Best Online Stock Brokers In The UK 2025
Adam Woodhead
Co-Founder
Adam is a passionate investor who created The Investors Centre (TIC) to combine his professional skills with his love for investment. His goal is to offer a platform filled with valuable resources, practical advice, and effective strategies for anyone looking to make their mark in the investment world.
“Investment is about more than just numbers; it’s about strategy, research, and the willingness to adapt. At TIC, we’re here to provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed on your investment journey.”
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.”
Table of Contents
Disclaimer
How We Test
Spreadex
TIC Broker Score: 5/5
65% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
IG
TIC Broker Score: 4.5/5
51% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
eToro
TIC Broker Score: 4.5/5
71% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
XTB
TIC Broker Score: 4.3/5
73% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
Quick Answer: Which Broker is the Best in 2025?
The best stock online broker we recommend for use in the UK is Spreadex. Spreadex provides a wide array of trading options, outstanding customer service, and a user-friendly trading platform, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned traders aiming to explore the financial markets.
Featured Broker - SpreadEX
A respected name in the online trading space, SpreadEX offers a unique blend of spread betting and CFD trading to both retail and professional clients. Known for its user-friendly platform, competitive pricing, and comprehensive market access, SpreadEX delivers flexibility and control for traders of all levels.
- Minimum Deposit £1
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- Market Spread:
- From 0.6 pips (Major Forex Pairs)
- From 0.1% (UK Shares)
- Market Spread:
- FCA regulated
- Web and Mobile Trading Platform
- Acess to Thousands of global markets including indices, shares, forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and bonds – all through spread betting or CFDs
65% 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.
How Do the Top-Ranked Stock Brokers in the UK Compare?
| Rank | Platform | Rating | Trading Fees | Account Types | Options Trading | Why Do They Stand Out? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spreadex | 5/5 | Commission-free share dealing; tight spreads on CFDs & spread betting | Standard | No | Excellent UK-focused broker; intuitive platform with strong customer service |
| 2 | IG | 4.5/5 | Variable fees for shares, CFDs, and spread betting | Standard, ISA, Islamic | Yes | Strong market coverage, trusted name, good ISA support |
| 3 | eToro | 4.5/5 | Commission-free stocks; spreads on CFDs, FX, and crypto | Standard | No | Social trading tools and copy trading make it perfect for beginners |
| 4 | XTB | 4.3/5 | Commission-free stocks; low spreads on CFDs | Standard, Demo, Islamic | Yes | Excellent education and fast execution; strong all-round broker |
| 5 | Saxo Markets | 4.3/5 | Tiered pricing; competitive spreads and commissions | Classic, Platinum, VIP | Yes | Premium platform for active and experienced investors |
| 6 | Hargreaves Lansdown | 4.2/5 | Commission-based share dealing; platform and ISA fees may apply | Standard, ISA | No | Well-established UK platform; great for long-term investing |
| 7 | Pepperstone | 4.1/5 | Razor (commission) or Standard (spreads only) pricing models | Standard, Razor | Yes | Ideal for high-frequency and forex traders; excellent platform performance |
Here are the Top 7 Online Stock Brokers In the UK:
- Spreadex – Ideal for versatile spread betting options.
- IG – Comprehensive market access for active traders.
- eToro – Leading platform for social trading enthusiasts.
- XTB – A well-rounded platform with excellent educational tools and competitive fees.
- Saxo – Advanced tools for professional technical traders.
- Hargreaves Lansdown – Best for diversified investment fund access.
- Pepperstone – Low forex fees for active traders.
- CMC Markets – Comprehensive trading platform with strong charting features.
#1 - Spreadex – Ideal for versatile spread betting options.
What Do Our Experts Say?
Spreadex stands out for flexible spread betting across markets like stocks, crypto, and even sports. With competitive spreads, risk tools, and a customisable platform, it’s well-suited to confident traders seeking variety and control.
Pros & Cons
- Customisable Platform: Tailor your trading layout and tools.
- Wide Asset Range: Trade equities, ETFs, forex, commodities, and more.
- Strong Customer Support: Quick, helpful service via phone and email.
- Not Beginner-Friendly: Advanced features may overwhelm new traders.
- Limited Account Options: No ISA, SIPP, or tax-advantaged choices.
- Higher Fees on Some Assets: Certain instruments carry less competitive pricing.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Spreads are generally low, and there’s no commission. Fees vary by asset and can be higher for less commonly traded instruments.
Only standard trading accounts. Lacks specialist accounts like ISAs or pensions.
Well-designed but complex — ideal for experienced traders. Beginners may need time to adjust.
65% 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.
#2 - IG - Comprehensive market access for active traders.
What Do Our Experts Say?
IG offers access to 17,000+ markets, including forex, indices, crypto, and commodities. Its suite of trading tools, platforms, and research resources makes it ideal for serious traders looking for depth and reliability.
Pros & Cons
- Highly Regulated: Overseen by FCA and other top-tier regulators.
- Multiple Platforms: Use IG’s web app, MT4, ProRealTime, or L2 Dealer.
