VTSMX vs VTSAX: Key Differences, Fees & Which Index Fund Wins
VTSMX is the old Investor-class share of Vanguard Total Stock Market Index; VTSAX is its Admiral replacement. Same fund, lower cost.
Investors Google “VTSMX vs VTSAX” because their 401(k) statements still show the retired ticker, while blogs preach “just buy VTSAX,” creating a panic that they own the wrong thing.
Key Differences
VTSMX closed to new money in 2018 and charges 0.14%. VTSAX requires a $3,000 minimum and costs 0.04%. Both track the CRSP U.S. Total Market Index; only expense ratios differ.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re new, buy VTSAX (or the ETF, VTI). Already in VTSMX? Vanguard auto-converts to Admiral shares once you hit $3,000, so there’s no action needed—just cheer the fee drop.
Can I still buy VTSMX today?
No; Vanguard shuttered it. New money flows into VTSAX or VTI instead.
Will Vanguard force me to sell VTSMX?
No. It quietly upgrades your shares to VTSAX once you cross the $3,000 threshold.