Brokerage Account Retirement Account 
Purpose of account  Investing  Earmarked for long term growth and retirement savings 
Fees  No fees to open and maintain your account   No fees to open and maintain your account  
Taxes   More flexibility, based on what you sell. Must typically claim any capital gains as taxable income  Specific tax benefits, depending on the IRA you choose  
Contribution limits  No restrictions on the dollar amount you can invest  Has contribution limits, and certain eligibility requirements  
Withdrawal rules  Take money out anytime without paying any fees  Depending on IRA you choose, there are penalties if you take money out before retirement