Best Stock Trading Apps In The UK 2025
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.”
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
Explore our curated list of reputable, regulated Trading Apps, each rigorously tested with real funds. All brokers are accessible to traders in the United Kingdom.
IG
Trading App Score: 4.8/5
71% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
Spreadex
Trading App Score: 4.7/5
65% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
eToro
Trading App Score: 4.6/5
51% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
XTB
Trading App Score: 4.5/5
73% of Retail CFD Accounts Lose Money
Quick Answer: Which is the best App for Trading Stocks in the UK?
IG is a top pick, thanks to its easy-to-use platform and wide range of tools. It’s great for both newbies and seasoned traders. In 2025, Spreadex and eToro are also solid choices.
Featured Trading App - eToro
eToro stands out as a pioneer in social investing, blending traditional stock trading with a vibrant community of investors. The platform is built for accessibility, offering a smooth experience for beginners while still delivering the tools more advanced users need. What truly sets eToro apart is its CopyTrader™ system, which enables users to automatically replicate the trades of proven investors—making it easier than ever to learn by doing. With a broad range of assets and a strong regulatory foundation, eToro offers a modern, collaborative approach to building wealth online.
- Minimum Deposit: £40 (approx. $50)
- Trade thousands of assets, including real stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs
- Regulated by the FCA (UK) and other global financial authorities
- Mobile & web-based platform with integrated social trading features
- Ideal for beginners and casual investors looking to learn and copy top traders
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.
What are the Best Stock Trading Apps?
| Rank | Platform | Best For | Fees | FCA Regulated | Key Features | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | IG | Broad market access, advanced tools | Zero commission on global shares; tight spreads | ✅ Yes | MT4, ProRealTime, 17,000+ markets, DMA access, advanced charting tools | 4.8/5 |
| #2 | SpreadEX | Intermediate traders | Competitive spreads; no commissions on spread bets | ✅ Yes | Proprietary platform, advanced charting tools, risk management features | 4.7/5 |
| #3 | eToro | Social trading, copy-trading | 0% commission on UK stocks; 1% crypto fee | ✅ Yes | CopyTrader, Smart Portfolios, user-friendly interface, extensive social trading features | 4.6/5 |
| #4 | XTB | Low-cost trading, educational tools | 0% commission on stocks/ETFs (limits apply) | ✅ Yes | xStation 5 platform, comprehensive educational resources, live webinars | 4.5/5 |
| #5 | Saxo | Global markets, investment product access | From £3 per UK trade; 0.25% FX conversion fee | ✅ Yes | SaxoTraderGO platform, access to 40,000+ instruments, premium research tools | 4.4/5 |
| #6 | Plus500 | Intuitive app, wide range of instruments | No commissions; spread-based pricing | ✅ Yes | User-friendly platform, access to 2,800+ CFDs, robust risk management tools | 4.3/5 |
| #7 | Pepperstone | Forex and CFD traders, competitive pricing | Razor spreads; low commissions on CFDs | ✅ Yes | MT4, cTrader, fast execution, advanced trading tools | 4.2/5 |
Here are the top 7 Share Trading Apps in the UK:
- IG – Best Choice with Broad Market Access and Advanced Trading Tools
- SpreadEX – Best Choice for Intermediate Traders
- eToro – Great social trading app with copy-trading features
- XTB – Great Balance of Low-Cost Trading and Educational Tools
- Saxo – Extensive global markets and investment products access
- Plus500 – Intuitive app with a wide range of instruments
- Pepperstone – Competitive pricing for Forex and CFD traders
IG - Broad market access with advanced trading tools
What Do Our Experts Say?
IG offers a broad spectrum of markets to trade on and boasts excellent educational content, making it ideal for traders of all levels. It stands out with its extensive market access and robust trading tools.
Pros & Cons
- Commission-Free Stock and ETF CFDs: Trade thousands of global equities and ETFs with 0% commission.
- Powerful Proprietary Platform (xStation 5): Offers fast execution, advanced charting tools, and in-platform market insights.
- No Minimum Deposit: Start trading without needing to fund a specific amount upfront.
- Limited Access to Physical Assets: While XTB excels with CFDs, access to real shares and ETFs is restricted or unavailable in some regions.
