Comparison of Interactive Brokers vs Robinhood [ 2024 ]

The best brokers to invest in cryptocurrencies compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is theInteractive Brokers vs Robinhood comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Interactive Brokers

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

robinhood

Robinhood

Main points

Fees

Low 4,4/5

Regulated

SEC, FCA

Demo account

Yes
Low 4,7/5

Fees

SEC, FINRA

Regulated

No

Demo account

Recommended for

Beginners

No

Trading

Yes

Passive income

No

Buy and hold

Yes
Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

No

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold


Comparison of fees

Rating

4.6 – Interactive Brokers charges low commissions (0.12% to 0.18% of trade value) with no added spreads or custody fees, making it one of the most cost-effective options for serious traders .
4.1 – Robinhood offers commission-free trading, which is excellent for beginners. However, the inability to transfer cryptocurrencies off the platform and limited cryptocurrency options can be limiting .

Level

Low 4,4/5
Low 4,7/5

Brief explanation

Interactive Brokers offers a competitive and transparent commission structure for cryptocurrency trading. The commission rates range from 0.12% to 0.18% of the trade value, with a minimum fee of $1.75 per order, capped at 1% of the trade value. This fee structure is notably lower than many competitors, who may charge up to 2.00% or include additional spreads and markups​​. Trading cryptocurrencies on Interactive Brokers’ platform does not incur any added spreads, markups, or custody fees. This is facilitated through their partnerships with Paxos Trust Company and Zero Hash LLC, both of which are regulated entities, ensuring a secure trading environment​​. Furthermore, clients can trade cryptocurrencies 24/7 when funds are transferred to their dedicated Paxos or Zero Hash account during normal US banking hours​​.
Robinhood Crypto does not charge any commission fees for trading cryptocurrencies on its platform. Users can buy and sell 15 different cryptocurrencies without incurring additional costs, making it an attractive option for those looking to trade without worrying about hidden fees. However, while Robinhood does not impose direct trading fees, it passes on network fees from crypto miners and validators to users when processing blockchain transactions. Additionally, Robinhood makes money through payment for order flow (PFOF), which involves selling user order information to market makers and may not always result in the best execution prices for trades. In summary, Robinhood Crypto offers commission-free trading, but users should be aware of network fees and the potential implications of PFOF on trade execution prices .

Interactive Brokers

Robinhood

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Product selection

Native token

Interactive Brokers does not have a native token.
Robinhood does not have a native token.

Earns

Interactive Brokers does not offer staking or similar earning options for cryptocurrencies. The platform allows trading and holding of cryptocurrencies .
Robinhood does not offer staking or other earning options for cryptocurrencies. The platform is geared towards trading a select few cryptocurrencies .

NFT marketplace

Interactive Brokers does not have an NFT marketplace.
Robinhood does not have an NFT marketplace.

Cripto/debit card

Interactive Brokers offers an IBKR debit card for US residents as part of their Integrated Investment Management accounts .
Robinhood provides a debit card that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted .

Company information

Full name

Interactive Brokers LLC​​.
Robinhood Markets, Inc.​​.

Regulation

SEC, FINRA, CFTC, FCA, ASIC, SFC (Hong Kong)​​.
SEC, FINRA (USA)​​.

Year founded

1977​​
2013​​

Founder

Thomas Peterffy​​
Vladimir Tenev, Baiju Bhatt​​

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes, Interactive Brokers accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .
Yes, Robinhood accepts bank transfers for both deposits and withdrawals .

Mastercard

No, Interactive Brokers does not accept Mastercard for deposits​​.
No, Robinhood does not accept Mastercard for deposits​​.

Wire transfer

Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .
Wise is not mentioned as a supported payment method .

Card

No, Interactive Brokers does not accept credit/debit cards .
No, Robinhood does not accept credit/debit cards for deposits, but it offers a debit card for use .

