The best UK investment apps make it easy to buy shares, ETFs, and funds from your phone.
Each platform we feature is FCA-regulated, low-fee, and available on iOS and Android.
We’ve ranked them by costs, usability, and investment choice to help you find the right app for your goals.
Quick answer: What are the best investment apps in the UK?
The best UK investment apps are eToro for social trading and multi-asset investing, XTB for its powerful trading tools and education, and IG for experienced investors who want a comprehensive, FCA-regulated platform. Each offers low fees, secure accounts, and user-friendly mobile apps.
6 best investing apps in the UK ranked
Here’s a quick list of the best UK investment apps, ranked through our hands-on testing and analysis:
Your capital is at risk.
- eToro – Best for beginners
- XTB – Best for low-cost investments and advanced tools
- IG – Best for smart portfolios
- Plus500 – One of the best for CFD trading
- InvestEngine – Best for ETFs
- Trading 212 – Best for zero-commission investing
Best UK investment apps compared
Here, we’ve compared the top investment apps using four key criteria every investor should consider.
| Rank | Investment app | Type | Minimum deposit | Trading fees | Types of investments | ISAs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eToro | Investment platform | $50 | £0 (zero commission for real stocks and ETF trades) | Stocks, indices, ETFs, currencies, commodities, crypto | Yes, with Moneyfarm |
| 2 | XTB | Investment Platform | £0 | Commission-free trading equivalent of up to €100,000 monthly turnover; above this, 0.2% (min. £10); 0.5% currency conversion fee may apply | Stocks, ETFs, CFDs on forex, commodities, indices | Yes |
| 3 | IG | Investment platform | £250 | 0.50% (Managed) | Real stocks & ETFs, exchange-traded securities, CFDs (currency pairs, stock indices, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto, bonds, and futures) | Yes |
| 4 | Plus500 | Trading platform | £100 | Fees are built into the spread | Forex, commodities, indices, options, stocks, ETFs | No |
| 5 | InvestEngine | Investment (ETF) platform | £100 | £0 (DIY) 0.25% (Managed) | Investment funds | Yes |
| 6 | Trading 212 | Investment & trading app | £1 | £0 | Stocks, ETFs, CFDs, forex | Yes |
UK investment app reviews
Mobile investing has transformed how people manage their money, giving everyday investors more control and flexibility.
With experience in the UK retail investment space and hands-on testing across leading platforms, we’ve identified the best investment apps in the UK using four key criteria:
- Minimum deposit
- Trading fees
- Investment types
- ISA availability
We also assessed usability, educational tools, and extra features that help users make informed decisions. Every app listed is available on iOS and Android, and fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for security and transparency.
You can read about how we test platforms here.
This article was reviewed by Tobi Opeyemi Amure, an investing expert and writer at Investopedia, Investing.com, and Trading.biz.
1. eToro – Overall best
Is eToro a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. eToro is one of the best investment apps in the UK, particularly for beginners. It’s FCA-regulated (FRN 583263), offers commission-free trading on real stocks and ETFs, and supports a broad mix of stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, and 70+ cryptocurrencies from one dashboard.
eToro also provides Smart Portfolios curated by analysts and a stocks and shares ISA via Moneyfarm, helping investors grow wealth tax-efficiently. Its mobile and web platforms are intuitive, while the CopyTrader™ feature makes it easy to follow top investors and mirror their trades automatically.
eToro key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | $50 |
| Trading fees | £0 (zero commission for real stocks and ETFs) |
| Investment types | Stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, crypto |
| ISA | Yes, with Moneyfarm |
| Other fees | $5 withdrawal fee, $10 inactivity fee, FX conversion fees |
How much does it cost to invest with eToro?
eToro offers £0 commission on stock and ETF investing and no platform or custody fees. The minimum deposit is $50, making it accessible for most beginners.
