In this article, I will cover the Best Betterment Alternatives for 2026, especially for investors interested in cutting fees and increasing tax efficiency to improve after-tax returns. Additionally, I will include robo advisors for investors interested in building automated, strategically designed, and diversified portfolios. I will cover Wealthfront, M1 Finance, and SoFi Automated Investing, in addition to Schwab Intelligent Portfolios and Betterment.
What Are Betterment Alternatives?
Betterment alternatives are robo-advisor and online investment platforms similar to Betterment that offer automated investment solutions and services. Such platforms include Wealthfront, M1 Finance, and Schwab Intelligent Portfolios.
These platforms integrate a variety of investment and yield strategies, including tax-loss harvesting, to help clients achieve optimal investment returns. For automated investment solutions and services, Betterment alternatives are best positioned to compete with Betterment in the robo investing space for 2026.
Some investors prefer Betterment alternatives for a variety of reasons including the availability of higher investment yields and more personalized financial planning.
How To Choose Betterment Alternatives for Smart Yield
Annual Fees: Look for companies that charge low or no advisor fees. Some companies to consider are: M1 Finance and Schwab Intelligent Portfolios.
Trading Costs: Look for companies that have commission free trades.
Minimum Balance: Decide on the level of investment that best works for you. Some examples of companies to consider are Acorns and Empower.
Tax Efficiency: Companies that provide tax loss harvesting will help you optimize your returns. One company to consider is Wealthfront.
Customization: Companies that let you create a portfolio of your choice to the level of ease that you want are M1 Finance and Vanguard.
Mobile/Web Experience: Companies that have an easy to use platform are Webull, Robinhood, and SoFi.
Liquidity: Companies that help you with prompt withdrawals are M1 Finance and M1 Plus.
Retirement Options: Companies that help you save and invest for your retirement are Vanguard and Empower.
Beginner/Advanced: Companies that help beginners invest and work best for people with low investment amount are Acorns, Fidelity Go, and Empower.
Special Features: Companies that help you plan for your career are SoFi and Ellevest.
Key Points
| Platform | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wealthfront | Tax optimization | AI-driven tax-loss harvesting, direct indexing, 529 plans |
| M1 Finance | Custom portfolios | “Pie” investing, fractional shares, flexible auto-investing |
| Schwab Intelligent Portfolios | Zero advisory fee | Automated rebalancing, cash allocation trade-off |
| Fidelity Go | Small balances | Simple portfolios, backed by Fidelity research |
| Vanguard Digital Advisor | Index & ESG focus | Low-cost ETFs, retirement planning tools |
| SoFi Automated Investing | Beginners & SoFi members | Free financial planning, career coaching |
| Acorns | Micro-investing | Round-ups, retirement accounts, family plans |
| E*TRADE Core Portfolios | Smart-beta tilt | ESG options, automated rebalancing |
| Robinhood Strategies | DIY + automation | Stock/ETF automation, waived fees for Gold members |
| Webull Smart Advisor | App-based investors | Automated ETF portfolios, $100 minimum |
| Empower | High-net-worth | Hybrid robo + human advisors, wealth management |
| Ellevest | Gender-focused investing | Goal-based portfolios, financial coaching |
1. Wealthfront
Founded in 2008, Wealthfront is a top robo-advisor that specializes in automated investment strategies, tax-loss harvesting, and direct indexing. Wealthfront charges an annual advisory fee of 0.25%, and there are no trading commissions. The service requires a minimum investment of $500.
