Best Investment Apps in the UK - 2025

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Thomas Drury
Thomas Drury

Thomas Drury

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Seasoned finance professional with 10+ years' experience. Chartered status holder. Proficient in CFDs, ISAs, and crypto investing. Passionate about helping others achieve financial goals.

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Dom Farnell
Dom Farnell

Dom Farnell

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An investor and blogger with a focus on financial markets and wealth management. He’s dedicated to helping others make informed investment choices through straightforward and engaging content.

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Last Updated 01/05/2025

Quick Answer: What are the best investment apps in the UK?

IG, is ideal for both beginners and experienced investors. It provides a user-friendly platform, a wide range of investment options, low fees, and robust security features, making it the top choice for investors seeking efficient portfolio management. 

Featured App - eToro

A global leader in social investing, eToro empowers millions of users to trade and invest in a wide range of assets with ease. Known for its user-friendly platform, innovative copy trading features, and strong regulatory framework, eToro continues to redefine how individuals access financial markets.

How Do These Investment Apps Compare?

RankPlatform NameRegulatorMobile App UsabilityVariety of AssetsISA AvailableMin DepositTrustpilot ScoreFee ScoreOverall Review Score
#1IGFCA4.1/518,000+ markets incl. stocks, ETFs, commodities, forex, bonds, fundsYes£2504.1/54.7/54.9/5
#2eToroFCA4.5/5Stocks, cryptocurrencies, CFDsYes (via Moneyfarm)$504.1/54.5/54.7/5
#3XTBFCA4.4/5Forex, indices, commodities, stock CFDs, ETFs, cryptoNo£04.6/54.4/54.6/5
#4Interactive BrokersFCA4.5/5Forex, stocks, ETFs, options, futures, CFDs, metals, bonds, mutual fundsYes£13.3/54.1/54.5/5
#5SaxoFCA4.5/5Forex, stocks (incl. fractional), ETFs, options, futures, bonds, commoditiesYes£04.6/54.5/54.6/5
#6Trading 212FCA4.5/512,000+ global stocks & ETFs, commodities, forexYes£14.6/54.2/54.5/5
#7Interactive InvestorFCA4.5/51,000+ ETFs, UK/international stocks, bonds, ethical investmentsYes£1004.7/54.2/54.4/5

Here are the Top 7 Investment Apps

IG – Pro-Grade Tools, Broad Markets

Pros and Cons

 IG is ideal for experienced traders who want depth, flexibility, and serious tools. With real-time data, margin trading, and access to global markets, it’s built for those executing more advanced strategies.

Fee Type

Cost

UK Share Dealing

£8/trade (£3 if 3+ trades/month)

Platform Fee

£96/year (waived with activity)

Forex Spread

From 0.6 pips

Intl. Shares

£10/trade

  • 17,000+ global markets
  • 80+ forex pairs
  • 13,000+ stocks & ETFs
  • Commodities & indices

Despite offering pro-level tools, IG’s platform remains intuitive and responsive across web and mobile—ideal for active traders who value speed and customisation.

Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

eToro – Best for Beginners & Social Trading

Pros and Cons

eToro is ideal for beginners. With its clean interface, commission-free stock trading, and social trading features, new investors can learn by doing—and by copying successful traders.

Fee Type

Cost

Stock Trading

£0 commission

Forex Trading

From 1 pip

Withdrawal Fee

$5 per withdrawal

Inactivity Fee

$10/month

  • 4,500+ global stocks
  • 500+ ETFs
  • Major cryptocurrencies
  • Commodities & indices

Designed for simplicity, eToro’s platform is beginner-friendly and mobile-optimised. The CopyTrader feature sets it apart, making investing more accessible and educational for new users.

CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

XTB – Free Trades & Top Education

Pros and Cons

XTB stands out for its low-cost structure and beginner-friendly interface. With commission-free trading and a powerful proprietary platform (xStation 5), it’s an ideal choice for new and intermediate traders who want a smooth experience without steep fees. The broker also excels in education, with extensive learning content available for free.

Fee Type

Cost

Stock/ETF Trading

£0 commission (up to €100,000/month)

Forex Trading

From 0.1 pips (Pro account)

Account Fees

No inactivity or maintenance fees

 

  • 4,500+ global stocks
  • 500+ ETFs
  • Major cryptocurrencies
  • Commodities & indices

XTB’s xStation 5 is modern, fast, and user-friendly — great for beginners yet powerful enough for advanced users. It’s web-based, with excellent charting tools and easy access to news, sentiment data, and risk analysis.

73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

IBKR – Low Fees & Global Market Access

Pros and Cons

Interactive Brokers is perfect for globally minded, active traders. With access to 150+ exchanges and pro-level tools, it’s built for serious investors who want low costs and broad diversification.