Extra costs include:
- $5 withdrawal fee
- $10 inactivity fee after 12 months
- Currency conversion fees for non-USD deposits or withdrawals
Compared with traditional brokers such as Hargreaves Lansdown (£11.95 per trade) or AJ Bell (£5 per trade), eToro offers one of the lowest-cost entry points to investing.
What investment options does eToro offer?
eToro gives users access to a wide range of markets, including:
- Real stocks and ETFs
- Commodities and indices
- Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana
- Smart Portfolios for passive, theme-based investing
The main drawback is the absence of mutual funds, bonds, or investment trusts, which may limit options for long-term investors.
Is eToro safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. eToro is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and client funds are protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) for up to £85,000.
The platform uses two-factor authentication, encryption, and segregated accounts at tier-one banks to protect user funds and data.
What features make eToro stand out?
- CopyTrader™ lets you mirror the portfolios of successful traders
- Smart Portfolios offer expert-curated, diversified investment themes
- Earn up to 5.3% interest on uninvested cash balances
- Over 100 charting tools and indicators on mobile
- ISA integration with Moneyfarm for tax-efficient investing
These features make eToro ideal for beginners seeking simplicity and for active users exploring both traditional and crypto markets.
Who is eToro best suited for?
eToro suits beginners and social investors who want a user-friendly, all-in-one investing experience. It’s also great for those who want to learn by following others or use ready-made portfolios.
However, if your goal is long-term investing in mutual funds, bonds, or pensions (SIPPs), you may prefer Vanguard, AJ Bell, or Interactive Investor.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Commission-free stock and ETF investing | $5 withdrawal fee |
| CopyTrader™ and Smart Portfolios | No mutual funds or bonds |
| FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected | Currency conversion fees |
| Beginner-friendly mobile and web apps | No SIPP option |
| ISA available through Moneyfarm | Better for active traders than buy-and-hold investors |
Verdict
eToro is one of the most accessible and innovative investment apps in the UK. Its low costs, FCA regulation, and social trading features make it a strong choice for new investors wanting both simplicity and flexibility in one platform.
Read our eToro review.
61% 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. Other fees apply. Your capital is at risk. For more information, click here.
2. XTB – Best for low-cost investments and advanced tools
Is XTB a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. XTB is one of the best low-cost investment apps in the UK, offering commission-free stock and ETF trading for portfolios under €100,000 per month and a robust platform designed for both beginners and experienced investors.
It’s FCA-regulated (Licence 522157), provides access to over 6,900 instruments, and supports a Flexible Stocks and Shares ISA with 4.5% interest on uninvested GBP funds.
The platform’s xStation 5 is one of the most advanced proprietary trading systems available, offering professional-grade features such as real-time sentiment analysis, performance heatmaps, and economic calendars, all within a user-friendly interface.
XTB key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | Commission-free up to €100,000/month; after that, 0.2% fee (min £10) |
| Investment types | Forex, commodities, stocks, indices, ETFs, CFDs |
| ISA | Yes, Flexible Stocks and Shares ISA |
| Other fees | 0.5% FX conversion fee, €10/month inactivity fee after 12 months, £5 withdrawal fee for amounts under £50 |
How much does it cost to invest with XTB?
XTB’s biggest advantage is cost. Trading stocks and ETFs is commission-free up to €100,000 per month, and there are no account, deposit, or withdrawal fees for most transactions. The platform also avoids the typical platform or custody fees that traditional UK brokers charge.
Additional costs include:
- 0.2% commission on trades over €100,000 (minimum £10)
- 0.5% FX fee for trading in non-GBP currencies
- €10 inactivity fee after 12 months of no trading activity
- £5 withdrawal fee for withdrawals under £50
These low and transparent costs make XTB especially appealing to active UK investors who want to avoid recurring charges and high brokerage fees.
What investment options does XTB offer?
XTB provides access to over 6,900 global instruments, including:
- 6,600+ stocks from 14 major exchanges (LSE, NYSE, NASDAQ, Deutsche Börse, etc.)
