Best Day Trading Platforms In The UK 2026
Day trading in 2026 demands more than just market knowledge—it requires the right platform to execute fast, analyse efficiently, and manage risk in real time. With AI-driven tools now filtering into retail platforms and execution speeds measured in milliseconds, UK traders have access to capabilities that were once reserved for institutional desks.
Whether you’re scalping forex, trading indices, or spread betting on UK shares, the platform you choose directly impacts your edge. We’ve independently tested the leading FCA-regulated brokers for fees, execution quality, charting tools, and overall usability to help you find the best fit for your trading style.
Spreadex
Day Trading Score: 4.9/5
65% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Pepperstone
Day Trading Score: 4.8/5
72% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
IG
Day Trading Score: 4.7/5
67% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
CMC Markets
Day Trading Score: 4.6/5
67% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Quick Answer: What is the best platform for day trading in the UK?
SpreadEX leads the way for active traders in the UK in 2026. With competitive spreads, smooth execution, and full FCA regulation, it’s a strong choice for those trading frequently. IG remains a reliable alternative, offering advanced tools, dependable execution, and wide market coverage.
What's New in 2026?
AI-powered trading tools are now accessible to retail day traders, with platforms integrating pattern recognition, sentiment analysis, and automated execution features. Over 60% of global trades are now executed by algorithm-driven systems, and UK brokers have responded with faster execution speeds, tighter spreads, and enhanced charting capabilities to help traders compete in increasingly efficient markets.
How do the Best UK Day Trading Platforms Rank?
| Rank | Broker | Min Deposit | FCA Regulated? | Platforms | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SpreadEX | £0 | Yes | Web, mobile | All-round CFD/spread betting |
| 2 | Pepperstone | £0 | Yes | MT4/5, cTrader, TradingView | Low-spread forex & CFDs |
| 3 | IG | £0 | Yes | Web, desktop, mobile | Advanced tools & wide market access |
| 4 | CMC Markets | £0 | Yes | Web, mobile, MT4 | Advanced charting & deep markets |
| 5 | XTB | £0 | Yes | xStation, mobile | Low-cost for active traders |
| 6 | Capital.com | £20 | Yes | Web, mobile, MT4 | AI-powered trading for beginners |
| 7 | Interactive Brokers | £0 | Yes | TWS, Client Portal, mobile | Pro traders needing global access |
Top 7 Day Trading Brokers in the UK Reviewed
- SpreadEX – Flexible, simple, and ideal for active traders
- Pepperstone – Ultra-tight spreads and multiple pro platforms
- IG – Reliable, feature-rich, weekend trading access
- CMC Markets – Powerful charting tools and broad market access
- XTB – Competitive pricing with user-friendly xStation platform
- Capital.com – Beginner-friendly with AI-powered trading insights
- Interactive Brokers – Advanced tools and low-cost global access
SpreadEX - Best Choice for Intermediate Traders
Pros & Cons
- FCA-regulated and UK-headquartered since 1999
- Commission-free spread betting with tax-free profits for UK residents
- TradingView integration for advanced charting and analysis
- Competitive spreads (2nd lowest on forex in 2025 tests)
- No deposit, withdrawal, or inactivity fees
- No MetaTrader 4/5 support
- Limited to UK and Ireland residents only
- Platform less feature-rich than IG or CMC for advanced traders
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
SpreadEX offers commission-free CFD trading and spread betting. Spreads vary by asset and market volatility. There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, and no inactivity fees. Overnight financing charges may apply to leveraged positions.
SpreadEX runs on a proprietary platform available via web and mobile. It features TradingView integration, price alerts, and market analysis. While not as advanced as IG or XTB, it provides a clean and responsive trading interface.
Yes — SpreadEX is FCA-authorised (FRN: 190941) and headquartered in the UK. Client funds are kept in segregated accounts and are eligible for FSCS protection. It has been serving UK traders since 1999 with a strong compliance record.
SpreadEX is best for intermediate UK traders who want simple, low-cost access to CFDs or tax-free spread betting. It’s ideal for those seeking a UK-focused platform without unnecessary complexity or high minimum deposit requirements.
