Groww vs Zerodha: Which App is Better for Mutual Funds?
Complete head-to-head comparison to help you choose the perfect platform for your mutual fund SIP investments in 2025
⚡ Quick Verdict (TL;DR)
🏆 Choose Groww If:
- • You’re a complete beginner to mutual funds
- • You want the simplest, cleanest interface
- • You don’t want to pay any annual charges
- • You prefer a mobile-first experience
🏆 Choose Zerodha Coin If:
- • You already use Zerodha for stock trading
- • You want everything in one platform
- • You’re okay with ₹300/year for added features
- • You prefer web-based investing
📱 The Mutual Fund Revolution: Groww vs Zerodha
Mutual fund investing in India has been completely transformed by digital platforms. Gone are the days of visiting AMC offices or dealing with commission-hungry agents. Today, you can start a SIP with just ₹100 from your smartphone, and both Groww and Zerodha offer 100% direct mutual funds with zero platform charges.
But which platform should you choose? While both offer direct mutual funds at no cost, they cater to different types of investors. Groww focuses purely on simplicity and beginner-friendliness, while Zerodha Coin integrates mutual funds into their comprehensive trading ecosystem.
🎯 What This Comparison Covers
- ✓ Platform features & ease of use
- ✓ All charges & hidden costs
- ✓ Fund selection & variety
- ✓ SIP setup & management
- ✓ Portfolio tracking & analytics
- ✓ Customer support & security
- ✓ Real user experience comparison
- ✓ Expert recommendations
- ✓ Step-by-step getting started guide
We’ve tested both platforms extensively, analyzed their fee structures, and compared real user experiences to give you the most accurate comparison for 2025.
🏢 Platform Overview: Know Your Options
Understanding the DNA of each platform before diving into features
Groww
Founded in 2017 with a mission to make investing simple and accessible. Groww has become India’s most user-friendly investment platform, especially loved by Gen Z and first-time investors.
🎯 Core Focus
100% direct mutual funds, stocks, US stocks, and digital gold – all with a mobile-first, beginner-friendly approach
💡 Key Philosophy
Zero complexity, zero hidden charges, maximum simplicity. Perfect for DIY investors who want to learn and grow.
📱 Platform Type
Mobile app + web platform, no demat account required for mutual funds
🏆 Best For
- • Complete beginners to mutual fund investing
- • Mobile-first investors who prefer apps
- • Cost-conscious investors (zero annual charges)
- • SIP-focused long-term investors
Zerodha Coin
Zerodha’s mutual fund platform, backed by India’s largest discount broker. Coin integrates mutual funds into the broader Zerodha ecosystem, perfect for existing users.
🎯 Core Focus
Direct mutual funds integrated with stocks, F&O, and IPOs – all in one comprehensive trading platform
💡 Key Philosophy
Everything in one place. Trusted by serious traders who want mutual funds alongside their trading activities.
📱 Platform Type
Web platform + Kite app integration, requires Zerodha demat account
🏆 Best For
- • Existing Zerodha users who trade stocks
- • Investors who want everything in one platform
- • Web-based investors (desktop preferred)
- • Users comfortable with ₹300/year AMC
📊 Complete Feature Comparison
| Feature | Groww | Zerodha Coin | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of Funds | 100% Direct MFs | 100% Direct MFs | TIE |
| SIP Minimum | ₹100 | ₹100 | TIE |
| Platform Charges | ₹0 | ₹0* | GROWW |
| Account Type | No Demat Needed | Requires Demat | GROWW |
| Annual Charges | ₹0 | ₹300 (Demat AMC) | GROWW |
| App UI/UX | Extremely Simple | Basic, Not MF-focused | GROWW |
| KYC Process | Fully Online | Requires Zerodha A/C | GROWW |
| Fund Selection | 2000+ Funds | 2000+ Funds | TIE |
| Additional Investments | Stocks, US Stocks, Gold | Stocks, F&O, IPOs | ZERODHA |
| Portfolio Analytics | Basic | Advanced | ZERODHA |
| Customer Support | Excellent | Good | GROWW |
| Ideal For | Beginners | Existing Users | DEPENDS |
*Important: While Zerodha Coin doesn’t charge for mutual funds, you need a Zerodha demat account which costs ₹300/year AMC. Groww has zero charges across the board.
🔍 Detailed Platform Analysis
Deep dive into pros, cons, and real user experience
Groww: The Beginner’s Best Friend
Groww has revolutionized mutual fund investing in India by making it as simple as ordering food online. Their focus on user experience and zero-fee structure has made them the go-to choice for first-time investors.
Pros
- ✓ Ultra-clean interface: Even your parents can use it without confusion
- ✓ Zero charges: No account opening, no AMC, no hidden fees
- ✓ No demat required: Start investing immediately
- ✓ SIP automation: Set it and forget it approach
- ✓ Goal-based investing: Plan for specific financial goals
- ✓ Excellent support: Quick response via chat and email
- ✓ Multi-asset platform: Stocks, US stocks, and digital gold
Cons
- ✗ Basic research tools: Limited fundamental analysis features
- ✗ Simple portfolio tracking: Not as detailed as advanced platforms
- ✗ No F&O trading: Limited to equity and mutual funds
- ✗ Fewer advanced features: May outgrow it as you become experienced
- ✗ Limited customization: Less flexibility for power users
🎯 Perfect For:
Complete beginners, mobile-first investors, SIP-focused long-term investors, cost-conscious users, and anyone who values simplicity over advanced features.