- 1,800+ ETFs with Investment Plan options
- CFDs on forex, commodities, and indices
However, XTB does not offer crypto trading, mutual funds, or bonds, making it less suitable for those seeking broader diversification or retirement-focused portfolios.
The Investment Plans feature lets you build your own ETF-based portfolio based on risk tolerance, industry, or theme. It’s free to create and manage, and you can hold up to 10 plans simultaneously.
Is XTB safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. XTB is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and offers FSCS protection up to £85,000. Client funds are held in segregated accounts at reputable financial institutions, and negative balance protection ensures you never lose more than your initial deposit.
The platform also uses two-factor authentication (2FA) and complies with MiFID II regulations for added investor security.
What features make XTB stand out?
- Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs under €100,000 per month
- xStation 5 platform, one of the most advanced trading interfaces on the market
- 4.5% interest on uninvested GBP funds (3.95% USD, 2.3% EUR)
- Flexible Stocks and Shares ISA with no platform or trading fees
- Free demo account with £100,000 in virtual funds
- Extensive educational content via XTB Academy
- Dedicated account managers and responsive customer service
These features make XTB one of the best choices for cost-conscious investors who value education, active trading tools, and tax-efficient investing options.
Who is XTB best suited for?
XTB is ideal for beginner and intermediate investors who want to trade stocks and ETFs at low cost, while accessing a professional-level trading environment. It’s also suited for those who value educational resources and a flexible ISA structure.
However, the absence of crypto, mutual funds, and SIPPs makes it less appealing for long-term or retirement-focused investors. Users new to investing may also find xStation 5 slightly complex at first compared to simpler apps like Trading 212 or Freetrade.
XTB pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs up to €100,000/month | 0.2% fee applies above €100,000/month (min £10) |
| £0 minimum deposit | 0.5% FX conversion on non-GBP trades |
| 4.5% interest on uninvested GBP funds | €10 inactivity fee after 12 months |
| Powerful, intuitive xStation 5 platform | No SIPP, mutual funds, or bonds |
| Flexible Stocks and Shares ISA | No cryptocurrency trading |
| Extensive educational tools and webinars | Platform can feel complex for beginners |
Verdict
XTB combines low fees, strong regulation, and professional-grade tools in one platform, making it one of the most compelling choices for UK investors in 2025. Its commission-free structure, ISA availability, and interest on uninvested funds provide excellent value for both active and passive investors.
While the lack of crypto and bonds may deter some users, XTB remains a top pick for cost-efficient share and ETF investing.
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
3. IG – Best for smart portfolios
Is IG a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. IG is a feature-rich, FCA-regulated platform that suits active investors and hands-off savers. You get commission-free share dealing on major markets, Smart Portfolios managed with BlackRock, an ISA and SIPP, plus advanced tools for CFDs and spread betting. Education and market data are among the best in class.
IG key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform and broker |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on UK, US, EU, AU shares. 0.7% FX fee on international shares. Smart Portfolios 0.50% management plus ~0.13% fund costs. Crypto 1.49% per trade. |
| Investment types | Shares, ETFs, investment trusts, CFDs, spread betting, forex, crypto via partner |
| ISA / SIPP | Yes to both, flexible Stocks and Shares ISA, flat-fee SIPP (£210 a year) |
| Other fees | £8/month custody unless 3+ trades per quarter or £15k in Smart Portfolio. Stamp duty 0.5% on most UK shares. £1.50 PTM levy on trades over £10k. ProRealTime £30/month unless sufficiently active. |
How much does it cost to invest with IG?
Share dealing is £0 commission on UK, US, EU, and Australian stocks. Expect a 0.7% FX fee for non-GBP trades. If you make fewer than three trades per quarter, IG charges a £8 monthly custody fee.
Smart Portfolios cost 0.50%, plus about 0.13% in underlying ETF costs, capped at £250 per year above certain thresholds. IG pays 4% interest on GBP cash up to £100k if you place at least one trade or hold an open position during the month.
