Best Investment Apps In The UK For 2026
IG
Investment App Score: 4.9/5
67% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
eToro
Investment App Score: 4.7/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
XTB
Investment App Score: 4.6/5
70% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
Interactive Brokers
Investment App Score: 4.6/5
62.5% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
What’s the Best Investment App in the UK Right Now?
eToro is our top pick for beginners thanks to its zero-commission stock trading, CopyTrader tool, and intuitive design. For advanced investors, IG stands out with its pro-grade tools, broad market access, and robust charting features—ideal for experienced traders managing diverse portfolios.
How Do the Top Investment Apps in the UK Compare?
| Rank | Platform | Minimum Deposit | Commission | ISA/SIPP Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IG | £0 | £0 per trade (online); £24/quarter custody if <3 trades; 0.7% FX | Yes/Yes | Advanced Traders & Market Access |
| 2 | eToro | £0 (bank transfer) | £0 (stocks) | ISA (via Moneyfarm) | Beginners & Social Trading |
| 3 | XTB | £0 | £0 (real stocks up to €100k) | No | Low-Cost Trading & Education |
| 4 | Interactive Brokers | £1 | From £0.005/share | Yes/Yes | Global Market Access |
| 5 | Saxo | £0 | From £5.99 | Yes/Yes | Professional Investors |
| 6 | Trading 212 | £1 | £0 (stocks & ETFs) | Yes | Commission-Free Trading |
| 7 | interactive investor | £100 | £3.99/trade + £4.99/month | Yes/Yes | Long-Term Investors & ISAs |
*Other fees may apply. See terms and fees.
Here Are the Top 7 Investment Apps in the UK, Ranked
- IG – Best for Market Variety and Research Tools
- eToro – Best for Combining Stocks, Crypto, and Social Trading
- XTB – Best for Low-Cost Trading and Forex Access
- Interactive Brokers – Best for Advanced Investors and Global Markets
- Saxo – Best for Professional-Grade Investing and Global Access
- Trading 212 – Best for Commission-Free* Stock and ETF Investing
- Interactive Investor – Best for Long-Term Investors and ISA Management
IG – Pro-Grade Tools, Broad Markets
Pros & Cons
- Access to 18,000+ markets
- Advanced tools like ProRealTime
- ISA and SIPP available
- Strong FCA regulation
- Higher fees for infrequent traders
- May overwhelm beginners
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with IG?
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Is IG Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use IG?
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What Features Stand Out on IG’s Platform?
UK share dealing costs £8 per trade, reduced to £3 if you place three or more trades in the previous month. A platform fee of £96 per year applies unless it is waived through sufficient trading activity. Forex spreads start from 0.6 pips. Additional fees may apply for international markets, live data subscriptions, and other premium services.
Yes, IG is fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Client funds are held in segregated accounts and protected under the FSCS scheme up to £85,000 in case of broker insolvency.
IG is ideal for experienced investors who want access to global markets, powerful charting tools, and tax-efficient accounts. It suits active traders and long-term investors comfortable with a slightly more advanced platform.
IG offers advanced charting, smart order types, ProRealTime integration, and extensive market research. Users can invest through web or mobile, with access to ISAs, SIPPs, and margin trading. The platform is customisable and supports multiple asset classes.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 67% 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 & Cons
- Commission-free stock investing
- Unique CopyTrader™ social trading feature
- Intuitive interface for new users
- FCA regulated
- ISA option through Moneyfarm (NEW 2026)
- $5 withdrawal fee
- Higher spreads on non-stock assets
- Limited depth for advanced traders
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with eToro?
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Is eToro Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use eToro?
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What Features Stand Out on eToro’s Platform?
eToro offers £0 commission on stocks. There’s a $5 withdrawal fee and a $10 monthly inactivity fee after 12 months. Spreads on forex start from 1 pip. Currency conversion fees apply unless using eToro Money.
Yes, eToro is regulated by the FCA (FRN 583263) and protects UK client funds under FSCS. The platform also uses two-factor authentication and industry-standard security protocols.
eToro is perfect for beginners who want a simple platform, low costs, and the ability to follow or copy expert investors. It also appeals to users exploring both stocks and crypto in one place.
eToro’s standout feature is CopyTrader™, which lets users replicate the portfolios of top investors. The app also includes real-time data, social feeds, analyst ratings, and integrated crypto trading—all in an easy-to-navigate design.
