Compare Investment Fees
Even a small difference in the fees you pay on your investments can add up over time. Use this calculator to see how different fees impact your investment strategy!
How the compare investment fees calculator works
It grows the same investment and contributions at the return minus each fund’s fee, then takes the difference. Because the fee is charged on the whole balance every year, the gap compounds over time.
Worked example: with amount invested of $50,000, monthly contribution of $500 and annual return (before fees) of 7.00%, the compare investment fees calculator shows extra you keep with the low-cost fund of $97,177.
- Low fee (0.10%)
- $677,927
- High fee (0.90%)
- $580,749
- Difference
- $97,177
- Fee gap
- 0.80%
The formula
Each fund grows at (return − expense ratio); the difference is the ending balance at the low fee minus the ending balance at the high fee.
Results are estimates for educational purposes and are not financial advice. Confirm exact figures with your lender, plan administrator or advisor.
Questions about the compare investment fees
How much do investment fees really cost?
Far more than the small percentage implies. Charged annually on your entire balance, even a sub-1% difference can cost tens of thousands over decades, as the comparison shows.
What is a reasonable fund fee?
Broad index funds often charge under 0.10% a year, while many active funds exceed 0.50–1%. Lower is almost always better, since fees compound directly against returns.
Do fees matter more than returns?
Fees are guaranteed; returns are not. Cutting a known cost is one of the few sure ways to improve your net outcome, which is why low-cost funds are so widely recommended.
Is the Compare Investment Fees free to use?
Yes. Every calculator on FinCalculators is completely free, with no sign-up, login or paywall. You can run as many scenarios as you like.