What investment options does IG offer?
You can invest in 12,000+ shares and ETFs, plus investment trusts. Active traders can use CFDs, spread betting, and forex. Crypto buying is available within the app through a partner, fees apply, and crypto is not FCA-regulated. Bonds are not offered directly, you can access them via bond ETFs.
Is IG safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. IG is authorised and regulated by the FCA and eligible for FSCS protection up to £85,000 if the broker fails. Client money is held in segregated accounts. You also get negative balance protection for retail CFD accounts and guaranteed stop losses to help limit tail-risk.
What features make IG stand out?
- Smart Portfolios built with BlackRock iShares, clear fee structure
- Two mobile apps: IG Invest for simplicity, IG Trading for pro tools
- Deep research and education, IG Academy, daily live shows and webinars
- Powerful screeners and sentiment, plus ProRealTime for advanced charting
- Weekend trading on select markets, forex, indices, crypto, and gold
- 4% interest on eligible uninvested GBP balances, activity conditions apply
Who is IG best suited for?
IG suits experienced investors and frequent traders who want choice, data, and tools. It also works for hands-off investors using Smart Portfolios and for beginners who start on IG Invest. Casual investors with small balances who trade rarely may prefer a platform with no custody fee.
IG pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 commission on major market shares | £8/month custody unless active or £15k in Smart Portfolio |
| Smart Portfolios managed with BlackRock | 0.7% FX fee on international shares |
| ISA and flat-fee SIPP available | Bonds not offered directly |
| Top-tier education, screeners, and data | ProRealTime is £30/month unless active |
| 4% interest on uninvested GBP cash | Platform depth can feel complex for newcomers |
Verdict
IG combines low trading costs, broad market access, and best-in-class education. With Smart Portfolios, a strong ISA and SIPP offering, and advanced tools, it is a top pick for active traders and growth-minded investors who value research and flexibility.
Read our IG review.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
4. Plus500 – One of the best for CFD trading
Is Plus500 a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. Plus500 is a CFD-focused, FCA-regulated trading platform built for short-term traders who want low costs, tight spreads, and fast execution. You can trade 2,800+ CFD markets with risk tools like guaranteed stop-loss orders and negative balance protection. It is not designed for long-term investing or ISAs.
Plus500 key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Trading platform (CFDs) |
| Minimum deposit | £100 |
| Trading fees | No commission, fees are built into the spread |
| Investment types | Forex, commodities, indices, options, stocks, ETFs (all as CFDs) |
| ISA | No |
| Other fees | Inactivity ~$10/month after 3 months of no login, currency conversion up to ~0.70%, no deposit/withdrawal fees from Plus500 (provider fees may apply) |
How much does it cost to trade with Plus500?
There are no dealing commissions. Costs come from the spread, overnight funding, and currency conversion if you trade in a non-GBP currency. An inactivity fee applies after three months without login. Optional GSLOs carry an extra cost in return for guaranteed execution at your stop level.
What markets and products does Plus500 offer?
Trade CFDs on forex, indices, commodities, options, stocks, and ETFs. There is no direct share ownership, no ISA, and no Smart Portfolios. A free, unlimited demo account lets you practise strategies in real-time conditions.
Is Plus500 safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. Plus500UK Ltd is authorised and regulated by the FCA (FRN 509909). UK clients benefit from FSCS protection up to £85,000 if the firm fails. Client money is kept in segregated accounts. The platform uses SSL encryption and provides negative balance protection for retail CFD accounts.
What features make Plus500 stand out?
- Commission-free CFD trading across 2,800+ markets
- 110+ technical indicators and a clean, intuitive interface
- Risk tools including Guaranteed Stop-Loss Orders and price alerts
- Insights for sentiment, volatility, and trending assets
- Free lifetime demo account to learn and test strategies
- Fast withdrawals and broad payment support (cards, bank transfer, PayPal/Skrill)
Who is Plus500 best suited for?