CFDs are complex instruments with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 61% 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 & Cons
- £0 commission on stocks and ETFs
- No deposit or withdrawal fees
- Excellent educational content via XTB Academy
- User-friendly xStation 5 platform
- FCA regulated
- No ISA or SIPP support
- No MetaTrader 4 or 5
- Limited asset range compared to some competitors
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with XTB?
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Is XTB Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use XTB?
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What Features Stand Out on XTB’s Platform?
XTB offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs up to €100,000/month. No account, deposit, or withdrawal fees. Forex spreads start from 0.1 pips (Pro account). Inactivity fee of €10/month applies after 12 months.
Yes, XTB is FCA regulated and fully compliant with UK standards. Funds are protected under the FSCS up to £85,000. The broker also uses segregated accounts and standard encryption for security.
XTB suits beginners and cost-conscious investors who want a simple, low-cost way to trade major assets. It’s also ideal for those who value education and want to improve trading skills.
The xStation 5 platform is fast, easy to use, and packed with tools like heatmaps, sentiment indicators, and earnings calendars. XTB also offers excellent mobile functionality and comprehensive educational modules.
70% 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 & Cons
- Ultra-low trading fees
- Access to 135+ global markets
- Pro-level tools and research
- Strong regulatory oversight
- Supports ISA and SIPP accounts
- Complex interface for beginners
- No MetaTrader support
- Some tools best suited to experienced traders
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with Interactive Brokers?
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Is Interactive Brokers Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use Interactive Brokers?
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What Features Stand Out on Interactive Brokers’ Platform?
Stock trades start from £0.005/share with a minimum of £1. Forex spreads begin at 0.08 pips. No inactivity or maintenance fees for most users. Market data fees may apply for premium feeds.
Yes, Interactive Brokers is regulated by the FCA in the UK and also by the SEC in the US. FSCS protection applies up to £85,000, and client funds are held in segregated accounts.
Best suited to experienced or professional investors, particularly those trading internationally or managing complex portfolios. Ideal for those needing deep functionality and global access at very low cost.
IBKR offers advanced charting, automated strategies, and deep analytical tools. Their GlobalTrader app supports access to global exchanges, while desktop Trader Workstation (TWS) delivers institutional-grade functionality.
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 & Cons
- 19,000+ global stocks and ETFs
- Advanced research and trading tools
- Tiered account structure with lower fees at higher levels
- FCA regulated
- Supports ISAs and SIPPs
- £500 minimum deposit
- Inactivity fee on entry-level accounts
- Platform complexity may overwhelm beginners
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with Saxo?
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Is Saxo Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use Saxo?
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What Features Stand Out on Saxo’s Platform?
UK stock trades start from £5.99. Forex spreads from 0.08 pips. Inactivity fee of £25/quarter for classic accounts. Fees reduce significantly for Platinum and VIP clients.
Yes, Saxo is fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and offers FSCS protection. Client funds are held in segregated accounts with top-tier banks.
Saxo is best for experienced, high-volume traders or investors seeking global exposure and advanced tools. It suits professionals looking for premium features and reduced fees at scale.
SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO offer institutional-grade tools, deep asset coverage, advanced order types, and real-time data integration. Saxo also provides high-quality research and personalised support for premium users.
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 fractional share worth up to £100
Pros & Cons
- £0 commission on stocks and ETFs*
- Intuitive mobile and web platform
- Fractional shares available
- ISA support
- No inactivity or withdrawal fees
- Limited research tools
- No advanced charting or order types
- No access to bonds or mutual funds
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with Trading 212?
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Is Trading 212 Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use Trading 212?
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What Features Stand Out on Trading 212’s Platform?
Trading 212 offers commission-free* investing on UK and US stocks and ETFs. There are no platform, withdrawal, or inactivity fees. Currency conversion fees apply for non-GBP trades.
Yes, Trading 212 is regulated by the FCA and provides FSCS protection up to £85,000. It uses bank-level encryption and segregated accounts for user funds.
Ideal for beginners and cost-conscious investors who want easy access to stocks and ETFs without paying trading fees. It’s also great for those using ISAs.
The app features a clean, user-friendly design, instant order execution, fractional investing, and auto-invest portfolios. It’s tailored for simplicity rather than professional-grade tools.
