Charles Schwab vs. E*TRADE: 2025 Comparison

Charles Schwab and and E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley are both good for advanced and beginner investors, but fractional shares and website ease-of-use differ. NerdWallet compares the two brokers.

There's a lot to like about E*TRADE and Charles Schwab. Both brokers cater to beginner investors and advanced traders alike. Both offer extensive investment selections, commission-free trades of stocks and exchange-traded funds and access to extensive research. Schwab has an above-average mobile app, but it provides a smaller selection of fractional shares than some other brokers.

E*TRADE's two mobile apps are impressive, but the broker's website can be a bit difficult to navigate. However, E*TRADE may appeal to options traders, particularly those who trade high volumes and will benefit from the discounts available.

Read more information about the two brokers to decide which one might be right for you.

» Read our

full review of Charles Schwab

» Read our

full review of E*TRADE

Want to compare more brokerages? Here's our full list of the best brokers for stock trading.