Top 7 Best Investment Platforms in the UK: 2025 Update
Dom Farnell
Co-Founder
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 28/04/2025
In 2025, starting your online investing journey has never been more convenient and user-friendly. In a few clicks, you can be set up to grow your wealth and begin your personal finance journey. All brokers are available to traders in the United Kingdom.
IG
Platform Score: 4.75/5
71% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
2
eToro
Platform Score: 4.7/5
51% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Interactive Brokers
Platform Score: 4.5/5
62.5% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
4
Saxo
Platform Score: 4.5/5
64% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Here are the Top 7 Platforms for Investing Ranked:
- IG – Best Overall Investment Platform, Rated Highest
- eToro – Best for Beginners & Social Trading
- Interactive Brokers – Best for Global Market Access
- Saxo – Best for Professional Investors
- Trading 212 – Sign-Up Bonus, Best for Commission-Free Investing
- Admiral Markets – Good for Forex and CFD Trading, MT4 Available
- Interactive Investor – Best for Large Portfolios and Flat Fees
Featured Platform: IG
- Power, Easy to use Platform
- Pro-level Tools
- Free Trading Courses
- Lightning Fast Order Execution
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.
How Do The Top 7 Investment Platforms Compare?
| Rank | Platform | Platform Score | Variety of Assets | ISA Available | Min Deposit | Trust Pilot Score | Fee Score | Overall Review Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | IG | 5.0/5 | 18,000+ markets, stocks, ETFs, commodities, currencies, bonds, funds | Yes | £50 | 4.1/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.75/5 |
| #2 | eToro | 5.0/5 | Stocks, cryptocurrencies, CFDs | Yes (in conjunction with Moneyfarm) | $50 | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 |
| #3 | Interactive Brokers | 5.0/5 | Forex (Spot Currencies), Stocks, ETFs, Options, Futures/FOPs, CFDs, Metals, Bonds, Mutual Funds | Yes | £1 | 3.3/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.5/5 |
| #4 | Saxo | 4.5/5 | Forex, Stocks (including fractional shares), ETFs, Options, Futures, Bonds, Commodities | No | £1 | 4.6/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.5/5 |
| #5 | Trading 212 | 4.5/5 | 12,000+ global stocks & ETFs, commodities, forex | Yes | £1 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| #6 | Admiral Markets | 4.5/5 | Stocks, 3,000+ ETFs, Forex, Commodities, Indices | No | £100 | 3.8/5 | 3.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
| #7 | Interactive Investor | 4.5/5 | 1,000+ ETFs, Stocks (UK & International), Bonds, Ethical Investments | Yes | £100 | 3.9/5 | 4.0/5 | 4.0/5 |
What are the Top Ranked Investment Platforms for UK Investors?
IG - Wide Market Range, Best Overall Investment Platform, Rated Highest
Pros & Cons
- Access to 17,000+ global markets providing unmatched variety for experienced traders looking to diversify portfolios.
- Advanced trading tools including sophisticated charting features for in-depth market analysis.
- Highly customisable platform with a mobile-friendly interface for convenient on-the-go trading.
- Wide range of assets from forex to CFDs, ensuring comprehensive coverage for global market access.
- Inactivity fee of £12 per month can add up for infrequent traders or those not actively using the platform.
- The platform can be complex and intimidating for beginners or traders with less experience in the markets.
- Higher fees compared to other platforms especially for less frequent trades, can deter smaller investors.
Why we like it?
IG stands out for experienced traders due to its advanced trading features, including real-time market data, customisable charts, and a wide selection of analytical tools. Its ProRealTime charting software, direct market access, and ability to trade on margin make it a go-to choice for those looking to execute complex strategies across multiple markets.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Share dealing fee (UK) | £8 per trade, reduced to £3 if 3+ trades per month |
| Platform fee | £96 per year (waived with 3+ trades per quarter) |
| Forex trading | 0.6 pip spread |
| International shares | £10 per trade |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- 17,000+ global markets
- 80+ currency pairs for forex trading
- 13,000+ shares and ETFs
- Commodities, including gold, oil, and silver
- Indices, including FTSE 100, Dow Jones, and S&P 500
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
Despite its advanced tools, IG’s platform is user-friendly. Both the web and mobile interfaces are well-designed, allowing traders to quickly access market data, place trades, and customise their trading environment. The platform is well-suited for traders who need powerful tools but don’t want a steep learning curve.
