Best Alternatives to Capital One Investing in 2025 (Expert Comparison)

Alternatives to Capital One Investing in 2025

The top alternatives to Capital One Investing in 2025 are E*TRADE, Charles Schwab, and Fidelity Investments. E*TRADE serves as the direct replacement, having acquired Capital One's accounts, while Schwab and Fidelity provide superior tools for long-term growth. This guide compares all options, including fees, features, and step-by-step transfer assistance.

---

Why Did Capital One Investing Shut Down?

Capital One Investing officially closed in 2018 after its parent company decided to:
✅ Focus on core banking services (credit cards, loans)
✅ Exit the competitive brokerage space (where giants like Schwab dominated)
✅ Sell accounts to E*TRADE (now part of Morgan Stanley)

What Happened to Existing Users?

• Accounts were migrated to E*TRADE automatically.

• Users could opt out or switch to other platforms.

---

Is E*TRADE a Good Replacement for Capital One Investing?

Yes—here’s why E*TRADE is the closest match:

Feature	Capital One Investing	E*TRADE
Commission Fees	$6.95/trade	$0/trade
Account Types	Basic brokerage, IRA	Brokerage, IRA, trusts, more
Mobile App	Simple	Advanced (thinkorswim platform)
Research Tools	Limited	Professional-grade charts
Customer Support	Email/phone	24/7 phone + live chat

Best For: Beginners who want a smooth transition, plus intermediate traders needing more tools.

---

6 Best Capital One Investing Alternatives (2025 Ranked)

1. E*TRADE – Best Direct Replacement

• Pros: Free trades, easy migration from Capital One, great mobile app.

• Cons: Slightly complex for absolute beginners.

2. Charles Schwab – Best for Retirement Investing

• Pros: $0 fees, 24/7 support, best Roth IRA options.

• Cons: No crypto trading.

3. Fidelity – Best All-Around Broker

• Pros: Zero-fee index funds, best customer service.

• Cons: Clunky mobile interface.

4. Robinhood – Best for Mobile Traders

• Pros: Super simple, free crypto trading.

• Cons: Limited research tools.

5. M1 Finance – Best Hybrid (Self-Directed + Robo)

• Pros: Automated investing with customization.

• Cons: No live trading.

6. Betterment – Best Hands-Off Robo-Advisor

• Pros: Set-and-forget portfolios.

• Cons: Higher fees (0.25%/year).

---

Charles Schwab vs. Capital One Investing: Full Comparison

Feature	Capital One Investing	Charles Schwab
Fees	$6.95/trade	$0/trade
Research	Basic	Institutional-grade
Branches	None	400+ locations
Retirement Tools	Limited	Best in class

Verdict: Schwab is better in every way—ideal if you’ve outgrown Capital One’s simplicity.

---

How to Transfer from Capital One Investing to E*TRADE

1. Log in to your old Capital One Investing account.

2. Contact E*TRADE support (they handle migrations).

3. Set up your new portfolio (or roll over to another broker).

Pro Tip: Schwab/Fidelity often cover transfer fees if you’re moving $25K+.

---

Best Beginner-Friendly Platforms Like Capital One

• SoFi Invest: Free trades + financial coaching.

• Acorns: Round up spare change into investments.

• Public: Social investing with community tips.

---

FAQs 

❓ Why did Capital One Investing shut down?

Capital One exited brokerage services in 2018 to focus on banking. Accounts moved to E*TRADE.

❓ Is E*TRADE safe for Capital One Investing users?

Yes—E*TRADE is FINRA-insured and now owned by Morgan Stanley.

❓ Can I still access my old Capital One Investing account?

Only if migrated to E*TRADE. Contact their support for help.

❓ Which alternative is best for beginners?

E*TRADE and SoFi Invest—both balance simplicity and functionality.

---

Final Verdict: Where Should You Invest Now?

• For a direct replacement → E*TRADE
• For retirement focus → Charles Schwab
• For zero-fee flexibility → Fidelity

Action Step: Open an account with your chosen platform in <5 minutes—many offer sign-up bonuses for new users.