VOL. XCIV, NO. 247

Public.com Alternatives & Competitors

Checking

Replacement verdicts

Alternatives to Public.com

Curated replacements grouped by fit, tradeoffs, pricing flexibility, and platform access. Use this list to decide which Public.com competitor is worth testing first.

Looking for a Public.com replacement? We've profiled 20 alternatives by workflow fit, pricing flexibility, caveats, and platform access. Whether you need a free option to trial, mobile-ready workflows, or API integrations, this list helps you choose what to test first.

Visit Public.com Tool details

Disclosure: outbound links may include affiliate or sponsor links

Which Alternative Should You Use?

Firstrade

Closest replacement

Best for: U.S. and supported international investors seeking $0 online stock, ETF, mutual-fund, and options commissions.

Firstrade best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
Firstrade shares Free pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Restricted international matrix: International onboarding is limited to 27 named countries and regions and cannot be generalized globally.

Details Compare

Interactive Brokers (IBKR)

Best audience fit

Best for: Active investors who need global multi-asset access, advanced orders, APIs, and volume-based commissions.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, portfolio tracking, and API and market data.
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) shares Free and Subscription pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Commission and market-data details vary by market: The record contains separate stock, ETF, options, futures, crypto, and market-data pricing notes by region and product.

Open IBKR account

Details Compare

National Bank Direct Brokerage

Strong runner-up

Best for: Canadian residents seeking $0 online Canadian and U.S. stock and ETF commissions.

National Bank Direct Brokerage best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
National Bank Direct Brokerage shares Free pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Canada-only online opening: The online application requires Canadian residence and age 18 or older.

Details Compare

Qtrade Direct Investing

Strong runner-up

Best for: Canadian residents seeking $0 online equity, ETF and mutual-fund commissions.

Qtrade Direct Investing best matches the base workflow on brokerage trading, options data, and portfolio tracking.
Qtrade Direct Investing shares Free pricing with the base tool.

Watch for: Canada-only opening: New applicants must be Canadian residents and meet provincial or territorial age requirements.

Details Compare

Detailed Alternatives

I want to

Pay lessFill a gapUpgrade overall

Our ranked order by workflow overlap and quality.

1

Closest replacement

Firstrade

Bottom line: U.S. and supported international investors seeking $0 online stock, ETF, mutual-fund, and options commissions.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and listed options have $0 stated online commissions and $0 standard options contract fees.
International brokerage is available only for the current official matrix of 27 countries and regions.
Fractional trading covers selected equities and ETFs, but fractions cannot transfer and carry voting and liquidity limitations.
Firstrade currently posts 0.15% for brokerage credit interest and Apex FDIC-swept cash across all balance tiers.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved domestic or supported international brokerage account is required, and Regulatory, short-borrow, fixed-income, fund, broker-assisted, and transfer costs can apply.
Restricted international matrix: International onboarding is limited to 27 named countries and regions and cannot be generalized globally.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
FirstradeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Firstrade Compare

Full review and details

2

Drop-in replacement

National Bank Direct Brokerage

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online Canadian and U.S. stock and ETF commissions.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Online Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs carry $0 stated commission.
A $100 annual administration fee is waived under published asset, age, InvestCube or offer conditions.
Uninvested brokerage credit balances currently pay 0% in the live pricing table.
CAD-USD conversion spreads fall from 1.70% to 0.60% across published transaction tiers.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and The $100 annual administration fee requires a published waiver condition to avoid.
Canada-only online opening: The online application requires Canadian residence and age 18 or older.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
National Bank Direct BrokerageTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-09-02 via pricing.

