VUG vs VTV: Head-to-Head Comparison
Last updated: March 2026 • Growth vs Value
Quick Verdict
VTV edges out VUG with a stronger Beginner Suitability Score (9 vs 8.5). It offers better overall characteristics for new investors.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Key Differences Between VUG and VTV
VUG (Vanguard Growth ETF) is a us large-cap growth fund managed by Vanguard. VUG tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Growth Index, providing exposure to fast-growing large U.S. companies, especially in the technology sector. It is ideal for investors who want to capture the upside of innovative companies driving the economy forward. The fund's ultra-low cost makes it one of the cheapest ways to invest in large-cap growth stocks.
VTV (Vanguard Value ETF) is a us large-cap value fund managed by Vanguard. VTV tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Value Index, offering broad exposure to large U.S. companies that are considered undervalued relative to their fundamentals. It is a core holding for investors who believe value stocks will outperform over the long run. The fund spans established companies across financials, healthcare, and industrials at a rock-bottom cost.
The most notable differences are in fees (0.04% vs 0.04%), number of holdings (200 vs 340), and 5-year returns (18.00% vs 10.00%).
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Holdings Overlap Analysis
0%
Holdings Overlap
VUG and VTV share only 0% of their top holdings. These funds are quite different, making them complementary choices if you want broader market coverage.
Cost Comparison Over Time
If you invest $10,000 and hold for 20 years (assuming 8% annual returns):
VUG
Fee cost: $344
VTV
Fee cost: $344
Over 20 years, the fee difference amounts to $0 on a $10,000 investment. The cost difference is negligible — choose based on other factors.
Which One Should a Beginner Choose?
Choose VUG if: You want younger investors with a long time horizon seeking capital appreciation, growth-focused portfolios wanting broad large-cap technology exposure, cost-conscious investors looking for a cheap alternative to actively managed growth funds. It's managed by Vanguard with an expense ratio of 0.04%.
Choose VTV if: You want long-term investors who favor a value investing philosophy, retirees seeking stable large-cap companies with reliable dividends, investors looking to balance a growth-heavy portfolio. It's managed by Vanguard with an expense ratio of 0.04%.
Can You Own Both VUG and VTV?
Absolutely! With only 0% overlap, VUG and VTV complement each other well. A simple portfolio might allocate 60% to one and 40% to the other, or you could pair them with a bond ETF like BND for a complete three-fund portfolio.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy VUG or VTV?▾
VTV edges out VUG with a stronger Beginner Suitability Score (9 vs 8.5). It offers better overall characteristics for new investors. However, both are solid options. VUG is best for investors who want younger investors with a long time horizon seeking capital appreciation, while VTV is better suited for long-term investors who favor a value investing philosophy.
What is the difference between VUG and VTV?▾
VUG (Vanguard Growth ETF) tracks us large-cap growth investments with 200 holdings and a 0.04% expense ratio. VTV (Vanguard Value ETF) focuses on us large-cap value with 340 holdings at 0.04%. Their top holdings overlap by 0%.
Can I own both VUG and VTV?▾
Yes! With only 0% holdings overlap, VUG and VTV complement each other well. Owning both gives you broader diversification.