Generated April 2026 from current fund data.
Overview
SCHG and VOO are both large-cap U.S. equity ETFs that track broad market indexes, but they tilt in opposite directions. SCHG focuses on growth stocks within the large-cap universe using the Dow Jones U.S. Large-Cap Growth index, while VOO replicates the entire S&P 500, which includes growth, value, and dividend-paying stocks in a single blend. The difference shows up in their volatility, yield, and dividend behavior.
How they differ
SCHG is a pure growth play—it filters for companies with above-average earnings growth and capital appreciation potential, which explains its 1.16 beta versus VOO's 1.0 beta. That means SCHG swings harder than the market in both directions. The second key difference is yield: VOO distributes 1.09% annually versus SCHG's 0.39%, because the S&P 500 includes established dividend payers (utilities, financials, REITs) while growth indexes are tilted toward lower-yielding tech and high-growth industrials. VOO is also vastly larger—$1.42 trillion in AUM versus SCHG's $48 billion—though both charge minimal fees (0.03% and 0.04%, respectively). Over a 52-week period, VOO ranged from $467 to $646, while SCHG ranged from $23 to $34, showing SCHG's sharper volatility and its relative underperformance in the recent market cycle.
Who each is best for
SCHG: Growth-focused investors with longer time horizons (10+ years) and higher risk tolerance, willing to chase capital appreciation over current income. Suits tax-advantaged accounts where the low yield isn't a drag on portfolio returns.
VOO: Core-portfolio investors seeking broad market exposure with modest dividend income, or those who want to match the S&P 500 regardless of market cycle. Ideal as a foundation holding in taxable accounts, IRAs, and 401(k)s due to its size, low costs, and tax efficiency.
Key risks to know
- Style concentration risk: SCHG's growth tilt amplifies losses during value-driven or defensive market rotations. Its higher beta suggests it will decline faster than VOO in downturns.
- Growth premium compression: SCHG's outperformance depends on sustained interest-rate conditions and investor appetite for high-growth valuations. Rising rates historically hurt growth more than broad indexes.
- Relative underperformance in recent years: SCHG's 52-week low ($22.74) reflects steeper drawdowns than VOO's ($467.33), signaling style headwinds.
- Index tracking differences: SCHG tracks a subset of large-cap stocks, so it cannot match the diversification or stability of the S&P 500's 500-member basket.
Bottom line
If you're building a diversified core holding and want steady dividend income with maximum stability, VOO's broad exposure and 1.09% yield make it the clearer choice. If you have conviction in growth and can tolerate higher volatility for capital appreciation potential, SCHG targets a narrower market segment with a trade-off in both yield and downside protection. Neither fund is inherently "better"—it depends on whether you're seeking broad market capture or a concentrated growth bet.
AI-generated analysis for educational purposes only. Verify important details independently; past performance does not guarantee future results.