Two popular ETFs for U.S. stock exposure are the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF. The latter includes small- and mid-cap stocks for added diversification. While both are good long-term investments, consider the advantages of each before deciding.

The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF tracks the S&P 500, offering exposure to 500 large U.S. companies. In contrast, the Total Stock Market ETF owns over 3,500 stocks, including small caps. Both ETFs have low expense ratios of 0.03%.

Over the past five years, the S&P 500 ETF has outperformed the Total Stock Market ETF. However, in 2026, small caps are showing strength, narrowing the performance gap between the two.

Investors seeking large-cap exposure may prefer the S&P 500 ETF, while those looking for broader diversification may find the Total Stock Market ETF more appealing. Consider the potential upside of small caps in your portfolio for long-term returns.

Read more at Yahoo Finance.: What’s the Better U.S. Stock ETF Buy?