IG Review 2026 - UK Fees, Features & Expert Take
- expertise:
- CFD Trading, Forex, Derivatives, Risk Management
- credentials:
- Chartered ACII (2018) · Trading since 2012
- tested:
- 40+ forex & CFD platforms with live accounts
- expertise:
- Platform Testing, Cryptocurrency, Retail Investing
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 50+ platforms · 200+ guides authored
- expertise:
- Broker Comparison, ISA Strategy, Portfolio Management
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 40+ brokers with funded accounts
- expertise:
- CFD Trading, Forex, Derivatives, Risk Management
- credentials:
- Chartered ACII (2018) · Trading since 2012
- tested:
- 40+ forex & CFD platforms with live accounts
- expertise:
- Platform Testing, Cryptocurrency, Retail Investing
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 50+ platforms · 200+ guides authored
- expertise:
- Broker Comparison, ISA Strategy, Portfolio Management
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 40+ brokers with funded accounts
How We Test
Real accounts. Real money. Real trades. No demo accounts or press releases.
What we measure:
- Spreads vs advertised rates
- Execution speed and slippage
- Hidden fees (overnight, withdrawal, conversion)
- Actual withdrawal times
Scoring:
Fees (25%) · Platform (20%) · Assets (15%) · Mobile (15%) · Tools (10%) · Support (10%) · Regulation (5%)
Regulatory checks:
FCA Register verification · FSCS protection
Testing team:
Adam Woodhead (investing since 2013), Thomas Drury (Chartered ACII, 2018), Dom Farnell (investing since 2013) — 50+ platforms with funded accounts
Quarterly reviews · Corrections: [email protected]
Disclaimer
Not financial advice. Educational content only. We're not FCA authorised. Consult a qualified advisor before investing.
Capital at risk. Investments can fall. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
CFD warning. 67-84% of retail accounts lose money trading CFDs. High risk due to leverage.
Contact: [email protected]
IG is one of the most established brokers in the UK — but does it still hold up in 2026? Here’s our honest take on fees, platform quality, and what UK traders should know.
Quick Answer: Would I Recommend IG After Using It Myself?
Yes — IG remains one of the most reliable brokers for UK traders in 2026. Its platform is polished, regulation is top-tier, and execution is quick. Fees aren’t the lowest, but the overall experience feels professional, stable, and worth the slightly higher cost.
What Stood Out Most During My Review?
IG’s depth of markets and platform reliability impressed me most. Whether trading forex, indices, or shares, order execution felt seamless. The platform’s learning tools and clear layout make it approachable for beginners while offering enough advanced tools to satisfy experienced traders.
Quick Summary – How IG Performs Across Key Categories
| Category | Score (out of 5) | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation & Safety | 5.0 | FCA-regulated and highly trusted |
| Platform & Tools | 4.5 | Clean, powerful, and intuitive |
| Fees & Spreads | 4.0 | Slightly above average but transparent |
| Education & Research | 4.5 | Excellent resources for all levels |
| Customer Support | 4.0 | Responsive but not 24/7 |
| Overall Experience | 4.6 | Consistently strong and reliable |
What’s It Like Getting Started with IG?
Getting started with IG feels smooth and efficient. The sign-up flow is modern, verification is quick, and there’s no unnecessary friction. Within minutes, you can access the demo or live platform. It’s professional yet welcoming — exactly what you’d expect from a leading broker.
Is Opening an Account Straightforward or a Headache?
What Are the Deposit Options and How Fast Do They Clear?
Deposits are straightforward through debit card, bank transfer, or PayPal. Card and PayPal deposits usually appear instantly, while bank transfers take one to three days. IG doesn’t charge deposit fees, and the funding section clearly shows available methods and expected processing times.
How Smooth Is the Withdrawal Process When You Need Your Cash?
Withdrawals are efficient and reliable. IG processes most requests within one business day, and funds typically reach your bank within three. There are no withdrawal fees for UK clients. The process feels transparent, with clear confirmation emails and easy tracking from your account.
Overview Table – IG Account Setup
| Feature | Details | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening Time | Under 24 hours | Quick and easy |
| Verification Process | Automated ID check | Smooth and fast |
| Deposit Methods | Card, Bank, PayPal | Flexible options |
| Deposit Speed | Instant–3 days | Dependable |
| Withdrawal Processing | 1 business day | Efficient |
| User Interface Experience | Clean, intuitive | Excellent |
| Overall Setup Rating | ★★★★☆ | Seamless onboarding experience |
Can You Actually Learn to Trade Better with IG?
