Roth vs Traditional 401k Calculator
Compare after-tax retirement value side by side.
This calculator models Roth and Traditional balances using the same contributions, growth assumptions, and employer match. It highlights tax impact and after-tax retirement value.
Your information
Contributions grow annually and employer match is capped.
Results
After-tax values assume taxes are paid once at retirement.
Roth after-tax balance
$1,320,319
Traditional pre-tax balance
$1,654,623
Traditional after-tax balance
$1,323,698
Taxes paid at retirement
$330,925
Total employer match
$105,000
Tax savings during contributions
$87,065
Difference (Roth - Traditional)
-$3,380
At retirement, Roth could be $1,320,319 vs $1,323,698 after tax.
Assumptions
- Contributions are added annually at year-end.
- Employer match is pre-tax and capped annually.
- Returns compound annually, taxes applied at retirement.
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Definitions
- 401k
- Employer-sponsored retirement savings plan in the U.S.
- USD
- United States dollars.
- FAQ
- Frequently asked questions.
FAQ
Does this include employer match?
Yes, the employer match is modeled as pre-tax and capped by the annual limit you set.
Are taxes applied yearly?
No, the Traditional balance is taxed once at retirement using the retirement tax rate.
What about contribution limits?
The calculator does not enforce IRS contribution limits. Adjust your inputs to match your plan.