Best Investment Platforms in the UK for 2025: Compare Top Options
Choosing the right investment platform can help protect your money, lower fees, and give you confidence in managing your investments. We’ve analysed customer surveys, fees, and the range of services to help you find the best home for your Stocks & Shares ISA or general investment account.
IG
Investing Platform Score: 4.8/5
69% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
eToro
Investing Platform Score: 4.7/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Quick Answer: Which UK Investment Platform is Best Overall in 2025?
For 2025, IG is our top pick for its wide market access, FCA regulation, and zero-commission UK share dealing. For beginners, eToro stands out for its ease of use and social trading features. Each platform suits different investors based on goals, costs, and account types.
How Do These Investing Platforms Compare?
| Rank | Platform | ISA Available? | Trustpilot Score (Aug 2025) | Beginner-Friendliness | Minimum Deposit | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | IG | Yes | 3.9 / 5 | Medium | £0 (ISA) / £300 (CFD) | £8 UK share dealing / £0 ISA admin |
| #2 | eToro | No | 4.1 / 5 | High | £50 | 0% commission (spread-based) / $5 withdrawal fee |
| #3 | Interactive Brokers (IBKR) | No | 3.7 / 5 | Low | £0 | £0 commission on UK shares (up to volume limits) |
| #4 | Saxo | Yes | 3.6 / 5 | Low | £500 (Classic account) | £5.99 trading fee (ISA) / £0-£25 custody |
| #5 | Interactive Investor (II) | Yes | 4.0 / 5 | Medium | £100 | £4.99 monthly fee / £5.99 trading fee |
| #6 | Trading 212 | Yes | 4.6 / 5 | High | £1 | £0 commission / no ISA fee |
Here are the Top 5 best Investing Platforms in the UK:
- IG – Market Access, Advanced Tools, Trusted Provider
- eToro – Social Trading, Easy to Use, Beginner-Friendly
- IBKR – Low Costs, Global Reach, Professional Platform
- Saxo – Wide Range, Strong Research, Higher Minimums
- Trading 212 – Commission-Free, Fractional Shares, User-Friendly
- Interactive Investor – Flat Fees, Wide Choice, Long-Term Value
IG – Best for Advanced Investors & Market Access
Pros & Cons
- Extensive global markets and asset classes
- FCA regulated, FSCS protected
- Competitive trading fees for active users
- Strong platform features and research tools
- Inactivity fee if under three trades per quarter
- Platform may be complex for absolute beginners
- Forex and CFD costs can add up
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IG Overview
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What Can You Trade on IG?
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What Can You Invest in with IG?
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Is IG Safe and FCA-Regulated?
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What Are IG’s Fees and Charges?
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How Easy Is IG to Use?
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Who Is IG Best For?
IG offers access to over 17,000 markets including UK shares, ETFs, indices, and forex. It supports both ISA investing and leveraged CFD trading. With 0% commission on UK stocks and FCA regulation, it’s a strong choice for serious and long-term UK investors.
You can trade UK and global shares, ETFs, forex, indices, commodities, and crypto via derivatives. IG supports both long-term investing (ISA, GIA) and active trading through CFDs and spread betting. The range suits both passive investors and experienced traders.
IG provides access to UK and global shares, ETFs, indices, commodities, forex, and CFDs. Whether you want long-term equity investing or short-term leveraged trades, IG’s wide product range can support most trading and investing styles on a single platform.
Yes, IG is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and segregates client funds. Established in 1974, it is considered one of the UK’s most trusted brokers. FSCS protection applies to eligible investments held under IG Trading and Investments Ltd.
ISA and share dealing accounts offer 0% commission on UK shares. CFD and spread betting accounts incur spreads and overnight fees. Forex trades carry a ~0.6 pip spread. There’s no inactivity fee, and interest is paid on uninvested cash balances.
IG offers a well-designed desktop platform and award-winning mobile app. It suits experienced users, though beginners may face a learning curve. A free demo account is available, and educational resources support new investors.
IG is ideal for intermediate and advanced investors looking for a regulated, multi-asset platform. Its ISA support, deep market access, and interest on cash appeal to those with larger portfolios or diversified strategies.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% 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
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection
- Zero commissions on stocks & ETFs
- Unique social/copy trading features
- Very easy to use
- Wider spreads than traditional brokers
- Currency conversion and withdrawal fees
- Some assets only available via CFDs
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eToro Overview
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What Assets Can You Buy on eToro?
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Is eToro Safe and FCA-Regulated?
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What Are eToro’s Fees and Spreads?
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How Beginner-Friendly Is eToro?