Yes — IG offers one of the most complete learning environments of any UK broker. The resources are structured, engaging, and practical. Whether you’re testing strategies or studying fundamentals, the educational support genuinely helps traders progress with confidence.
Is the Demo Account Useful or Just a Gimmick?
The demo account is genuinely valuable. It mirrors live-market conditions with real pricing and full platform access. You can practise strategies without risk and switch easily between demo and live trading. It’s one of the best free tools for skill-building before committing capital.
What’s My Take on the Quality of IG’s Educational Content?
IG’s educational material stands out for clarity and structure. It avoids filler and provides actionable lessons. The mix of written guides, live webinars, and interactive modules means there’s something for every learning style. It’s practical, reliable, and clearly created by industry professionals.
Summary Table – IG’s Learning Tools and Resources
| Learning Feature | Description | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Demo Account | Full-featured, real-time simulation | Excellent for practice |
| IG Academy | Structured lessons with interactive content | High-quality education |
| Webinars & Seminars | Regular live sessions with experts | Insightful and engaging |
| Trading Guides & Articles | Covers strategies, risk, and psychology | Useful and practical |
| Learning Accessibility | Web, mobile, and app-based | Convenient and flexible |
| Overall Learning Rating | ★★★★☆ | Genuine value for improving traders |
Where Does IG Fall Short?
While IG delivers a polished experience overall, it’s not perfect. Costs can feel slightly high for active traders, and some tools lean toward complexity. Support isn’t 24/7, which can frustrate global users. These are minor flaws, but worth noting for transparency.
Are IG’s Trading Costs Competitive Enough?
Not entirely. IG’s spreads are fair but not market-leading. Active traders might find cheaper options elsewhere. However, the cost is offset by strong reliability, precise execution, and access to a broad range of markets. It’s a trade-off between pricing and overall quality.
Fee Comparison
| Broker | Average Forex Spread | Share Commission | Withdrawal Fee | Inactivity Fee | Overall Cost Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | 0.6 pips (EUR/USD) | £3 per trade | None | £12 after 24 months | 4.2/5 |
| Pepperstone | 0.1–0.3 pips (Raw account) | None | None | None | 4.6/5 |
| CMC Markets | 0.7 pips (EUR/USD) | 0.10% (min £9) | None | £10 after 12 months | 4.4/5 |
| eToro | 1.0 pips (EUR/USD) | 0% (built into spread) | $5 per withdrawal | $10 after 12 months | 4.0/5 |
| Plus500 | 0.8–1.0 pips (EUR/USD) | None | None | $10 after 3 months | 3.9/5 |
Do the Charts and Research Tools Empower or Overwhelm?
They’re powerful, but dense. IG’s charting suite offers depth, indicators, and customization that advanced traders love — yet beginners may find it intimidating. The learning curve is steep at first, though once mastered, the tools become a serious trading advantage
How Good Is IG’s Customer Support When It Matters?
IG’s support is generally reliable but not always available when needed. Live chat and phone lines operate during business hours, not round-the-clock. Responses are professional and informed, yet the lack of 24/7 coverage is a drawback for night or weekend traders.
Summary Table – IG’s Weak Spots and Common Gripes
| Aspect | Issue | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Costs | Spreads slightly above some rivals | Higher costs for active traders |
| Charting Tools | Complex for beginners | Steep learning curve |
| Platform Depth | Overwhelming at first | Requires adjustment |
| Customer Support Hours | Limited availability | Delays outside UK hours |
| Minor Interface Clutter | Too many menus | Slower navigation early on |
| Overall Weakness Rating | ★★★☆☆ | Solid platform with fixable flaws |
Can IG Be Trusted with Your Money?
Yes — IG remains one of the safest brokers in the UK. It’s highly regulated, transparent, and financially stable. Client funds are segregated, data security is tight, and its long history in the industry inspires strong confidence for serious traders.
Who Regulates IG and What Protections Do You Actually Get?
IG is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, plus several top-tier global bodies. Client money is held in segregated accounts, and UK traders benefit from FSCS protection up to £85,000. Regulation is robust, clear, and consistently enforced.
How Secure Are Client Funds and Personal Data?
Security is excellent. IG uses bank-grade encryption, two-factor authentication, and strong internal controls. Personal and financial data are protected at every stage. Regular audits and strict compliance policies ensure your account remains shielded from breaches or misuse.
Did I Feel Safe Using IG Day to Day?
Absolutely. Every transaction, login, and withdrawal felt secure. There were no unexpected errors or system issues. IG’s transparency and professional design inspire confidence — it feels like a broker that takes safety seriously, not as a slogan but as standard practice.