Fee Type

Cost

Stock Trading

From £0.005/share

Forex Trading

From 0.08 pips

Account Fees

£0 maintenance or inactivity

 

  • 13,000+ global stocks
  • 8,000+ mutual funds & ETFs
  • Bonds, futures, options, forex, commodities

Interactive Brokers is tailored for advanced users. While the Trader Workstation (TWS) is powerful, its complexity means it’s better suited for experienced investors than total beginners.

62.5% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Saxo – Best for Professional Investors

Pros and Cons

Interactive Brokers is perfect for globally minded, active traders. With access to 150+ exchanges and pro-level tools, it’s built for serious investors who want low costs and broad diversification.

Fee Type

Cost

Stock Trading

From £0.005/share

Forex Trading

From 0.08 pips

Account Fees

£0 maintenance or inactivity

 

  • 13,000+ global stocks
  • 8,000+ mutual funds & ETFs
  • Bonds, futures, options, forex, commodities

Interactive Brokers is tailored for advanced users. While the Trader Workstation (TWS) is powerful, its complexity means it’s better suited for experienced investors than total beginners.

64% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Trading 212 – Free Trades, Easy Start

Use code ‘TIC’ to get a free share worth up to £100

Pros and Cons

* Other fees may apply

Trading 212 is ideal for beginners and cost-conscious investors. With commission-free trading and a clean, intuitive interface, it’s perfect for those who want a simple, affordable way to start investing.

Fee Type

Cost

Stock Trading

£0 commission

Forex Trading

From 0.3 pips

Inactivity Fee

None

Withdrawal Fee

None

 

  • 10,000+ global stocks & ETFs
  • 40+ forex pairs
  • Cryptos, commodities, indices

Trading 212’s platform is designed for simplicity, especially on mobile. It’s fast, intuitive, and great for quick trades—perfect for new investors getting started.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

ii – Flat Fees, Ideal for Large Portfolios

Pros and Cons

Interactive Investor is perfect for long-term investors with larger portfolios. Its flat-fee model keeps costs predictable, while its broad asset selection and strong analysis tools support serious portfolio management.

Fee Type

Cost

Monthly Fee

£4.99–£19.99

Stock Trading

£3.99/trade

Fund Trading

£0

Forex/Crypto

Not available

 

  • 40,000+ global stocks & ETFs
  • 3,000+ funds
  • 500+ investment trusts
  • Bonds, gilts, and commodities

Interactive Investor is user-friendly with a clean, functional interface. Its tools for portfolio tracking and investment research make it ideal for both beginners and experienced investors managing wealth over time.

Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

What Are Investment Trading Apps?

Investment trading apps are digital platforms that allow individuals to manage their investments directly from smartphones, laptops, tablets or desktop PCs. These apps enable beginners, seasoned investors, and novices to engage with the stock market, purchase shares, and monitor their portfolios in real-time.  

Investment Strategies for Beginners

If you are new to investing, having a strategy can help you build wealth while managing risk. Here are a few key tips and strategies to consider when starting out:  

You could start with Index Funds or ETFs, since these options offer broad market exposure and lower risk compared to individual stocks. Some platforms are designed specifically for trading ETFs. Remember to diversify your portfolio – Spreading investments across different asset classes (stocks, bonds, ETFs) can reduce risk.  

Many new traders tend to focus on short-term gains, but more experienced investors recognise that significant benefits can be achieved by concentrating on long-term growth and avoiding emotional trading. As a beginner, consider investing in assets with long-term potential.  

Finally, take the time to understand your risk tolerance, assess your personal finances, and determine how much risk you are comfortable with, then invest accordingly. 

How Did We Conduct Our Research?

When compiling this list of the best investment apps in the UK, we took a hands-on, research-driven approach. We didn’t just rely on headlines—we dug into data, pored over user reviews on sites like Trustpilot, and consulted with financial experts. 

We tested a wide range of apps, focusing on three key aspects: ease of use, types of investments offered, and their reliability over time. 

Here’s how we broke it down: 

  • Functionality: We examined the tech—how smoothly the app runs, how intuitive the layout feels, and whether it’s beginner-friendly or geared more towards professionals. 
     
  • Investment Options: We compared what you can invest in—stocks, ETFs, bonds, crypto, and more—to see who gives you the most choice. 
     
  • User Ratings: We’ve reviewed real user feedback to assess how these apps perform in the wild—what people love, what they complain about, and how each platform compares in terms of trust.

All of this was combined with insights from seasoned investors and financial professionals to give you a fair, well-rounded view of each app’s strengths and drawbacks.  

How Did We Calculate the Fees and Costs?

Our breakdown of the fee and cost structure was based on several assumptions designed to standardise the comparison across the different platforms. For example:

  • Investment Type: We assumed a 50/50 split between stocks and funds unless an app focused exclusively on one type.  
     
  • Trading Frequency: We modelled costs based on twelve yearly trades, evenly split across the investment types.  
     