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 a range of platforms
Pros & Cons
- Ultra-tight spreads from 0.0 pips on Razor accounts
- Five platform options: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, and new proprietary platform
- Supports algorithmic trading, scalping, and high-frequency strategies via EAs and cBots
- 24-hour share CFD trading now available
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection and negative balance protection
- $10/month inactivity fee after 12 months of no trading
- Educational resources less extensive than IG or CMC
- No proprietary research or market analysis tool
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Pepperstone offers ultra-low spreads, especially on forex, with commission-based or spread-only account types. There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, but inactivity fees apply after 12 months. Competitive pricing makes it attractive for frequent day traders.
Pepperstone supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView — all popular among active traders. Features include advanced charting, fast execution, algorithmic trading support, and depth-of-market data, giving traders a professional-grade toolkit.
Yes — Pepperstone is FCA regulated (FRN: 684312) and client funds are held in segregated accounts. It also provides negative balance protection and adheres to strict security protocols across its platforms.
Ideal for forex day traders who want fast execution, low spreads, and flexibility across multiple platforms. It’s particularly well-suited for experienced traders who value speed and cost-efficiency over hand-holding.
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.
IG - Reliable, feature-rich, weekend trading access
Pros & Cons
Excellent charting and advanced trading tools
Regulated by the FCA with long-standing UK reputation
Wide market access: stocks, forex, indices, options
Award-winning mobile and desktop platforms
- Weekend Trading Access
No MetaTrader 4 or 5 support
Inactivity fees after 12 months
Learning curve for complete beginners
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
IG charges competitive spreads starting from 0.6 pips on forex. CFD share trading involves £3 per trade, while other asset fees vary. An inactivity fee of £12 applies after 12 months. No deposit or standard withdrawal fees.
IG offers its proprietary web platform, mobile apps, and ProRealTime for advanced charting. It supports direct market access (DMA), sentiment indicators, and economic calendars. No MT4 or MT5, but it’s built for precision and speed.
Yes — IG is fully FCA-regulated (FRN: 195355), publicly listed, and backed by decades of experience. Client funds are held in segregated UK bank accounts under FSCS protection (up to £85,000). Strong track record of financial stability.
IG is ideal for intermediate to advanced UK traders seeking a regulated, feature-rich platform. It suits those who value technical analysis tools, broad market access, and professional-grade features across desktop and mobile. You can also intergrate with Tradingview [voted best fore spreadbetting and tradingview intergration].
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 67% 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.
CMC Markets -Access to great trading assets
Pros & Cons
Access to 12,000+ instruments across global markets
Powerful proprietary platform with advanced charting and MT4 support
FCA regulated with over 30 years of operational history
Strong educational tools and market insights
£10 monthly inactivity fee after 12 months
Some premium tools incur additional charges
May feel overwhelming for total beginners
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
CMC Markets offers competitive spreads starting from 0.6 pips, with no commissions on forex. CFD shares incur variable charges. There’s a £10 monthly inactivity fee after a year of no use, but no deposit or standard withdrawal fees.
CMC’s Next Generation platform offers top-tier charting, price projection tools, pattern recognition, and sentiment analysis. It’s browser-based with mobile support and designed for active, self-directed traders seeking detailed data and control.
Yes — CMC Markets is FCA regulated (FRN: 173730), publicly listed on the LSE, and client funds are segregated. It offers negative balance protection and has an extensive UK track record dating back to 1989.
CMC is best for experienced or intermediate traders who want wide asset exposure and deep trading tools. It’s ideal for those who value platform sophistication and want to actively manage diverse portfolios.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 67% of retail CFD accounts lose money. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
XTB - Unique Trading Platform features
Pros & Cons
Ultra-low spreads from 0.1 pips (pro account)
Award-winning xStation 5 platform
FCA regulated with strong global reputation
No deposit or withdrawal fees
Fast execution and strong educational tools
No MetaTrader 4/5 support
Inactivity fee after 12 months
Limited asset types compared to IG
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
XTB offers tight spreads (from 0.1 pips on Pro), zero commissions on Standard accounts for most markets, and no deposit or withdrawal fees. An inactivity fee of £10/month applies after 12 months of no trading activity.
