VOO vs VTI: Does the Total Market Premium Justify the Broader Index?
This is one of the most common ETF debates. VOO tracks the S&P 500 (500 large-cap stocks, ~80% of US market). VTI tracks the CRSP Total Market (~3,600 stocks, ~100% of US market). In practice, their returns are nearly identical because large caps dominate both indices. The difference is VTI adds mid, small, and micro caps — about 20% of the market that VOO misses.
Key Differences
- Return correlation is ~0.99 — historically nearly indistinguishable performance
- VTI adds ~3,100 mid/small/micro cap stocks that VOO doesn't hold
- Same TER (0.03%); same issuer (Vanguard); same dividend policy
- VTI provides small-cap exposure that has historically earned a size premium over very long periods
- If you already own a small-cap ETF separately, VOO avoids duplication
Live Comparison
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Bottom Line
Either one is an excellent choice. The practical difference is minimal. Pick VTI if you want to 'own everything' in a single fund. Pick VOO if you prefer the more recognizable S&P 500 benchmark or plan to add small-cap exposure separately.
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Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. ETF data is sourced from Yahoo Finance and issuer websites. Always verify current data before making investment decisions.