- No Support for MetaTrader 4 (MT4): Traders who rely on the popular MT4 platform will need to adapt to XTB’s proprietary xStation, as MT4 is no longer supported.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: £0 on UK and US share trades for active users (3+ trades per month); otherwise £8 for UK shares and $10 for US shares.
• Fees: No platform fee for share dealing accounts if you trade regularly; otherwise £24/quarter inactivity fee.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 for share dealing; £250 for MetaTrader and margin accounts.
• Spread: Not applicable for share dealing; standard market prices apply.
Trade UK and global shares directly through IG’s intuitive mobile app, backed by the power of its desktop platform. Access real-time pricing, market news, price alerts, and detailed stock charts. IG’s mobile app also supports watchlists, advanced order types, and integrated news feeds, making it ideal for active investors and traders alike.
Account Types: Share dealing, ISA, SIPP (via IG Smart Portfolio), CFD trading, Spread betting, Professional account.
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.
SpreadEX - Best Choice for Intermediate Traders
What Do Our Experts Say?
SpreadEX is a UK-based financial trading platform that offers a range of services, including spread betting, contracts for difference (CFDs), and fixed-odds betting across various markets. This comprehensive platform caters to different trading preferences and provides users with diverse opportunities in the financial markets.
Pros & Cons
- Wide Range of Markets: Access to forex, indices, shares, and commodities.
- Tax-Free Trading: Spread betting profits are exempt from CGT and stamp duty in the UK.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Sophisticated charting and technical analysis features.
- Regulated Platform: Fully authorised and regulated by the FCA.
- Leveraged Only: No ISAs or non-leveraged investment accounts.
- Inactivity Fees: Charges apply if the account is left dormant.
- Restricted Access: Some services limited to UK and Ireland residents.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission – all costs are included in the spread for spread betting and CFDs.
• Fees: No platform fees and no inactivity fees, making it cost-effective for casual and active traders alike.
• Minimum Deposit: £1 – very low entry barrier to get started.
• Spread: Fixed or variable spreads depending on the asset; competitive spreads on UK shares.
Spreadex offers a user-friendly mobile app with access to UK and global equities, indices, forex, and commodities via spread betting or CFDs. The app supports custom watchlists, detailed charting, and live market updates. Known for fixed spreads, no commission, and highly rated customer support, it’s ideal for traders who prefer simplicity and fixed-cost trading.
Account Types: Spread betting, CFD trading, Professional account.
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.
eToro - Social trading app with copy-trading features
What Do Our Experts Say?
SpreadEX is a UK-based financial trading platform that offers a range of services, including spread betting, contracts for difference (CFDs), and fixed-odds betting across various markets. This comprehensive platform caters to different trading preferences and provides users with diverse opportunities in the financial markets.
Pros & Cons
- Social Trading: Unique copy-trading feature for following top traders.
- Cryptocurrency Range: Wide selection of cryptocurrencies alongside traditional assets.
- Free Stock Trading: Zero-commission stock trading available.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive platform design for beginners and pros alike.
- Withdrawal Fees: Flat fee applied to withdrawals.
- Spread Costs: Higher spreads on certain assets.
- Limited Tools: Basic technical analysis tools for advanced traders.
- Regulatory Restrictions: Product restrictions in some countries.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission on real stock trading (UK, US, and global markets).
• Fees: No platform fee; $10/month inactivity fee after 12 months of no login. $5 withdrawal fee applies.
• Minimum Deposit: $50 (approx. £40, varies slightly with exchange rate and region).
• Spread: Applies only to CFDs and crypto – not to real stock investments.
eToro’s app combines commission-free stock trading with social investing features, letting users copy top investors or share insights. Access thousands of global stocks, ETFs, and crypto assets all in one place. The app includes real-time charts, news, and a sleek, beginner-friendly interface—ideal for both casual investors and those looking to learn by following others.
Account Types: General investment, CFD trading, Copy trading, Crypto wallet. (Note: No ISA or SIPP options.)
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.
XTB – Low-Cost Trading and Educational Tools
What Do Our Experts Say?
XTB combines low-cost trading with an intuitive platform, making it a strong choice for both beginners and experienced traders. It offers a good mix of CFDs on stocks, forex, indices, and commodities, backed by a wealth of educational content and in-depth market analysis.
Pros & Cons
- Low-Cost Trading: Competitive spreads and zero commissions on real stock and ETF trades.
- xStation Platform: Fast, user-friendly platform with powerful built-in tools.