The mobile app and website help investors set and track financial goals. Cash is managed by Wealthfront and deposits are FDIC-insured up to $1 million per account. Cash can be moved instantly between the investment account and Wealthfront Cash account. In 2026, tax efficiency will be important to investors, and Wealthfront could be a better alternative to Betterment for generating the best tax-efficient yield.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2008 |
| Annual Fee | 0.25% |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $500 |
| Portfolio Type | Automated ETFs, direct indexing |
| Tax Features | Tax-loss harvesting |
| Mobile Experience | Highly rated, intuitive |
| Web Experience | Goal tracking, cash management |
| Liquidity | Seamless transfers |
| Retirement Options | IRA, 529 plans |
| Customization | Moderate |
| Yield Focus | Strong via tax efficiency |
2. M1 Finance
M1 Finance launched its investment platform in 2015, focusing on its proprietary Pie investing model. M1 charges no advisory fees, and trade commissions are not charged. The minimum opening balance is $100 for a taxable investment account and $500 for an IRA. Both web and mobile apps provide users the ability to automate their investing,
borrow and invest, and invest using fractional shares. Additionally, M1 gives users the ability to quickly change the allocation of their investment portfolio. The adaptability of its automation features, when coupled with a zero-fee investment model, makes M1 Finance an optimal Betterment competitor.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $100 taxable, $500 retirement |
| Portfolio Type | Custom “Pie” investing |
| Fractional Shares | Yes |
| Mobile Experience | Sleek, modern |
| Web Experience | Flexible automation |
| Liquidity | Instant transfers (M1 Plus) |
| Borrowing | Integrated margin loans |
| Customization | High |
| Yield Focus | Strong via zero fees |
3. Schwab Intelligent Portfolios
Launched in 2015, Schwab Intelligent Portfolios offers commission-free automated investment services managed by Schwab. While there are no advisory fees, each portfolio is required to hold a cash allocation, which reduces return potential. There are no trade fees, and the minimum investment is $5,000.
Portfolio rebalancing is automatically managed. The cash drag impacts return potential, and while cash is held waiting for rebalancing, it does not earn any return. Investors who are sensitive to fees appreciate the service. The zero-fee model creates trade-offs. For the best return potential, the cash allocation needs to be managed.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $5,000 |
| Portfolio Type | Automated ETFs |
| Cash Allocation | Mandatory (reduces yield) |
| Mobile Experience | Robust |
| Web Experience | Research tools integrated |
| Liquidity | Reliable |
| Retirement Options | IRA support |
| Customization | Limited |
| Yield Focus | Moderate (cash drag) |
4. Fidelity Go
Launched in 2016, Fidelity Go offers commission-free trading and automatic portfolio management. The service charges no advisory fees for accounts under $25,000. Accounts under $25,000 also have no trading fees and a low $10 account minimum.
Fidelity Go charges a $3-5 monthly fee, and a 0.35% annual fee for account management for accounts over $25,000. Fidelity Go has an intuitive mobile app, and traders seem to appreciate the research offerings. Customers appreciate the low costs and low account minimums to gain access to Fidelity’s offerings.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2016 |
| Annual Fee | $0–$5 monthly, 0.35% for large accounts |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $10 |
| Portfolio Type | Fidelity ETFs |
| Mobile Experience | Streamlined |
| Web Experience | Strong research integration |
| Liquidity | High |
| Retirement Options | IRA support |
| Customization | Low |
| Yield Focus | Moderate |
| Accessibility | Beginner-friendly |
5. Vanguard Digital Advisor
Started in 2019, Vanguard Digital Advisor charges an annual advisory fee of 0.15%, in addition to ETF expenses. There are no trading fees, and the minimum account balance is $3,000. Their mobile and computer platforms focus on helping customers plan for retirement, and take a goal-based approach to investment.
Customers of Vanguard Digital Advisor can easily move their investments to other platforms, because of Vanguard’s large infrastructure. For customers that want to invest for the long-term, and have their retirement investments managed, Vanguard Digital Advisor is a solid choice, but it lacks the flexibility of M1 Finance.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2019 |
| Annual Fee | 0.15% |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $3,000 |
| Portfolio Type | Vanguard ETFs |
| Retirement Focus | Strong |
| Mobile Experience | Simple |
| Web Experience | Retirement tools |
| Liquidity | Strong |
| Customization | Limited |
| Yield Focus | Long-term index growth |
| ESG Options | Available |
6. SoFi Automated Investing
SoFi Automated Investing launched in 2011 and charges no advisory fees. ETF expense ratios do apply. SoFi’s platforms, both mobile and web, provide integration of financial planning and career coaching, in addition to providing benefits and services to members.
SoFi makes liquidity easy by providing instant transfers between accounts and transfers to other financial institutions. SoFi is best for first-time investors and those looking to bundle several financial services. Though, like other robo-advisors, SoFi may leave some investors wanting for additional control and features.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2011 |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $1 |
| Portfolio Type | ETFs |
| Mobile Experience | Modern |
| Web Experience | Integrated coaching |
| Liquidity | Seamless |
| Member Benefits | Career coaching |
| Customization | Limited |
| Yield Focus | Moderate |
| Accessibility | Beginner-friendly |
7. Acorns
Founded in 2012, Acorns was the first to offer micro-investing with round-up options. It charges between $3 and $9, monthly subscription fees, and has no trade commissions. The minimal account balance is $0.
