One common mistake committed by beginner investors is to choose between the two approaches based on what they believe will generate the most profits and money over their investments. If there is something that the markets have proved and repeated time after time is that a money making mentality is the best way to reach failure and destruction in the markets. Instead of following the money my advise is to choose based on their personality and also their time available. Unless you are going to focus on solely trading, a passive approach would be better as it won't take that much time out of your regular schedule. Please note that modern systems like robo advisors and even algorithms have made active investment even more approachable, but it is still important to keep in mind that there is a high risk associated with some of them due to their high market exposure.