Best for active CFD traders who want a simple, low-fee platform with strong risk management. Not ideal for long-term investors, anyone needing an ISA/SIPP, or traders who want deep research or social/copy trading.
Plus500 pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Commission-free dealing, costs in the spread | CFDs only, no direct share ownership |
| Easy-to-use web and mobile apps | No ISA/SIPP, not for long-term investing |
| 2,800+ CFD markets, 110+ indicators | Inactivity fee after 3 months |
| GSLOs and negative balance protection | Research and education are basic |
| Free, unlimited demo account | No social or copy-trading features |
Verdict
Plus500 is a strong choice for short-term CFD trading with tight spreads, robust risk controls, and a clean UI. If you need ISAs, long-term portfolios, or direct asset ownership, consider an investing app instead.
Read our Plus500 review.
5. InvestEngine – Best for ETFs
Is InvestEngine a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. InvestEngine is a specialist ETF platform that keeps costs low and the experience simple. You can build your own ETF portfolio for £0 platform and trading fees, or choose Managed portfolios for 0.25% a year. It supports ISA, SIPP, and GIA, so you can invest tax-efficiently.
InvestEngine key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment (ETF) platform |
| Minimum deposit | £100 |
| Trading fees | DIY: £0 platform and dealing fees. Managed: 0.25% annual fee |
| Investment types | ETFs only (equities, bonds, global, thematic, ESG) |
| ISA | Yes. Flexible Stocks and Shares ISA |
| SIPP | Yes. Self-Invested Personal Pension |
| Other notes | ETF provider costs still apply (typically ~0.10%–0.50%). No withdrawal fees. Business accounts available |
How much does it cost to invest with InvestEngine?
DIY portfolios have no platform fee and no dealing fees. You only pay each ETF’s ongoing fund charge. Managed portfolios cost 0.25% a year, plus the ETFs’ own costs (about ~0.12% on average). ISA and SIPP are free to open, and there are no withdrawal fees.
What investment options does InvestEngine offer?
InvestEngine focuses on ETFs. You can pick from 580+ ETFs across regions, sectors, bonds, and themes, or use Managed ready-made ETF portfolios matched to your risk level. Tools include risk profiling, rebalancing, and analytics that break holdings down by region, sector, and asset class.
Is InvestEngine safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. InvestEngine is authorised and regulated by the FCA. Eligible UK clients can have protection through the FSCS up to £85,000 in the event a regulated firm fails. Remember, market losses are not covered. Always check FCA regulation before opening an account.
What features make InvestEngine stand out?
- £0 fees for DIY ETF portfolios
- 0.25% Managed portfolios with automated rebalancing
- Flexible ISA and SIPP support for tax efficiency
- In-depth ETF analytics and simple portfolio tools
- Business accounts for company investors
- Clean, beginner-friendly app for long-term investing
Who is InvestEngine best suited for?
Best for beginners and long-term investors who want low-cost ETF portfolios and clear tools. It also suits cost-focused DIY investors and those who want a hands-off Managed option. It is not for people who want individual shares, funds beyond ETFs, or CFDs.
InvestEngine pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 platform and dealing fees for DIY | ETFs only, no individual shares |
| 0.25% fee for Managed portfolios | No advanced trading tools or CFDs |
| ISA, SIPP, and GIA supported | Limited research versus full-service brokers |
| Strong ETF analytics and rebalancing | Minimum deposit £100 |
| Business accounts available | Promotions may vary and change |
Verdict
InvestEngine delivers ultra-low-cost ETF investing with a simple app and ISA/SIPP support. If you want diversified, long-term portfolios without stock-picking or high fees, it is one of the best ETF platforms in the UK.
Read our InvestEngine review.
6. Trading 212 – Best for zero-commission investing
Is Trading 212 a good investment app for UK investors?
