Best Brokerage Accounts 2026: Fidelity vs Schwab vs Vanguard for Stock & ETF Investing

Choosing the right brokerage can save you thousands in fees and improve your investing experience. With commission-free trading the norm, platform quality, research tools, and customer service matter more than ever. This guide compares Fidelity, Schwab, and Vanguard—the three largest US brokers—for the best brokerage account in 2026.

Why Commission-Free Trading Is Now Table Stakes

Since Investopedia reports that major brokers dropped commissions in 2019, the battle has shifted to research, platform, and service. Fidelity and Schwab offer fractional shares, robust mobile apps, and educational content. Vanguard maintains its low-cost, passive-investing focus.

Comparison Table: Fees, Minimums, Fractional Shares

All three offer $0 commission on US stocks and ETFs.

Fidelity vs Schwab: Which Is Better for Active Traders?

Fidelity’s Active Trader Pro offers advanced charting and tools. Schwab’s StreetSmart Edge is comparable. Both have strong mobile apps. For most casual investors, either is excellent. Vanguard is best for buy-and-hold index investors.

Practical Case: $500 Monthly Investment in ETFs

With $500/month, fractional shares let you buy full ETFs like VTI or VOO. At Fidelity, you can invest $50 in a single ETF. DRIP (dividend reinvestment) is free at all three. Over 30 years, that’s $180,000 invested—plus compounding.

Roth IRA and 401(k) Rollovers: Where to Move Old Accounts

Fidelity and Schwab both offer easy rollovers with no transfer fees. Vanguard has fewer branch locations but strong phone support. Consolidate old 401(k)s into an IRA for easier management.

Best Brokerage for 2026: Our Take

Fidelity and Schwab tie for best overall—platform, research, and service. Vanguard wins for pure index investors. All three are SIPC-insured and reputable.

Open an account: Compare and sign up at Fidelity, Charles Schwab, or Vanguard—many offer sign-up bonuses for new accounts.