Best Stocks and Shares ISA UK: 2025 Update
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Risk Warning
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. The future performance of cryptocurrencies, including the low-cap coins listed here, is inherently uncertain and subject to significant market volatility, regulatory changes, and technological developments.
Investing in cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, and you should only invest what you can afford to lose. Past performance of these coins does not guarantee future results. Conduct your own research (DYOR), consider seeking advice from a financial professional, and evaluate your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.
Updated 30/12/2024
Discover our handpicked selection of DIY Stocks and Shares ISA Investment Platforms, each thoroughly tested with real capital. All brokers are available to traders in the United Kingdom.
Quick Answer: The Best DIY Stocks and Shares ISA is:
The best Stocks and Shares ISA for 2025 is IG, offering a user-friendly platform, low trading fees, and a £1 minimum deposit. Its comprehensive tools and educational resources make it ideal for both beginners and experienced investors seeking flexibility and cost efficiency.
Here are the Best DIY Stocks and Shares ISA's in the UK Ranked:
- IG – Best overall and ease of use.
- Interactive Brokers – Low fees for frequent traders.
- Saxo – Great for sophisticated tools and global access.
- XTB – Ideal for ETF trading beginners.
- Trading 212 – Good for Beginners & Best Rate on Uninvested Cash
- Admiral Markets – Excellent for educational resources.
- Hargreaves Lansdown – Comprehensive investment options.
- Interactive Investor – Flat fees for large portfolios.
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Stocks and Shares ISAs have become a cornerstone for UK investors. As of 2024, over 13 million adults in the UK held some form of ISA, with Stocks and Shares ISAs accounting for 22% of all contributions1. Their tax-free benefits make them a preferred choice for those looking to maximise their returns.
In 2025, they remain an essential tool for maximising your annual £20,000 ISA allowance while enjoying tax-free returns on capital gains, dividends, and interest.
I’ve tried various platforms over the years, and detailed all our findings here to help you find a platform appropriate to your needs.
What is a Stocks and Shares ISA?
- Tax-free returns.
- Up to £20,000 annual contribution limit.
- Flexible access to funds.
Types of Stocks and Shares ISAs
There are two main types to consider:- DIY ISAs: Perfect for self-directed investors who enjoy picking their investments. I started with a DIY ISA, which gave me the freedom to explore various ETFs and stocks.
- Managed ISAs: Best for hands-off investors, offering professional management or robo-adviser assistance. These come at higher fees but are convenient for beginners or busy professionals.
Best Platforms for DIY Stocks and Shares ISAs
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | £3.00 | £10/month | £1 | Yes | 2.50% | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Interactive Brokers | £3.00 | £0 | £0 | Yes | None | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Saxo | £8.00 | £8/month | £500 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| XTB | None | None | £0 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Trading 212 | None | None | £1 | YES | 5% | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Admiral Markets | £3.00 | £10/month | £100 | Yes | 1.50% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Hargreaves Lansdown | £11.95 | 0.45% annual | £100 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Interactive Investor | £4.99/month | £4.99/month | £100 | Yes | None | 9/10 | 8/10 |
IG - Best Overall Stocks and Shares ISA
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | £3.00 | £10/month | £1 | Yes | 2.50% | 9/10 | 8/10 |
- Pros: Easy to use, low trading fees, extensive educational tools, 2.50% cash interest.
- Cons: Monthly fee (£10) may be high for infrequent traders
Ease of Use
IG is incredibly intuitive, with a clean interface and streamlined features. I navigated easily as a beginner, and its mobile app ensured I could track and manage my investments effortlessly, even on the go.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £3.00 |
| Platform Fee | £10/month |
| Minimum Deposit | £1 |
| Interest on Cash | 2.50% |
Why We Like It
IG stands out as the best overall platform for Stocks and Shares ISAs in 2025 due to its balance of simplicity and advanced tools.
I first used IG as a beginner and was impressed by how intuitive the platform felt. The interface is clean, with an array of tools like real-time price data, advanced charting, and market news that made understanding investments straightforward.
One feature that helped me was their extensive library of educational resources, from webinars to in-depth guides. This meant I didn’t just invest; I learned along the way.
With trading fees as low as £3 and a minimum deposit of just £1, it’s accessible for investors of all levels. Advanced features, like the Pro platform, also cater to experienced traders.
IG’s 2.50% interest on uninvested cash was a bonus, especially when I was holding cash between trades.
