designed to make investing accessible with minimal hands-on management. While it typically requires a higher minimum than some spare-change apps, it offers automated portfolio management built around low-cost ETFs. For investors who want a more structured, long-term strategy, it can serve as a step up from basic micro-investing tools.

The platform builds diversified portfolios based on your risk tolerance and financial goals. Investments generally span U.S. and international stocks, bonds and other asset classes. Automatic rebalancing helps keep your portfolio aligned with your selected strategy over time.

One of Wealthfront’s standout features is tax-loss harvesting, which can help reduce taxable investment gains in eligible accounts. The app also offers planning tools that project long-term growth and retirement readiness. These features may appeal to users looking for more comprehensive wealth-building support.

2. Cash App

Cash App is widely known for peer-to-peer payments, but it also offers built-in investing features. Users can buy fractional shares of stocks and ETFs with as little as a few dollars, making it accessible for beginners. The seamless integration between payments and investing can make getting started feel less intimidating.

The app allows investors to purchase small portions of individual stocks, which is especially helpful for higher-priced shares. Its streamlined interface is designed for ease of use rather than in-depth research. That simplicity can appeal to new investors who want exposure to the market without navigating complex trading platforms.

In addition to stocks and ETFs, Cash App offers access to Bitcoin trading. While cryptocurrency can add diversification, it also introduces higher volatility and risk. Users should consider how digital assets fit into their overall investment strategy before allocating funds.

3. Betterment

Betterment is one of the most well-known robo-advisor platforms, offering automated investing with low minimums and diversified portfolios. For users interested in micro investing, Betterment’s goal-based tools make it easy to set up accounts for retirement, education or general savings and let the app handle portfolio allocation.

Betterment builds a mix of low-cost ETFs that span stocks, bonds and other asset classes tailored to your risk tolerance. The platform automatically rebalances your portfolio over time to maintain alignment with your goals. This hands-off approach helps keep your investing strategy on track without constant oversight.

One of Betterment’s standout features is its tax optimization tools, including tax-loss harvesting for taxable accounts. The app also offers intuitive planning tools to estimate long-term outcomes and simulate different savings paths. These features may be especially helpful for users who want a more comprehensive investing experience.

4. SoFi

SoFi, short for Social Finance, is a financial technology company that offers a wide range of services, including micro investing, which allows individuals to invest small amounts of money into diversified portfolios. SoFi is unique in that its user-friendly platform integrates various financial services, such as loans, banking and investing, all in one place. This integration makes it convenient for users to manage their financial activities seamlessly.

SoFi’s micro investing feature may be particularly appealing to beginners and those with limited funds, as it provides access to automated investing with no account minimums. This makes it easy to start building wealth with as little as $5. Plus, there are no commissions, and users have access to a range of stocks and ETFs, allowing them to tailor their portfolios according to their risk tolerance and financial goals.

Another unique aspect of SoFi is its commitment to financial education and community building. Users have access to a wealth of resources, including educational articles, webinars and personalized financial advice, which can be invaluable for those new to investing.

5. Acorns

Acorns is one of the pioneers of the micro-investing movement, helping users invest spare change automatically. The app rounds up everyday purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the difference into a diversified portfolio of ETFs. This effortless approach makes investing accessible for beginners and those who struggle to save consistently.

Acorns offers a range of prebuilt portfolios that depend on your risk tolerance and time horizon. These include allocations across stocks, bonds and other asset classes so that even small investments are part of a broader strategy. Automatic rebalancing keeps your portfolio aligned with your goals over time.

In addition to round-ups, Acorns lets users schedule recurring transfers and one-time deposits, making it easier to accelerate savings as confidence grows. The platform also offers educational content and tools that promote long-term financial habits. Some plans even bundle banking features and retirement accounts for a more holistic experience.

