Fidelity Review
By Itai Varochik | Last updated February 1, 2026
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Our Verdict
Fidelity is the best overall brokerage for serious investors, offering zero-commission trading, zero-expense-ratio funds, and exceptional research. The combination of institutional-grade tools with retail accessibility makes it the top choice for long-term wealth building.
GetASearch Score: 9/10
Rating: 4.5/5 (2134 reviews)
Pros
- Commission-free stock, ETF, and options trading
- Zero-expense-ratio index funds (industry first)
- $12T+ in assets under administration
- Exceptional research from 20+ providers
- 200+ investor centers for in-person help
- Fractional shares starting at $1
Cons
- Options contract fee ($0.65/contract)
- No cryptocurrency trading on main platform
- Active Trader Pro desktop only (no web version)
- International stock trading has extra fees
- Mutual fund selection can be overwhelming
Score Breakdown
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Features | 9.0/10 |
| Ease of Use | 8.0/10 |
| Value for Money | 9.5/10 |
| Customer Support | 8.5/10 |
| Overall | 9.0/10 |
What is Fidelity?
Fidelity Investments is one of the world's largest asset managers with $12+ trillion in assets under administration, serving 43+ million individual investors. The platform offers commission-free stock, ETF, and options trading, alongside industry-leading research, retirement accounts, and zero-expense-ratio index funds. Fidelity's zero-commission trading covers US stocks, ETFs, and options (with a $0.65/contract fee). The platform offers four proprietary zero-expense-ratio index funds (FZROX, FZILX, FZIPX, FNILX) that literally cost nothing to hold - a category Fidelity pioneered. Fractional shares are available starting at $1 through their "Stocks by the Slice" program. The Active Trader Pro desktop platform provides Level 2 quotes, real-time analytics, 100+ technical indicators, and customizable workspaces. Research is exceptional, with reports from 20+ independent providers including Morningstar, Argus, and Ned Davis. The mobile app is well-designed with Face ID, real-time quotes, and full trading functionality. Fidelity excels in retirement planning with no-fee IRAs, excellent 401(k) administration, and comprehensive financial planning tools. The Fidelity Cash Management Account offers ATM fee reimbursement worldwide and no foreign transaction fees. Customer service is available 24/7 with 200+ investor centers across the US for in-person support.
Integrations: Mint, Plaid, TurboTax
Zero-Fee Index Funds: Fidelity's Moat
Fidelity is the only major broker offering index funds with a 0% expense ratio - ZERO Total Market, ZERO International, ZERO Large Cap, and ZERO Extended Market. No other broker matches this.
Research: Best in the Industry
Fidelity aggregates research from 20+ providers. The Equity Summary Score synthesizes multiple analyst opinions, and the Learning Center is the best educational resource among all brokers.
Fidelity Features
| Feature | Available | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Commission-Free Trading | Yes | $0 stocks, ETFs, and options |
| Zero Index Funds | Yes | 0% expense ratio index funds |
| Research | Yes | 20+ independent research providers |
| Retirement Planning | Yes | IRAs, 401(k), planning tools |
| Cash Management | Yes | High-yield spending account |
| Fractional Shares | Yes | Invest with as little as $1 |
Key Specifications
| Best For Region | United States |
| Cash Account APY | 4.00%+ |
| Zero-Fee Index Funds | Yes |
Fidelity Pricing
- Stock/ETF trades: $0
- Options: $0.65/contract
- Zero index funds: 0% expense ratio
Best For
- Long-term investors and retirement savers
- Index fund investors wanting zero-cost funds
- Active traders wanting professional research
- Investors wanting in-person support
Not Ideal For
- Crypto traders
- International investors (US-focused)
- Beginner investors wanting simplicity over depth
- Those wanting a mobile-first experience
Final Verdict
Fidelity is the best overall brokerage for serious investors, offering zero-commission trading, zero-expense-ratio funds, and exceptional research. The combination of institutional-grade tools with retail accessibility makes it the top choice for long-term wealth building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fidelity good for beginners?
Yes, Fidelity offers fractional shares from $1, educational resources, and simple investing options. The interface has a learning curve but the platform grows with you.
What are Fidelity zero-expense-ratio funds?
Fidelity offers four index funds with 0.00% expense ratios: FZROX (Total Market), FZILX (International), FZIPX (Extended Market), and FNILX (Large Cap). They cost literally nothing to hold.
Does Fidelity charge commissions?
No commissions on US stocks, ETFs, or options trades. Options have a $0.65/contract fee. No account minimums or inactivity fees.
Does Fidelity offer crypto?
Fidelity offers Bitcoin and Ethereum trading through Fidelity Crypto, a separate service. The main brokerage platform does not support crypto trading directly.