- No Withdrawal Fees: Fund via card, bank transfer, or PayPal.
- Strong Educational Tools: In-depth guides, webinars, and daily analysis.
- Slow Account Setup: Verification can take up to 3 business days.
- High CFD Fees: Particularly for stock CFDs.
- Currency Restrictions: Limited base currency options, changes require support.
- No Negative Balance Protection (Pro clients & non-EU).
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Fees vary by product: spread betting, CFDs, or share dealing. Stock CFD fees and overnight charges may be higher — always check the latest rates.
Offers Standard, ISA, and Islamic accounts. Each comes with different fee and feature structures.
User-friendly across devices, with powerful charting and intuitive navigation
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.
#3 - eToro – Leading platform for social trading enthusiasts.
What Do Our Experts Say?
eToro is the top choice for social trading, letting users copy seasoned investors in real time. Its intuitive platform, vibrant community, and copy portfolios make it ideal for beginners wanting to learn by doing.
Pros & Cons
- Commission-Free Stocks & ETFs: Great for low-cost investing.
- Copy Trading: Follow and replicate top investors’ trades.
- VIP & Popular Investor Programs: Unlock perks like lower fees and account managers.
- $5 Withdrawal Fee: Plus currency conversion to USD.
- Limited Support: Customer service can be slow to respond.
- Crypto Fees: 1% on buy/sell — standard, but worth noting.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Stock and ETF trades are commission-free. Crypto trades carry a 1% fee. Inactivity fee of $10/month after 12 months.
Only one standard account — simple and straightforward, but lacks tax-advantaged options.
eToro is unmatched for social trading — ideal for beginners who want to learn from pros while building their portfolio.
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.
#4 - XTB – Low Fees, User-Friendly, and Educational Tools
What Do Our Experts Say?
XTB is ideal for independent traders who want low fees, a clean interface, and excellent education. Its award-winning xStation 5 platform and top-tier FCA regulation make it a strong all-around choice — especially if you prefer to trade solo.
Pros & Cons
- Commission-Free Stocks/ETFs: For eligible accounts.
- Exceptional Education: Courses, webinars, and daily analysis.
- xStation 5 Platform: Fast, intuitive, and powerful.
- FCA-Regulated: Strong client protection and transparency
- No Social Trading: No copy or mirror trading features.
- Limited Global Markets: Fewer asset classes than some competitors.
- Variable Spreads: Fees depend on your account and asset class.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Commission-free stock/ETF trades for eligible users. Forex/CFD trades use tight spreads. No withdrawal or inactivity fees.
Standard account available to all. Pro account access available for qualifying users.
xStation 5 is sleek and intuitive — everything from charts to trade execution is just a click away.
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
#5 - Saxo – Advanced tools for professional technical traders.
What Do Our Experts Say?
XTB is ideal for independent traders who want low fees, a clean interface, and excellent education. Its award-winning xStation 5 platform and top-tier FCA regulation make it a strong all-around choice — especially if you prefer to trade solo.
Pros & Cons
- Advanced Charting: Highly customisable with technical tools.
- Extensive Asset Access: Trade FX, stocks, options, and ETFs.
- No Deposit/Withdrawal Fees: Bank and card transfers supported.
- Tiered Accounts: Extra perks for Platinum and VIP clients.
- High Minimum Deposits: Especially for upper-tier accounts.
- Limited Mutual Funds: Fewer choices vs. other platforms.
- Restricted Regions: Not available in the US and some others.
- Traditional Funding Only: No PayPal or crypto payment support.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Classic, Platinum, and VIP — each with different deposit minimums and benefits like lower fees and dedicated support.
Standard account available to all. Pro account access available for qualifying users.
SaxoTraderGO and mobile apps are sleek but geared toward experienced users. Great for charting, though beginners may face a learning curve.
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.
#6 - Hargreaves Lansdown – Best for diversified investment fund access.
What Do Our Experts Say?
Hargreaves Lansdown shines with 3,000+ funds, detailed research tools, and a user-friendly platform — ideal for long-term investors focused on diversification and fund investing.
Pros & Cons
- Huge Fund Selection: Over 3,000 funds across global markets.
- Strong Research Tools: Ratings, insights, and expert picks.
- Wide Account Choice: Includes ISAs, SIPPs, and junior accounts.
- Easy-to-Use Platforms: Web and mobile access with strong UX.
- High Trading Fees: Stock and ETF fees above market average.
- GBP-Only Accounts: Currency conversion may apply.
- Offline Setup for Non-UK Users: No fully digital onboarding for international investors.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Higher-than-average fees for stocks and ETFs. Discounts available for frequent traders. No platform fee for holding cash.
Includes General Investment Accounts, Stocks & Shares ISAs, Junior ISAs, SIPPs, and Lifetime ISAs.
Very intuitive — built for all experience levels, with clean navigation and strong educational support.
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.
#7 - Pepperstone – Low forex fees for active traders.
What Do Our Experts Say?