Zerodha Coin: The Integrated Powerhouse
Zerodha Coin brings mutual funds into the trusted Zerodha ecosystem. While it requires a demat account, it offers seamless integration with your stock portfolio and advanced analytics.
Pros
- ✓ Trusted brand: Backed by India’s largest discount broker
- ✓ Integrated platform: Stocks + mutual funds in one place
- ✓ Advanced analytics: Detailed portfolio insights and performance tracking
- ✓ Console integration: View everything in Kite app dashboard
- ✓ No platform charges: Free mutual fund transactions
- ✓ Comprehensive ecosystem: Access to F&O, IPOs, bonds
Cons
- ✗ Requires demat account: ₹300/year AMC even if you only want mutual funds
- ✗ Not MF-focused UI: Interface designed for traders, not MF investors
- ✗ Complex for beginners: Can overwhelm first-time investors
- ✗ Account opening process: More steps compared to Groww
- ✗ Customer support: Can be slow during peak times
🎯 Perfect For:
Existing Zerodha users, investors who want stocks + mutual funds together, users comfortable with ₹300/year cost, web-based investors, and those who need advanced portfolio analytics.
🏆 Which is Better for Mutual Funds in 2025?
The answer depends entirely on your investor profile and preferences. Here’s our detailed recommendation based on different scenarios:
🌟 Choose Groww If You Are:
👶 Complete Beginner
Never invested in mutual funds before and want the simplest possible experience
💰 Cost-Conscious
Don’t want to pay any annual charges, even ₹300 feels unnecessary
📱 Mobile-First
Prefer doing everything on your smartphone, rarely use desktop
🎯 SIP-Focused
Mainly interested in systematic investing, not active trading
⚡ Want Quick Start
Don’t want to open demat account, just start investing immediately
⚡ Choose Zerodha Coin If You Are:
📈 Existing Zerodha User
Already trading stocks on Zerodha and want everything in one place
🔍 Analytics Lover
Want detailed portfolio insights and advanced tracking features
💻 Web-Based Investor
Prefer desktop/web platforms over mobile apps
🏢 Multi-Asset Investor
Want access to stocks, F&O, IPOs along with mutual funds
💪 Value Integration
₹300/year is acceptable for having everything integrated
🎯 Our Expert Recommendation
🥇 For 80% of Investors: Groww
Most people starting their mutual fund journey will find Groww perfect. It’s designed specifically for mutual fund investors, has zero charges, and offers the smoothest experience.
Best for: Beginners, SIP investors, mobile users
🥈 For Existing Zerodha Users: Coin
If you already have a Zerodha account and trade stocks, adding mutual funds through Coin makes perfect sense. The integration is seamless.
Best for: Current Zerodha users, multi-asset investors
👤 Mutual Fund Investment Experience: Step-by-Step
Let’s walk through the actual user experience of investing in mutual funds on both platforms:
1️⃣ Account Opening Process
Groww Experience
- • Download app → Enter mobile number
- • Upload PAN card photo
- • Take selfie for verification
- • Add bank account details
- • Start investing immediately
- ⏱️ Time: 10-15 minutes
Zerodha Coin Experience
- • Open Zerodha demat account first
- • Complete full KYC process
- • Wait for account activation
- • Access Coin through Kite/Console
- • Link bank account if not done
- ⏱️ Time: 1-2 days
Winner: Groww – Much faster and simpler account opening process
2️⃣ Fund Selection & Research
Groww Experience
- • Clean categories: Equity, Debt, Hybrid
- • Simple filters by risk, returns, rating
- • Easy-to-understand fund cards
- • Basic performance charts
- • Goal-based fund recommendations
- 🎯 Perfect for beginners
Zerodha Coin Experience
- • Comprehensive fund database
- • Advanced filtering options
- • Detailed performance analytics
- • Portfolio overlap analysis
- • Integration with stock holdings
- 🎯 Better for experienced investors
Tie – Groww wins on simplicity, Zerodha wins on depth
3️⃣ SIP Setup & Management
Groww Experience
- • One-tap SIP setup
- • Visual SIP calendar
- • Easy amount modification
- • Auto-debit setup guidance
- • SIP performance tracking
- 🎯 Extremely user-friendly
Zerodha Coin Experience
- • Standard SIP creation process
- • Multiple SIP management
- • Integration with trading account
- • Detailed SIP analytics
- • Bulk SIP operations
- 🎯 More features, less intuitive
Winner: Groww – Much more intuitive SIP setup and management
4️⃣ Portfolio Dashboard & Analytics
Groww Experience
- • Clean, colorful dashboard
- • Simple P&L visualization
- • Goal-wise portfolio tracking
- • Basic performance metrics
- • Easy-to-understand charts
- 🎯 Perfect for casual monitoring
Zerodha Coin Experience
- • Comprehensive Console integration
- • Advanced portfolio analytics
- • Asset allocation insights
- • Performance benchmarking
- • Tax harvesting suggestions
- 🎯 Detailed analysis tools
Winner: Zerodha – More comprehensive analytics and insights
📊 Overall User Experience Verdict
🏆 Groww: Better for Beginners
Wins on simplicity, speed, and user-friendliness. Perfect for first-time mutual fund investors who want a hassle-free experience.