Interactive Brokers – Best for Frequent Traders
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers | £3.00 | £0 | £0 | Yes | None | 9/10 | 7/10 |
- Pros: Advanced tools, global market access, responsive customer service.
- Cons: Higher minimum deposit and trading fees.
Ease of Use
While Interactive Brokers offers advanced features, its interface can be overwhelming for beginners. However, experienced investors will appreciate the platform’s customisation options and the efficiency of its mobile app for trading and portfolio tracking.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £3.00 |
| Platform Fee | £0 |
| Minimum Deposit | £0 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Why We Like It
Interactive Brokers is my top choice for frequent traders or investors managing larger portfolios.
Their zero platform fees and low trading costs make it one of the most cost-effective platforms available. The ability to diversify with international stocks, ETFs, and bonds is a major advantage.
The inclusion of Interactive Brokers’ (IBKR) name, logo or weblinks is present pursuant to an advertising arrangement only. IBKR is not a contributor, reviewer, provider or sponsor of content published on this site, and is not responsible for the accuracy of any products or services discussed.
Saxo – Best for Advanced Tools and Global Access
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saxo | £8.00 | £8/month | £500 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 6/10 |
- Pros: Advanced tools, global market access, responsive customer service.
- Cons: Higher minimum deposit and trading fees.
Ease of Use
SaxoTraderGO is straightforward, but SaxoTraderPRO caters more to advanced users. I appreciated the seamless navigation between tools, though the platform’s complexity may require a learning curve for beginners.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £8.00 |
| Platform Fee | £8/month |
| Minimum Deposit | £500 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Why We Like It
Saxo caters to experienced investors with sophisticated tools and global market access. The platform offers customisable features, like risk analytics and multi-screen trading, making it ideal for those managing complex portfolios. Their customer service is also excellent, responding quickly to any queries.
Your capital is at risk.
XTB – Best for ETF Trading Beginners
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XTB | None | None | £0 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 8/10 |
- Pros: No fees, user-friendly platform, great for ETF beginners.
- Cons: Limited investment options beyond ETFs and forex.
Ease of Use
XTB’s xStation 5 platform is among the simplest I’ve used. Its intuitive design, clear analytics, and one-click execution made trading ETFs easy, even when I was starting out.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | None |
| Platform Fee | None |
| Minimum Deposit | £0 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Why We Like It
XTB is a fantastic choice for ETF-focused investors. Their no-fee structure and extensive educational resources make it a budget-friendly option for beginners. While the platform lacks some advanced features, it’s ideal for those focusing on ETFs and forex trading.
Trading 212 – Good for Beginners & Best Rate on Uninvested Cash
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trading 212 | None | None | £1 | YES | 5% | 8/10 | 8/10 |
- Pros: Commission-free trading, fractional shares, beginner-friendly features, excellent mobile app.
- Cons: Limited advanced tools for experienced or high-frequency traders.
Ease of Use
Trading 212 is hands-down one of the easiest platforms I’ve used, especially as a beginner. The mobile app’s clean and intuitive design means I could execute trades effortlessly, even during my first attempts.
Features like watchlists, live price tracking, and instant order execution provide everything you need to stay on top of the market. I also appreciated their “Practice Mode”, which allowed me to test strategies with virtual funds before risking real money. This combination of simplicity and practicality makes it an outstanding choice for beginners.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | None |
| Platform Fee | None |
| Minimum Deposit | £1 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Trading 212 is completely commission-free, so there are no hidden charges for trading shares or ETFs. This is ideal for cost-conscious investors or those building smaller portfolios. With a minimum deposit of just £1, it’s also incredibly accessible. However, it’s worth noting that some additional services, like currency conversion for non-GBP trades, may involve small fees.
Why We Like It
Trading 212 revolutionises access to investing with its commission-free model. I particularly loved their fractional share feature, which allowed me to invest in high-value stocks like Apple or Tesla with just a few pounds. The platform’s educational resources, including bite-sized videos and step-by-step tutorials, were instrumental in helping me understand complex concepts like ETFs and diversification. Trading 212 also provides real-time performance charts, making it easy to monitor my portfolio’s growth and adjust strategies when needed. Overall, its combination of cost-efficiency, ease of use, and educational tools make it a top pick for new and budget-conscious investors.
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Admiral Markets – Best for Educational Resources
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Admiral Markets | £3.00 | £10/month | £100 | Yes | 1.50% | 7/10 | 7/10 |
- Pros: Comprehensive educational resources, competitive trading fees, 1.50% cash interest.
- Cons: Higher platform fee compared to budget-friendly options.
