Best Investment Platforms in the UK for 2025: Which Should You Choose?
Thomas Drury
Co-Founder
Thomas is an experienced financial trader in leverage instruments, crypto and general investing. He has over a decade experience in finance and holds Chartered Status in the financial industry, Thomas’s speciality is trading CFDs, Forex and Day Trading. His crypto portfolio is heavily weighted towards BTC and Eth, but enjoys trading low cap crypto’s with higher volatility. Thomas’s favourite trading strategy is break out Trading.
“Our commitment at The Investors Centre is unwavering. We strive to provide clear, actionable advice that empowers you to achieve financial success. Our vision is a future where anyone can invest confidently and wisely.”
Dom Farnell
Co-Founder
Dom is an experienced retail investor, learning his craft in what he likes to call the “hard way”. Through many of these lesson’s he has crafted himself a sound investment strategy that has enabled him to make investing into a business not just a hobby. He wanted to create The Investors Centre to be able to use these lessons and help other people establish them selves in the world of investing.
“Financial clarity and integrity are the cornerstones of everything we do. We’re here to ensure that your investment journey is built on a solid financial understanding and a sound strategic foundation.”
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
How We Test
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.
Quick Answer: Which UK Investment Platform is Best Overall in 2025?
Based on our review of customer satisfaction, fees, and choice of investments, IG stands out as the best all-round platform for UK investors in 2025. It offers wide market access, transparent pricing, and robust FCA regulation, making it suitable for a broad range of investor needs.
How Do the Top UK Investment Platforms Compare Side by Side?
| Rank | Platform | Best For | Typical Fees | Investment Range | Ease of Use | Regulation & Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | IG | Overall investing | £0 custody, low dealing costs | Shares, ETFs, forex, CFDs, options | Intuitive for most | FCA regulated, FSCS protection |
| #2 | eToro | Beginners, social trading | No commission, wider spreads | Stocks, ETFs, crypto, CFDs | Very beginner friendly | FCA regulated, FSCS protection |
| #3 | Interactive Brokers | Global, low-cost traders | From £1 commission, FX charges | 135+ markets worldwide | Complex for novices | FCA regulated, SIPC coverage |
| #4 | Saxo | Professionals, large trades | From £0–£25 monthly, tiered fees | Wide range incl. bonds, futures | Designed for experts | FCA regulated, Danish FSA |
| #5 | Trading 212 | Commission-free investing | £0 commission, FX conversion fee | Stocks, ETFs, some CFDs | Very easy to use | FCA regulated, FSCS protection |
| #6 | Interactive Investor | Large portfolios, ISAs | £4.99–£19.99 monthly flat fee | Funds, shares, trusts, pensions | Clear dashboard | FCA regulated, FSCS protection |
IG – Best for Wide 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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Is IG Safe and Regulated?
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What Are IG’s Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with IG?
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How Easy Is IG to Use?
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Who Is IG Best For?
IG is authorised by the FCA and offers FSCS protection on eligible funds up to £85,000. This ensures high regulatory standards and added investor security, making IG a trusted choice for UK traders looking for reassurance their money is safeguarded.
IG has no custody fee if you make three trades each quarter; otherwise, it’s £24. UK share trades start at £3, while forex and CFD spreads vary. Costs generally suit active investors, but occasional traders could pay relatively more overall.
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.
IG’s web and app platforms are intuitive, with detailed charting and analysis tools. New investors may need time to learn advanced features, but IG’s clear tutorials and demos help users get comfortable quickly, balancing professional-level tools with everyday usability.
IG is ideal for investors who want broad market reach and robust trading tools, and who plan to place trades regularly. It suits confident investors who will benefit from the research features and can avoid inactivity charges by trading each quarter.
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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Is eToro Safe and Regulated?
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What Are eToro’s Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with eToro?
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How Easy Is eToro to Use?
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Who Is eToro Best For?
eToro is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), with client funds held in segregated accounts and covered by FSCS up to £85,000. This offers solid protection, ensuring eToro meets high UK standards for investor safety and operational transparency.
eToro charges no commission on stock and ETF trades, but applies spreads and a 0.5% currency conversion fee. There’s also a $5 withdrawal fee and $10 monthly inactivity charge after 12 months. Overall, it’s straightforward but costs favour regular over infrequent traders.
eToro lets you invest in shares, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, and CFDs. It’s especially known for social trading, where you can follow or copy top investors’ portfolios, making it appealing for users wanting a more guided investment experience.
eToro is highly beginner-friendly, with a clean app and web dashboard that simplify investing. Social feeds show what others are buying, and opening an account is quick. It’s designed to help new investors feel comfortable without needing technical market knowledge.
eToro is best for first-time investors or anyone interested in learning from others through copy trading. If you prefer straightforward stock and crypto investing with community insights, eToro is an excellent choice—especially if you don’t mind slightly wider spreads.
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 Costs
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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Is Interactive Brokers Safe and Regulated?
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What Are Interactive Brokers’ Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with Interactive Brokers?
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How Easy Is Interactive Brokers to Use?
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Who Is Interactive Brokers Best For?
Interactive Brokers is authorised by the FCA and also regulated by multiple top-tier bodies globally. UK clients benefit from strong investor protections, including SIPC coverage for US-listed assets and stringent financial safeguards, making IBKR one of the safest brokers for global investing.
IBKR is known for extremely low share dealing costs—starting around £1 per trade—plus transparent forex and options pricing. However, there are currency conversion costs and possible data fees. Frequent traders get excellent value; casual investors might find small charges add up.