🏆 Zerodha: Better for Power Users
Wins on features, analytics, and integration. Ideal for experienced investors who want detailed insights and control.
🔒 Security & Customer Support Comparison
🛡️ Groww Security & Support
Security Features
- • SEBI registered (INZ000301838)
- • 256-bit SSL encryption
- • Two-factor authentication
- • Biometric login support
- • Regular security audits
Customer Support
- • 24/7 chat support
- • Email support (quick response)
- • Comprehensive help center
- • Video tutorials for beginners
- • Social media support
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent support, especially for beginners)
🛡️ Zerodha Security & Support
Security Features
- • SEBI registered (INZ000031633)
- • Bank-grade security protocols
- • Two-factor authentication
- • TOTP (Time-based OTP)
- • Regular penetration testing
Customer Support
- • Ticket-based support system
- • Phone support (limited hours)
- • Extensive knowledge base
- • Varsity educational content
- • Community forums
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good support, can be slow during peak times)
🔍 Regulatory Compliance
Both Platforms Are:
- • SEBI registered and regulated
- • Members of BSE and NSE
- • Compliant with KYC norms
- • Follow PMLA guidelines
- • Regular regulatory audits
Your Money is Safe Because:
- • Client funds kept in separate accounts
- • CDSL/NSDL for securities holding
- • Insurance coverage available
- • Regular compliance reporting
- • Transparent fee structure
Security Winner: Tie – Both platforms are equally secure and SEBI-compliant. Support Winner: Groww – Better customer service, especially for beginners.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Groww better than Zerodha for mutual funds?
For most investors, yes. Groww is specifically designed for mutual fund investing with a beginner-friendly interface and zero charges. However, if you’re already a Zerodha user trading stocks, Coin offers better integration.
Choose Groww if you’re new to investing or want the simplest experience. Choose Zerodha if you already use their platform for stocks.
Does Zerodha charge for mutual fund investments?
Zerodha doesn’t charge for mutual fund transactions, but you need a demat account which costs ₹300/year AMC. So while mutual funds are “free,” you’re paying ₹300 annually. Groww has zero charges across the board.
Total cost: Groww = ₹0/year, Zerodha = ₹300/year (even if you only invest in mutual funds)
Can I invest in SIP without a demat account?
Yes, with Groww. You don’t need a demat account for mutual fund investing on Groww. You can start SIPs immediately after KYC. Zerodha requires a demat account for all investments, including mutual funds.
This makes Groww much faster to get started – you can begin investing within minutes of account opening.
Which app is safer for investing in mutual funds?
Both are equally safe. Groww and Zerodha are both SEBI-registered platforms with bank-grade security. Your investments are held with CDSL/NSDL, not with the platforms. Both follow strict regulatory compliance.
Safety is not a differentiator – choose based on features, ease of use, and cost instead.
Which platform is best for first-time mutual fund investors in 2025?
Groww is the clear winner for beginners. It’s designed specifically for first-time investors with an ultra-simple interface, zero charges, goal-based investing, and excellent customer support. The learning curve is minimal.
Start with Groww if you’re new to investing. You can always switch to other platforms later as you become more experienced.
Can I use both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, absolutely! Many investors use Groww for SIPs and mutual funds while using Zerodha for stock trading. There’s no restriction on using multiple platforms. You can diversify your investments across platforms.
Pro tip: Start with Groww for mutual funds, and if you get into stock trading later, consider opening a Zerodha account for that.
🎯 Final Verdict: Choose Your Perfect Platform
After extensive testing and comparison, here’s our definitive recommendation for mutual fund investing in 2025:
Winner: Groww
For 80% of mutual fund investors, Groww is the perfect choice. It’s designed specifically for mutual fund investing with unmatched simplicity and zero costs.
Best for: Beginners, SIP investors, mobile users, cost-conscious investors
Runner-up: Zerodha Coin
Excellent choice if you’re already using Zerodha for stocks or need advanced analytics. The integration is seamless for existing users.
Best for: Existing Zerodha users, multi-asset investors, analytics lovers
💡 Our Recommendation Strategy
🌱 New Investors
Start with Groww → Learn → Grow
📈 Zerodha Users
Use Coin → Keep everything integrated
🚀 Advanced Users
Use both → Best of both worlds
🎯 Remember: The Best Platform is the One You’ll Actually Use
Don’t overthink it. Both platforms offer direct mutual funds with excellent security. The most important thing is to start investing consistently. You can always switch platforms later.
💡 Still confused? Start with Groww – it’s designed for beginners and you can always add other platforms later!