VOO vs. VFIAX
Two ways to buy the same Vanguard S&P 500 strategy: an ETF share and a mutual fund share.
At a glance
| Ticker | Fund | Issuer | Index tracked | Expense ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VOO | Vanguard S&P 500 ETF | Vanguard | S&P 500 | 0.03% |
| VFIAX | Vanguard 500 Index Fund Admiral Shares | Vanguard | S&P 500 | 0.04% |
Data last verified: pending verification
Same portfolio, different share class
VFIAX the mutual-fund share class of the same underlying vanguard portfolio that voo offers as an etf. That makes this comparison different from most fund-vs-fund matchups — you’re not choosing between two competing strategies, you’re choosing between two ways of holding the same one. The practical differences come down to minimum investment size, trading mechanics, and how your specific brokerage handles each share class.
Which should you choose?
If you want to invest a precise dollar amount without worrying about share prices and don’t need intraday trading, VFIAX’s mutual fund mechanics may suit automatic contribution plans well. If you want the flexibility to trade throughout the day, want fractional-share support at any broker, or don’t meet VFIAX’s minimum investment, VOO’s ETF structure is the more accessible option.
Since both track the same underlying strategy, our VOO calculator applies equally well to projecting a VFIAX investment.
More comparisons
- VOO vs. FXAIX — the same ETF-vs-mutual-fund question, with a different issuer
- VOO vs. IVV — a near-identical ETF from a different issuer
Frequently asked questions
This calculator provides hypothetical estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or investment advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. voocalculator.app is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by The Vanguard Group. VOO is a trademark of its respective owner. See our full disclaimer.