Best Free Trading Platforms In The UK 2025
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
Explore our curated list of reputable, regulated brokers, each rigorously tested with real funds. All brokers are accessible to traders in the United Kingdom.
XTB
TIC Platform Rating: 4.7/5
72% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
eToro
TIC Platform Rating: 4.6/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Spreadex
TIC Platform Rating: 4.4/5
65% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Pepperstone
TIC Platform Rating: 4.4/5
81.7% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Quick Answer: What is the Best Free Online Trading Platform in the UK?
The best free trading platform in the UK for 2025 is XTB. It offers commission-free stock and ETF CFDs, zero minimum deposit, and full FCA regulation. It’s ideal for traders seeking low-cost access to global markets with a powerful, user-friendly platform.
Featured Platform - XTB
A globally recognized brokerage, XTB offers a powerful, user-friendly trading platform catering to both beginners and experienced traders. Known for its award-winning xStation 5 platform, XTB delivers fast execution, advanced charting tools, and access to over 2,100 financial instruments—including forex, indices, commodities, and CFDs on shares and ETFs. With a strong regulatory reputation and excellent customer service, XTB is a solid choice for traders looking for a reliable and comprehensive online broker.
- Minimum Deposit: £0
- Trade over 2,100 instruments (including CFDs on stocks, indices, and crypto)
- Regulated by the FCA (UK) and other top-tier authorities
- Mobile & desktop platforms (xStation 5 and xStation Mobile)
- Ideal for active traders seeking low spreads, fast execution, and professional-grade tools
72% 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 Best UK Free Trading Platforms Rank?
| Rank | Platform | Best For | Fees | Minimum Deposit | Regulated By |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | XTB | Zero-fee CFD trading | £0 | £0 | FCA |
| 2 | eToro | Social and stock trading | £0 | £50 | FCA |
| 3 | Spreadex | Low-stakes spread betting | Low | £1 | FCA |
| 4 | Pepperstone | Platform variety | Low | £0 | FCA |
| 5 | Interactive Investor | ISA/SIPP investors | From £0 | Varies | FCA |
| 6 | Saxo | Active trading tools | Low | £500 | FCA |
| 7 | IG | Education and market access | Low | £250 | FCA |
Top 7 Free Trading Platforms in the UK Reviewed
XTB – Best for Zero-Fee CFD Trades
Pros & Cons
- Commission-free CFD trading
- No minimum deposit
- FCA-regulated and secure
- Advanced yet user-friendly platform
- Only CFD-based products
- Limited support for tax-efficient accounts (ISA/SIPP)
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. XTB offers commission-free trading on stock and ETF CFDs with no hidden platform fees. While spreads apply, there are no deposit or withdrawal charges. It’s one of the most transparent, low-cost brokers available for UK traders seeking zero-fee access.
XTB provides access to thousands of global markets including stocks, ETFs, forex, indices, and commodities. All are offered via CFDs. Traders can build diverse portfolios using a single platform, with real-time data and advanced charting tools for informed decision-making.
Yes, XTB is fully regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring it meets strict security and compliance standards. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, and the platform follows robust protocols to protect users and maintain financial transparency.
72% 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.
eToro – Best for Social and Stock Trading
Pros & Cons
- Commission-free stock trading
- CopyTrader™ social investing
- FCA-regulated with user-friendly tools
- Large global asset range
- Inactivity and withdrawal fees
- Currency conversion fees on non-USD trades
- Less suitable for advanced technical traders
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
eToro offers commission-free trading on UK and US stocks, with no platform or ticket fees. While spreads and currency conversion fees apply, stock investing remains cost-effective. eToro’s fee transparency and zero-commission model make it popular with beginner and casual traders.
eToro offers access to stocks, ETFs, forex, crypto, indices, and commodities. Investors can also copy top-performing traders using the CopyTrader™ feature. With over 3,000 assets across global markets, it’s well-suited for diversified portfolios and hands-off investing strategies.
Yes, eToro is authorised and regulated by the FCA in the UK. User funds are held in tier-1 banks, and the platform offers additional protection like two-factor authentication and segregated accounts, ensuring a secure and compliant trading environment.
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.