Yes. Trading 212 is a zero-commission, FCA-regulated app that’s ideal for low-cost investing in stocks, ETFs and investment trusts. You can start from £1, use fractional shares, hold multiple currencies, and invest via a flexible Stocks & Shares ISA. Research is basic, and there’s no SIPP or mutual funds.
Trading 212 key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment & trading app |
| Minimum deposit | £1 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission and £0 platform fees |
| FX fee | 0.15% on foreign trades (buy and sell) |
| Investment types | Stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, CFDs, forex |
| ISA | Yes (flexible Stocks & Shares ISA; Cash ISA also available) |
| SIPP | No |
| Other notes | 4.05% interest on GBP cash (enable in app). No withdrawal or inactivity fees. Practice (demo) account available |
How much does it cost to invest with Trading 212?
Share and ETF dealing is £0 commission with no platform or custody fees. The main charge is the 0.15% FX fee when trading overseas securities. There’s no withdrawal fee and no inactivity fee. UK stamp duty (0.5%) applies when buying most UK shares; ETFs are typically stamp-duty-free.
What investment options does Trading 212 offer?
Access ~12,000+ instruments across global shares, ETFs and investment trusts. You can buy fractional shares from £1 and build or copy Model Pies for automated allocations. There are no mutual funds or bonds, and no direct crypto (crypto ETNs may be available, check in-app).
Is Trading 212 safe and FCA-regulated?
Yes. Trading 212 is authorised and regulated by the FCA and eligible accounts benefit from FSCS protection up to £85,000 in the event of firm failure. Client money is kept in segregated accounts. Remember, market losses are not covered by FSCS.
What features make Trading 212 stand out?
- £0 commission and fractional shares from £1
- Flexible ISA plus a Cash ISA option
- 4.05% interest on uninvested GBP cash (opt-in)
- Pies and auto-invest for scheduled contributions
- 50+ charting tools and clean mobile/web platforms
- Multi-currency balances to reduce repeat FX
Who is Trading 212 best suited for?
Best for beginners and fee-conscious investors who want simple, low-cost access to stocks and ETFs, plus a flexible ISA. Less suitable if you need SIPP, mutual funds, or deeper research and analyst tools.
Trading 212 pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 commission and £0 platform fees | No SIPP and no mutual funds or bonds |
| Fractional shares from £1 | Company-level research is basic |
| Flexible ISA and Cash ISA | Limited phone support; in-app chat instead |
| 4.05% GBP cash interest (opt-in) | Some chart limitations vs pro platforms |
| Multi-currency balances and auto-invest pies | 0.15% FX fee on overseas trades |
Verdict
Trading 212 delivers ultra-low-cost stock and ETF investing with a flexible ISA, fractional shares, and a user-friendly app. It’s one of the best zero-fee platforms for UK investors starting out or streamlining a buy-and-hold strategy, provided you don’t need a SIPP or mutual funds.
How to choose the best UK investment app
The best investment app for you depends on what, how, and how often you want to invest.
Start by checking FCA regulation, as only authorised platforms protect you under FSCS up to £85,000 if the broker fails. Then compare fees, account types, and usability based on your experience level and goals.
1. Check FCA regulation and safety
Always confirm that the platform is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures your funds are held in segregated accounts and protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Avoid unregulated apps or offshore brokers, especially for long-term investing.
2. Compare fees and charges
Look at trading commissions, FX conversion fees, and custody or inactivity charges.
- For zero-fee stock investing, apps like Trading 212 or eToro are popular.
- For ETF-based portfolios, InvestEngine and Moneybox offer low-cost, automated investing.
Even small fees can erode returns over time, so focus on total cost, not just per-trade fees.
3. Decide on DIY or managed investing
If you enjoy choosing investments yourself, a DIY platform like eToro, XTB, or Trading 212 gives full control.
If you prefer a hands-off approach, consider apps offering Managed portfolios or Smart Portfolios, such as IG (with BlackRock) or InvestEngine Managed (0.25% fee).
