Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SCHB | VTI |
|---|---|---|
| Type | ETF | ETF |
| Expense Ratio | 3.00% | 3.00% |
| Holdings | 2,500 | 3,645 |
| Dividend Yield | 1.30% | 1.28% |
| Min Investment | None | None |
| Inception | 2009-11-03 | 2001-05-24 |
| Index Tracked | Dow Jones U.S. Broad Stock Market Index | CRSP US Total Market Index |
| AUM | $29B | $427B |
Fund data last updated: 2025-01-02. Expense ratios, holdings, and yields may change. Always verify with official sources.
Key Differences
- •Both have identical 0.03% expense ratios
- •VTI has significantly more assets ($427B vs $29B)
- •VTI tracks CRSP Total Market; SCHB tracks Dow Jones Broad Market
- •SCHB may be more convenient for Schwab account holders
Which Should You Choose?
Taxable Brokerage Account
Both are excellent. Use SCHB if at Schwab for convenience; VTI if you prefer Vanguard.
IRA (Traditional or Roth)
Either works perfectly. Use whichever matches your brokerage.
401(k)
Use whichever is available in your plan.
JL Collins' Recommendation
JL Collins recommends VTI/VTSAX, but SCHB is an excellent alternative for Schwab customers. The key is low cost and broad diversification—both deliver this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SCHB as good as VTI?
Yes. For practical purposes, they're identical. Same expense ratio, both track the total U.S. market, similar number of holdings. Choose based on your broker.
Why is VTI more popular than SCHB?
Vanguard has stronger brand recognition among passive investors and was earlier to market. VTI has more assets and liquidity, but for individual investors buying and holding, this doesn't matter.
Can I buy VTI at Schwab?
Yes. Schwab allows commission-free trading of all ETFs, including VTI. You can use Vanguard ETFs at Schwab if you prefer them.
What index does SCHB track?
SCHB tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Broad Stock Market Index, which covers the largest 2,500 U.S. stocks by market cap. VTI tracks about 3,600 stocks, but the practical difference is minimal.
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