Robo-advisors have revolutionized the investment landscape, evolving from simple automated portfolio managers to full-service platforms offering features like human advisor access, tax-loss harvesting, and comprehensive cash management. As technology rapidly shifts the industry—much like we are seeing with
As reported by Barron's, robo-advisors have revolutionized the investment landscape, evolving from simple automated portfolio managers to full-service platforms offering features like human advisor access, tax-loss harvesting, and cash management. Below is an updated list of the top 10 robo-advisors in 2026, ranked by their assets under management (AUM).
1. Vanguard Robo-Advisors
AUM: >$300 billion
Individual Clients: >1.5 million
Vanguard continues to dominate the space with its two robo-advisors: the fully automated Vanguard Digital Advisor and the hybrid Personal Advisor Services (PAS). Vanguard has made its digital platform highly accessible, now requiring only a $100 minimum (down from $3,000) with an annual fee of roughly 0.20%. For those wanting a human touch, PAS features dedicated advisor access, requires a $50,000 minimum, and charges 0.30% of AUM.
2. Wealthfront
AUM: $95 billion
Individual Clients: 1.4 million+
Surging past many of its earliest competitors, Wealthfront offers a leading all-digital platform known for deep automation, advanced tax-loss harvesting, and high-yield cash options. With a $500 minimum investment, Wealthfront charges a competitive 0.25% AUM fee and does not charge a monthly subscription.
3. Schwab Intelligent Portfolios
AUM: ~$80billion
Individual Clients: 262,000
Schwab remains a powerhouse with two tiers: the fee-free Schwab Intelligent Portfolio (requiring a $5,000 minimum) and Schwab Intelligent Portfolio Premium. The Premium tier grants access to certified financial planners for a $30 monthly subscription and a $300 one-time planning fee, requiring a $25,000 minimum balance to start.
4. Betterment
AUM: $70 billion
Individual Clients: 1,000,000+
A pioneer in the robo-advisory space, Betterment provides a pure robo option (Betterment Digital) and a hybrid option (Betterment Premium). Betterment Digital lets you start investing with just $10 and charges a 0.25% AUM fee (or $5/month for lower balances). Premium clients need $100,000 to get started and pay a 0.40% AUM fee for unlimited access to human advisors.
5. Fidelity Go
AUM: >$50 billion
Fidelity's robo-advisor is one of the most accessible for beginners, requiring no minimum to open an account and just $10 to start investing. It shines with its fee structure: there are no advisory fees for balances under $25,000. Once your balance crosses $25,000, it charges a 0.35% annual fee, which includes access to 1-on-1 financial coaching.
6. Acorns
AUM: $30 billion
Individual Clients: 14 million+
Acorns pioneered spare-change investing and has grown into a comprehensive subscription service. Rather than a traditional AUM fee, Acorns charges a flat monthly rate ranging from $3 (Bronze) to $12 (Gold). Because the fee is flat, it becomes increasingly cost-effective as your account balance grows. You can begin investing with as little as $5.
7. Empower (formerly: Personal Capital Advisors)
AUM: >$25 billion
Now fully integrated under the Empower brand, this hybrid robo-advisory service caters heavily to high-net-worth individuals. The service pairs algorithmic portfolio management with dedicated financial advisors and robust financial tracking tools. It requires a $100,000 minimum and charges a 0.89% AUM fee, with lower tiered pricing available for larger accounts.
8. M1 Finance
AUM: $12 billion
Individual Clients: 1 million+
Functioning as a hybrid between a robo-advisor and a self-directed brokerage, M1 Finance allows users to build custom portfolios (or use pre-made "Pies") and automates the rebalancing and dividend reinvestment. The platform has no management fees and requires a $100 minimum deposit to start.
9. Sofi Automated Investing
AUM: ~$5 billion
SoFi provides an incredibly accessible entry point with just a $50 account minimum. It charges a 0.25% annual management fee and notably includes complimentary access to certified financial planners for its members, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious investors seeking both automation and human guidance.
10. Merrill Guided Investing
AUM: ~$4 billion
Backed by Bank of America, Merrill Guided Investing pairs automated algorithms with expert-backed asset selection from Merrill's investment professionals. It requires a $1,000 minimum investment and charges a 0.45% annual fee. It acts as a seamless bridge for existing Bank of America customers looking for hands-off portfolio management.
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