Pepperstone is a top-tier choice for forex traders, offering ultra-low spreads, fast execution, and multiple platforms. With account options tailored for both beginners and pros, it’s ideal for cost-conscious, high-volume currency trading.
Pros & Cons
- Quick Setup: Fully digital and fast onboarding.
- Great Customer Support: Helpful team with smooth deposits/withdrawals.
- Low Forex Fees: Razor account offers spreads from 0.0 pips + commission.
- CFD-Only Broker: Limited to leveraged products, which may not suit all investors.
- Basic MT4/MT5 Setup: Advanced users may need extra plugins or switch to cTrader.
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What are the Fees?
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What Accounts are Available?
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How Easy Is the Platform to Use?
Razor accounts offer tight spreads plus commission. Standard accounts have wider spreads but no commissions. Fees vary by asset and usage.
Standard and Razor accounts. Razor is best for scalpers and active traders, thanks to lower spreads and faster execution.
Pepperstone’s platforms are built for serious traders — fast, powerful, and highly customisable across MT4, MT5, and cTrader.
81.7% 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.
What Is an Online Stock Broker?
A digital platform that lets you buy and sell shares without needing a traditional broker or paperwork. With just an internet connection, you can trade directly from your laptop or phone.
These platforms provide market access, real-time data, and research tools, all designed to help you invest more confidently and independently. Choosing the right broker depends on your goals, experience level, and the level of involvement you want in managing your investments.
What Are the Various Types of Stock Brokers?
- Full-Service Brokers: Ideal if you want expert advice and personalised portfolio management, but they come at a premium.
- Discount Brokers: Low-cost and stripped-down — perfect for self-directed investors.
- Robo-Advisors: Automated and beginner-friendly. I often recommend these to first-time investors.
- Direct Market Access Brokers: Designed for professional and high-frequency traders.
What are the Key Features of the top-ranked Online Trading Platforms?
A good broker does more than execute trades — it shapes your entire investing experience. With the right tools, you’re not just placing trades, you’re learning, improving, and trading smarter. Here are the core features I always look for:
- User-Friendly Interface: Speed and simplicity to make the experience as smooth as possible.
- Research Tools: Screeners and technical indicators are must-haves — without them, you’re flying blind.
- Mobile Access: A solid, reliable app is non-negotiable in 2025.
- Educational Resources: Tutorials and webinars were invaluable when I started, and I still refer back to them.
- Customer Support: Issues happen. Fast, helpful support makes a big difference when they do.
Any Tips for Beginner Investors?
When I started investing, I had just £100 — and not much confidence. But you don’t need a lot to begin. The key is to focus on learning. Utilise the tools and resources your platform offers. Most stock brokers also have a demo account. Which I think is essential to learning how to invest.
I used fractional shares and low-cost index funds to spread risk and gain market exposure without picking individual stocks.
One strategy that helped early on was dollar-cost averaging — investing a fixed amount regularly. It took the pressure off timing the market.
My biggest takeaway? Star Small, Think long-term. Quick wins are tempting, but staying consistent and patient has paid off far more.
What’s the Difference between Stock Investing vs. Trading?
Investing is long-term. It’s about steady growth, holding quality stocks for years, and building wealth gradually.
Trading is short-term. It requires quick decisions, technical analysis, and a higher risk tolerance — especially if leverage is involved.
Personally, I do both. I invest for the future, but will take a trade if the setup looks good. Your approach should align with your goals, time commitment, and risk tolerance.
Final Thoughts
IG and Saxo offer deep market access and pro-level tools, while eToro and XTB stand out for beginners and educational support. If you’re focused on forex, Pepperstone and Spreadex deliver excellent value with competitive fees and flexibility.
Whatever your level, the key is to start with a regulated, reputable broker that aligns with how you want to trade or invest. Take advantage of demo accounts and explore educational resources so you can invest with confidence.
FAQs
What is the best online stockbroker for beginners in the UK?
eToro and Trading 212 are top picks for beginners. They offer user-friendly platforms, commission-free trading, and plenty of educational tools to help new investors learn the ropes.
Do I need a lot of money to start investing with an online broker?
No — many UK brokers let you start with as little as £1. Platforms like Trading 212 and eToro support fractional shares, so you can invest in top companies without needing hundreds of pounds upfront.
Are online stock brokers in the UK safe?
Most reputable platforms are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which ensures client protection, transparency, and fund segregation.
What fees should I look out for with UK stock brokers?
Trading commissions, FX conversion fees, inactivity fees, and withdrawal charges. Some brokers advertise commission-free trades but still charge hidden costs, so always read the fine print.
Can I trade international stocks with a UK broker?
Yes — many brokers, such as Interactive Brokers, Saxo, and IG, offer access to US, EU, and Asian markets. Just be aware of foreign exchange fees when trading in non-GBP currencies.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – https://www.fca.org.uk
- London Stock Exchange – How to Start Investing
- MoneySavingExpert – How to Start Investing: Beginner’s Guide
- Investopedia – Online Brokers: What to Look For
- FTAdviser (Financial Times) – Trends in Online Trading Platforms