- Educational Hub: Extensive library of webinars, courses, and trading guides.
- Regulated Broker: FCA-licensed with strong oversight and investor protection.
CFD Focus: Limited availability of direct asset ownership beyond stocks/ETFs.
Limited Product Depth: Fewer exotic instruments compared to larger platforms.
No MT4/MT5: Does not support MetaTrader platforms.
Weekend Support: Customer service hours are limited outside of market days.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission on stock and ETF CFDs (up to €100,000/month; 0.2% thereafter, min €10).
• Fees: No platform fee; inactivity fee of €10/month after 12 months with no trading.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum required to open or fund your account.
• Spread: Competitive spreads from 0.1 pips on major forex pairs; market prices apply for stocks.
XTB’s xStation mobile app offers fast, intuitive access to 2,100+ instruments, including shares, ETFs, indices, commodities, and forex. The app features real-time charts, integrated news, economic calendars, and powerful trading tools—all wrapped in a clean and beginner-friendly interface. XTB is also known for its strong educational resources and fast execution.
Account Types: CFD trading, General investment (for stocks/ETFs), Professional account. (No ISA or SIPP options.)
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.
Saxo - Extensive global markets and investment products access
What Do Our Experts Say?
Saxo is a global leader in online trading, providing sophisticated investment tools and a vast selection of international markets. It’s known for its professional-grade technology and extensive research resources, making it a powerhouse for serious investors.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive Product Range: Access to over 35,000 instruments.
- Advanced Tools: Professional charting and trading tools.
- Research Resources: In-depth market analysis and insights.
- Global Access: Trading on 36 international exchanges.
- Intended for Experienced Traders: May be overwhelming for beginners.
- Complex Interface: Steep learning curve.
- Commission Payable: Not the cheapest on the market, despite recent fee reductions.
- Less Beginner-Friendly: Designed with professionals in mind.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: From £3 per UK stock trade (Classic account); lower rates with higher-tier accounts.
• Fees: £25 inactivity fee per quarter (Classic account only). No platform fee on SaxoInvestor; fees may apply on advanced platforms.
• Minimum Deposit: £500 for Classic account (higher for Platinum and VIP tiers).
• Spread: Market spreads for shares; tight spreads for forex and other leveraged products.
Saxo’s mobile app delivers institutional-grade trading access with a focus on global stocks, ETFs, bonds, and leveraged products. Choose from SaxoInvestor (for casual investors) or SaxoTraderGO (for advanced users). Includes professional tools, in-depth research, custom watchlists, and multi-asset charting. Ideal for serious investors seeking premium market access and low-latency execution.
Account Types: General investment, ISA, SIPP, CFD trading, Professional account.
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.
Plus500 - Intuitive app with a wide range of instruments
What Do Our Experts Say?
Plus500 is a streamlined CFD trading app that offers a wide range of instruments with a simple and clear interface. It caters to traders looking for a fuss-free experience with competitive spreads.
Pros & Cons
- Simple Platform: Easy-to-navigate trading platform.
- Risk Management: Integrated tools to control risk.
- No Commission: Trading without commission fees.
- Comprehensive Instruments: Access to numerous trading instruments.
- Limited Analysis Tools: Basic charting and analysis features.
- Closed Ecosystem: No direct market access or MT4/5 integration.
- Customer Support: Support options may be limited compared to other brokers.
- CFD-centric: Focus primarily on CFDs, which may not be suitable for all investors.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: 0% commission – all costs are built into the spread (CFD trading only).
• Fees: No platform fee; inactivity fee of up to $10/month after 3 months of no login. Currency conversion and overnight funding fees may apply.
• Minimum Deposit: £100 (varies slightly by funding method).
• Spread: Variable spreads – competitive on major instruments like UK100 or EUR/USD.
Plus500 offers a sleek, easy-to-use app designed specifically for CFD trading across shares, ETFs, forex, commodities, indices, and crypto. The platform includes real-time charts, risk management tools like guaranteed stop-loss orders, and a clean interface tailored for mobile users. Regulated by the FCA, it’s best for traders who want simplicity and fast access to global markets.
Account Types: CFD trading, Professional account. (Note: No share dealing, ISA, or SIPP options.)
80% 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 - Competitive pricing for Forex and CFD traders
What Do Our Experts Say?
