Acorns vs Stash: Which Micro-Investing App Grows Your Money Faster?

TL;DR:
Can spare change make you rich? Maybe not overnight, but Acorns and Stash are two micro-investing powerhouses that turn small dollars into big goals. We break down the features, fees, and vibes of each app so you know exactly where to plant your money.

Pocket Change Wars: Acorns vs Stash

Who knew couch cushion coins could get you closer to financial freedom? Acorns and Stash are making micro-investing mainstream by turning your everyday spending into automated investing. One app wants to round up your purchases and invest the difference. The other lets you build a portfolio like a playlist—with themes and vibes that match your goals.

So which one should you trust with your spare change hustle? Let’s break it down like it’s payday.

What Both Apps Do Right

Before we get competitive, let’s give them props. Both Acorns and Stash:

• • Offer fractional share investing

• • Are super user-friendly for beginners

• • Include automated investing tools

• • Let you start investing with as little as $5

• • Have built-in education so you’re not flying blind

But once you dig into the details, the differences start to show. And spoiler alert: your goals and investing style will decide your winner.

Acorns: The Round-Up King

How it works:
Acorns links to your debit/credit card and rounds up your purchases to the nearest dollar. That change gets invested automatically into a diversified ETF portfolio based on your risk level.

Top Features:

• • Round-Ups: Automate investing without even thinking.

• • Pre-built portfolios: No guesswork.

• • Retirement & kids’ accounts included with higher tiers.

• • Acorns Earn: Cash-back from partnered brands.

Fees:

• • $3/month for Personal (Invest + Retirement + Banking)

• • $5/month for Family (adds kids’ accounts)

Best For:
Set-it-and-forget-it savers who want to invest passively without getting overwhelmed by choices.

Stash: The DIY Coach

How it works:
Stash lets you pick your investments, including themed ETFs (like “Clean Energy” or “Women Who Lead”) and individual stocks. You also get access to banking features and automatic investing tools.

Top Features:

• • Stock Back® Card: Earn fractional shares when you spend.

• • Themed investments: Invest in what you believe in.

• • Smart Portfolio: A hands-off option if you want automation.

• • Banking & budgeting all in one app.

Fees:

• • $3/month for Stash Growth

• • $9/month for Stash+ (adds kids’ accounts, market insights)

Best For:
Aspiring DIY investors who want to explore specific companies or causes while still getting some guidance.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Our Take: Who Wins the Micro-Investing Battle?

If you’re just starting out, Acorns is the low-effort, high-consistency option. You’ll build wealth quietly every time you buy coffee, gas, or groceries.

But if you’re the kind of person who wants to learn the market, pick stocks, and support values-based investing, Stash is your app. Plus, their Stock Back® Card makes spending feel like a flex.

Either way—you’re not “just saving,” you’re investing with purpose. And that’s the kind of energy we’re here for.

Final Thoughts:

Spare Change, Big Energy

In the end, both apps are great stepping stones to long-term wealth. The real question isn’t which app is best, it’s which app is best for your money mindset. Choose the one that matches your vibe, automate the process, and let compound interest do its thing.

Want more investing comparisons? Visit our Investing Section

FAQs

Q: Can I use both Acorns and Stash?
A: Totally. Some users round up with Acorns and handpick with Stash. Just watch your monthly fees.

Q: Which app has better returns?
A: It depends on market performance and your investment choices. Acorns is more stable; Stash gives more freedom (and risk).

Q: Are my investments insured?
A: Investments are not FDIC-insured, but both apps are SIPC members, which protects up to $500,000 in securities.

Q: Which is better for kids?
A: Both offer custodial accounts in their higher tiers (Acorns Family & Stash+). Compare features to see what suits your family goals.

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Financial Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a licensed advisor before making investment decisions.