Open NBDB Compare

Full review and details

3

Drop-in replacement

Qtrade Direct Investing

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online equity, ETF and mutual-fund commissions.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Online equities, ETFs and mutual funds carry $0 stated commission.
Online options cost $0 plus $0.75 per contract, with separate assignment and exercise fees.
Published cash-credit rates are 0% through C$2 million and 0.10% above in CAD, while USD remains 0%.
The official DRIP program purchases full shares only; direct fractional orders were not established.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian brokerage account is required, and Transaction, product, service, FX and transfer fees can apply despite $0 equity and ETF commissions.
Canada-only opening: New applicants must be Canadian residents and meet provincial or territorial age requirements.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Qtrade Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Qtrade Compare

Full review and details

4

WealthsimpleDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

4

Drop-in replacement

Wealthsimple

Bottom line: Canadian residents seeking $0 online commissions for listed Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Canadian and U.S. listed stock and ETF trades have $0 stated online commission.
Fractional stock and ETF market orders start at $1.
Core clients pay $10 CAD plus tax monthly for USD accounts after a 30-day trial; Premium and Generation include them.
Self-directed investment accounts use CIPF protection within applicable account-category limits.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Currency conversion, index-option, exercise, instant-withdrawal and product costs can apply.
Canada-only eligibility: Individual applicants must reside in Canada and meet provincial or territorial age-of-majority requirements.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
WealthsimpleTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Wealthsimple Compare

Full review and details

5

Interactive Brokers (IBKR)Best audience fitTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

5

Best audience fit

Interactive Brokers (IBKR)

Analyst pickTested by us

Bottom line: Active investors who need global multi-asset access, advanced orders, APIs, and volume-based commissions.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options

Gain

Advanced Order Types
Smart/Direct Routing
Paper Trading
Screeners

Lose

Downloadable Tax Reports
Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data, portfolio watchlists, and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage account has no recurring platform fee in the profile, but trading commissions and add-on fees vary by product, and Real-time market data and Level II data generally require subscriptions.
Commission and market-data details vary by market: The record contains separate stock, ETF, options, futures, crypto, and market-data pricing notes by region and product.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)Transaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open IBKR account Compare

Full review and details

6

TD Direct InvestingDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

6

Drop-in replacement

TD Direct Investing

Bottom line: Canadian residents who need self-directed access to stocks, ETFs, options, funds, bonds, GICs, and research.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Whole-share Canadian and U.S. stocks cost $9.99 standard or $7 for Active Traders.
Eligible partial-share stock and ETF trades cost $1.99 and record holdings to five decimals.
Standard CAD, USD and registered brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.
TD Easy Trade is a separate service with a narrower product set and different free-trade terms.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Most whole-share stock trades are paid; only select ETFs are commission-free.
Canada-only opening: Applicants must be Canadian residents and meet age and account-specific requirements.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
TD Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open TD Direct Compare

Full review and details

7

Rakuten SecuritiesDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

7

Drop-in replacement

Rakuten Securities

Bottom line: Japan residents who need Japanese and U.S. securities, funds, bonds, and derivatives in one account.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Zero Course domestic cash-equity brokerage is ¥0 when its SOR/R-Cross conditions are accepted.
U.S. stock and ETF commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
Kabumini trades eligible Japanese shares below the standard lot from one share.
Segregated assets are backed by Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, tax and account screening, and Zero Course domestic pricing has SOR/R-Cross and electronic-service conditions.
Japan residents only: The modeled account is not open as a general overseas route, and non-resident customers face restrictions.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Rakuten SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Rakuten Securities Compare

Full review and details

8

SBI SecuritiesDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

8

Drop-in replacement

SBI Securities

Bottom line: Japan residents who need domestic shares, U.S. securities, funds, bonds, and derivatives in one account.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Zero Revolution lists ¥0 brokerage for eligible domestic cash, margin and S-share orders under its conditions.
U.S. security commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
S-shares provide eligible Japanese securities below the standard lot from one share.
Segregated assets have Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, My Number and bank-account checks, and Domestic zero brokerage requires electronic-delivery and course conditions.
Japan residents only: SBI limits opening to domestic residents and states it does not hold overseas securities-business licenses.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
SBI SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open SBI Securities Compare

Full review and details

9

Charles SchwabDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

9

Drop-in replacement

Charles Schwab

Bottom line: U.S. investors who want brokerage, trading platforms, research, tax workflows, and several asset classes in one account.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options

Gain

Paper Trading
Advanced Order Types
Smart/Direct Routing
News

Lose

Downloadable Tax Reports
Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data and portfolio watchlists.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage use requires an approved Schwab account, and Options, futures, forex, margin, and API workflows require separate approval or authorization.
Advanced products need approval: Options, futures, forex, margin, and crypto access have separate approval, risk, and eligibility requirements.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Charles SchwabTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Schwab account Compare

