Fidelity vs Vanguard 401(k) Comparison
Compare Fidelity Investments (#1, 9.5/10) and Vanguard (#2, 9.3/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Fidelity | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 |
| Rank | #1 | #2 |
| AUM | $4.5 trillion | $8.6 trillion |
| Participants | 43 million | 32 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 23,000+ | 5,600+ |
| Founded | 1946 | 1975 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Fidelity | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.9/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.9/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.7/5 | 4.0/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Fidelity | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $0 - varies by plan | $0 - $60/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.00% - 0.75% | 0.03% - 0.50% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for stocks/ETFs | $0 for Vanguard funds |
| Advisory Fees | 0.35% - 1.0% | 0.30% |
Fidelity Strengths
- Zero expense ratio index funds (FZROX, FZILX)
- Industry-leading mobile app and online platform
- 24/7 customer service with dedicated retirement specialists
- Extensive investment options including BrokerageLink
Vanguard Strengths
- Lowest expense ratios in the industry
- Investor-owned structure aligns interests
- Excellent target-date fund lineup (VTIVX series)
- Admiral Shares offer even lower costs at $3,000 minimum
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Fidelity if you want:
- Large employers
- Cost-conscious investors
- Self-directed investors
- Solo 401(k) seekers
Choose Vanguard if you want:
- Buy-and-hold investors
- Cost-minimizers
- Index fund believers
- Long-term planners
Our Verdict: Fidelity vs Vanguard
Fidelity Investments wins this comparison with a score of 9.5/10 vs 9.3/10. Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), making it the stronger choice for most investors in this matchup. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, employer plan availability, and investment preferences.
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Fidelity vs Vanguard: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Fidelity Investments and Vanguard for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Fidelity offers largest provider while Vanguard is known for lowest costs. In terms of fees, Fidelity charges 0.00% - 0.75% expense ratios compared to Vanguard's 0.03% - 0.50%. Fidelity manages $4.5 trillion in assets and serves 43 million participants, while Vanguard has $8.6 trillion AUM and 32 million participants.
Key Differences: Fidelity vs Vanguard
When comparing Fidelity and Vanguard, consider their core strengths: Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), while Vanguard stands out for lowest expense ratios in the industry. Both providers offer comprehensive investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Fidelity's customer service rating is 4.8/5 compared to Vanguard's 4.2/5. For mobile experience, Fidelity scores 4.7/5 while Vanguard scores 4.0/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Fidelity if you prioritize large employers. Choose Vanguard if you're looking for buy-and-hold investors. Your decision should also consider your employer's plan availability, fee sensitivity, desired investment options, and customer service expectations. For detailed reviews, visit our individual Fidelity and Vanguard provider pages.