  • Portfolio Value: Fees were calculated for three hypothetical portfolio values: £1,000, £10,000, and £50,000, representing a range of investor scenarios.  
     
  • Platform Fees: Assumed fees were adjusted based on whether platforms offered discounts or perks for frequent trading.  

How Do the Top Investment Apps Compare?

Online visibility and user feedback reveal a lot about a platform’s reputation. Metrics such as search trends, social media following, website traffic, and user ratings provide a solid snapshot of an app’s performance and its perception by real users. 
 

The table below pulls together data from key sources—including Google Trends, Trustpilot, and estimated web traffic—to give you a clearer picture of how each platform ranks in terms of popularity and trust.

RankPlatformGoogle Trends (Search Volume)Social Media FollowersWebsite Traffic (Monthly)Average Rating
#1IGMedium1.7 MillionHigh4.3 Stars
#2eToroHigh7.2 MillionMedium4.2 Stars
#3XTB----
#4Interactive BrokersHigh1.5 MillionHigh4.5 Stars
#5Saxo BankMedium1.5 MillionLow4.0 Stars
#6Trading 212High1.8 MillionMedium4.4 Stars
#7Interactive InvestorMedium (UK Focus)400,000Medium4.1 Stars

Looking at visibility and public engagement, IG, eToro, and Interactive Brokers lead the way. IG combines solid web traffic with strong review scores, while eToro boasts an impressive 7.2 million social media followers, making it the most followed platform in the lineup. Interactive Brokers stands out with high web traffic and the highest average rating (4.5 stars).  

What Assets Can You Trade on These Apps?

Currently, UK investment apps provide a diverse range of assets, catering to the varied needs and investment strategies of investors. The range of assets available varies between apps, so it’s essential to choose a platform that matches your investment preferences and risk tolerance.  Commonly, some of these apps allow users to trade in:  

Investment TypeDescription
Stocks and SharesIncludes both domestic and international markets, allowing for a global investment reach.
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)Popular for diversified investment at a lower cost and risk than individual stocks.
BondsGovernment and corporate bonds available for those seeking more stable, income-generating investments.
Investment TrustsClosed-ended funds managed by professionals aiming to generate specific financial returns.
CommoditiesSome apps provide options to invest in commodities like gold, oil, or agricultural products.
Foreign Exchange (Forex)Trading in currency pairs, suitable for more experienced traders.
CryptocurrenciesMany apps now include options to buy and sell cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

How Do You Open an Account with an Investment App?

Opening an account with a trading app is typically a straightforward process designed to be as user-friendly as possible:

1. Download the App: Start by downloading your chosen trading app from the App Store or Google Play Store.

2. Registration: You will need to provide some basic information, such as your name, email address, and a secure password. Some apps may also require a username.

3. Verification: To comply with financial regulations, you’ll be asked to verify your identity. This usually involves submitting a form of ID (such as a passport or driver’s license) and a recent utility bill or bank statement as proof of address.

4. Banking Details: Enter your banking or card details to fund your account. Some apps also offer options to transfer assets from another brokerage.

5. Setup Preferences: Depending on the app, you may be able to set up trading preferences and choose from different types of accounts, such as individual savings accounts (ISAs) or pension accounts.

6. Start Trading: Once your account is funded and all compliance checks are complete, you can begin trading.

This process usually takes anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on verification requirements.  

What Are the Fees and Costs of Using Investment Apps?

The cost depends on the platform you choose, the frequency of your trades, and the types of assets you’re dealing with. Most apps charge trading fees, which could be a flat fee per trade or a percentage of the transaction amount.  

You may also encounter withdrawal fees, particularly when converting currencies, and foreign exchange fees when trading in non-GBP markets—these can vary depending on current market rates and the platform. 

Some fees are built into the way specific markets operate. For instance, if you’re trading forex or commodities, you’ll likely be paying through the spread (the difference between buy and sell prices) rather than a traditional fee. 

Are There Any Optional Fees?

Some trading apps charge platform fees, either monthly or annually, just for using their services—but not all do. In many cases, these fees can be waived or reduced if you meet certain criteria, like maintaining a minimum balance or trading regularly. It’s also worth noting that some platforms apply inactivity fees if your account sits idle for too long. 

No matter which app you go with, it’s always a smart move to check the full fee structure upfront. That way, you can make sure the costs line up with your trading habits and long-term investing goals. 

PlatformFee TypeCondition for Waiver/Reduction
IGInactivity FeeWaived if you place at least one trade every 2 years
Interactive BrokersInactivity/Platform FeeWaived for accounts with over $100,000 or if you generate enough monthly commissions
eToroCurrency Conversion FeeReduced if you deposit in USD or use the eToro Money wallet
Interactive InvestorMonthly Subscription FeePartially offset via free monthly trades (value depends on account tier)
XTBInactivity Fee (€10/month)Only applies after 12 months of no activity and no open positions
SaxoPlatform FeesNo platform fee, but lower commissions available for higher-tier or pro users
Trading 212Withdrawal/Platform FeesNo withdrawal or platform fees — flat out waived for all users

Which Other Trading Apps Could You Consider?