Full review and details

10

E*TRADE from Morgan StanleyPartial replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

10

Partial replacement

E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

Bottom line: U.S. self-directed investors who need several account types, research, retirement administration, and multiple trading platforms.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Advanced Order Types
$0 online U.S. exchange-listed stock and ETF commissions; options cost $0.65 or $0.50 per contract by activity tier.
Eligible listed Reg-NMS fractions start at $5 and support quantities to three decimal places during the rollout.
The default Bank Deposit Program pays 0.01%, 0.05%, or 0.15% APY by current balance tier.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists, API and market data, and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage features require an approved account and cleared funding, and Options, margin, futures, crypto and specialized registrations require separate eligibility.
Low default cash rate: The standard Bank Deposit Program pays 0.01% below $500,000 under the current tier schedule.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
E*TRADE from Morgan StanleyTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open E*TRADE Compare

Full review and details

11

Merrill EdgeDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

11

Drop-in replacement

Merrill Edge

Bottom line: U.S. Bank of America customers valuing linked banking, immediate eligible transfers, and relationship-level visibility.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Advanced Order Types
$0 online stock and ETF commissions and $0 option base commission plus $0.65 per contract.
Linked eligible Bank of America transfers can be real time; external bank, wire, check, and account-transfer funding are supported.
Standard bank-sweep rates are currently 0.01%, 0.05%, or 0.15% by balance tier.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists, API and market data, and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage use requires an approved Merrill account, and Options, margin, trust, estate and business accounts have additional rules.
Low standard cash rate: The standard bank sweep pays 0.01% below $1 million under the current rate sheet.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Merrill EdgeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Merrill Edge Compare

Full review and details

12

BMO InvestorLineDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

12

Drop-in replacement

BMO InvestorLine

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed investing through a BMO brokerage.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $9.95, or $3.95 for qualifying active traders.
More than 100 selected ETFs can qualify for commission-free trading.
Standard ordinary CAD, USD and registered brokerage cash currently earns 0%.
Allocated bullion and precious-metal certificates are available with product-specific commissions.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian self-directed brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
Canada-only opening: The reviewed individual opening flow is for eligible Canadian residents.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
BMO InvestorLineTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open BMO InvestorLine Compare

Full review and details

13

RBC Direct InvestingDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

13

Drop-in replacement

RBC Direct Investing

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed investing through an RBC brokerage.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $9.95, or $6.95 under Active Trader pricing.
Selected ETFs and online mutual-fund trades can carry a $0 RBC commission.
Gold and silver certificates have a 100-ounce minimum and a $43 minimum commission.
Ordinary CAD, USD and registered brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved self-directed brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
Canada-only public opening: The reviewed public account-opening offer establishes eligibility for Canadian residents only.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
RBC Direct InvestingTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open RBC Direct Compare

Full review and details

14

CIBC Investor's EdgeDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

14

Drop-in replacement

CIBC Investor's Edge

Bottom line: Canadian residents who want self-directed brokerage linked to CIBC banking.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Standard online stock and ETF trades cost $6.95, or $4.95 under Active Trader pricing.
Over 180 selected ETFs can trade commission-free when the live list and holding rules are met.
All ordinary CAD and USD brokerage credit balances currently pay 0%.
CDRs are separate securities and do not prove direct fractional-share order support.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Canadian-resident brokerage account is required, and Standard equity and options trades are paid.
Canada-only opening: Individual opening is limited to eligible Canadian residents.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
CIBC Investor's EdgeTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open CIBC Edge Compare

Full review and details

15

Monex SecuritiesDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

15

Drop-in replacement

Monex Securities

Bottom line: Japan residents who need Japanese and U.S. securities in one self-directed account.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Domestic per-order commissions start at ¥55 and top out at ¥1,070 under the published online tiers.
U.S. security commissions are 0.495%, with a $0 minimum and $22 maximum before other charges.
One Share buys eligible Japanese securities below the standard lot from one share.
Segregated assets have Japan Investor Protection Fund coverage up to ¥10 million if return fails.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Applicants must be Japan residents and pass identity, My Number and linked-bank checks, and Domestic, U.S., odd-lot, currency and derivative transactions use different schedules.
Japan residents only: The ordinary account is limited to Japan residents and is restricted when a customer becomes non-resident.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Monex SecuritiesTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Monex Securities Compare