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How Beginner-Friendly Is eToro?
eToro offers a user-friendly interface, commission-free stock investing, and a unique CopyTrader system. It’s regulated by the FCA and popular with new investors seeking a simple entry point into stocks, ETFs, and crypto. However, it doesn’t support ISA or SIPP accounts in the UK.
eToro offers UK and US stocks, ETFs, crypto, commodities, and currencies. All assets are traded via a web platform or app. It supports fractional shares from just $10, ideal for smaller investors looking to diversify across asset classes.
Yes, eToro (UK) Ltd is regulated by the FCA. Client funds are held in tier-1 banks and protected under standard regulatory requirements. While not FSCS-protected for crypto assets, stocks and ETFs traded via eToro are held securely and separately.
eToro charges zero commission on stock trades, but makes money via FX conversion (~0.5%) and asset spreads. Crypto trades typically carry a 1% spread. There’s a flat $5 withdrawal fee and a $10 monthly inactivity charge after 12 months of no use.
eToro is extremely beginner-friendly. The layout is simple, trades are easy to place, and CopyTrader allows users to follow successful investors. There’s also a $100,000 demo account, educational guides, and a responsive mobile app for first-time traders.
eToro is best for casual investors, beginners, and anyone curious about social trading. It’s ideal for those who want a low-cost, mobile-first experience with access to stocks and crypto. It’s less suited to tax-efficient investing due to the lack of ISA/SIPP.
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.
Interactive Brokers – Best for Global, Low-Cost Investing
Pros & Cons
- Very low trading commissions
- Unmatched global market access
- FCA & SIPC regulated protections
- Advanced tools for serious traders
- Platform complexity can overwhelm beginners
- Data & currency fees add up
- Not designed for social or guided investing
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Interactive Brokers Overview
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What Can You Invest in with IBKR?
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Is Interactive Brokers Safe and Regulated?
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What Are the Platform Fees and FX Costs?
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How Easy Is It to Use IBKR?
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Who Is It Best For?
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is favoured by cost-conscious, globally-minded investors. It offers market access to 150+ exchanges in 30+ countries and ultra-low trading fees. It’s FCA-regulated and ideal for those with international portfolios, but may feel complex for beginners.
IBKR supports global stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, futures, mutual funds, forex, and more. You can invest in UK, US, Asian, and European markets. It also allows fractional shares and access to hard-to-find international assets not listed on UK platforms.
Yes, Interactive Brokers UK is authorised by the FCA and is part of Interactive Brokers LLC, a global brokerage founded in 1978. Client funds are kept in segregated accounts, and UK users benefit from FSCS protection up to £85,000 on eligible funds.
UK investors enjoy commission-free trading on many US stocks. Other markets have ultra-low fees starting at $1. FX conversion is charged at 0.03%. There are no inactivity fees, and the overall cost structure is among the lowest for active traders.
The IBKR platform is powerful but complex. It includes Trader Workstation (TWS), the Client Portal, and a mobile app. The learning curve is steep, but detailed research tools and order types benefit seasoned investors. A simplified app is available for newer users.
Interactive Brokers is best for experienced investors seeking global diversification, low fees, and advanced tools. It’s ideal for frequent traders and professionals, but beginners may find its platform overwhelming without prior trading experience.
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 Experienced & High-Net-Worth Investors
Pros & Cons
- Wide global investment options
- FCA regulated with FSCS cover
- Professional-grade tools & research
- Tiered pricing benefits large traders
- Platform complexity suits advanced users
- Inactivity fees apply after six months
- Higher costs for small portfolios
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Saxo Overview
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What Investment Options Does Saxo Offer?
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Is Saxo Bank FCA-Regulated and Safe?
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How Competitive Are Saxo’s Fees?
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Saxo’s User Interface – Easy or Complex?
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Who Should Choose Saxo?
Saxo offers a premium platform with access to 60,000+ financial instruments across global markets. It’s FCA-regulated, supports ISA accounts, and suits investors seeking deep research and advanced tools. However, high minimum deposits and tiered pricing may deter casual or beginner investors.
Saxo offers global shares, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options, futures, forex, commodities, and crypto ETPs. Investors gain access to 50+ exchanges. ISA and general accounts are available, and professional clients can access margin trading and derivatives.
Yes, Saxo Markets is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, and FSCS protection applies. Saxo is part of Saxo Bank Group, founded in 1992 and headquartered in Denmark with strong global credentials.
Saxo offers tiered pricing. Classic account users pay £5–£8 per UK trade, while Platinum and VIP users receive lower rates. FX spreads start from 0.4 pips. There’s no ISA fee, but inactivity charges apply if no trades are placed for six months.
SaxoTraderGO and SaxoInvestor are advanced platforms built for serious traders. The tools are powerful but not aimed at beginners. Research is in-depth, charting is advanced, and customisation is extensive. The mobile app mirrors the desktop experience with full trading functionality.
Saxo is ideal for experienced or high-net-worth investors who value global access, advanced tools, and personalised pricing. It’s not built for casual traders or those seeking low-cost investing. Professional clients can benefit most from its full capabilities.