Comparative table

Interactive Brokers Features Robinhood
Interactive Brokers offers a low minimum trade amount, making it accessible for both small and large investors. This encourages new traders to start without significant capital.
Minimum Trade
Robinhood Crypto allows users to start trading with as little as $1, making it highly accessible to beginners and those with limited capital.
The platform’s fees are among the lowest in the industry, which is a major advantage for frequent traders.
Trading and Transaction Fees
The platform is known for its commission-free trading, which means users can trade cryptocurrencies without incurring additional costs, making it very cost-effective.
Currently, only eight cryptocurrencies are available, which limits options for traders looking for a diverse portfolio.
Number of Cryptocurrencies
While the platform supports 15 cryptocurrencies, this number is relatively low compared to other exchanges that offer a broader range of digital assets.
The platform offers limited crypto-to-crypto pairs, which restricts trading strategies for users looking to trade beyond major cryptocurrencies.
Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs
Robinhood does not support direct trading between different cryptocurrencies, limiting trading flexibility.
Interactive Brokers provides clear and comprehensive information about their services and fees. However, the site could be more intuitive for beginners.
Website Transparency
The website is user-friendly and provides clear information, but it could benefit from more detailed explanations on certain services and policies.
Interactive Brokers offers an IBKR debit card for US residents as part of their Integrated Investment Management accounts .
Credit/Debit Card
Robinhood provides a debit card that can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted .
The platform offers secure storage solutions through partnerships with regulated entities, ensuring the safety of users’ digital assets.
Storage Offering
Robinhood does not support external wallets, meaning users cannot transfer their cryptocurrencies off the platform, which is a significant limitation for those seeking more control over their assets.
Interactive Brokers does not currently offer staking or rewards programs, which could be a drawback for users looking for passive income opportunities.
Staking and Rewards
The platform does not offer staking or rewards programs, which are features available on many other cryptocurrency exchanges.
The mobile and desktop platforms are highly rated for their functionality and user-friendly design, catering to both novice and experienced traders.
Mobile App and Desktop
Robinhood provides an excellent mobile and desktop trading experience, known for its seamless integration and user-friendly design.
The customer service is generally responsive and helpful. However, the complex account setup process can be a barrier for new users.
Customer Service
Customer service has been a point of criticism, with reports of slow response times and limited support options, which can be frustrating for users needing immediate assistance.
The platform provides efficient deposit and withdrawal processes with multiple options, although there is room for improvement in speeding up withdrawal times.
Deposit and Withdraw
Deposits and withdrawals are straightforward, but the lack of support for transferring cryptocurrencies to external wallets remains a drawback.

Key features

Analysis tools

Interactive Brokers offers the Trader Workstation (TWS) platform, which includes powerful trading tools and advanced charting capabilities. They also provide comprehensive market data and analysis tools .
Robinhood offers advanced charting and screener tools, with in-depth charting, dozens of technical indicators, and market data from multiple sources. However, their crypto trading is separated into a different app, Webull Pay, which continues the same features .

Mobile APP

Yes, Interactive Brokers offers the IBKR Mobile app for iOS and Android devices, providing comprehensive trading tools and account management features .
Yes, Robinhood has a highly rated mobile app that allows users to trade cryptocurrencies along with other assets .

Security

Interactive Brokers is regulated by top-tier US authorities like the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of security and transparency. They offer SIPC insurance, protecting clients’ securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit​​.
Robinhood is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of investor protection. They offer SIPC insurance for securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit. However, they do not provide negative balance protection​​.

Additional features

Interactive Brokers allows clients to trade cryptocurrencies through Paxos or Zero Hash, offering a low commission rate of 0.12% to 0.18% of the trade value. They support a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, and provide advanced trading tools through their Trader Workstation platform. Interactive Brokers also offer features like holding USD in crypto accounts and 24/7 trading .
Robinhood provides commission-free trading on a selection of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin through their mobile app. They offer a user-friendly platform with features such as instant deposits, real-time data, and access to margin accounts with Robinhood Gold. However, their crypto services are limited compared to specialized crypto exchanges .

Anonymity

Anonymous accounts are not available. Interactive Brokers requires detailed personal information and identity verification .
Robinhood does not offer anonymous accounts. Users must provide personal details and complete verification steps .

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

Interactive Brokers allows both direct trading and CFDs for cryptocurrencies. The available cryptocurrencies for direct trading are Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). Additional coins are available through CFDs​​.
Robinhood supports trading in a limited number of cryptocurrencies. The available cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Bitcoin SV (BSV), Dogecoin (DOGE), Ethereum (ETH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), and Litecoin (LTC)​​.