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 & Cons
- Commission-free stock trading makes it cost-effective for beginner investors with limited capital.
- Innovative social trading feature enables users to copy successful investors’ trades, learning as they go.
- User-friendly interface both on desktop and mobile, perfect for new traders.
- Wide range of assets including stocks, ETFs, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversified portfolios.
- High fees for forex and non-stock assets can make it less cost-effective for more experienced traders.
- The $5 withdrawal fee can add up, especially for investors making regular withdrawals.
- Limited research and educational tools for advanced traders compared to other platforms.
Why we like it?
eToro is perfect for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly platform and unique social trading features. With the option to copy trades from experienced investors, newcomers can learn by observing seasoned traders. It also offers commission-free stock trading, which is ideal for those just starting their investment journey.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stock Trading | £0 commission |
| Forex Trading | From 1 pip |
| Withdrawal Fee | $5 per withdrawal |
| Inactivity Fee | $10 per month |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
eToro offers a broad array of assets that cater to various investment styles:
- Stocks & Shares: Users have access to over 4,500 stocks from global exchanges.
- Cryptocurrencies: Including major ones like Bitcoin and Ethereum among others.
- ETFs: More than 500 ETFs covering diverse sectors and geographies.
- Indices: Trade on the world’s leading indices such as NASDAQ, FTSE 100, and more.
- Commodities: Options include gold, oil, silver, and other popular commodities.
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
eToro is designed to be user-friendly, with a clean interface that’s easy to navigate, even for beginners. Its standout feature is social trading, allowing users to follow and copy the trades of experienced investors. The mobile app is intuitive, making trading accessible for everyone.
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.
Interactive Brokers - Best for Global Access, Low-Cost Trading
Pros & Cons
- Global Market Access: Extensive selection of instruments across global markets, including over 150 exchanges.
- Low-Cost Trading: Highly competitive fees and spreads, with no hidden costs.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Comprehensive tools for analysis, risk management, and order execution.
- Customizable Interface: Platforms are highly customizable to meet the needs of individual traders.
- Platform Complexity: The advanced features can be overwhelming for beginners, requiring a learning curve.
- Inactivity Fees: Monthly fees apply if trading volume or balance requirements are not met.
- Limited MetaTrader Integration: No support for MetaTrader platforms, which may be a drawback for some traders.
- High Minimum for Interest Payments: Interest on cash balances is only paid on accounts with a net asset value of $100,000 or more.
Why we like it?
Interactive Brokers is best known for providing access to over 135 markets worldwide, making it ideal for investors looking for global diversification. Its professional-grade tools, such as advanced charting and a suite of risk management options, make it a favourite among serious investors. Low trading fees further enhance its appeal for those trading across various markets.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stock Trading | From £0.005 per share |
| Forex Trading | From 0.08 pips |
| Account Maintenance | £0 |
| Inactivity Fee | £0 |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- Access to 135+ global markets
- 13,000+ stocks
- 8,000+ mutual funds and ETFs
- Bonds, futures, and options
- Forex and commodities
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
Although Interactive Brokers offers a feature-rich platform, it can be overwhelming for beginners. However, advanced traders will appreciate the extensive tools available for global market access. Its Trader Workstation (TWS) is a powerful tool, offering real-time data and complex order types for detailed market analysis.
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
- Access to over 22,000 global assets providing a broad spectrum of trading opportunities.
- Highly sophisticated research tools and technical analysis for professionals seeking detailed market data.
- Customisable trading platforms with multi-screen functionality for advanced traders and professionals.
- Dedicated customer support and expert research, perfect for serious investors needing premium services.
- Higher fees for less frequent traders making it less suitable for those with smaller portfolios.
- £25 quarterly inactivity fee can add up for infrequent traders or passive investors.
- The advanced tools may be overwhelming for new investors or those with less trading experience.
Why we like it?