XTB uses its proprietary xStation 5 platform, which is fast, clean, and equipped with advanced tools like real-time heatmaps, sentiment analysis, and built-in education. It’s accessible via desktop, browser, and mobile.
Yes — XTB is fully FCA regulated (FRN: 522157), with a strong global presence and years of operational trust. Client funds are protected under FSCS, and accounts are held in segregated, Tier-1 bank accounts.
XTB is ideal for active traders and intermediate users seeking low-cost trades, fast execution, and modern tools. Its easy-to-use platform and competitive pricing make it perfect for those moving beyond beginner status.
70% 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.
Capital.com – Most Easy to Use Platform
Pros & Cons
- AI-powered insights help improve trading decisions
- Intuitive, beginner-friendly platform
- FCA regulated and trusted globally
- Multi-asset access (forex, stocks, indices, crypto, commodities)
- Low minimum deposit (£20 in the UK)
- No MT5 support (MT4 only)
- CFD-only – no real asset ownership
- Variable spreads may widen in volatility
- Limited product range vs full-service brokers
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Capital.com keeps costs simple and transparent. There are no commissions on any trades – all costs are built into the spread. Spreads start from 0.6 pips on major forex pairs like EUR/USD. There are no deposit fees, no withdrawal fees, and no inactivity fees, which sets it apart from many competitors. Overnight financing charges apply to leveraged positions held past market close. The straightforward fee structure makes it easy to understand your trading costs upfront.
Capital.com offers a proprietary web platform and mobile app, both featuring AI-powered analytics that track your trading behaviour and highlight potential biases. The platform includes 75+ technical indicators, advanced charting, customisable watchlists, and real-time price alerts. MetaTrader 4 is also available for traders who prefer industry-standard software with full EA support for automated strategies. The mobile app is highly rated for its clean design, fast execution, and seamless experience across devices.
Yes, Capital.com is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under firm reference number 793714. It also holds licences with CySEC (Cyprus) and ASIC (Australia). Client funds are held in segregated accounts with top-tier banks, kept separate from company funds. UK retail clients are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000. Negative balance protection is standard, ensuring you cannot lose more than your deposited funds.
Capital.com is ideal for beginner to intermediate traders who want a modern, intuitive platform with smart tools and low costs. The AI-driven insights help newer traders develop better habits and avoid common mistakes, while tight spreads and zero fees keep costs down for active traders. The mobile app is excellent for those who prefer trading on the go. If you need advanced professional tools, MT5 support, or want to own real assets rather than CFDs, other brokers like IG or Interactive Brokers may suit you better.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 60% 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.
Interactive Brokers - Great for Experienced Traders
Pros & Cons
Access to 150+ global markets
Ultra-low spreads (EUR/USD from 0.1 pips)
No deposit or standard withdrawal fees
Advanced trading tools and real-time analytics
FCA regulated with strong global oversight
Steep learning curve for new traders
$10/month inactivity fee if minimums not met
Complex platform may overwhelm beginners
No MetaTrader 4 or 5 support
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What Are the Fees and Costs?
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Which Platforms and Trading Tools Are Available?
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Is the Broker FCA Regulated and Safe to Use?
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Who Is This Broker Best Suited For?
Interactive Brokers offers tight spreads and transparent, low-cost pricing. Many markets are commission-free, but standard CFD trades may involve small per-trade charges. Inactivity fees apply for less active users, and overnight financing fees vary by position size.
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.
How Does Day Trading Work and Is It Right for You?
What Is Day Trading and How Does It Make Money?
Day trading involves buying and selling financial instruments like stocks or forex within the same day to profit from short-term price movements. Traders aim to capitalise on small fluctuations using technical analysis, news events, and real-time strategies to lock in fast gains.
What Skills or Tools Do You Need to Start?