In the UK, there’s no shortage of trading apps offering all kinds of investment opportunities. But the trick is finding one that actually fits your goals and how you like to trade. Different platforms cater to different types of investors—so it’s worth looking around before you commit. 

Take Robinhood, for example. It’s known for its clean interface and commission-free trading, which makes it a hit with beginners. Just keep in mind that it makes money through payment for order flow, so trades might not always be executed at the best possible price. 

Then there’s Freetrade, a UK-based app that keeps things super simple. You can buy stocks and ETFs without paying commission on basic trades, and they offer a low-cost premium tier if you want more features like additional order types or tax-wrapped accounts. 

On the other end of the spectrum, Hargreaves Lansdown is one of the UK’s most established platforms. It gives you access to a huge range of investments and some top-tier research tools. That said, its fees are a bit higher than what you’ll find on newer, more stripped-back apps. 

Exploring a few of these platforms is a smart way to get a feel for what’s out there—whether you’re looking for low fees, deep research, or just an easy way to get started. 

Are Investment Trading Apps Worth Your Time and Money?

Investment apps can be a game-changer—whether you’re just starting out or already know your way around the markets. But how much value you get from them really comes down to your goals, how hands-on you want to be, and the type of investor you are. Here are a few key things to think about: 

  • Accessibility: Trading apps open the doors to the markets 24/7. You can manage your investments on the go, which is ideal if you like staying on top of things or prefer to be actively involved. 
     
  • Cost-Effectiveness: A lot of these apps offer lower fees than traditional brokers—and many even provide commission-free trades. That’s great news for beginners trying to avoid high costs, and for active traders looking to maximise returns. 
     
  • Educational Tools: Most UK trading apps now come with solid learning resources—think step-by-step tutorials, webinars, and even live support. They’re especially useful if you’re new to investing and want to build confidence before diving in. 
     
  • Real-Time Data & Tools: Having access to real-time charts, news, and analysis right in your pocket means you can make quicker, more informed decisions—and possibly better trades.

 

  • Risks Management: As helpful as these platforms are, they’re not without risks. The ease of use can sometimes lead to impulsive or frequent trading, especially for newer investors. Plus, not every platform offers the same level of security or regulatory protection, so always check who you’re dealing with. 

 

  • FSCS Protection: Good news for UK users—if your broker is regulated, your funds could be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). That means you’re covered for up to £85,000 if the firm goes bust. 
     

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, whether a trading app is right for you comes down to how you use it. If you’re after convenience, lower fees, and access to solid tools and learning resources, they’re definitely worth a look. But like any investment tool, they’re most powerful when used strategically—aligned with your goals, your risk appetite, and how hands-on you want to be. Used wisely, they can be a great asset in your investing journey. 

FAQs

Know your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Research companies, market trends, and economic conditions. Diversify your portfolio and consider factors such as fees, taxes, and transaction costs. 

Annual fees, typically a percentage of your assets, can eat into your returns over time. Compare fee structures—some platforms are cheaper for passive investors, others cost more for managed portfolios. 

An investment account gives you access to a variety of financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, and mutual funds. It allows you to build a diversified portfolio based on your financial objectives and risk appetite. To get started:

  • Research reputable brokerage firms or investment platforms.

  • Compare account types (e.g., general investment accounts, ISAs, or pensions).

  • Complete the account opening process, which may include identity verification.

  • Fund your account and start investing based on your chosen strategy.

An investment account gives you access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, and more.  

Yes. They often include pre-built portfolios, educational content, robo-advisors, and low minimum deposits—perfect for new investors. 

Use FCA-regulated platforms with strong security (e.g. encryption, 2FA). Check user reviews, data policies, and app reliability. Look for good customer support and fraud protection. 

References

  1. Are Demo Accounts an Indicator of Investing Skills? – Investopedia 
  2. Keeping Your Investment Safe – AJ Bell  
  3. Tax Efficient Wrapper Products – GOV.UK 
  4. Explaining Pound Cost Averaging to Your Clients – FT Advisor 
  5. All About Asset Classes And Diversification – Motley Fool   
  6. Understanding Compound Interest – Forbes 
  7. 11 Passive Income Ideas for 2024 – Time Magazine 
  8. Financial Conduct Authority – FCA 
  9. Business of Apps
  10. Finder 

71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.

  • Trade forex, shares, indices & more
  • Powerful, easy-to-use IG platform
  • Pro-level tools with clear insights
  • Free trading courses & live sessions
  • Lightning-fast order execution