Security Checklist – What IG Gets Right on Safety
| Security Area | Details | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA & Tier-1 global oversight | ★★★★★ |
| Fund Protection | Segregated client accounts | ★★★★★ |
| Compensation Scheme | FSCS up to £85,000 | ★★★★★ |
| Data Encryption | Bank-level SSL encryption | ★★★★★ |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Available on all platforms | ★★★★☆ |
| Transparency & Reporting | Regular independent audits | ★★★★★ |
| Overall Security Rating | ― | 4.9 / 5 – Outstanding |
How Does IG Stack Up Against Its Competitors?
IG still holds its ground among top-tier brokers. It’s not the cheapest, but its reliability, market range, and educational depth stand out. Against names like CMC or Pepperstone, IG feels more complete — a polished, well-regulated platform built for long-term traders.
Where Does IG Clearly Have the Edge?
IG leads in trust, stability, and platform depth. Its FCA regulation, extensive market coverage, and educational tools are unmatched in the UK scene. Few brokers combine professional execution with a beginner-friendly interface quite as effectively as IG does.
Which Brokers Still Outperform IG in Key Areas?
Some competitors beat IG on cost and customer support. Pepperstone offers lower spreads for forex scalpers, and CMC Markets provides slightly faster support response times. If you prioritise ultra-low fees or constant service availability, those might appeal more.
Asset Class Availability Comparison
| Broker | Forex | Shares | Commodities | Crypto | ETFs | Spread Betting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (via Uphold) | Yes | Yes |
| Pepperstone | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes (CFDs) | No | No |
| CMC Markets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (CFDs) | Yes | Yes |
| eToro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (Direct & CFDs) | Yes | No |
| Plus500 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (CFDs) | Limited | No |
Why I’ve Stuck with IG Despite Its Flaws
IG feels dependable. Even with minor drawbacks, it consistently performs. Platform stability, solid research, and transparent pricing make it a broker I can rely on. It’s less about chasing the lowest fee, more about trusting your trading environment fully.
Comparison Table – IG vs the Rest
| Broker | Best For | Key Strength | Key Weakness | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | Balanced traders (UK focus) | Regulation, reliability, tools | Slightly higher fees | 4.6/5 |
| Pepperstone | Active forex traders | Low spreads, fast execution | Limited education | 4.6/5 |
| CMC Markets | Chart-focused traders | Advanced tools, analytics | Interface complexity | 4.5/5 |
| eToro | Social trading enthusiasts | Copy trading, accessibility | Wider spreads | 4.4/5 |
| Plus500 | Casual CFD traders | Simplicity, clean design | Lacks depth and features | 3.8/5 |
So, Is IG the Right Choice for You?
If you value security, stability, and depth, yes. IG suits traders who want a professional-grade broker with a proven record. It’s best for those serious about trading — less for those chasing the lowest spreads or flashy features.
Final Thoughts – My Closing Verdict
IG earns its reputation. The platform is polished, execution is fast, and regulation is rock solid. Fees aren’t the lowest, but reliability and depth make it a strong pick for serious UK traders who value stability over cost-cutting.
What’s Changed in 2026?
No major platform overhauls. IG remains FCA-regulated with FSCS protection up to £120,000. MetaTrader 4 still supported. Spreads competitive. Inactivity fee unchanged at £12 after 24 months. Crypto access via Uphold partnership continues.
New Clients
You Invest
£300
You Get Up To
£1,000*
68% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
FAQs
What asset classes can you trade with IG?
IG offers access to a wide range of markets — forex, indices, shares, commodities, ETFs, bonds, and more. You can trade these through CFDs or spread betting, depending on your account type and preferences.
Can you trade cryptocurrencies with IG?
Yes. While traditional crypto CFDs remain restricted for UK retail clients, IG now provides access to crypto investing through its partnership with Uphold, allowing users to buy and hold digital assets directly.
Does IG support third-party trading platforms like MetaTrader 4 or ProRealTime?
Yes, IG supports both MT4 and ProRealTime in addition to its proprietary web and mobile platforms. These integrations offer flexibility for automated strategies and more advanced charting.
What’s the minimum deposit required to start trading with IG?
There’s no strict minimum, but most UK traders deposit around £250 when funding by card. Bank transfers are accepted with no set limit, making IG accessible for both small and larger accounts.
IG is transparent with costs. There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, though overnight funding applies to leveraged positions. A £12 inactivity fee kicks in only after two years of no account activity.