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.
Trading 212 – Best for Commission-Free Investing
Pros & Cons
- Zero commission and no platform fees*
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection
- Easy to use, fast account setup
- Offers fractional shares for low entry
- FX fees on foreign trades
- Limited advanced research tools
- Some assets only via CFDs
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Trading 212 Overview
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What Can You Buy on Trading 212?
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Is Trading 212 Safe for UK Users?
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Is the App Suitable for Beginners?
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Ideal User Profile
Trading 212 is a user-friendly platform with 0% commission on stocks and ETFs. It offers a Stocks & Shares ISA, fractional shares, and a streamlined app. Regulated by the FCA, it appeals to beginners, although advanced investors may find its tools limited.
Users can invest in UK and US stocks, ETFs, and some crypto ETPs. The Invest and ISA accounts support long-term portfolios. A separate CFD account is available for trading forex, commodities, and indices, though this involves higher risk and leverage.
Yes, Trading 212 is FCA-regulated, and client funds are segregated in tier-1 banks. Stocks and ETFs are protected by FSCS up to £85,000. The platform has over 2 million UK users and is considered safe for regulated investments.
The Trading 212 app is built for ease of use, with clean navigation, instant execution, and educational tools. Fractional investing allows beginners to start with as little as £1. Users can set up pies for auto-investing and portfolio tracking.
Trading 212 suits new investors, those building a passive ISA portfolio, and anyone prioritising fee-free investing. It’s less suitable for active day traders or investors needing deep research and advanced tools. The simplicity is a major strength for casual users.
*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 – Best Flat-Fee ISA Platform
Pros & Cons
- Flat monthly fees suit large portfolios
- FCA regulated with FSCS safety net
- Wide choice of ISAs, SIPPs, and funds
- Straightforward platform for long-term investing
- Less competitive for very small accounts
- No social or copy trading features
- Fewer flashy app tools than newer brokers
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Is Interactive Investor Overview?
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What Investment Accounts Are Available?
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Is Interactive Investor Trustworthy?
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Flat Fees vs. Percentage-Based – Pros & Cons
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How Does the Platform Compare for Usability?
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Who Should Use Interactive Investor?
Interactive Investor (ii) offers a flat-fee structure ideal for investors with large portfolios. It supports ISAs, SIPPs, and general accounts. Regulated by the FCA, ii gives users access to UK and global markets. Its monthly fee may deter smaller investors.
ii offers Stocks & Shares ISAs, Junior ISAs, SIPPs, and general investment accounts. Users can invest in UK and global shares, ETFs, funds, and investment trusts. A trading account is included in all plans with no limits on assets.
Yes, Interactive Investor is FCA-authorised and FSCS-protected. Founded in 1995 and now part of abrdn, it’s one of the UK’s largest direct investment services with a strong reputation among DIY investors and long-term savers.
ii charges a monthly fee (£4.99–£19.99) instead of a percentage of assets. This benefits investors with larger portfolios. However, it may be less cost-effective for beginners or those with under £5,000 invested. Trades cost £3.99–£5.99 depending on plan.
The platform is functional and stable, though less modern than mobile-first brokers. Desktop navigation is clear, and the mobile app offers full trading functionality. Research tools and market commentary are helpful for active investors.
ii is ideal for long-term UK investors seeking an ISA or SIPP with predictable costs. It suits those who regularly invest or transfer larger portfolios. It’s not designed for high-frequency traders or those prioritising sleek mobile experiences.
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.
Not Sure Which Platform to Choose?
Answer 5 quick questions and we’ll provide a personalised recommendation for the best options tailored to your specific needs and experience level.
What Makes an Investment Platform the Best for UK Investors?
The best UK investment platforms combine FCA regulation, low fees, intuitive design, broad asset access, and strong customer service. ISA and SIPP support is a key factor for tax-efficient investing. Platform safety, reliability, and educational resources also influence how investors select the right fit.
How Do We Evaluate and Rank These Platforms?
We look at FCA regulation, customer satisfaction surveys, platform fees, investment choice, and usability. We also consider special features like ISAs or social investing tools. Platforms that keep costs low while delivering strong safety and service scores rank highest for UK investors.
What’s the Best Investment Platform for Beginners in the UK?
For most beginners, eToro stands out. It is FCA regulated, easy to use, and allow you to start with small amounts. eToro is popular for its social copy trading and simple app which appeals to first-time investors.
How Can You Start Investing Online in 2025?
Starting is simpler than ever: compare platforms, register online, and fund your account. Choose whether to invest inside a tax-efficient Stocks & Shares ISA or a standard account. Always ensure your chosen platform is FCA regulated to protect your money.
How Do You Open an Online Investment Account?