Full review and details

16

WebullPartial replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

16

Partial replacement

Webull

Bottom line: Eligible U.S. traders looking for mobile, web, and desktop execution with $0 online commissions for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Advanced Order Types
$0 online commissions for U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, subject to disclosed exceptions and regulatory charges.
Selected U.S. stock and ETF fractional purchases start at $1.
Cash Management sweeps eligible settled cash to program banks and supports up to $5 million total FDIC eligibility under program limits.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on portfolio watchlists, API and market data, and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Trading requires an approved eligible brokerage account, and Options, margin, entity and IRA access have additional rules.
U.S. eligibility rules: Applicants need a U.S. address, SSN or ITIN, and permanent-resident or accepted-visa status.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
WebullTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Webull Compare

Full review and details

17

CommSecDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

17

Drop-in replacement

CommSec

Bottom line: Australian residents looking for a domestic broker connected to Commonwealth Bank settlement.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Domestic holdings are CHESS-sponsored and registered through a customer HIN.
Eligible CDIA settlement provides domestic online brokerage from A$5.
International Shares covers multiple markets and supports selected fractional securities.
The separate CDIA pays tiered variable interest and can qualify for Australian deposit protection. Standard CommSec pricing ranges from 0.65% below A$50,000 to 2.45% at A$1 million or more.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and macro and fund research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, An approved Australian brokerage account is required for the modeled retail route, and Transaction brokerage, FX, exchange and optional service charges apply.
Australia-only modeled route: International access requires Australian residence, an existing CommSec Australian Shares Account and a CDIA.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
CommSecTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open CommSec Compare

Full review and details

18

Scalable CapitalDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

18

Drop-in replacement

Scalable Capital

Bottom line: European investors comparing low-cost broker plans for stocks, ETFs, funds, bonds, crypto ETPs, derivatives, and savings plans.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Wealth Management
FREE costs €0 per month and PRIME+ costs €4.99. Through August 31, 2026, eligible EIX and gettex trades cost €0.99 on FREE and €0 on PRIME+ above €250. From September 1, gettex trades will cost €1.99 on both plans. Xetra currently costs €1.99. Savings plan executions are free.
Earn variable 2.5% annual interest on uninvested cash per current EU pricing pages; PRIME+ can distribute cash across up to five banks for up to 5 x €100,000 statutory deposit protection, otherwise cash may be held at banks or in money-market funds.
The broker lists more than 1.8 million derivatives from seven issuers. PRIME+ includes eligible trades above €250 through supported venues until the stated venue rules change.

Lose

Options
Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Brokerage use requires an eligible Scalable account, and FREE and PRIME+ plans have different order-fee rules.
Region-limited broker: Coverage is focused on supported European countries and local regulatory/product availability.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Scalable CapitalTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Compare Scalable costs Compare

Full review and details

19

Vanguard BrokeragePartial replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

19

Partial replacement

Vanguard Brokerage

Bottom line: U.S. long-term investors who center portfolios on Vanguard mutual funds and ETFs.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

Online stocks and ETFs trade at $0 commission; standard options cost $1 per contract.
Vanguard ETF dollar-based orders start at $1, while non-Vanguard securities are not generalized as fraction-eligible.
Vanguard Cash Deposit pays 1.75% variable APY as of August 20, 2026 and is eligible for program-bank FDIC coverage.
VMFXX is the alternative settlement fund and is a money-market security with SIPC eligibility, not an FDIC deposit.

Lose

Options
Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on options data, portfolio watchlists, and dividend research.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, New accounts require eligible U.S. status, address, and identity details, and Options, margin and specialized registrations require approval or separate rules.
Fractional scope is narrow: Dollar-based ETF trading is documented for Vanguard ETFs, not generalized to non-Vanguard stocks and ETFs.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Vanguard BrokerageTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Partial replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open Vanguard Compare

Full review and details

20

SoFi InvestDrop-in replacementTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdictionPaid only

20

Drop-in replacement

SoFi Invest

Bottom line: Eligible U.S. investors who want self-directed investing in the SoFi app.

