The Best Investing Apps for Beginners in 2025 (That Don’t Require Real Money)

Want to practice investing without risking your savings? 📈 Here are the best investing apps for beginners in 2025 that let you trade with virtual money and real market data. Our top pick: Ticker -- a fun, family-friendly stock market game where you learn, compete, and grow your confidence before ever using real cash.

Why Beginners Should Start With a Free Paper Trading App

Before diving into real stocks, it's smart to practice risk-free.

• ✅ Learn how markets move in real time
• ✅ Test your strategies without losing a dime
• ✅ Build investing confidence step by step
  👉A paper trading app is a stock market simulator that lets you trade using fake money but tracks real-world market movements.

Our #1 Pick -- Ticker 🎮

Learn Investing The Fun Way

Unlike most simulators, Ticker makes investing feel like a game. It's designed for beginners and families who want a safe, engaging entry point into the stock market.

Why Ticker Stands Out

1. 🕹️ Gamified challenges & competitions
2. 📊 Real-time market data, zero real risk
3. 🧑‍🎓 Beginner-friendly guides and tips
4. 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-safe and fun for all ages
   💡 Ticker helps you master investing while having fun -- no stress, no jargon.

Other Great Free Investment Apps Without Real Money

Webull Paper Trading

• Advanced tools, good for exploring options trading
• Better for users who already know the basics

Thinkorswim by TD Ameritrade

• Pro-level analytics and charting
• Excellent for serious learners, but can feel overwhelming

eToro Virtual Portfolio

1. Social investing features (copy trades, follow others)
2. Great for seeing how communities trade globally

How to Pick the Best Stock Trading Simulator

When choosing an app, look for:

1. 🎯 Ease of use → Friendly design vs. overwhelming charts
2. 🔒 Safety → No surprise deposits or hidden fees
3. 🕹️ Engagement → Games, leaderboards, or challenges
4. 📚 Learning support → Beginner guides, tips, or tutorials

FAQs About Beginner Investing Apps

Q: Are free stock simulators actually free?
** Yes -- apps like Ticker** don't require real money.

Q: Can I lose real money using a paper trading app?
** No. You're only using virtual cash**.

Q: How long should I practice before trading real money?
** Most beginners benefit from 3-6 months** of paper trading before going live.

Final Thoughts

If you're new to investing, start risk-free. Stock simulators help you learn the ropes without losing money -- but most feel like homework. That's why Ticker is our top choice for 2025.

🎉 It makes investing fun, safe, and simple. No money, no pressure, just play.