User-friendliness

Interactive Brokers integrates cryptocurrency trading into its existing platform, allowing users to trade crypto alongside other asset classes. The platform offers low commissions and a professional-grade trading environment. However, the setup process might be more complex compared to dedicated crypto exchanges, which could be a drawback for less experienced users .
Robinhood offers a sleek and user-friendly mobile app that makes it easy for users to trade cryptocurrencies alongside other assets. The platform’s simplicity and commission-free trading are major advantages, though it lacks some advanced features and educational tools. Additionally, Robinhood does not allow users to withdraw their crypto holdings to external wallets, which could be a limitation for some traders .

Value for money

Interactive Brokers is known for its low commissions and transparent pricing, making it a cost-effective choice for crypto trading. Its professional-grade trading tools add significant value, though the platform might be too complex for beginners​​.
Robinhood is renowned for its commission-free trading, providing excellent value for money, especially for beginners. However, its limited cryptocurrency offerings and inability to transfer crypto out of the platform may limit its appeal for more advanced users​​.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Hungary, Australia, India, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore .
United States (in most states) .

Best for

Interactive Brokers is ideal for professional and experienced traders who want to trade cryptocurrencies alongside other asset classes. Its low commissions and professional-grade trading tools make it a strong choice for serious investors​​.
Robinhood is perfect for beginners and younger investors who want an easy-to-use, commission-free platform to trade a limited range of cryptocurrencies. Its integration with stock and ETF trading makes it convenient for those looking to diversify their investments​​.

Account

Trading

Interactive Brokers offers limited direct cryptocurrency trading but provides access to crypto-related financial products. It is more focused on traditional investment products, making it less ideal for pure crypto trading.
Robinhood allows direct cryptocurrency trading with zero commissions, making it an attractive option for retail investors. However, it offers a limited range of cryptocurrencies compared to other platforms.

Deposit and withdrawal

Interactive Brokers allows deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers and wire transfers. The process is secure but can be slower, especially for international transfers. Fees may apply for withdrawals.
Robinhood allows deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers. The process is straightforward and free of charge, but the limited options can be a drawback for some users.

Account opening process

The account opening process at Interactive Brokers is detailed and thorough. Users must provide extensive personal and financial information, and submit various verification documents. The process is fully digital but can take a few days for approval due to the comprehensive requirements.
Robinhood offers an easy and quick account opening process. Users complete an online application, provide personal information, and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and accounts are typically approved within a day.

KYC required?

Yes, KYC is required at Interactive Brokers. The account opening process includes submitting personal identification documents and proof of address.
Yes, KYC is required at Robinhood. Users must submit personal identification documents and proof of address to verify their accounts.

Customer Service

Interactive Brokers provides customer support via phone, email, and live chat. The support is available 24/5 and is generally responsive, though some users find the service to be slower during peak times due to high demand.
Robinhood offers customer support primarily through email and in-app messaging. They have recently introduced phone support, but response times can vary. The support team is helpful, though some users report delays in getting issues resolved.

Security

Interactive Brokers is regulated by top-tier US authorities like the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of security and transparency. They offer SIPC insurance, protecting clients’ securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit​​.
Robinhood is regulated by the SEC and FINRA, providing a high level of investor protection. They offer SIPC insurance for securities up to $500,000, including a $250,000 cash limit. However, they do not provide negative balance protection​​.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

As an expert on our website, I highly recommend Interactive Brokers for those interested in integrating cryptocurrency trading with traditional financial instruments. The platform offers competitive fees, robust security, and seamless integration with other asset classes, making it an excellent choice for experienced traders looking to diversify their portfolios. While the account setup process can be complex, the advanced trading features and reliable customer support make it worth the effort. If you’re seeking a secure and cost-effective way to trade cryptocurrencies, Interactive Brokers is a solid option.
As an expert on our website, I recommend Robinhood Crypto for its ease of use and commission-free trading. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who want to start trading cryptocurrencies with minimal initial investment. However, be mindful of its limitations, such as the lack of support for external wallets and limited customer service. Overall, it’s a solid platform for those new to crypto trading, offering a straightforward and accessible entry into the market.

How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

 

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).


For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.

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