Saxo Markets is tailored for professional investors seeking advanced trading tools and market research. It provides access to over 22,000 instruments across global markets. With its high-level research and dedicated customer support, Saxo is designed for serious traders looking for premium services and market analysis.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stock Trading | From £8 per trade |
| Forex Spreads | From 0.4 pips |
| Inactivity Fee | £25 per quarter |
| Platform Fee | None |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- 22,000+ global assets
- 9,000+ stocks and ETFs
- 50+ forex pairs
- Commodities and indices
- Advanced derivatives including options and bonds
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
SaxoTraderGO is highly sophisticated, yet its intuitive design makes it accessible to both intermediate and advanced traders. Its multi-screen interface allows for custom setups, providing quick access to charts, research, and trading functions. SaxoTraderPRO is available for professional users requiring more advanced tools.
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 – Sign-Up Bonus, Commission-Free, New Investor Friendly
Pros & Cons
- Commission-free trading on UK and US stocks allows investors to trade without worrying about hidden costs.
- Access to a wide range of assets including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, offering good variety.
- No inactivity or withdrawal fees makes it more affordable for long-term investors.
- User-friendly interface on both desktop and mobile platforms, perfect for quick trades and beginners.
- Limited research tools compared to other platforms may not satisfy advanced traders seeking detailed analysis.
- Limited access to global markets compared to larger platforms such as IG or Saxo.
- Lower support for more complex assets like bonds and options, making it less attractive for professionals.
Why we like it?
Trading 212 is known for offering commission-free trading, making it one of the most affordable platforms for investors. It also provides access to both UK and US stocks without hidden charges, perfect for beginners or seasoned investors looking to reduce costs. Its simple, clean interface makes trading straightforward.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Stock Trading | £0 commission |
| Forex Trading | From 0.3 pips |
| Inactivity Fee | None |
| Withdrawal Fee | None |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- 10,000+ global stocks and ETFs
- 40+ forex pairs
- Commodities (gold, oil, silver)
- Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum)
- Indices (S&P 500, FTSE 100)
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
Trading 212 offers a simple and easy-to-navigate platform, ideal for beginners. The mobile app is highly rated for its functionality and design, enabling users to trade on the go with ease. Its intuitive interface is also well-suited for quick trades.
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.
Use code TIC to get a free share worth up to £100
Admiral Markets - Good for Forex and CFD Trading, MT4 Available
Pros & Cons
- Competitive forex spreads starting from 0.5 pips, providing an edge for traders focusing on forex markets.
- Access to over 4,000 CFDs across various asset classes, offering significant trading opportunities.
- MetaTrader integration allows traders to take advantage of advanced charting and automated trading tools.
- Comprehensive educational resources for traders, including webinars and tutorials, making it a great platform for learning.
- £10 per month inactivity fee could be burdensome for traders who don’t frequently use the platform.
- Focused mainly on forex and CFDs with limited access to direct stock investments, which may not suit all traders.
- Advanced tools may be overwhelming for beginners, making it harder for novices to take full advantage of the platform.
Why we like it?
Admiral Markets is highly regarded for its expertise in forex and CFD trading, offering a wide range of currency pairs, indices, and commodities. The platform’s competitive spreads and access to global financial markets make it ideal for traders focused on forex and CFDs. With advanced charting tools and educational resources, Admiral Markets appeals to both intermediate and professional traders.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Forex Trading | From 0.5 pips |
| CFD Trading | From 0.1% |
| Inactivity Fee | £10 per month |
| Withdrawal Fee | None |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- 40+ currency pairs for forex
- 4,000+ CFDs on stocks, indices, and ETFs
- 100+ commodities (gold, oil, silver)
- Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple)
- Indices (DAX, NASDAQ, FTSE 100)
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
Admiral Markets offers a robust MetaTrader platform, suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Its customisable layout, combined with powerful charting tools, ensures a smooth trading experience. Mobile and desktop versions are well integrated, ensuring seamless transitions for traders on the go.
61% 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.
Interactive Investor – Best for Large Portfolios and Flat Fees
Pros & Cons
- Flat-fee structure makes it highly cost-effective for large portfolios, ensuring no hidden costs based on portfolio size.
- Access to 40,000+ global assets including stocks, funds, and investment trusts, allowing for diverse portfolio creation.
- Excellent range of accounts including ISA, SIPP, and trading accounts, making it a one-stop-shop for investors.
- Comprehensive research tools and portfolio analysis features, making it ideal for long-term and serious investors.
- Flat fee can be expensive for small portfolios, particularly for those with less than £50,000 invested.
- No forex or crypto trading options may limit those looking for alternative asset classes beyond traditional investments.
- Limited access to international markets compared to competitors such as Saxo or Interactive Brokers.
