Comparison

E*TRADE vs Robinhood (2026)

E*TRADE is a full-featured broker with deep tools and the Power E*TRADE options platform; Robinhood is a simpler, mobile-first app. Choose E*TRADE if you want serious research, retirement accounts, and advanced order types, Robinhood for a pared-down phone-first experience.

By Wealthy Pot · Last updated September 2026

FeatureE*TRADERobinhood
TypeFull-serviceApp-first
Stock/ETF commission$0$0
Options per contract$0.65/contract$0.50/contract ($0.35 with Gold)
Account minimum$0$0
Fractional sharesYesYes
PlatformsWeb, iOS, Android, DesktopWeb, iOS, Android
Best forAll-round investors and options traders who want the Power E*TRADE platformMobile-first beginners who want the simplest possible way to buy stocks and options

Where E*TRADE wins

  • Power E*TRADE is a strong options platform
  • Deep mutual-fund and bond lineup
  • Solid research and screeners
  • Backed by Morgan Stanley

Where Robinhood wins

  • The simplest mobile-first way to start investing
  • Fractional shares and 24-hour trading on many names
  • Stocks, options, and crypto in one app
  • Clean, approachable interface

Which should you choose?

E*TRADE is a full-featured broker with deep tools and the Power E*TRADE options platform; Robinhood is a simpler, mobile-first app. Choose E*TRADE if you want serious research, retirement accounts, and advanced order types, Robinhood for a pared-down phone-first experience.

Compare these against every option in our online brokers comparison.

We summarize hands-on assessment, not user reviews. Commissions, options fees, and account minimums change often and are re-checked against each broker's official page. Some outbound links may be affiliate links. That never affects our comparisons. Nothing here is investment advice.