6. Webull

Webull is a trading platform that has gained popularity among both novice and experienced investors for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive suite of tools. What sets Webull apart is its commission-free trading model, which allows users to buy and sell stocks, ETFs and options without incurring additional fees. This can make it particularly appealing for micro investing, where every dollar counts.

Additionally, Webull offers extended trading hours, enabling investors to trade before and after the standard market hours, providing more flexibility to those with busy schedules.

For those interested in micro investing, Webull offers a range of features. The platform provides real-time market data, advanced charting tools and customizable watchlists. Webull’s paper trading feature allows users to practice trading with virtual money, which can help beginners looking to hone their skills without financial risk. Plus, with educational resources and community forums, Webull supports investors in building their knowledge and confidence.

7. M1 Finance

M1 Finance blends the automation of a robo-advisor with the customization of a traditional brokerage. Users build “pies” (portfolios made up of stocks and ETFs selected by the investor) and M1 Finance automatically allocates contributions according to your target percentages. This flexible system puts you in control while still offering hands-off execution.

One of M1 Finance’s standout features is fractional share investing, which allows your money to be fully deployed even with smaller balances. The platform also rebalances your portfolio automatically as needed, helping maintain your desired asset mix without manual intervention. Scheduled contributions, daily, weekly or monthly, can make steady investing feel effortless.

Unlike many micro investing apps that focus solely on prebuilt portfolios, M1 Finance lets you tailor your investments while still benefiting from automation. You can choose from expert-built pies or create your own based on your preferences and goals. The result is a more personalized investment experience that still reduces day-to-day decision fatigue.

8. Public

Public takes a unique approach by combining investing with social features that let you follow other investors and see their moves. Like many micro-investing platforms, it allows you to buy fractional shares of stocks and ETFs with small amounts of money, making it easy to start investing with just a few dollars.

Public offers commission-free trading and fractional investing, so you can build a diversified portfolio without the barriers of high share prices. Its intuitive interface displays clear price data and allows you to explore companies and funds by theme, sector or personal interest. This blend of simplicity and discovery can make investing more engaging.

9. Stash

Stash is a micro investing platform designed to make investing accessible and straightforward. Unlike traditional investment platforms that may require significant initial capital, Stash allows users to start investing with as little as 1 cent. This low barrier to entry makes the platform an attractive option for those who are new to investing or who want to dip their toes into the stock market without committing large sums of money.

Additionally, Stash offers a diverse range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs and themed choices, such as ETFs focused on AI or video games. This array of options allows users to tailor their investments to align with their personal values and financial goals. Further, Stash’s automatic investing feature allows users to set up recurring deposits, making it easier to build a consistent investment habit over time.

For micro investing, Stash not only facilitates small-scale investments but also provides users with a wealth of educational content to enhance their financial literacy.

10. Robinhood

Launched in 2013, Robinhood offers a user-friendly mobile app that allows users to trade stocks, ETFs and options without paying commission fees. This zero-commission model has helped make investing more accessible to a broader audience, especially those who are new to the stock market or have limited funds to invest.

The platform’s intuitive interface and educational resources empower users to make informed investment decisions. Further, by eliminating traditional barriers like high fees and complex trading processes, Robinhood enables users to start investing with as little as a few dollars. Additionally, Robinhood’s fractional shares feature allows users to buy portions of expensive stocks, further enhancing its appeal for micro investors.

This accessibility may be particularly appealing to younger investors and those who prefer to invest small amounts regularly.

Bottom Line

Micro investing apps have made it easier than ever to start building wealth with small amounts of money. Whether you prefer automated portfolios, round-up investing or customizable stock selections, there’s a platform designed to match your comfort level and goals. The right app depends on how hands-on you want to be and how much guidance you need along the way. As your balances grow, consider whether working with a financial advisor can help you turn small investments into a comprehensive long-term strategy.

Tips for Portfolio Management

A financial advisor can help you choose the right investments for your portfolio and can actually help you manage your investments as well. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
You can also utilize an asset allocation calculator to help you understand your risk profile and find the right assets for your portfolio.