Why we like it?
Interactive Investor is known for its flat-fee pricing structure, making it ideal for investors with larger portfolios. Instead of percentage-based fees, Interactive Investor charges a fixed monthly fee, providing cost predictability. With access to a wide range of investment options, including stocks, funds, and ETFs, it’s a popular choice for long-term investors looking to manage sizable portfolios.
What are the Fees and Charges?
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | £4.99 to £19.99 |
| Stock Trading | £3.99 per trade |
| Forex Trading | Not available |
| Fund Trading | £0 |
What Tradeable Assets are Available?
- 40,000+ global stocks and ETFs
- 3,000+ funds
- 500+ investment trusts
- Commodities (gold, oil, silver)
- Bonds and gilts
How Easy is the Platform to Use?
Interactive Investor’s platform is straightforward and easy to navigate, with a clean design that allows users to manage portfolios efficiently. It offers customisable tools for portfolio tracking and investment insights, making it well-suited for both new and seasoned investors.
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 the Best Online Investment Platforms for Beginners in 2025?
For new investors, ease of use, low fees, and learning resources are essential. Based on my own experience, eToro is the top ranked investment platform for beginners.
| Platform | Why It’s Great for Beginners |
|---|---|
| eToro (Best Overall for Beginners) | Commission-free stocks, CopyTrader to follow experts, easy-to-use interface |
| Trading 212 | Simple mobile app, no trading fees |
| Interactive Investor | Educational content, flat-fee pricing for portfolio growth |
Why eToro Stands Out: Unlike other platforms, eToro’s CopyTrader feature enables beginners to learn by copying successful investors in real-time. With zero commission on stocks and a user-friendly interface, it’s the best choice for those new to investing.
How Can I Start Investing Online in 2025?
1. First, select a platform based on factors such as fees, asset availability, and ease of use.
2. Choose an account type that fits your goals—whether it’s an ISA for tax-efficient investing, a General Investment Account (GIA) for flexibility, or a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) for retirement planning.
3. After you can fund it via bank transfer or debit card, and begin exploring your investment options, such as stocks, ETFs, or funds.
In 2025, most top investment platforms go beyond just trading—they’re also packed with educational tools to help you level up your financial knowledge. You’ll find everything from video tutorials and interactive courses to live webinars, market analysis, and demo accounts. Platforms like IG and Admiral Markets offer in-depth trading academies, while eToro and Trading 212 include bite-sized lessons within their apps.
How Do You Open an Investment Account Online in the UK?
Most online investment accounts can be opened in just a few minutes, and the process is pretty straightforward.
Once you’ve chosen the platform that fits your investing style, you’ll typically pick the account type that suits your goals. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
- Enter Your Personal details.
- Verify Your ID
- Deposit Funds into Your Account – You can typically fund your account via bank transfer or credit/debit card. Some platforms even accept PayPal.
What Fees and Charges Should I Expect When Using UK Investment Platforms?
Before you jump into buying shares or building out a portfolio, it’s crucial to understand the cost of investing. While some platforms emphasise zero commissions or low fees, the reality is often more nuanced. You could be charged trading fees, FX conversion costs, fund management fees, and even inactivity fees — all of which can chip away at your returns over time.
Below, I’ve broken down the key costs across the UK’s top investment platforms to help you figure out which platform actually suits your budget and investment style:
| Platform | Platform Fee | Trading Fees | FX / Currency Fees | ISA/SIPP Access | Additional Costs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | £0 for share dealing; £8/month for ISA | £3 (active), £8 (standard) per US trade | 0.5% FX spread | ISA: £8/month; SIPP available via partner | £100 minimum deposit, £15/quarter inactivity, SIPP exit fees | Best overall – advanced tools, broad range |
| eToro | £0 | £0 stock/ETF commissions | 0.5% deposit/withdrawal (non-GBP); 1% crypto | No ISA or SIPP | $5 withdrawal, $10/month inactivity (after 12 months), FX on dividends | Beginners and social traders |
| Interactive Brokers | £0 maintenance | £0–£0.005/share (tiered); £1 min per trade | 0.002%–0.03% FX spreads | No direct ISA/SIPP (third-party wrappers only) | Live data fees, global custody charges, complex options pricing | Global access and ultra-low-cost trading |
| Saxo | £0–£25/month (based on plan) | From £3 (Classic), £1 (Platinum), lower for VIP | 0.25%–0.75% FX spread by tier | ISA via partner; no direct SIPP | 0.12% custody fee (min £5/month), Classic plan inactivity fees | Pro and high-volume investors |
| Trading 212 | £0 | £0 commission on stocks/ETFs | 0.15% FX fee | ISA free (limited availability); no SIPP | Limited fund access, FX on dividends, no fund wrappers | Commission-free and mobile-first investors |
| Admiral Markets | £0 | From 0.0 pips + commission or spread-only | 0.5%–1% FX depending on product | No ISA or SIPP | MT4/MT5 available, overnight fees, inactivity after 24 months | Forex and CFD traders, MT4 enthusiasts |
| Interactive Investor | £4.99–£19.99/month | 1 free trade/month, £5.99 thereafter | Market FX rate | ISA included; SIPP: £5/month | £0–£25 exit fees, fund OCFs, possible transfer fees | Large portfolios, fixed monthly fees |
What Is a Stocks & Shares ISA?
