Betterment vs. Wealthfront
Compare rates, requirements, and features side-by-side to find the best option for you.
Betterment
Cash Reserve
3.50%APYDec 10, 2025FDIC InsuredLow MinimumsGreat iOS AppGreat Android AppShow Fine Print & Trends Hide Details
Betterment
Cash Reserve
Wealthfront
Cash Account
Up to4.15%APYDec 10, 2025FDIC InsuredNo MinimumsGreat iOS AppGreat Android AppRange: 3.50% – 4.15%Show Fine Print & Trends Hide Details
Wealthfront
Cash Account
Prefer In-Person Banking?
Both of these banks are online-only. If you need physical branch access, check out our list of high-yield accounts with brick-and-mortar locations.
Betterment vs. Wealthfront Savings Calculator
Wealthfront earns $417.7 more than Betterment.
Betterment
Cash Reserve
Savings Breakdown
- Interest Earned+$2,114.10(10.5%)
- Total Contributions$13,000
- Initial Deposit$5,000
Projected Balance
$20,114.10
Wealthfront
Cash Account
Savings Breakdown
- Interest Earned+$2,531.80(12.3%)
- Total Contributions$13,000
- Initial Deposit$5,000
Projected Balance
$20,531.80
The Banksparency Savings Calculator provides estimated savings growth based on user input and our latest data.
Comparison Analysis
Comparing Betterment vs. Wealthfront
Why Betterment?
- ✓No checking account or direct deposit required
Why Wealthfront?
- ✓Higher potential APY (4.15% vs 3.50%) on all balances
— Key Feature Differences —
Better Returns at $10,000
WealthfrontWealthfront's Cash Account earns more on smaller deposits (approx. $415 vs $350/yr).
Better Returns at $25,000
WealthfrontWealthfront's Cash Account pulls ahead with larger amounts (approx. $1038 vs $875/yr).
Best for Simplicity
BettermentBetterment's Cash Reserve offers 3.50% APY with no bundling, direct deposit requirement or caps.
Shared Benefits
Over a 1-year period, Wealthfront's Cash Account pays $65 more interest on a $10,000 balance than Betterment's Cash Reserve.
*This calculation assumes current rates remain consistent for 1 year and does not include temporary bonuses.
Executive Summary
Wealthfront offers a Cash Account with a competitive 4.15% APY for the first three months, after which it drops to 3.50%. This account is online-only and does not require a minimum deposit or direct deposit. In contrast, Betterment's Cash Reserve provides a stable 3.50% APY with no direct deposit requirement and no maintenance fees, making it a great option for simplicity. Both accounts are FDIC-insured through partner banks, but Wealthfront's initial higher rate makes it the winner for those looking to maximize returns. For ongoing savings, both accounts yield the same APY after the promotional period.
Analysis generated based on current Banksparency database records
* AI-generated content provided for informational purposes only. Accuracy is not guaranteed; always verify details with the provider.
Top Market Contenders
See who beats both Betterment and Wealthfront.
| Feature | Betterment | Wealthfront |
|---|---|---|
| APY | 3.50% Verified: 12/10/2025 ↘︎ 0.50%90d Change | 4.15% Range: 3.50% - 4.15% Verified: 12/10/2025 - |
| Product Name | Cash Reserve | Cash Account |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 | $0 |
| Min. Balance for APY | $0 | $0 |
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Branch Access | None | None |
| Account Type | Online Only | Online Only |
| Direct Deposit Req. | None | None |
| Checking Bundle | No | No |
| Mobile Apps | iOS4.8 Android4.7 | iOS4.8 Android4.9 |
| BBB Rating | A- | F |
| Important Notes | - | Wealthfront is not a bank but a financial services company. It is FDIC-insured through its many partner banks. New clients get an APY of 4.15% for 3 months, after which the 3.50% APY applies. See terms at Wealthfront. |
| Next Steps |
📈 Compare Savings Rates Over Time
Historical Performance
| Metric | Betterment | Wealthfront |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Reserve | Cash Account | |
Current APY | 3.50% | 4.15% |
Trend | Stable | Stable |
Velocity (bps/mo) | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Days Since Change | 26 | 26 |
1-Month High | 3.50% | 4.15% |
1-Month Low | 3.50% | 4.15% |
Adjustments / Mo | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Volatility Score | 0.000 | 0.000 |
How to read these metrics(Click to expand)
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