Pepperstone is renowned for its lightning-fast execution and low-cost pricing in Forex and CFD trading. It’s favored by both new and experienced traders for its exceptional customer service and user-friendly interface.
Pros & Cons
- Low Costs: Competitive spreads and low commissions.
- Fast Execution: Quick execution speeds minimise slippage.
- Customer Service: Award-winning customer support.
- Platform Choices: Multiple trading platforms, including MT4/5.
- Product Limitations: Limited product range outside of Forex/CFDs.
- Research Depth: Research tools could be more comprehensive.
- Variable Spreads: Spreads can widen significantly during volatility.
-
What are the Fees?
-
What Key Features are Available?
-
What Account Types are Available?
• Commission: From £2.25 per side per lot (Razor account); 0% commission on Standard account (spread-only).
• Fees: No platform fees and no inactivity fees, making it ideal for both active and occasional traders.
• Minimum Deposit: £0 – no minimum required to open an account.
• Spread: From 0.0 pips on Razor account for major forex pairs; slightly wider spreads on Standard.
Pepperstone’s mobile platforms—MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader—offer low-cost, high-speed trading with institutional-grade execution. Access over 1,200 instruments, including forex, indices, shares, commodities, and ETFs. The app experience includes fast order execution, deep liquidity, and integration with automated trading tools—ideal for scalpers and algorithmic traders.
Account Types: CFD trading, Razor account, Standard account, Professional account.
80% 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 to Choose the Right Stock Trading App in the UK
Picking the right stock trading app is about finding a platform that fits your unique trading style, goals, and comfort with risk. Here’s what to consider before you commit.
1. Your Strategy Trading Strategy
Are you investing for the long term or trading more actively? Apps like Saxo offer advanced tools and broad market access for experienced investors, while XTB is better suited for beginners with its user-friendly layout. If you’re not sure where to start, eToro’s copy trading feature is great for learning from others while managing risk.
2. Keep an Eye Out for Useful Educational Tools, Not Just a Pretty Interface
A good app should be intuitive but also functional. IG stands out for its clean design and efficient execution. If technical analysis is your thing, some platforms offer solid charting tools, real-time data, and plenty of indicators to support smarter trading decisions.
3. Make Sure to Compare Costs and Value
Low fees are great, but they’re not the whole story. Apps like Plus500 and eToro are known for transparent pricing. Saxo might charge more, but it delivers top-tier tools and research in return. Always balance cost with the service you are receiving.
4. Customer Support Matters — A Lot
When things go sideways, good customer support can be the difference between a quick solution and hours of troubleshooting. Pepperstone earns praise among users for responsive service, with live chat, phone, and email options. However, don’t just look at support hours—read real customer reviews. A helpful, knowledgeable team can save you time, money, and stress.
Bottom line: The best trading app for you depends on what you need most—be it tools, fees, usability, or service. Do your research, test a few apps, and pick one that feels like a natural fit for your trading journey.
What is Leverage in Trading?
Leverage allows traders to amplify their exposure to financial markets using borrowed capital from their broker. While leverage can increase potential profits, it also magnifies losses, making risk management essential.
Example: With 10:1 leverage, a trader with £1,000 can control a £10,000 position in the market.
What are the ESMA Leverage Limits for UK & EU Traders?
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) enforces strict leverage caps on CFD trading to protect retail investors. These limits apply to UK traders using FCA-regulated brokers:
| Asset Class | Maximum Leverage (Retail Traders) |
|---|---|
| Major Forex Pairs | 01:30 |
| Minor/Exotic Forex Pairs, Gold, Major Indices | 01:20 |
| Commodities (Excl. Gold) & Minor Indices | 01:10 |
| Stocks & ETFs | 01:05 |
| Cryptocurrencies | 01:02 |
Professional traders (who meet broker criteria) can access higher leverage (e.g., 1:500), but this comes with fewer regulatory protections.
Key Tip: Many unregulated offshore brokers offer higher leverage, but they lack FCA protection—exercise caution before choosing a high-leverage broker.
Can I Access International Markets on These Apps?
Investing globally is a smart way to diversify and reduce risk. The right stock trading app gives you access to international markets—so you’re not tied to the UK economy alone.
Which Apps Offer Global Market Access?
eToro and Saxo are solid options for international equities, indices, and forex.
Before signing up, check that the app includes the asset classes and countries you want to trade—stocks, commodities, currencies, or all three.