IBKR offers unmatched global access, letting you trade on over 135 markets worldwide. This includes shares, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, and funds, making it ideal for investors who want true international diversification in a single account.
IBKR’s platform is feature-rich but complex. It’s built for serious investors, offering advanced research and trading tools. Beginners may find the learning curve steep, though IBKR has a simpler app (IBKR GlobalTrader) that eases entry for straightforward stock investing.
Interactive Brokers best suits experienced investors or anyone needing wide international reach and low commissions. It’s ideal if you want to build a multi-country portfolio and actively manage positions, but less suited to hands-off investors or complete newcomers.
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 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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Is Saxo Safe and Regulated?
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What Are Saxo’s Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with Saxo?
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How Easy Is Saxo to Use?
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Who Is Saxo Best For?
Saxo is authorised by the FCA and regulated in multiple European jurisdictions, including under Denmark’s FSA. Client funds are kept in segregated accounts, with FSCS protection for UK deposits up to £85,000, giving experienced investors strong peace of mind.
Saxo uses tiered pricing based on account size and trading volume. Share commissions start low but vary by market; there’s also an inactivity fee after six months. Its costs suit active, higher-value portfolios, but small investors may find cheaper options elsewhere.
Saxo offers a huge range: UK and global shares, ETFs, bonds, options, futures, forex, and CFDs. Investors get professional-level tools and research across thousands of instruments, supporting complex strategies or building highly diversified portfolios.
Saxo’s platform is sophisticated, with rich data, screeners, and advanced trading features. It’s designed for confident investors who want to analyse markets deeply. While the interface is polished, beginners may feel overwhelmed without prior investing experience.
Saxo is best for professional or very experienced investors managing substantial portfolios. If you value a platform with deep analytical tools and broad global access—and you’re comfortable with more complex interfaces—Saxo stands out.
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 Fee-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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Is Trading 212 Safe and Regulated?
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What Are Trading 212’s Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with Trading 212?
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How Easy Is Trading 212 to Use?
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Who Is Trading 212 Best For?
Trading 212 is regulated by the FCA, with client money held in segregated accounts. Eligible cash is protected by the FSCS up to £85,000. This means UK investors get solid regulatory oversight and clear safeguards for their invested funds.
Trading 212 charges zero commission on share and ETF trades, plus no platform or custody fees.* The main cost is a small FX conversion fee on non-GBP trades. This makes it highly attractive for investors wanting low-cost, straightforward investing without hidden charges.
You can invest in thousands of UK and international stocks, ETFs, and some CFDs. Trading 212’s Invest account is for buying shares outright, while its CFD account allows leveraged trades. It also offers fractional shares, useful for starting small.
Trading 212 is designed for simplicity, with an intuitive app and clear dashboards. Opening an account is quick, and placing trades is straightforward, making it very accessible for beginners or anyone wanting a no-fuss investing experience.
Trading 212 is ideal for new or casual investors who want to build a portfolio without paying commissions or platform fees. It’s also suited to those looking to start with small amounts, thanks to fractional shares.
*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 for Flat-Fee ISAs
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 Safe and Regulated?
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What Are Interactive Investor’s Fees and Charges?
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What Can You Invest in with Interactive Investor?
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How Easy Is Interactive Investor to Use?
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Who Is Interactive Investor Best For?
Interactive Investor is regulated by the FCA, with client assets held in segregated accounts. Cash is covered by the FSCS up to £85,000, ensuring strong protection and compliance with UK standards, which adds reassurance for investors managing significant sums.
Interactive Investor charges a flat monthly fee starting at £4.99, which includes one free trade. Additional trades cost from £3.99. This predictable pricing favours larger portfolios, where percentage-based fees would cost more, but may be pricier for very small balances.
You can invest in UK and international shares, funds, investment trusts, ETFs, bonds, and hold ISAs and SIPPs. This broad range makes it easy to build diversified long-term portfolios, especially for those consolidating pensions and ISA accounts.
Interactive Investor’s platform is straightforward, with clear dashboards for tracking investments. It’s less flashy than app-first brokers but offers solid tools, research, and simple portfolio overviews, making it practical for investors managing long-term wealth.
It’s best for investors with medium to large portfolios who want to keep fees predictable. Those investing regularly through ISAs or SIPPs benefit most, while very small investors might find flat fees less cost-effective.
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 Makes an Investment Platform the Best for UK Investors?
The best platform combines low costs, strong regulation, a wide choice of investments, and ease of use. It should also offer reliable customer service and clear, transparent fees. Choosing the right provider means balancing these features with your personal investing needs and goals.
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 and Trading 212 stand out. Both are FCA regulated, easy to use, and allow you to start with small amounts. eToro is popular for its social copy trading, while Trading 212’s zero commissions and simple app appeal 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 costs like dealing fees (from £0 to £10 per trade), platform charges (flat or percentage-based), and possible FX conversion fees. Always check the small print—low headline fees might still hide costs in spreads or currency rates, especially on global investments.
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?
There’s no single best platform for everyone. Frequent traders might prefer IG or IBKR for low costs and global reach, while beginners lean toward eToro or Trading 212. Always check FCA regulation, compare fees, and ensure the platform fits your goals and risk.
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
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
- Admiral Markets – Contract Specifications & Trading Conditions
- Interactive Investor – Pricing Guide
- Trustpilot – Platform Reviews
