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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

AJ Bell vs Public.com 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In this comparison of AJ Bell and Public.com, the key difference lies in their geographical focus and market offerings. AJ Bell, a seasoned UK-based broker regulated by the FCA, caters primarily to British investors with its range of ISAs and SIPPs, appealing to long-term investors interested in stocks and funds. Conversely, Public.com, a newer US-based platform regulated by the SEC, attracts traders keen on commission-free stock and crypto trading, enhanced by a social investing feed and fractional shares, making it ideal for tech-savvy, cost-conscious investors in the United States.

AJ Bell

Public.com

Higher ratedPublic.com logo

Public.com

3.0/ 5
Visit Public.com →Full review
VS
AJ BellPublic.com
BrokerRank Score2.8/53.0/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0 pips0 pips
Max Leverage1:11:1
RegulationFCASEC
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
AJ BellPublic.com
Best for Low Fees
AJ BellPublic.com
Best for Regulation
AJ BellPublic.com
Best Overall
Public.comAJ Bell
Quick Answer

Public.com is the better choice overall, scoring 3.0/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, AJ Bell offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

AJ Bell vs Public.com: Key Differences

Feature

AJ Bell

Public.com

Winner
Our Rating
2.8 / 5
3.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
$9.95/lot
None
Regulated By
SEC
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Stocks, Indices
Stocks, Crypto
Founded
1995
2019
Headquarters
Manchester, UK
New York, USA
Score
0 / 2
2 / 2

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Fees Comparison

Fee

AJ Bell

Public.com

Lower fees
Spread From
0 pips
0 pips
Commission
$9.95/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

In the comparison between AJ Bell and Public.com, Public.com emerges as the better option for beginners due to its commission-free trading and user-friendly mobile platform, making it easy for novices to start investing without incurring costs. AJ Bell, with its comprehensive platform options and focus on traditional investment accounts like ISAs and SIPPs, is more suited for professional traders who need robust fund selection and investment flexibility, despite its higher dealing charges. Public.com also has an edge on fees, offering commission-free trading compared to AJ Bell's £9.95 per trade charge.

Who Should Choose Which?

AJ Bell

AJ Bell

2.8/5

Choose AJ Bell if you want…

  • More established (est. 1995)
  • More platforms (2 supported)
Public.com

Public.com

3.0/5

Top pick

Choose Public.com if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (3.0/5)
  • No per-trade commission

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is AJ Bell better than Public.com?

Public.com scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AJ Bell holds a 2.8/5 rating vs Public.com's 3.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, AJ Bell or Public.com?

AJ Bell offers spreads from 0 pips, while Public.com starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for AJ Bell vs Public.com?

AJ Bell requires a minimum deposit of $0. Public.com requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, AJ Bell or Public.com?

AJ Bell is regulated by FCA, while Public.com holds licences from SEC.

5

What trading platforms do AJ Bell and Public.com support?

AJ Bell supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Public.com supports Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both AJ Bell and Public.com?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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