Ease of Use
Admiral Markets offers an easy-to-use platform that balances simplicity with advanced features. The layout is intuitive, ensuring even beginners can navigate without feeling overwhelmed. Their mobile app mirrors the desktop experience, making it seamless to manage investments on the go. I particularly found their integrated educational tools, such as tutorials and trading calculators, easy to access and incredibly helpful for understanding the basics of margin and leverage.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £3.00 |
| Platform Fee | £10/month |
| Minimum Deposit | £100 |
| Interest on Cash | 1.50% |
Admiral Markets charges competitive trading fees of £3 per trade, and the platform fee is £10/month. While not the cheapest option, the inclusion of 1.50% interest on uninvested cash adds value, especially for investors holding cash reserves.
Why We Like It
Admiral Markets excels in educational content, making it ideal for those new to trading or looking to deepen their knowledge. I personally benefited from their webinars, tutorials, and detailed guides on topics like leverage and portfolio diversification. The platform also provides advanced tools like MetaTrader 4 and 5, which are great for technical analysis. While the platform fee is higher than some competitors, the educational resources and support justify the cost for anyone serious about learning the ins and outs of investing.
Hargreaves Lansdown – Best for Comprehensive Investment Options
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hargreaves Lansdown | £11.95 | 0.45% annual | £100 | Yes | None | 8/10 | 7/10 |
- Pros: Extensive investment options, robust research tools, premium customer support.
- Cons: High fees for trading and platform management.
Ease of Use
Hargreaves Lansdown’s platform is well-designed and user-friendly, catering to both beginners and experienced investors. I found the dashboard easy to navigate, allowing me to manage my portfolio effortlessly. Their mobile app is equally intuitive, providing quick access to research, performance charts, and account settings. This level of convenience was a major advantage when managing my investments on the move.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £11.95 |
| Platform Fee | 0.45% annual |
| Minimum Deposit | £100 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Hargreaves Lansdown’s fees are higher than many competitors, with a £11.95 trading fee and a 0.45% annual platform fee. However, the platform provides extensive tools and resources that justify the cost for serious investors.
Why We Like It
Interactive Investor – Best for Flat-Fee Portfolios
| Platform | Buy/Sell Fees | Platform Cost | Min Deposit | ISA? | Interest on Uninvested Cash | Platform Rating | Beginner Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Investor | £4.99/month | £4.99/month | £100 | Yes | None | 9/10 | 8/10 |
- Pros: Flat-fee structure, curated investment options, dividend reinvestment tools.
- Cons: Less cost-effective for small portfolios.
Ease of Use
Interactive Investor is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to navigate even for new investors. The platform’s transparent layout and flat-fee structure ensure there are no hidden costs, which I appreciated. Their mobile app replicates the desktop experience, making it effortless to manage investments wherever you are.
Fees
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Buy/Sell Shares | £4.99/month |
| Platform Fee | £4.99/month |
| Minimum Deposit | £100 |
| Interest on Cash | None |
Interactive Investor’s flat-fee structure is ideal for those with larger portfolios. At £4.99/month, it’s more cost-effective than percentage-based fees for high-value accounts. However, smaller investors may find this fee less appealing.
Why We Like It
Interactive Investor’s flat-fee model saved me a significant amount as my portfolio grew. Their quick-start funds simplify the investing process by providing pre-selected options tailored to different risk levels. I also liked their dividend reinvestment feature, which automated the process of compounding returns. Overall, the platform’s combination of transparency, efficiency, and curated investment tools makes it a standout choice for long-term investors.
These are the things you need to know about Stocks & Shares ISAs
Key considerations for ISA usage:
- ISA rules: You can only invest up to £20,000 across all ISAs in a tax year. I learned the importance of planning my contributions early to avoid missing out on this allowance.
- Long-term focus: These ISAs are best suited for investments over 5+ years to ride out market volatility.
- Costs matter: Look out for platform fees, fund management fees, and transaction costs. I made the mistake of ignoring these initially, which ate into my returns.
Why Choose a Stocks and Shares ISA in 2025?
Benefits of Stocks and Shares ISAs
Stocks and Shares ISAs are one of the most tax-efficient ways to grow your wealth in the UK. They shield your investments from capital gains tax, dividend tax, and income tax, which is particularly valuable as tax thresholds tighten in 2025. Over the years, I’ve seen how even modest contributions grow significantly when reinvested tax-free.