Spreadex – Best for Low-Stakes Spread Betting
Pros & Cons
- Commission-free spread betting
- Low minimum deposit (£1)
- FCA-regulated with negative balance protection
- Broad market range
- No commission-free share dealing
- Primarily suited to UK residents
- Lacks advanced charting tools for pros
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
Spreadex charges no commission on spread betting trades. Costs are built into the spread, so there are no separate fees for execution. With low minimum deposits and tight spreads, it’s ideal for beginners looking to start small with flexible trade sizes.
Spreadex provides access to thousands of markets, including UK and global equities, forex, indices, commodities, and sports betting. Traders can spread bet or use CFDs across various asset classes, all with competitive pricing and customisable leverage.
Yes, Spreadex is fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It complies with UK financial standards, holds client funds in segregated accounts, and offers negative balance protection to retail clients, adding a strong layer of safety.
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.
Pepperstone – Best for Platform Flexibility
Pros & Cons
- Choice of trading platforms
- Commission-free and low-cost account options
- FCA-regulated with strong client protection
- Excellent execution speeds
- Only CFD-based trading
- No ISA or SIPP support
- Educational resources could be stronger
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
Pepperstone offers commission-free trading on its Standard account, with costs built into the spread. The Razor account provides raw spreads plus low commissions. Both options are competitively priced, giving traders flexibility based on strategy and trading volume.
Pepperstone gives access to forex, indices, shares, commodities and ETFs. Traders can use MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and TradingView—ideal for those wanting customisation, automation, or institutional-grade tools.
Yes, Pepperstone is authorised by the FCA and holds client funds in segregated accounts. It adheres to strict regulatory guidelines and offers negative balance protection, making it a secure choice for both casual and high-volume UK traders.
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.
Interactive Investor – Best for Long-Term UK Investors
Pros & Cons
- Flat monthly pricing structure
- One free trade per month
- Supports ISAs, SIPPs, and joint accounts
- Strong UK reputation and backing
- Not ideal for frequent traders
- No commission-free trading beyond allowance
- Mobile platform less intuitive than rivals
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
Interactive Investor isn’t fully commission-free but offers one free trade per month on its core plan. It charges a flat monthly fee, making it cost-effective for investors who trade less frequently and want predictable pricing over time.
You can invest in UK and global stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, funds, and bonds. Interactive Investor also supports ISA, SIPP, and junior accounts, making it ideal for tax-efficient, long-term investing across various asset types.
Yes, Interactive Investor is FCA-authorised and part of abrdn, a large UK investment firm. It offers FSCS protection, segregated client funds, and adheres to strict regulatory standards, providing strong reassurance for long-term UK 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.
Saxo – Best for Advanced Research and Tools
Pros & Cons
- Huge range of markets and assets
- Advanced trading and research tools
- FCA-regulated with global reputation
- Competitive pricing for high-volume traders
- £500 minimum deposit
- No commission-free trading on stocks
- Not ideal for beginners
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
Saxo doesn’t offer fully commission-free trading. While some ETFs may be fee-free under certain conditions, most trades incur tiered commissions. It’s best suited to active traders who value low spreads, deep market access, and premium tools over free trade models.
Saxo offers access to over 60,000 instruments, including global equities, bonds, forex, ETFs, commodities, options, and futures. This unmatched market range supports complex strategies for experienced traders and investors seeking international diversification.
Yes, Saxo is authorised and regulated by the FCA. It offers robust security, segregated client funds, and strong transparency. Saxo’s long-standing global presence and UK compliance make it a trusted platform for serious traders.
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.
IG – Best for Market Access and Education
Pros & Cons
- Huge range of markets and asset types
- Strong research, analysis, and education tools
- FCA-regulated with a long UK track record
- Optional spread betting for tax efficiency
- Commission-free only if active
- High minimum deposit (£250)
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
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Is this platform really free to trade with?
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What assets and markets can I access?What assets and markets can I access?
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Is the platform safe and FCA-regulated?
IG doesn’t offer commission-free trading on all assets, but UK and US shares can be traded without commission if you meet monthly trade volume requirements. For active traders, this can significantly reduce costs while maintaining access to advanced tools and data.