They are tax-efficient accounts that allow you to grow your wealth without paying capital gains tax, dividend tax, or income tax on your returns, which can make a huge difference over time.If you are investing in the UK and not using a Stocks & Shares ISA, you could be leaving money on the table.
Here’s what you get:
- A generous £20,000 annual ISA allowance
- Freedom to invest in stocks, ETFs, bonds, and more
- No capital gains, dividends, or income tax on your investment returns
My Advice: Try to max out your ISA allowance early in the tax year. The earlier you invest, the more time your money has to grow tax-free.
To help you compare the top platforms offering ISA accounts, here’s a breakdown of key features:
| Platform | Variety of Assets | ISA Available | Min Deposit | Trustpilot Score | Overall Review Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | 18,000+ markets: stocks, ETFs, commodities, currencies, bonds, funds | Yes | £50 | 4.1/5 | 4.75/5 |
| eToro | Stocks, cryptocurrencies, CFDs | Yes (via Moneyfarm) | $50 | 4.3/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Saxo | Forex, stocks (inc. fractional), ETFs, options, futures, bonds, commodities | No | £1 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Trading 212 | 12,000+ global stocks & ETFs, commodities, forex | Yes | £1 | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Interactive Brokers | Forex, stocks, ETFs, options, futures, CFDs, metals, bonds, mutual funds | Yes | £1 | 3.3/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Admiral Markets | Stocks, 3,000+ ETFs, forex, commodities, indices | No | £100 | 3.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Interactive Investor | 1,000+ ETFs, UK & global stocks, bonds, ethical investments | Yes | £100 | 3.9/5 | 4.5/5 |
What are the Different Types of investment platforms?
Not every investment platform works the same way, and choosing the right one really depends on how involved you want to be. Some investors prefer to manage everything themselves, while others opt to let the experts handle the heavy lifting.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Platform Type | Best For | Example Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| DIY (Self-Directed) | Investors who want full control | IG, eToro |
| Robo-Advisors | Passive investors | Not offered by platforms on this list |
| Managed Services | Investors seeking expert help | Saxo, Interactive Investor |
What Is a DIY Investment Platform?
If you want to take control of your portfolio and handpick your investments, a DIY platform is your ideal choice. These platforms provide you with the tools to research, trade, and monitor your investments at your convenience.
IG is ideal for hands-on investors seeking advanced tools. eToro is great if you’re just starting out and want simplicity and social features.
What Is a Robo-Advisor?
Robo-advisors are ideal for the investor who prefers a completely hands-off approach. They use algorithms to build and manage a diversified portfolio tailored to your risk tolerance. To start using Roboadvisers:
- You fill out a short questionnaire about your goals and risk profile.
- The platform does the rest—no picking stocks, no rebalancing, and no stress.
Please note: None of the platforms ranked in this article specialises in robo-advisory services. If you’re looking for a fully automated experience, you’ll want to look at other options.
What Are Managed Investment Services?
If you’d rather have professionals manage your money, a platform offering managed services might be for you. These are ideal for investors who value expert guidance or prefer not to make all the investment decisions themselves.
Managed platforms can be a great middle ground— if you want help building a portfolio without going fully passive.
How Do Customers Rate the Best UK Investment Platforms?
