Product & Service Reviews

Acorns continues to excel at making investing accessible and automatic for those who might otherwise not invest at all. While the $3 monthly subscription fee represents a high percentage cost for smaller accounts, the platform’s ability to overcome psychological barriers to saving through automation and Round-Ups® creates meaningful value for beginning investors, inconsistent savers, and those seeking a completely hands-off investment approach.

Tiller Money successfully bridges the gap between automated financial tools and customizable spreadsheets, creating a unique solution for data-oriented individuals who want complete control over their financial tracking. While the annual cost and learning curve exceed some alternatives, the combination of automatic data feeds with infinite spreadsheet customization creates exceptional value for spreadsheet enthusiasts and those with complex financial tracking needs.

Mint continues to deliver exceptional value as a free budgeting solution with automatic transaction categorization, bill reminders, and credit score monitoring. Despite its ad-supported model and occasionally dated interface, no competitor matches Mint’s combination of price (free), feature breadth, and accessibility for budgeting beginners.

YNAB (You Need A Budget) stands out with its unique zero-based budgeting approach that helps users gain complete control over their finances. While the subscription cost and learning curve present obstacles, the potential savings and improved financial habits make it worthwhile for committed users seeking to transform their relationship with money.

Fidelity Investments stands out as a comprehensive brokerage platform offering commission-free stock and ETF trading, zero expense ratio index funds, and extensive research tools. With excellent customer service, a full-featured mobile app, and no account minimums, Fidelity delivers exceptional value for both beginning and experienced investors. This review examines Fidelity’s trading platforms, investment options, fee structure, and user experience to determine if it truly deserves its reputation as the best all-around brokerage for long-term investors in 2025.

Is Personal Capital’s financial dashboard worth your time? Our review examines its free tools, wealth management, and overall value.

Is Acorns’ spare change investing approach effective for building wealth? Our detailed review examines its features, fees, and whether it’s right for you.

Is E*TRADE the right broker for your investing needs? Our review covers its platforms, tools, fees, and how it compares to competitors in 2025.

Is Experian’s premium credit monitoring worth paying for? Our in-depth review examines Experian’s free and paid features, Boost tool, and overall value.

Is Credit Karma’s free credit monitoring worth it? Our in-depth review examines features, accuracy, and value compared to paid alternatives.