Most platforms let you open an account entirely online in under 15 minutes. You’ll complete a short application, confirm personal details, and accept risk warnings. Many also offer demo accounts, so you can explore features before investing real money.
What Documents and Checks Are Required?
You’ll need to provide proof of identity (like a passport or driving licence) and proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement). Platforms also run quick electronic checks to comply with anti-money laundering laws, keeping investments secure.
What Fees Should UK Investors Expect to Pay?
Expect to pay trading fees (or zero-commission spreads), FX fees on international shares (~0.15%–0.5%), and platform fees for ISA/SIPP accounts. Some platforms charge inactivity or withdrawal fees. Choose based on portfolio size—flat fees suit large portfolios, while no-commission brokers benefit smaller accounts.
What Types of Investment Platforms Can You Choose From?
UK investors can pick from DIY platforms, robo-advisors, or fully managed services. Your choice depends on how hands-on you want to be. Each type comes with different costs, levels of control, and tools to help you build and manage your portfolio.
What is a DIY Investment Platform?
DIY platforms let you choose and buy investments yourself, such as shares, ETFs or funds. They often have lower costs and give you full control, but it’s up to you to research, pick assets, and monitor performance without automatic guidance.
What is a Robo-Advisor?
A robo-advisor builds and manages a diversified portfolio for you, based on your risk level and goals. It uses algorithms to invest mainly in low-cost funds. This hands-off approach suits people wanting professional allocation without the higher costs of personal advisers.
What About Fully Managed Investment Services?
Fully managed services give you a dedicated professional or team to handle your portfolio. They make decisions, rebalance, and may tailor plans to your needs. While convenient and expert-led, these typically come with higher fees, better suited to larger investments.
What is a Stocks & Shares ISA — and Should You Use One?
A Stocks & Shares ISA lets you invest without paying UK capital gains or dividend tax on returns. It’s a popular way to grow wealth tax efficiently. For most investors, using an ISA makes sense before investing through standard taxable accounts.
How Do Customer Reviews Rate These Investment Platforms?
Recent surveys show IG, eToro, and Interactive Investor often earn high marks for ease and trust. Investors praise low fees and helpful support. However, reviews also note complexities on more advanced platforms, reminding you to pick one that matches your confidence level.
How Do You Pick the Right Platform for Your Risk Level and Goals?
First, decide how hands-on you want to be. If you prefer control, choose a DIY platform; if you want simplicity, consider robo or managed options. Also weigh fees against your investment size—flat fees favour larger pots, while percentage fees suit smaller balances.
Final Thoughts: Which Investment Platform Should You Pick in 2025?
The best UK investment platform depends on your goals. IG offers broad access and ISA support for experienced users. eToro is for beginners and commission-free trades. Interactive Investor suits long-term ISA/SIPP investors. Choose based on cost, usability, and regulation.
Top 5 Platforms
1
IG
69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
2
eToro
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider.
3
IBKR
62.5% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
4
Saxo
64% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
5
Trading 212
When investing, your capital is at risk
Still Not Sure Which Platform?
FAQs
Is My Money Safe on UK Investment Platforms?
Most major UK platforms are FCA regulated, keeping your money in segregated accounts. Cash balances are typically protected up to £85,000 by the FSCS. Always check your platform’s regulatory details to confirm exactly how your investments and uninvested cash are safeguarded.
Which Platform Has the Lowest Overall Fees?
Interactive Brokers generally offers the lowest trading costs, especially for frequent or global trades. For UK stocks and zero-commission investing, Trading 212 and eToro are very competitive. Always compare fees based on your trade size, frequency, and whether you need currency conversion.
Can I Invest with a Small Amount to Start?
Yes. Platforms like Trading 212 and eToro let you start with £1 thanks to fractional shares. Many DIY platforms have no minimum, though you’ll want enough invested to make trading costs worthwhile. Robo-advisors may require a modest initial deposit, often around £50–£100.
What If I Want to Invest in US or Global Stocks?
Nearly all top UK platforms now offer international shares. IG, Interactive Brokers, and Saxo provide broad global access. Just watch for foreign exchange fees, which apply when converting pounds to buy overseas assets. These vary by platform and can impact returns.
Do These Platforms Offer Demo Accounts?
Most platforms offer free demo or practice accounts. IG and eToro both have popular demos, letting you explore features and test trades with virtual funds. This can help you get comfortable before risking real money, especially if you’re completely new to investing.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Financial Conduct Authority | FCA
- Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) – Financial Services Compensation Scheme | FSCS
- GOV.UK – Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs)
- IG – Fees and Charges
- eToro UK – Pricing and Fees
- Interactive Brokers – Commissions and Pricing
- Trading 212 – Help Centre: Fees & Charges
- Interactive Investor – Pricing Guide
- Trustpilot – Platform Reviews
