You need somewhere to start looking for stocks to invest in. There are three primary investment vehicles: (1) stocks; (2) ETFs and (3) mutual funds. Each has its own pros and cons. So, how do you find good stocks? The ways are endless. I’d say start with screeners. They are easy to use and they get you started. These are some good mutual fund screeners. When using a screener, most people consider returns as a criteria for picking what to buy.

Mutual Fund Screeners

Zacks: Best overall screener. Has input for YTD, 1, 3, 5, 10 year ranges and the ranges can test a minimum value; lists loads, net assets, turnover, minimum investments, manager tenure, expenses & more.. All can be exported.

Morningstar: Great overall screener. Has input for YTD, 1, 3, 5, 10 year ranges and the ranges can test a minimum value but does not list loads, net assets, turnover, minimum investments, manager tenure & expenses on the same screen. There is no export function;

Kiplinger: Great screener – allows ranges; allows volatility cutoffs;  lists loads, net assets, turnover, minimum investments, manager tenure & expenses; allows for multi-year criteria but only does 1, 3, 5 year returns. Results can be exported.

CNBC: Great screener – allows ranges for 1, 3, 5, 10 years but does not list loads, net assets, turnover, minimum investments, manager tenure & expenses on the same screen or export.  Results can be exported.

Lipper Leaders: This screener is all about Lipper Leaders.

Barron’s: Not a great screener.

Wall Street Journal: Note – this screener is the same as Barron’s.

Fidelity: Not very good.

eft.com: Excellent screener for ETFs.

Yahoo: Average Screener.

TD Ameritrade: Average Screener.

Vanguard: Has a habit if only showing Vanguard funds even when all funds are selected.