IG offers over 17,000 markets including shares, ETFs, indices, forex, commodities, options, and cryptocurrencies via spread betting or CFDs. It’s one of the broadest platforms for UK traders seeking global exposure with professional-grade charting and research tools.
Yes, IG is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. It has been operating since 1974, holds client funds in segregated accounts, and provides negative balance protection—making it one of the most established and trusted UK brokers.
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.
What Should I Know Before Choosing a Free Trading Platform?
Are commission-free platforms truly free?
Not always. Many platforms offer commission-free stock trades but charge fees elsewhere—like spreads, currency conversion, or withdrawal costs. Always review the full fee schedule to understand the true cost of trading, even on so-called “free” platforms.
How do commission-free brokers make money?
Commission-free brokers typically earn through spreads, payment for order flow, currency conversion margins, and premium account features. Some also charge inactivity or withdrawal fees. These revenue models keep trading accessible but may impact trade execution or long-term cost.
What fees should I still watch out for?
Common hidden fees include wide spreads, inactivity charges, FX fees on international trades, overnight financing (for leveraged positions), and withdrawal costs. Even “free” brokers may charge for advanced tools or real-time data, so review each platform’s fee structure carefully.
Are FCA-regulated brokers always safer?
FCA regulation adds a critical layer of safety. It ensures brokers follow strict standards, segregate client funds, and provide compensation schemes like FSCS. While no investment is risk-free, choosing an FCA-regulated broker is essential for UK traders seeking security and trust.
How Do I Start Trading in the UK?
Start by choosing a regulated UK broker. Create and verify your account, deposit funds, then select an asset to trade. Use risk management tools, track performance, and continually learn. Stick to platforms offering transparent pricing, good support, and beginner-friendly features.
Should I use a demo account first?
Yes. A demo account lets you practice with virtual funds in real market conditions. It’s ideal for testing strategies, learning platform features, and building confidence—especially if you’re new to trading or switching to a more advanced broker.
How Can I Reduce Costs While Trading?
How can I minimise FX fees?
To lower foreign exchange costs, choose brokers with low or zero FX markups. Use multi-currency accounts if available, and avoid unnecessary conversions. For international trades, consider brokers offering fractional shares in local currency to bypass forced GBP-USD conversions.
Are tax-advantaged accounts worth using?
Yes. ISAs and SIPPs offer tax-free gains and dividend protection for UK investors. Holding assets in these accounts can significantly reduce long-term trading costs, especially for growth-focused investors or those planning for retirement.
What’s the cheapest way to invest in US stocks?
Use brokers offering commission-free access to US equities and low or zero FX fees. eToro, Trading 212, and Interactive Brokers often provide cost-effective routes. Also consider platforms that let you buy fractional shares to start small without large capital.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a free trading platform isn’t just about £0 commission. Focus on regulation, available tools, fees beyond trading, and how the platform fits your style. A well-regulated broker with fair pricing and strong features offers more value than “free” alone.
FAQs
What is the best free trading app in the UK?
XTB is one of the best free trading apps in the UK, offering zero-commission stock and ETF CFDs, no minimum deposit, and FCA regulation. eToro and Trading 212 are also strong options for commission-free stock trading with mobile-first platforms.
Are free trading platforms safe for beginners?
Yes, if they’re FCA-regulated. Platforms like eToro, XTB, and IG follow strict UK compliance rules, segregate client funds, and offer negative balance protection. Beginners should start with demo accounts and avoid high-risk products like leveraged CFDs until fully confident.
Which brokers offer free ETF trading?
eToro, XTB, and Trading 212 offer commission-free trading on ETF CFDs or physical ETFs, depending on the account type. Be aware of spreads and FX conversion fees, which may still apply when trading ETFs listed in foreign currencies.
Can I use free platforms with an ISA?
Most commission-free platforms do not support ISAs. However, Interactive Investor and Freetrade offer ISA accounts with fee-free or low-cost trading, making them suitable for tax-efficient investing in UK-listed stocks and ETFs.
Is spread betting commission-free in the UK?
Yes, most UK brokers offer spread betting without commissions. The cost is included in the spread itself. Spread betting is also tax-free for UK residents, making it an attractive low-cost option—though it’s better suited to experienced traders due to risk.