Stocks and Shares ISAs offer much higher growth potential compared to cash ISAs. According to a BBC report, cash ISAs returned an average of 1.5% annually over the past decade, compared to a 7.5% average annual return for Stocks and Shares ISAs2. Over time, this difference compounds significantly, providing far better returns for long-term investors.
For long-term growth, these ISAs outshine cash ISAs. Investing in stocks, bonds, and funds allows for higher returns, and the flexibility to diversify investments means you can reduce risks over time. I’ve personally used them to balance high-growth tech ETFs with stable dividend-paying stocks. The result? A portfolio tailored to my financial goals.
Moreover, their flexibility is a game-changer. Whether you’re saving for retirement or a future purchase, Stocks and Shares ISAs let you invest at your own pace and withdraw when needed, unlike pensions.
Changes to ISA Rules in 2024/25
The new ISA rules introduced in April 2024 make investing even more flexible. You can now subscribe to multiple ISAs of the same type in one tax year, which wasn’t possible before. I’ve taken advantage of this to try different platforms while staying within my £20,000 allowance.
Another key change is the reduction in capital gains tax allowance (now £3,000) and dividend tax allowance (£500). This makes the tax-free benefits of Stocks and Shares ISAs more important than ever, especially for active investors who might otherwise face hefty tax bills.
How to Choose the Best Stocks and Shares ISA for You
Key Considerations
Choosing the right Stocks and Shares ISA depends on your personal circumstances. Start by considering your risk appetite. If you’re a cautious investor, managed ISAs or funds focused on low volatility may suit you. For those with a higher tolerance for risk, a DIY ISA offers control over individual stocks and ETFs.
Your investment goals are equally important. I used my ISA to build a retirement fund, focusing on long-term growth. If your goals are shorter-term, a Stocks and Shares ISA might not be the best choice due to market volatility.
Finally, pay close attention to fees. These can eat into your returns, especially with smaller portfolios. Compare platform charges, transaction fees, and fund management costs carefully.
Comparing Platforms
I’ve found that the best platforms combine usability with value. Tools like portfolio trackers, mobile apps, and educational resources are essential for DIY investors.
Managed platforms should provide clear portfolio recommendations and regular updates. Balancing fees against performance is key – the cheapest option isn’t always the best if it lacks the tools you need to succeed.
Conclusion
Stocks and Shares ISAs remain one of the most effective tools for UK investors to grow their wealth tax-free in 2025. Whether you prefer a DIY approach or want a managed portfolio, there’s a platform that fits your needs.
For DIY investors, platforms like IG, Trading 212, Interactive Brokers, and XTB offer low fees, user-friendly interfaces, and excellent tools for building a portfolio.
If you’re looking for more advanced features, Saxo, Admiral Markets, Hargreaves Lansdown, and Interactive Investor provide robust options tailored to experienced investors and those with larger portfolios.
No matter your experience level or financial goals, taking advantage of your £20,000 annual ISA allowance with the right platform can significantly enhance your long-term investment strategy. Start today to make the most of 2025’s opportunities!
FAQs
You can invest up to £20,000 across all ISAs for the 2024/25 tax year. This includes Stocks and Shares ISAs, cash ISAs, and Lifetime ISAs.
Yes, they carry market risks, but diversification and long-term investment strategies significantly reduce these risks. I’ve found that balancing higher-risk stocks with ETFs helps stabilise returns.
Absolutely. You can transfer your ISA between providers, but always check for exit fees and confirm the new provider supports ISA transfers to avoid losing the tax-free wrapper.
Fees vary by platform and may include platform fees, fund fees, and transaction fees. Comparing these costs is essential to ensure they align with your investment strategy.
Yes, platforms like Interactive Brokers and Hargreaves Lansdown let you invest directly in individual stocks. This option is ideal for those comfortable with self-directed investing.
Yes, you can withdraw money whenever needed. However, early withdrawals may disrupt your long-term goals and reduce potential compound growth.
Managed ISAs use expert advice or robo-advisers to choose investments for you. DIY ISAs, on the other hand, require you to select and manage investments independently, offering greater control but requiring more knowledge.
Top 5 ISA's
1
IG
Capital at risk.
2
IBKR
The inclusion of Interactive Brokers’ (IBKR) name, logo or weblinks is present pursuant to an advertising arrangement only. IBKR is not a contributor, reviewer, provider or sponsor of content published on this site, and
is not responsible for the accuracy of any products or services discussed.
3
Saxo
Capital at risk.
4
XTB
Capital at risk.
5
Trading 212
Capital at risk.
