In the last decade, discount brokers and fintech apps have disrupted the Indian investment landscape. Traditional full-service brokers that charged high brokerage fees have given way to low-cost, tech-driven investment apps like Paytm Money and Groww.
Both these platforms cater to first-time investors, millennials, and DIY traders who want simple, affordable, and mobile-friendly access to the markets. But when choosing between the two, the question arises: Which one is better for you in 2025—Paytm Money or Groww?
Let’s dive deep into a detailed comparison of Paytm Money vs Groww, analyzing their features, advantages, disadvantages, charges, and suitability.
Quick Overview of Paytm money vs Groww
| Feature | Paytm Money | Groww |
| Founded | 2017 (subsidiary of Paytm) | 2016 (Bengaluru startup) |
| Regulation | SEBI-registered, NSE/BSE member | SEBI-registered, NSE/BSE member |
| Investment Options | Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, ETFs, NPS, F&O, Digital Gold | Stocks, Mutual Funds, IPOs, ETFs, US Stocks, Digital Gold, F&O |
| Brokerage Charges | Flat ₹20 per trade | Flat ₹20 per trade |
| Account Opening | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| AMC (Annual Maintenance) | ₹0 | ₹0 |
| Unique Offering | NPS, Advisory services | US Stock investing, clean UI |
| Best For | Beginners & cost-conscious traders | Beginners & global diversification seekers |
Advantages of Paytm Money
1. Backed by Paytm Brand
- Operates as a subsidiary of Paytm, one of India’s largest fintech companies.
- Strong brand trust, credibility, and large ecosystem integration (wallet, UPI, insurance, etc.).
2. Low-Cost Brokerage
- Intraday, delivery, F&O—all trades at ₹20 flat per order (or 0.05% whichever is lower).
- No account opening fee, no annual maintenance charges.
3. NPS (National Pension System)
- Paytm Money is among the few platforms that let you invest in NPS Tier 1 and Tier 2 accounts.
- Great for retirement planning with extra tax benefits under Section 80CCD(1B).
4. Goal-Based Investing
- Helps investors create personalized financial goals and SIP plans.
- Useful for beginners building long-term discipline.
5. IPO & F&O Access
- Apply for IPOs seamlessly using UPI.
- Derivatives trading available for active traders.
6. Research & Advisory
- Offers stock recommendations, research reports, and mutual fund ratings.
- Beneficial for investors who need some hand-holding.
❌ Disadvantages of Paytm Money
- No US Stock Investing – Unlike Groww, Paytm Money does not offer direct US equities.
- Average User Interface – Functional but not as clean and engaging as Groww’s app.
- Relatively New in Stockbroking – Entered stock trading in 2020; still building trust compared to older brokers.
- Limited Advanced Tools – Not suitable for pro traders needing deep charting, algos, or option strategies.
- Customer Support Issues – Mixed reviews; resolution times can be slower
Advantages of Groww
1. Clean, User-Friendly Interface
- One of the most beginner-friendly apps in India.
- Simple navigation, modern design, and easy onboarding process.
2. Zero-Commission Direct Mutual Funds
- Popularized direct mutual fund investing in India.
- No hidden fees, ensuring 1–1.5% higher returns annually compared to regular plans.
3. US Stock Investing
- Groww allows investing in global giants like Apple, Amazon, Tesla, and Google.
- Supports fractional shares, so you can start with as little as $10.
- Great for global diversification.
4. Wide Investment Options
- Stocks, IPOs, ETFs, Mutual Funds, F&O, US stocks, and Digital Gold.
- One of the most comprehensive retail investment apps.
5. Strong Customer Base
- Over 30 million+ users, making it one of the most widely adopted investing apps in India.
- Network effect ensures continued improvements.
6. Educational Content
- Groww Academy provides blogs, videos, and explainers to educate new investors.
❌ Disadvantages of Groww
- Limited Advanced Trading Features – No option strategy builder, algo trading, or advanced charting for pro traders.
- No NPS – Lacks retirement-focused products like Paytm Money.
- Brokerage on Stocks – Same as Paytm Money (₹20 per trade), but unlike some brokers, no special discounts for heavy traders.
- Customer Support Complaints – Similar to Paytm Money, users report delays in resolving issues.
- Still a New Broker – Launched stock trading in 2020, so has a shorter track record.
⚖️ Paytm Money vs Groww: Detailed Comparison
- Ease of Use
- Groww wins with its modern and smooth UI.
- Paytm Money is functional but feels more traditional.
- Brokerage & Charges
- Both charge ₹20 per trade flat, making them equally cost-effective.
- Both offer free mutual funds.
- Investment Options
- Paytm Money: Adds NPS (retirement product).
- Groww: Adds US Stocks (global diversification).
👉 If you want retirement planning, Paytm Money is better.
👉 If you want global exposure, Groww is better.
- Research & Advisory
- Paytm Money offers research reports and fund ratings.
- Groww focuses more on education than direct advisory.
- Suitability
- Paytm Money: Suited for cost-conscious investors who want NPS + MFs + stocks.
- Groww: Suited for new-age investors who want global exposure and a smooth app experience.
Who Should Choose Paytm Money?
- Investors looking for NPS (retirement planning).
- Beginners who value low-cost investing with basic guidance.
- Those who prefer Paytm ecosystem integration (wallet, UPI, insurance).
Who Should Choose Groww?
- Beginners who want a simple, modern, and engaging platform.
- Investors interested in US stocks and global diversification.
- Mutual fund investors who prefer zero-commission direct plans with a smooth tracking experience.
Final Verdict: Paytm Money vs Groww
Both Paytm Money and Groww are excellent low-cost platforms for Indian investors, but they serve slightly different needs.
- Choose Paytm Money if you want a low-cost, all-in-one app with NPS for retirement planning and trust in the Paytm brand.
- Choose Groww if you want a modern UI, seamless experience, and access to US stocks for global diversification.