*Other fees may apply. See terms and fees.
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.
Interactive Investor – Flat Fees, Ideal for Large Portfolios
Pros & Cons
- Flat monthly fees benefit larger portfolios
- Wide asset access including funds, stocks, ETFs, trusts
- Strong research and portfolio tools
- ISA, SIPP, and GIA accounts supported
- Less cost-effective for small investors
- No forex or crypto trading
- Fewer short-term trading features
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How Much Does It Cost to Invest with Interactive Investor?
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Is Interactive Investor Safe and FCA Regulated?
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Who Should Use Interactive Investor?
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What Features Stand Out on Interactive Investor’s Platform?
Plans start from £4.99/month. UK share dealing costs £3.99 per trade, and fund trading is free. The flat fee model helps reduce costs for frequent or high-value investors.
Yes, Interactive Investor is FCA-regulated and client money is protected under FSCS up to £85,000. The platform is considered one of the most secure and reputable in the UK.
It’s best suited for long-term UK investors managing larger portfolios or using ISA/SIPP tax wrappers. The flat fee becomes more cost-effective with higher investment volumes.
Strong portfolio planning tools, comprehensive market research, and full ISA/SIPP functionality. It also supports ethical investing and a wide range of UK and international assets.
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 Should You Look For in an Investment App in 2026?
How Transparent Are the Fees?
Look for clear breakdowns of trading commissions, platform charges, withdrawal fees, and currency conversion costs. Apps that publish fee tables upfront — and offer flat-fee or commission-free structures — provide better value and reduce surprises, especially for long-term or high-frequency investors.
Are the Tools Right for Your Investing Goals?
Beginners need intuitive dashboards and learning resources. Advanced users may prefer technical indicators, stock screeners, and portfolio rebalancing. Choose a platform that matches your investment style — whether passive ETF investing, active stock picking, or global diversification — and offers the insights to support those strategies.
Does the App Support Long-Term Portfolio Growth?
Long-term investors should prioritise platforms with ISAs, SIPPs, fund access, and automated investing options. Look for reinvestment tools, dividend tracking, and risk-adjusted performance monitoring — all designed to support steady, compounding growth over years, not just weeks.
Is the Platform Regulated and FSCS Protected?
Always check FCA regulation and whether the app protects your funds under the FSCS scheme. This safeguards up to £120,000 if the provider fails—an essential feature for any serious UK investment platform.
What Are Other UK Investors Saying?
Trustpilot, app store reviews, and financial forums reveal a lot. Look for recurring praise (like ease of use or support quality) and red flags (such as withdrawal delays). Pay attention to recent reviews — sentiment can shift quickly as platforms evolve.
Which of These Apps Give You Access to a Stocks and Shares ISA?
Six of the seven apps reviewed offer Stocks and Shares ISA access. Trading 212, Interactive Investor, IG, Interactive Brokers, and Saxo provide direct ISA accounts. eToro offers ISA access through its Moneyfarm partnership. XTB does not currently support ISA accounts for UK investors.
How Important Is a Stocks and Shares ISA for Investing Apps in the UK?
A Stocks and Shares ISA is essential for tax-efficient long-term growth. Over 4.3 million UK adults hold stocks and shares ISAs, according to HMRC. Without ISA protection, investors face Capital Gains Tax above £3,000 and dividend tax above £500—making ISA availability a critical selection factor.
What Are the Tax Benefits of Using a Stocks and Shares ISA?
Tax-free growth on capital gains and dividends is the primary benefit. UK investors pay no CGT on profits and no income tax on dividends within the £20,000 annual allowance. FSCS protection covers ISA investments up to £120,000 if the provider fails.
UK ISA subscriptions hit £103 billion in 2023-24 — up 44% year-on-year — with Cash ISAs surging 67%. See the full ISA breakdown in our UK Investment Statistics 2026.
Which Is the Best Investing App with a Stocks and Shares ISA?
IG is the best ISA app for experienced investors, offering 18,000+ markets, advanced research tools, and SIPP access alongside its Stocks and Shares ISA. eToro suits beginners seeking commission-free stock investing with ISA access now available through its Moneyfarm partnership launched in 2026.
How Do You Open and Manage an Account?
What Are the Steps to Open a New Investment Account?