Successful day traders need market knowledge, fast decision-making, strong risk management, and discipline. Tools include a reliable trading platform, technical charting tools, economic calendars, and often access to real-time news and market data for quick execution.
Is Day Trading Profitable — or Too Risky?
What Should You Look for in a Day Trading Platform?
What Are the Most Important Trading Features?
Look for fast trade execution, advanced charting tools, and customisable interfaces. For active traders, tools like one-click trading, stop-loss/take-profit options, and market depth data are essential to act quickly and confidently during volatile sessions.
How Much Do Fees and Spreads Really Matter?
Fees and spreads directly affect your bottom line. Frequent traders should prioritise platforms with low spreads, no hidden charges, and competitive commissions—especially on forex or CFDs. Even small differences can significantly impact your profits over time.
How Safe and Regulated Is the Platform?
Always choose an FCA-regulated broker for UK traders. Regulation ensures your funds are protected, client money is segregated, and the platform operates transparently. Features like 2FA, SSL encryption, and withdrawal security are vital for peace of mind.
Which Markets and Strategies Are Best for Day Traders?
What Are the Most Popular Markets for UK Day Traders?
Forex and UK stocks are top choices due to high liquidity and volatility. Some traders also explore indices, commodities, and even crypto CFDs. Start with one market and master its behaviour before branching out to others.
Which Day Trading Strategies Actually Work?
Effective strategies include momentum trading, news trading, and swing trading. Each requires a clear entry/exit plan and strict risk management. No one-size-fits-all strategy exists — success depends on matching the approach to your personality and schedule.
How Can You Manage Risk While Trading Daily?
Use stop-loss orders, only risk a small percentage of capital per trade, and avoid emotional decision-making. Tools like demo accounts, proper leverage settings, and consistent journaling help new traders build experience safely.
Final Thoughts: Is Day Trading for You?
Day trading in the UK continues to offer flexibility and fast-paced opportunity—but the landscape has shifted. With AI-powered analysis tools, algorithmic execution, and tighter spreads now standard across leading platforms, the barrier to professional-grade trading has never been lower.
However, the risks remain significant: most retail traders still lose money, and success depends on disciplined strategy, proper risk controls, and choosing an FCA-regulated broker with the tools you actually need. Whether you’re trading forex, indices, or shares, the right platform is your foundation. Start with a clear plan, use demo accounts to refine your approach, and never risk more than you can afford to lose.
FAQs
What’s the best trading platform for beginners in the UK?
From my experience, platforms like eToro and IG are great for beginners. They’re intuitive, easy to navigate, and come with loads of educational resources. I started out on a more complex platform and honestly wish I’d used something more beginner-friendly at the start—it would’ve saved me a few headaches.
Is day trading legal in the UK?
Yes, absolutely. Day trading is 100% legal in the UK—as long as you’re using a regulated broker. I always stick to platforms authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It’s just not worth the risk trading on an unregulated site.
Do I need a lot of money to start day trading?
Not at all. I started small—just a few hundred pounds. Many platforms offer low minimum deposits and even demo accounts where you can practice with virtual funds. The key is learning and managing risk, not throwing a ton of cash at the market from day one.
What’s the tax situation for UK day traders?
Here in the UK, your trading profits might be subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT)—especially if you’re trading shares. If you’re using spread betting accounts, though, profits are typically tax-free (but there are caveats). I’d recommend chatting with an accountant if you’re making consistent gains—it’s worth getting proper tax advice early on.
Can I trade on my phone, or do I need a desktop computer?
You can absolutely trade on your phone—I do it all the time. Most of the platforms I use have mobile apps that are just as functional as their desktop versions. That said, I still prefer a computer for charting and making detailed trade plans, especially if I’m scalping or reacting to news.
References
- 7 Best Indicators for Day Trading – City Index
- Stock Market Trading Hours – CMC Markets
- Restricting Contract For Difference Products Sold To Retail Clients – FCA
- Top Financial Markets To Trade In 2024 – Admirals
- Glossary of trading terms – IG
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