4. Consider tax-efficient accounts
Choose a platform that offers a Stocks & Shares ISA or SIPP if you want to reduce your tax bill.
- ISAs let you invest up to £20,000 tax-free each year.
- SIPPs are ideal for retirement, offering tax relief on contributions.
Platforms like IG, InvestEngine, and XTB all support ISAs, while IG also offers SIPPs.
5. Evaluate app usability and support
Pick a platform that’s easy to navigate, especially if you’re new to investing. Look for features like:
- Fractional shares (to invest small amounts)
- Demo accounts for practice
- Real-time data and responsive customer service
Apps like Trading 212 and eToro stand out for beginners, while XTB and IG cater to more active traders.
6. Match features to your goals
Before choosing, define what you want from investing:
- Long-term wealth growth: go for ETFs or managed portfolios.
- Short-term trading: choose a CFD or forex platform with advanced tools.
- Passive income: look for dividend or Smart Portfolio options.
Tip: Always read FCA disclosures and compare multiple apps before opening an account.
Online investing & investment apps are changing in 2025
Online investing in the UK is evolving fast, with more people managing portfolios through mobile apps.
In 2025, the rise of self-directed, low-cost investing is reshaping how Britons save and trade.
BoringMoney and Unbiased report that direct-to-consumer accounts have almost doubled since 2020.
Platforms like Trading 212, Freetrade, and InvestEngine now attract younger and lower-income investors through commission-free trading and fractional shares.
Sterling Savvy insights
Investment advice is becoming more social. Younger investors are turning to finfluencers and online communities for guidance, while traditional media plays a smaller role.
This shift highlights the need for educational tools and inclusive app design to close the gender investment gap, with fewer women investing than men.
Our predictions
1. Mobile investing will dominate: Apps will continue to lead as more users rely on phones to trade and manage money.
2. Alternative assets will grow: The digital asset market, projected at $7.38 billion, will drive interest in crypto and blockchain funds.
3. Regulation and IPOs will rise: Simpler UK listing rules may boost IPOs and attract new investors.
4. Financial education will expand: Apps that combine learning, social features, and FCA compliance will earn greater trust.
Overall, 2025 will bring more accessible and inclusive investing through better technology, stronger regulation, and smarter education.
Sources: BoringMoney, Unbiased, GrowthCapitalVentures, MorningStar
Final thoughts
Online investing in the UK is becoming more accessible, social, and mobile. Low-cost apps and smarter tools are giving investors more control than ever before.
For beginners, Trading 212 and eToro stand out for zero-commission trading and fractional shares. InvestEngine is ideal for long-term ETF investing, while IG and XTB offer advanced tools for active traders.
With strong FCA regulation, low fees, and better education, 2025 is shaping up as the best time yet to start investing confidently in the UK.
FAQs
What are the best free investment apps in the UK?
The best free investment apps in the UK are Trading 212, eToro, and Freetrade. All offer zero-commission trading, no platform fees, and FCA regulation, making them ideal for cost-conscious investors.
What is the best app to invest small amounts of money?
Trading 212 is best for small investments. You can start from £1 using fractional shares, so even beginners can buy into expensive stocks at low cost.
Do investing apps actually work?
Yes. Investing apps work the same way as traditional brokers, giving you access to stocks, ETFs, and funds via secure, FCA-regulated platforms. They also make it easier to track performance and automate investments.
What are the disadvantages of investment apps?
Disadvantages include limited investment options, basic research tools, and the risk of impulsive trading. Some apps also charge FX fees or restrict access to bonds and SIPPs.
What is the best investment app for beginners in the UK?
Trading 212 and eToro are best for beginners due to their simple design, demo accounts, and commission-free trades. InvestEngine is another great option for hands-off ETF investing.
What’s the best app to use for investments?
The best overall investment apps are Trading 212 for everyday investors, InvestEngine for long-term ETF portfolios, and IG or XTB for experienced traders who want advanced tools.