Download your chosen app, create an account with personal details, complete ID verification, and choose an account type (e.g., ISA, GIA). Once approved, fund your account and start investing. Most platforms complete this within 24–48 hours, depending on verification speed.
What Documents Do You Need for Verification?
You’ll typically need one photo ID (passport or driving licence) and one proof of address (utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months). Upload these during registration to meet FCA anti-money laundering rules and unlock full account functionality.
How Do You Fund Your Account Safely?
Use bank transfers, debit cards, or regulated payment gateways. Avoid third-party payments or crypto transfers. Ensure the app uses SSL encryption, and always check your funding method matches the account holder’s name for faster processing and security.
Can You Transfer Assets from Another Broker?
Yes — most UK platforms support in-kind or cash transfers. Request a transfer form from your new broker and check if exit or entry fees apply. Transfers between ISAs may preserve tax benefits if done via official transfer processes.
What Are the Real Costs of Using Investment Apps?
What Are Standard Trading and Platform Fees?
Most apps charge per-trade commissions (or offer £0 stock trading), along with platform or inactivity fees. Fees vary widely by platform and trading frequency. Some also apply FX conversion charges or fund-specific costs, especially for non-GBP assets or active accounts.
Are There Any Hidden or Optional Costs?
Yes. Look for currency conversion fees, withdrawal charges, or inactivity fees on less-used accounts. Some apps also charge for advanced research tools or access to specific markets. These charges may not appear upfront, so always read the full fee schedule carefully.
Which Platforms Are Most Cost-Effective?
Trading 212 and XTB offer the lowest fees overall with £0 commission and no platform charges. eToro follows closely for stock trading, though forex and crypto fees are higher. Interactive Investor is cost-effective for larger portfolios due to flat monthly pricing.
| Platform | Fee Type | Condition for Waiver/Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| IG | Inactivity Fee | Waived if you place at least one trade every 2 years |
| Interactive Brokers | Inactivity/Platform Fee | Waived for accounts with over $100,000 or if you generate enough monthly commissions |
| eToro | Currency Conversion Fee | Reduced if you deposit in USD or use the eToro Money wallet |
| Interactive Investor | Monthly Subscription Fee | Partially offset via free monthly trades (value depends on account tier) |
| XTB | Inactivity Fee (€10/month) | Only applies after 12 months of no activity and no open positions |
| Saxo | Platform Fees | No platform fee, but lower commissions available for higher-tier or pro users |
| Trading 212 | Withdrawal/Platform Fees | No withdrawal or platform fees — flat out waived for all users |
Final Verdict — Which Investment App Should You Choose?
Choosing the right investment app depends on your experience level, portfolio size, and trading goals. For beginners, eToro stands out with its intuitive design and social features. XTB is ideal for cost-conscious users, while Interactive Investor suits long-term planners with larger portfolios.
If you’re seeking global access and institutional tools, Interactive Brokers and Saxo deliver advanced features. Active traders will benefit from IG’s robust research and market depth, while Trading 212 offers an accessible, low-cost entry point.
2026 Platform Update
In 2026, UK investors have access to more FCA-regulated investment apps with stronger protections, lower fees, and improved mobile tools. The FSCS limit has increased to £120,000, enhancing safety. Leading platforms now offer better ISA and SIPP support, making long-term, tax-efficient investing simpler and more secure for modern UK investors.
Not Sure Which Platform to Choose?
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FAQs
What should I consider before investing in the stock market?
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.
How do platform fees affect my returns?
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.
What are the benefits of opening an investment account, and how do I get started?
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.
What can I trade when I open an investment account?
An investment account gives you access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, and more.
Are retail investor accounts beginner-friendly?
Yes. They often include pre-built portfolios, educational content, robo-advisors, and low minimum deposits—perfect for new investors.
How can I keep my investments safe on trading apps?
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
- Are Demo Accounts an Indicator of Investing Skills? – Investopedia
- Keeping Your Investment Safe – AJ Bell
- Tax Efficient Wrapper Products – GOV.UK
- Explaining Pound Cost Averaging to Your Clients – FT Advisor
- All About Asset Classes And Diversification – Motley Fool
- Understanding Compound Interest – Forbes
- 11 Passive Income Ideas for 2024 – Time Magazine
- Financial Conduct Authority – FCA
- Business of Apps
- Finder