Keep

Brokerage
Portfolio
Watchlist
Options
Downloadable Tax Reports

Gain

$0 stated online commissions for U.S. stocks, ETFs, and listed options, with other charges possible.
Eligible fractional stock and ETF purchases start at $5 and support quantities to five decimals.
The optional bank sweep changes eligible cash protection from SIPC to FDIC after funds reach program banks.
SoFi Securities LLC is FINRA-registered under CRD 151717 and is a SIPC member.

Lose

Regular-hours U.S.-listed stock and ETF commission is $0; extended-hours and OTC trading costs $2.99 without Premium.
Investment Plans cost $0.49 to $1.99 per recurring stock and ETF purchase unless Premium waives the charge.
Primary brokerage free cash earns 0%; the separate HYCA currently states a variable 3.30% APY.
The HYCA can provide up to $5 million in aggregate FDIC eligibility through partner banks, subject to per-bank aggregation.
Public offers an API for programmatic trading and a hosted MCP server for supported AI clients.

Watch out

Avoid as a full replacement if you rely on API and market data, dividend research, and advisor and client reporting.
Free-plan limits: Signup required, Trading requires an approved eligible brokerage account, and The self-directed investing minimum is $5.
U.S.-resident eligibility: Residents abroad and in U.S. territories are excluded. U.S. address, taxpayer ID, and qualifying status are required.

Price: Public.comTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
SoFi InvestTransaction-priced · Fees vary by offer and jurisdiction
Free tier: Paid only
Replacement: Drop-in replacement

Pricing checked 2026-08-23 via pricing.

Open SoFi Invest Compare

Full review and details

What This Shortlist Tells You

Firstrade is the closest drop-in replacement with overlapping coverage in Brokerage, Portfolio, and Watchlist while adding Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and listed options have $0 stated online commissions and $0 standard options contract fees. and International brokerage is available only for the current official matrix of 27 countries and regions. features (workflow overlap ~100%).

Round out your stack with new coverage areas like Advanced Order Types, Smart/Direct Routing, Paper Trading, and Screeners.

Coverage Snapshot

Where alternatives already align

Most shared categories across the top matches.

Brokerage×20Portfolio×20Watchlist×20Downloadable Tax Reports×18Options×18

New angles introduced

Categories the alternatives add beyond Public.com.

Advanced Order Types+5APIs & Data Feeds+2News+2Order Book / Level II+2Paper Trading+2Screeners+2Smart/Direct Routing+2Alerts+1

Access & Pricing

Free options

0/20

0 picks introduce a free tier you can start with.

Mobile ready

20/20

20 matches support mobile alongside Public.com.

API availability

2/20

2 of the shortlisted tools expose API endpoints for automation-heavy workflows.

Quality checks

1 starred / 1 tested

1 tools are flagged as analyst picks; 1 have been hands-on tested.

Avg. coverage overlap

97%

Average percentage of categories shared with the base tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best alternatives to Public.com?

Public.com users most often consider Firstrade, National Bank Direct Brokerage, and Qtrade Direct Investing as their go-to alternatives.

Which workflows do the top Public.com alternatives cover?

Expect deep coverage across Brokerage, Downloadable Tax Reports, Options, Portfolio, and Watchlist, so you can port most Public.com workflows without much friction.

Keep Exploring

Wide Moat StocksBrowse the current moat score ranking and company-level moat notes.

Short InterestDaily tracker for heavily shorted stocks and short squeeze candidates.

Stock RankingsBacktested ranking systems for quality, value, momentum, and more.

Live AnalyticsSee what users are clicking, searching, and voting for across the site.

Research ToolsFind screeners, data platforms, portfolio trackers, and research tools.

Feedback

Missing an alternative, or is a listing out of date? Tell me and I will look.

Curation & Accuracy

This directory blends AI‑assisted discovery with human curation. Entries are reviewed, edited, and organized with the goal of expanding coverage and sharpening quality over time. Your feedback helps steer improvements (because no single human can capture everything all at once).

Details change. Pricing, features, and availability may be incomplete or out of date. Treat listings as a starting point and verify on the provider’s site before making decisions. If you spot an error or a gap, send a quick note and I’ll adjust.