Trading internationally usually involves currency conversion. Apps like XTB offer competitive exchange rates, but don’t overlook conversion fees—they can quietly eat into profits, especially if you’re trading frequently.
Global markets offer diversification and broader growth potential. You should choose a platform with wide access, transparent fees, and reliable support so you can trade internationally with confidence.
Why Does Global Trading Matter?
Spreading your portfolio across different regions helps protect against local downturns.
- Saxo offers access to US, European, and Asian stocks, funds, and ETFs.
- IG also provides strong global coverage—ideal for tapping into growth in emerging and developed economies alike.
How is Stock Trading Taxed and Regulated in the UK?
If you’re trading stocks in the UK, knowing how taxes and regulations work is essential for compliance—and smart portfolio management.
Stock Trading Taxes: What You Need to Know
- Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies when you sell shares for a profit above the annual CGT allowance.
- Dividends are also taxable once they exceed the Dividend Allowance, with the rate depending on your income tax band.
Who Regulates the Market?
- The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates trading platforms, ensuring investor protection and fair practice.
- HMRC handles taxation. If you’re earning capital gains or dividends, you’re responsible for filing via Self-Assessment.
Reporting and Optimising Your Taxes
- Keep clear records of trades—losses can offset gains and reduce your tax bill.
- Tax-efficient investments like EIS or VCT shares may offer valuable reliefs.
Quick tip: Stick with FCA-regulated platforms, stay organised with your records, and take advantage of available allowances. Smart compliance can boost your long-term returns.
What Fees Are Charged by Stock Trading Apps?
Fees can make or break your trading performance—especially if you trade frequently. Knowing what to expect (and how to reduce costs) is key to protecting your profits.
Common Trading App Fees
- Commission Fees: Some apps offer zero-commission trades, while others charge a fixed amount or a percentage of your trade.
- Spreads: This is the hidden cost—it’s the gap between the buy and sell price. Platforms like Pepperstone offer tight spreads, but they vary by asset and market conditions.
- Overnight (Swap) Fees: If you hold a leveraged position overnight, you’ll often pay interest. These fees add up quickly if you’re not actively managing your trades.
How Fees Impact Your Returns
Even small fees can snowball over time. Use built-in fee calculators where available to see how commissions, spreads, and swaps affect your overall performance—especially important for active traders.
Tips to Reduce Fees
- Choose a platform with a fee model that fits your strategy.
- Use limit orders to control entry points and avoid slippage during volatility.
- Look for fee-free offers or promotions—many apps run them.
- Use tax-efficient accounts like ISAs or SIPPs where available to reduce tax on gains.
The best app isn’t always the cheapest—but the one that matches your trading style and keeps costs transparent. Being fee-aware is a simple way to boost your long-term returns.
| Fee Type | Description | Example Brokers | How to Minimise Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commission Fees | Charged per trade execution, either fixed or percentage | IG, Saxo, Interactive Brokers | Choose zero-commission brokers like eToro |
| Spread | Difference between bid and ask price | Pepperstone, CMC Markets | Use limit orders to avoid wider spreads during volatility |
| Overnight Fees | Charged for holding leveraged positions overnight | Pepperstone, Plus500 | Close trades before market close if possible |
| Inactivity Fees | Applied after a period of no trading | IG, Saxo Bank | Stay active or choose brokers with no inactivity fee |
| Withdrawal Fees | Fees for withdrawing funds from the platform | eToro ($5), Saxo Bank | Use brokers with free withdrawals |
| Deposit Fees | Charged for funding your trading account | Interactive Brokers | Choose fee-free deposit methods |
| FX Conversion Fees | Applied when trading assets in a different currency | IG, Interactive Brokers | Trade in your base currency when possible |
| Market Data Fees | Subscription for real-time data | Saxo Bank, Interactive Brokers | Some brokers offer free real-time data |
What Account Types Are Available on UK Trading Apps?
Modern trading apps offer more than just one-size-fits-all accounts. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a high-volume portfolio, there’s likely an account tailored to your needs.
Demo Accounts for Practice
Are you starting out on Trading Apps? Start with a demo account. Apps like eToro, Saxo and Plus500 let you trade with virtual funds in live market conditions — these tools are perfect for building confidence and testing strategies without risking real money.
Standard and Professional Accounts
Most traders begin with a standard account, which gives access to core features and markets. For more experienced traders, professional accounts offer perks like higher leverage. However, these accounts come with extra risk and require proof of trading experience and financial stability.