Real user-based feedback is one of the most reliable indicators of what to expect when choosing an investment platform. Here’s how the top UK platforms are rated by actual investors on Trustpilot:
| Platform | Trustpilot Rating | Customer Feedback Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Easy to use, ideal for beginners, smooth mobile experience |
| IG | ⭐ 4.5/5 | Advanced research tools, huge market range, trusted by pro traders |
| Interactive Brokers | ⭐ 4.4/5 | Great for international markets, low-cost trading for frequent users |
| Saxo | ⭐ 4.4/5 | High-end trading experience, personalised support for serious investors |
| Trading 212 | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Commission-free trades, clean interface, solid choice for UK-based investors |
| Admiral Markets | ⭐ 4.2/5 | Excellent for Forex and CFD trading, dependable order execution, great educational resources |
| Interactive Investor | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Flat-fee pricing, ideal for long-term portfolios, robust tools for managing investments |
How Do You Know What Risk Level Is Right for You?
Not all investments (or investors) are created equal. Before putting your money into the markets, it’s essential to understand your personal risk tolerance.
- Higher-risk investments like stocks, forex, and CFDs can deliver higher returns, but they’re also more volatile.
- Lower-risk investments such as ETFs and bonds tend to offer more stability and are better suited for cautious investors.
Platforms like IG and Saxo tend to attract more advanced or risk-tolerant traders who want access to powerful tools and leverage. On the other hand, eToro and Trading 212 are great for those who prefer a more balanced, diversified approach.
I would advise knowing your risk appetite before you invest—and diversifying across multiple asset types to help balance the risk-reward equation.
What is the Best Platform Based on Trading style?
If you’re trying to match a platform to your investing style, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Best for Beginners? → eToro – Simple interface, top-tier mobile app, and great customer support.
Best for Advanced Traders? → IG or Saxo – Packed with tools, deep market access, and professional-grade features.
Looking for Global Market Access? → Interactive Brokers – Ultra-low fees and access to 150+ markets worldwide.
In the Market for Long-Term Portfolios? → Interactive Investor – Flat monthly fees and excellent portfolio tools.
The takeaway? Pay attention to both user scores and platform features. They’ll tell you a lot about what your day-to-day investing experience will actually look like.
Final Thoughts: Which UK Investment Platform Is Right for You?
Choosing the right investment platform in 2025 largely depends on your personal goals, risk tolerance, and the level of hands-on involvement you prefer. Whether you’re a beginner, looking for simplicity, a seasoned trader needing advanced tools, or a long-term investor focused on minimising fees—there’s a platform out there for you.
Platforms like eToro and Trading 212 are ideal for beginners, offering low costs and user-friendly interfaces. IG and Saxo offer depth and precision for serious traders, while Interactive Investor shines for those managing larger portfolios over the long run.
Take the time to compare features, fees, and customer feedback—because the right platform can make all the difference in your personal investing journey.
FAQs
eToro is highly recommended for beginners due to its user-friendly design and social trading features. It allows new investors to follow and copy trades from experienced traders, making it easier to learn. Additionally, eToro offers commission-free stock trading, perfect for newcomers.
IG is ideal for advanced traders, offering a comprehensive range of technical analysis tools, real-time data, and extensive charting options. It also provides access to a wide variety of global markets, including forex, CFDs, and indices, making it perfect for professional traders.
Yes—most platforms on this list offer ISA accounts, though availability may vary. IG, Interactive Investor, and Trading 212 all provide ISA options, while eToro offers ISA access through a partnership with Moneyfarm.
While no platform is completely free, Trading 212 and eToro come close with zero commission on stock and ETF trades. However, always check for FX fees, withdrawal charges, or inactivity fees that might apply.
Interactive Investor stands out for long-term investors due to its flat-fee structure, which can be more cost-effective than percentage-based fees as your portfolio grows.
Some do. Interactive Investor and IG offer SIPP access directly or via trusted third-party providers. Make sure to check SIPP availability and associated fees before signing up.
Yes—all the platforms listed are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Most also offer FSCS protection, which means your money is protected up to £85,000 if the platform fails.
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
- Saxo Markets – Pricing Plans
- Trading 212 – Help Centre: Fees & Charges
- Admiral Markets – Contract Specifications & Trading Conditions
- Interactive Investor – Pricing Guide
- Trustpilot – Platform Reviews
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