Acorns’ mobile and computer apps, offer easy methods of automated saving, and family plans. Moderate liquidity is offered with a deposit and withdrawal processing time of a few days. Acorns is best for novices, as it promotes savings with little and often, larger subscription fees with smaller account balances.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2012 |
| Annual Fee | $3–$9 monthly |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $0 |
| Portfolio Type | ETFs |
| Mobile Experience | Simple |
| Web Experience | Family plans |
| Liquidity | Moderate |
| Round-ups | Yes |
| Customization | Low |
| Yield Focus | Entry-level |
| Accessibility | Micro-investing |
8. E*TRADE Core Portfolios
ETRADE launched their Core Portfolios in 2017, based on their experience with brokerage accounts founded in 1982. Accounts with a $500 minimum receive a reduced 0.30% annual advisory fee. Trades are free. Users of the mobile and desktop platforms have access to automated rebalancing and ESG investments.
ETRADE has the liquidity to support Core Portfolios, because it uses the same infrastructure for clearing and settlement as its brokerage business. Core Portfolios offer yield optimization and smart beta. Fees, however, are higher compared to brokerages like Vanguard and Charles Schwab.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1982 (Core Portfolios 2017) |
| Annual Fee | 0.30% |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $500 |
| Portfolio Type | ETFs, ESG options |
| Mobile Experience | Advanced |
| Web Experience | Automated rebalancing |
| Liquidity | Strong |
| Retirement Options | IRA support |
| Customization | Moderate |
| Yield Focus | Smart-beta |
| Accessibility | Mid-level investors |
9. Robinhood Strategies
Established in 2013, with automated strategies launched in 2025, Robinhood introduced automation strategies in a competitive industry. Advisory fees are average at 0.25%, charged only to non-Gold members. Like most platforms, Robinhood does not charge commissions and has no minimum balance requirements.
Its quick and easy to use platform caters to novice investors and offers automation tools. Investors can be 100% instantly-accessible and -vested in the market. The platform is popular for its high-yield strategies. In comparison to Robinhood, Wealthfront has better risk management tools.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2013 (Strategies 2025) |
| Annual Fee | 0.25% (waived for Gold) |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $0 |
| Portfolio Type | ETFs, stocks |
| Mobile Experience | Highly intuitive |
| Web Experience | DIY + automation |
| Liquidity | Instant |
| Customization | High |
| Yield Focus | Flexible |
| Accessibility | Active traders |
| Risk Tools | Limited |
10. Webull Smart Advisor
Launched in 2017 and introducing Smart Advisor in 2024, Webull offers automation with ETF portfolios and real-time analysis, all for an annual advisory fee of 0.20%, and charged against a $100 minimum.
Although they offer commission-free trading, Webull’s app-centric platforms are limiting, and transfers out can take awhile. Smart Advisor is great for mobile investors who want automation and ETF portfolios. M1 Finance offers a similar service, but with more flexibility.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2017 (Smart Advisor 2024) |
| Annual Fee | 0.20% |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $100 |
| Portfolio Type | ETFs |
| Mobile Experience | App-centric |
| Web Experience | Real-time analytics |
| Liquidity | Strong |
| Customization | Limited |
| Yield Focus | Moderate |
| Accessibility | Mobile-first |
| Retirement Options | IRA support |
11. Empower
Established in 2009, Empower integrated human and automated financial planning. Automated planning carries a 0.49% annual charge and has no trading commissions or minimums. Human planning carries a $100,000 minimum. Empower’s web and app planning offer tools from investment and retirement planning to budgeting. Empower is liquid with custom support.
For higher fees, clients can benefit from human guidance and alignment of their investments. Overall, Empower is best for clients who want a human element to their investments and alignment of their portfolio with a greater return.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 |
| Annual Fee | 0.49%+ |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $100,000 |
| Portfolio Type | Hybrid robo + human |
| Mobile Experience | Comprehensive |
| Web Experience | Wealth management tools |
| Liquidity | Strong |
| Retirement Options | Advanced planning |
| Customization | High |
| Yield Focus | Personalized |
| Accessibility | High-net-worth |
12. Ellevest
Ellevest charges a monthly subscription of $5-$9 (no trading commissions) and has a minimum balance of $0. It offers mobile and web platforms to assist users in defining their investment goals and provides coaching and advisory services.
