Acorns vs Stash: Which Investment App Is Best for Beginners in 2025?

Introduction

Choosing the right investing app is one of the first—and most important—decisions for beginner investors. In 2025, two of the top contenders are Acorns and Stash, each offering unique features designed to help everyday users grow their wealth. But which one truly stands out for those just starting their investing journey?

This in-depth comparison of Acorns vs Stash will explore everything from fees and features to ease of use and long-term value, helping you decide which app fits your financial goals in 2025.

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Acorns vs Stash: Quick Overview

What Is Acorns?

Acorns is a micro-investing app launched in 2014 that rounds up your everyday purchases and automatically invests the spare change into diversified portfolios. It’s tailored to users who prefer a hands-off approach, offering automated investing with minimal effort. In 2025, Acorns continues to be a favorite among passive investors, especially those just getting started.
If wanna now more about Acorn click here.

Key features:

• Automatic round-ups from linked debit/credit cards
• Pre-built ETF portfolios based on risk tolerance
• Access to retirement accounts (IRA, Roth IRA)
• Acorns Checking and Found Money (cashback from partner brands)
• $3–$9/month plans depending on services

What Is Stash?

Stash launched in 2015 with a different approach—it empowers users to choose their own investments, including individual stocks and ETFs, while also offering automated portfolio options. Stash provides financial education within the app, making it especially attractive for beginners looking to learn as they invest.
If wanna now more about Stash click here.

Key features:

• Fractional share investing (buy stocks with as little as $1)
• Smart Portfolio (automated investing option)
• Stock-Back® debit card (earn fractional shares on purchases)
• Personalized financial tips
• $3–$9/month subscription plans

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Acorns vs Stash: Feature Comparison for Beginners

Ease of Use & User Interface

Acorns wins for simplicity. The app is clean, minimal, and geared toward automation. After a quick setup, Acorns runs quietly in the background, investing your round-ups and contributions without much input.

Stash, on the other hand, offers more control and options. While its interface is beginner-friendly, the extra features may feel overwhelming to someone unfamiliar with investing terminology.

Best for:

• Passive beginners: Acorns
• DIY beginners who want to learn: Stash

Investment Options & Portfolio Customization

Acorns builds your portfolio for you using low-cost ETFs based on your selected risk level. It’s ideal for set-it-and-forget-it investing.

Stash allows you to invest in stocks, ETFs, and even themed portfolios (e.g., clean energy, tech). It also has a Smart Portfolio for users who want automation but still want flexibility.

Best for:

• Automated portfolios: Acorns
• Hands-on customization: Stash

Educational Resources

Stash shines here. The app includes interactive lessons, tips, and articles throughout the user journey. It’s designed to help beginners understand investing concepts and build confidence.

Acorns includes basic financial literacy content, but it’s not as robust or interactive.

Best for:

• In-app financial education: Stash

Banking Tools & Additional Features

• Acorns offers Acorns Checking, a debit account that integrates with its round-up feature and includes smart spending insights.
• Stash includes a Stock-Back® Card, which rewards users with fractional shares when they spend at partner merchants.

Both apps also offer retirement accounts and custodial accounts for kids (Acorns Early, Stash custodial).

Best for:

• Reward-based investing: Stash
• Integrated banking experience: Acorns

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Cost Comparison: Acorns vs Stash in 2025

Both apps use a subscription-based model, typically ranging from $3 to $9 per month.

Plan	Acorns	Stash
$3/month	Personal (Invest, Retirement, Checking)	Growth (Invest, Retirement, Bank)
$5/month	N/A	Smart Portfolio
$9/month	Family (adds custodial accounts)	Stash+ (adds custodial, more tools)

While pricing is similar, Stash offers more flexibility, while Acorns bundles services for a streamlined experience.

Best for:

• Simple all-in-one plans: Acorns
• More control over plan features: Stash

check here Acorns pricing

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Performance and Returns: What Beginners Can Expect

Both apps use ETFs for diversified portfolios, and long-term performance will largely depend on market behavior. Acorns portfolios are fully automated, making them ideal for consistent, passive returns over time.

Stash allows users to mix automated portfolios with individual stock picks, which can lead to higher returns—or greater risk—depending on the investor’s decisions.

Important: Neither app guarantees returns. Beginners should focus on long-term consistency rather than short-term gains.

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Pros and Cons of Each App for New Investors

Acorns Pros:

• Fully automated investing
• Simple, beginner-friendly interface
• Automatic savings through round-ups
• Retirement and custodial accounts
• Cashback through Found Money

Acorns Cons:

• Limited investment choices
• No direct stock picking
• Subscription fees may be high for very small balances

Stash Pros:

• Choose your own stocks and ETFs
• Smart Portfolio for automation
• Educational content built in
• Stock-Back® rewards card
• Fractional investing

Stash Cons:

• More complex for total beginners
• Requires active management for DIY investors
• Fees may add up if not actively used

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Who Should Use Acorns vs Who Should Use Stash?

Acorns is better for:

• Users who want hands-off investing
• People looking to automate savings
• Beginners who value simplicity and automation

Stash is better for:

• Users who want to learn and pick their own investments
• Investors who prefer more flexibility and control
• Those interested in stock rewards and personalized education

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Real User Reviews in 2025

In 2025, both apps maintain strong user bases, but feedback varies based on user type:

• Acorns users praise the app for helping them save and invest without thinking about it. Common complaints include limited control and the subscription cost.
• Stash users love the educational tools and stock-picking options. Some beginners feel overwhelmed by choices or frustrated by slower app performance.

Ratings (as of 2025):

• Acorns: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 average on app stores)
• Stash: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5 average on app stores)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is better for beginners: Acorns or Stash?

Acorns is better for passive beginners who want automation. Stash is better for those who want to learn and pick their own investments.

Do Acorns and Stash charge fees?

Yes, both charge a monthly subscription fee (usually between $3 and $9 depending on plan). No trading commissions are charged.

Can I buy stocks with Acorns or Stash?

You can buy individual stocks with Stash. Acorns only offers pre-built ETF portfolios and does not support individual stock purchases.

Are Acorns and Stash safe?

Yes, both are regulated and use encryption to protect user data. They are registered with the SEC and SIPC-insured.

Which app gives better returns?

Returns vary based on market performance and investment choices. Acorns uses fixed portfolios, while Stash allows self-directed picks that may perform better—or worse.

Can you use both Acorns and Stash?

Yes, many investors use both apps to diversify their strategies—Acorns for automation and Stash for learning and stock investing.

Conclusion

When comparing Acorns vs Stash, your ideal app depends on your investing style:

• If you want a fully automated experience that helps you invest passively, go with Acorns.
• If you’re eager to learn, explore stocks, and gradually build investing skills, Stash is the better fit.

Both apps offer low barriers to entry, educational tools, and the chance to grow your wealth over time—so you won’t go wrong starting with either.