401k vs Roth IRA Calculator 2026
Compare Traditional 401k, Roth 401k, and Roth IRA side by side. See which wins based on your current vs retirement tax brackets.
Last updated: June 2026
Based on 2026 IRS rules — Traditional vs Roth comparison
2026 limits: 401k $24,500 (under 50) | IRA $7,500 (under 50). Contribution limit not enforced — enter any amount for planning purposes.
| Traditional 401k | Roth 401k | Roth IRA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual contribution | $10,000 | $10,000 | $7,500 |
| Tax saving today | $2,700 | $0 | $0 |
| Net annual cost | $7,300 | $10,000 | $7,500 |
| Future balance | $1,382,369 | $1,382,369 | $1,036,777 |
| Tax on withdrawal | $373,240 | $0 | $0 |
| Net retirement money | $1,009,129 | $1,382,369 | $1,036,777 |
| RMDs required? | Yes (age 73) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Combined rate: 27% now → 27% at retirement
⚠️ Roth IRA income limit 2026: $168,000 (single) / $252,000 (MFJ). If above, you may need a Backdoor Roth strategy.
Based on 2026 IRS rules. Tax laws change. Consult a CFP or CPA for personalized retirement planning.
3 scenarios
Traditional, Roth 401k, Roth IRA
Tax bracket
Dynamic verdict box
No RMDs
Roth 401k since 2024
Help Us Improve
Your feedback helps us build better tools.
About 401k vs Roth IRA Calculator
Our free 401k vs Roth IRA Calculator compares Traditional 401k, Roth 401k, and Roth IRA side by side — showing tax savings today, future balance, withdrawal taxes, and net retirement money.
Dynamic verdict box tells you whether Roth or Traditional wins based on your current vs retirement tax bracket. Highlights Roth 401k no-RMD benefit since SECURE 2.0 (2024).
No signup, runs entirely in your browser — your financial data stays private.
Read the full guide: 401k vs Roth IRA 2026 — which retirement account wins
When Should You Use the 401k vs Roth IRA Calculator?
Tax bracket planning
Decide whether to pay taxes now or defer to retirement.
Roth 401k vs Traditional
Compare employer plan options with same contribution limits.
Roth IRA eligibility
See Roth IRA limits and income phase-out thresholds.
RMD planning
Understand Traditional 401k RMDs vs Roth no-RMD advantage.
Tax diversification
Model splitting contributions between account types.