Transactions usually take the standard length of time to process. Ellevest may be appropriate for users seeking customized financial planning to integrate with their professional and personal objectives, but subscription costs may be un justified for users with a low account balance.
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 |
| Annual Fee | $5–$9 monthly |
| Trading Fees | $0 |
| Minimum Balance | $0 |
| Portfolio Type | Goal-based ETFs |
| Mobile Experience | Modern |
| Web Experience | Coaching integrated |
| Liquidity | Moderate |
| Customization | Moderate |
| Yield Focus | Personalized |
| Accessibility | Inclusive |
| Specialty | Gender-focused planning |
Comparison of Betterment Alternatives (2026)
| Platform | Founded | Annual Fee | Trading Fees | Minimum Balance | Mobile/Web Experience | Liquidity | Customization | Yield Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wealthfront | 2008 | 0.25% | $0 | $500 | Intuitive, tax tools | Seamless | Moderate | Strong via tax-loss harvesting |
| M1 Finance | 2015 | $0 | $0 | $100 taxable / $500 retirement | Sleek, flexible | Instant (M1 Plus) | High | Strong via zero fees |
| Schwab Intelligent Portfolios | 2015 | $0 | $0 | $5,000 | Robust, research-backed | Reliable | Limited | Moderate (cash drag) |
| Fidelity Go | 2016 | $0–$5/mo, 0.35% large accounts | $0 | $10 | Streamlined | High | Low | Moderate |
| Vanguard Digital Advisor | 2019 | 0.15% | $0 | $3,000 | Retirement-focused | Strong | Limited | Long-term index growth |
| SoFi Automated Investing | 2011 | $0 | $0 | $1 | Modern, coaching integrated | Seamless | Limited | Moderate |
| Acorns | 2012 | $3–$9/mo | $0 | $0 | Simple, family plans | Moderate | Low | Entry-level yield |
| E*TRADE Core Portfolios | 1982 (Core 2017) | 0.30% | $0 | $500 | Advanced, ESG options | Strong | Moderate | Smart-beta yield |
| Robinhood Strategies | 2013 (Strategies 2025) | 0.25% (waived Gold) | $0 | $0 | Highly intuitive | Instant | High | Flexible yield |
| Webull Smart Advisor | 2017 (Advisor 2024) | 0.20% | $0 | $100 | App-centric | Strong | Limited | Moderate |
| Empower | 2009 | 0.49%+ | $0 | $100,000 | Comprehensive, wealth tools | Strong | High | Personalized yield |
| Ellevest | 2014 | $5–$9/mo | $0 | $0 | Modern, coaching | Moderate | Moderate |
Conclusion
In summary, there are 12 Betterment alternatives for smart yield in 2026. They include basic options like Acorns and SoFi Automated Investing. There are also more advanced options like Wealthfront, where users can control their level of stock market exposure and where tax-loss harvesting is offered.
M1 Finance is also advanced and allows users to invest in a broad range of securities to create their own custom portfolios. There are also zero-fee options like Schwab Intelligent Portfolios. Premium services like Empower and Ellevest give users access to financial planners.
Users ultimately have to decide what balance of fees, liquidity, and convenience is best for them. The bottom line is deciding what mix of control, automation, and/or human involvement is the best for users to feel comfortable investing their money for the long-term.
FAQ
What is Wealthfront’s minimum balance?
Wealthfront requires a $500 minimum balance, charges a 0.25% annual advisory fee, and offers strong tax‑loss harvesting features.
Does M1 Finance charge trading fees?
No, M1 Finance offers commission‑free trading and zero advisory fees, with a $100 minimum for taxable accounts.
Is Schwab Intelligent Portfolios really free?
Yes, Schwab charges no advisory fee, but portfolios include mandatory cash allocations that can reduce yield.
How does Fidelity Go price its service?
Fidelity Go is free under $25,000, then charges $3–$5 monthly, and 0.35% for larger accounts.
What makes Vanguard Digital Advisor unique?
It focuses on low‑cost index ETFs, retirement planning, and charges just 0.15% annually with a $3,000 minimum.