Margin and Retirement Accounts
Margin accounts let you trade with borrowed funds, amplifying potential gains—and losses. Brokers like Saxo and Pepperstone support margin trading, but make sure you understand the risks before using leverage .
For long-term investors, some platforms offer SIPP accounts (Self-Invested Personal Pensions), which allow for tax-efficient retirement investing in shares, funds, and more. Tax relief and tax-free growth are key benefits here.
How Safe Are Trading Apps in the UK?
UK trading apps are tightly regulated—especially those FCA-registered. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) enforces stringent rules to ensure platforms protect your personal and financial data.
Trusted apps use industry-leading security measures like encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure login protocols. When choosing a provider, do your due diligence. Stick with reputable platforms that clearly state their regulatory status and prioritise a secure trading environment.
So remember, whether you’re after a simple practice account, professional-level tools, or a retirement-focused portfolio, the trading apps available in the UK these days offer plenty of flexible options—just make sure the platform is safe, regulated, and aligned with your goals.
How We Tested These Trading Apps
| Test Category | What We Assess | Key Findings |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Performance | Speed, stability, device compatibility | IG & eToro offer smooth multi-device transitions |
| Demo Accounts | Order execution, market accuracy, usability | IG provide full demo access; Saxo limits demo use |
| Research & Trading Tools | Charting, news, AI insights, alerts | IG & Saxo excel in deep market research |
| Security & Regulation | FCA licensing, 2FA, risk controls | Pepperstone & Plus500 offer strong risk management |
| Fees & Execution Speed | Spreads, commissions, slippage | Pepperstone provides low spreads; Plus500 has wider spreads despite zero-commission trading |
Detailed Breakdown of Our Testing Process
We evaluated each trading platform across five key categories to ensure performance, reliability, and user experience.
- Platform compatibility was tested on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, with IG and eToro standing out for seamless switching and speed, while some mobile apps lacked full desktop features.
- Demo accounts were reviewed for risk-free strategy testing—IG and eToro impressed with realistic market conditions, though Saxo limits access without funding.
- Security and regulation were verified via FCA registration, FSCS protection, encryption, and two-factor authentication; Pepperstone and Plus500 ranked highest, though a few lacked guaranteed stop-loss options.
- Lastly, we analysed fees, spreads, and execution speed—Pepperstone delivered consistently low spreads and fast execution, while Plus500’s zero-commission model came with wider spreads, especially during high volatility.
Final Thoughts: What are the Best Stock Trading Apps in the UK?
In 2025, choosing the right stock trading app in the UK comes down to your personal financial goals, experience, and trading style. Whether you’re in the market for global market access, low fees, strong security, or top-tier tools, there’s an app out there that fits the bill. Stick with FCA-regulated providers, understand the costs, and take advantage of the features that align with your strategy. With the right app, you’ll be better equipped to trade with confidence in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
What are the top UK stock trading apps?
The top UK stock trading apps include IG, SpreadEX and eToro. They offer a range of tools and access to various markets, making it convenient for users to trade stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and more.
Is my investment protected under the FSCS?
Yes, investments made through UK stock trading apps are typically protected up to a certain limit under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Can I access the London Stock Exchange through these apps?
Yes, many of the apps we compared provide direct access to the London Stock Exchange, allowing you to buy and sell investments such as shares, bonds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
What fees should I be aware of when I use an app?
You may encounter fees such as commission charges, spread costs, and possibly a foreign exchange fee if you’re trading in a currency other than the British Pound.
What is the Best Trading App for Beginners?
The best trading app for beginners is eToro. It offers a user-friendly interface, commission-free stock trading, and the CopyTrader™ feature. With FCA regulation, a demo account, and an intuitive mobile app, eToro makes trading accessible and easy to learn.
References
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Register of regulated firms
- GOV.UK – Capital Gains Tax
- GOV.UK – Dividend Tax
- IG Group – Share Dealing Overview
- SpreadEX – Trading Platform Details
- eToro – Social and Copy Trading Explained
- Saxo Markets UK – Product and Account Offering
- Plus500 – Fees and Market Access
- Pepperstone – Trading Conditions and Account Types
- London Stock Exchange – Accessing International Markets
You May Also Like
71% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.
Our #1 Recommended for Pro-level Tools
