💡 Quick Verdict
Fidelity is a trusted financial institution offering excellent research tools, retirement accounts, and customer service. While not as flashy as Robinhood, it's better for serious long-term investing. The interface can feel overwhelming for complete beginners, but it's worth learning for those committed to building wealth.
✅ Pros
- Excellent research tools
- Retirement accounts (IRA, 401k)
- Strong customer service
- $0 commission trading
- Fractional shares available
- No account minimums
❌ Cons
- Interface can overwhelm beginners
- App less intuitive than Robinhood
- No cryptocurrency trading
- Mutual fund minimums exist
- Not as modern feeling
- Overkill for casual users
What is Fidelity?
Fidelity Investments was founded in 1946 and is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. It offers brokerage accounts, retirement accounts, mutual funds, and wealth management. Fidelity is known for excellent customer service and comprehensive research.
Learn more about app safety in our Safe Finance Guide.
Research
In-depth analysis tools
Retirement
IRA, 401k, HSA
Support
24/7 customer service
Zero Funds
No-fee index funds
Who Should Use Fidelity?
Fidelity is ideal for:
- Serious long-term investors
- Those planning for retirement
- People who value research tools
- Anyone wanting a trusted institution
Fidelity might NOT be for you if:
- Complete beginners wanting simplicity
- Those who want crypto trading
- Casual or impulsive traders
- People who prefer modern app design
Not sure if Fidelity is right for you? Take our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Fidelity vs Competitors
Fidelity vs Robinhood
Robinhood: Robinhood is simpler and has crypto. Fidelity has better research, retirement accounts, and reputation.
Fidelity vs Charles Schwab
Very similar offerings. Schwab has slightly better banking; Fidelity has better research tools.
Fidelity vs Vanguard
Both are excellent for long-term investing. Vanguard pioneered index funds; Fidelity has better active trading.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fidelity good for beginners?
Yes, but there's a learning curve. The Youth Account (for teens) and simple IRA options are beginner-friendly.
Does Fidelity have fees?
$0 commissions on stocks and ETFs. No account minimums. Some mutual funds have minimums or fees.
What is Fidelity Zero?
A lineup of index funds with 0% expense ratios and no minimums—among the cheapest funds available.
Can I get a debit card from Fidelity?
Yes, the Fidelity Cash Management Account offers a debit card with ATM fee reimbursement worldwide.
Is Fidelity better than Robinhood?
For long-term investing and retirement, yes. For simple stock trading and crypto, Robinhood is easier.
Ready to Try Fidelity?
See if Fidelity is the right fit for your financial journey