The best investment platforms in the UK make it easy to buy and manage shares, ETFs, and funds in one secure place.
Whether you want a hands-off portfolio, low-cost trading, or advanced research tools, the right platform can help you grow your money efficiently and tax-free.
All platforms listed here are FCA-regulated, support GBP deposits, and offer options such as Stocks & Shares ISAs or SIPPs.
We’ve compared them by fees, investment range, usability, and account types to help you find the platform that fits your goals.
Quick answer: What are the best investment platforms in the UK?
In short, the best investment platforms in the UK are eToro, XTB, and IG. eToro stands out for its social investing tools and broad range of assets, making it ideal for beginners and active traders alike. XTB offers low-cost trading and excellent market analysis features, appealing to both new and experienced investors. IG delivers a comprehensive, professional-grade platform with access to thousands of markets, making it a top choice for serious investors seeking depth and reliability.
6 best UK investing platforms ranked
Here’s a quick list of the best UK investment platforms, ranked through our hands-on testing and analysis:
- eToro – Best for beginners
- XTB – Best for low-cost trading
- IG – Best for comprehensive market access
- Plus500 – One of the best for CFD trading
- interactive investor – Best for a large selection of assets
- InvestEngine – Best platform for ETF investing
Best UK investment platforms compared
Here, we’ve compared the top investment platforms using four key criteria every investor should review before choosing.
| Rank | Investment platform | Type | Minimum deposit | Investing/trading fees | Types of investments | ISAs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eToro | Investment platform | $50 | £0 | Stocks, indices, ETFs, currencies, commodities, crypto | Yes, with Moneyfarm |
| 2 | XTB | Investment platform | £0 | Commission-free trading up to €100,000 monthly turnover; above this, 0.2% (min. £10); 0.5% currency conversion fee may apply | Stocks, ETFs, Forex, indices, commodities | Yes |
| 3 | IG | Investment Platform | £0 | £0 commission on U.S. shares; £3 on UK shares (if more than 3 trades per month) | Stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, forex, cryptocurrencies | Yes |
| 4 | Plus500 | CFD Trading Platform | £100 | 0% | CFDs on Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Forex, Commodities, Cryptocurrencies | No |
| 5 | interactive investor | Investment platform | £0 | £3.99 | Stocks, funds, trusts, warrants, ETFs | Yes |
| 6 | InvestEngine | Investment (ETF) platform | £100 | £0 (DIY) 0.25% (Managed) | Investment funds | Yes |
Investment platform reviews
Recent data shows that around 42% of UK adults now invest, up from 36% in 20211, reflecting growing confidence in personal investing.
Choosing the right investment platform is key, especially for new investors entering the market.
Drawing on experience in the UK retail investment sector and time spent working with one of the country’s leading financial research firms, we’ve analysed and tested the most trusted platforms available today.
Our list of the best investment platforms in the UK is based on four core criteria:
- Minimum deposit
- Fees and charges
- Range of investments
- ISA availability
We also assessed usability, education tools, and extra features that help investors make informed decisions. All platforms featured are FCA-regulated, ensuring a high level of protection and transparency for UK investors.
You can read about how we test platforms here.
This article was reviewed by Tobi Opeyemi Amure, an investing expert and writer at Investopedia and Investing.com.
1. eToro – Best for beginners
Is eToro a good investment platform in the UK?
Yes. eToro is one of the best investment platforms in the UK, particularly for beginners and cost-conscious traders. It combines commission-free stock trading, a vibrant social trading community, and a modern app interface that’s easy to use on both mobile and desktop.
eToro is FCA-regulated, protects client funds under the FSCS (up to £85,000), and has built a strong reputation for accessibility, with more than 30 million registered users worldwide and an “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot.
eToro key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | $50 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on real stocks and ETFs |
| Investment types | Stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, commodities, crypto |
| ISA | Yes, via partnership with Moneyfarm |
| Other fees | $5 withdrawal fee, $10 inactivity fee, FX conversion charges |
What can you trade on eToro?
You can trade a wide range of stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, currencies, and cryptocurrencies. eToro offers both real asset investing and CFD trading, giving flexibility to short-term and long-term investors alike.
For hands-off investors, Smart Portfolios offer 40+ pre-built, theme-based options, designed and managed by eToro’s in-house analysts.
What is CopyTrader and how does it work?
CopyTrader™ is eToro’s flagship feature that allows users to automatically copy the trades of top-performing investors. It’s ideal for beginners who want to learn from experienced traders, though results are not guaranteed.
You can review a trader’s history, risk score, and strategy before copying, ensuring full transparency before you commit funds.
How much does eToro cost?
Trading real stocks and ETFs is commission-free, with no platform or custody fees. However, expect to pay a $5 withdrawal fee and a 0.5%–2% FX conversion when funding or withdrawing in GBP.
ISA accounts powered by Moneyfarm carry average management fees around 1%, making them better suited for investors with smaller portfolios.
Is eToro safe and FCA regulated?
Yes. eToro is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 583263) and provides FSCS protection up to £85,000. All client funds are kept in segregated bank accounts for extra security.
Two-factor authentication and data encryption are standard, offering strong protection for UK users.
Who is eToro best suited for?
eToro suits:
- Beginners looking for a simple and social way to invest
- Cost-conscious investors who want to avoid trading fees
- Short-term traders interested in stocks, crypto, or CFDs
- Passive investors using Smart Portfolios for diversified exposure
It’s less suitable for those wanting bonds, mutual funds, or SIPPs, which aren’t currently supported.
eToro pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 commission on stocks and ETFs | $5 withdrawal fee |
| CopyTrader™ social investing | FX conversion fees for GBP users |
| 40+ Smart Portfolios for diversification | No SIPP or mutual funds |
| Easy-to-use mobile and web platforms | Better for short-term trading |
| FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected | Limited in-depth research tools |
Verdict
eToro is an excellent choice for UK investors who want a low-cost, FCA-regulated platform with a social edge. Its zero-commission trading, intuitive design, and CopyTrader feature make it one of the most user-friendly investment apps available.
While the lack of SIPPs and high FX costs may deter long-term savers, for everyday investors and beginners, eToro remains one of the best all-round investment platforms in the UK.
{etoroCFDrisk}% 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 trading
Is XTB a good investment platform in the UK?
Yes. XTB is a low-cost, FCA-regulated platform with powerful tools and strong education. It offers £0 commission on stocks and ETFs up to a €100,000 monthly turnover, making it attractive for cost-conscious investors and active traders.
XTB key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on stocks/ETFs up to €100,000 monthly turnover, then 0.2% (min £10) |
| FX conversion | 0.5% when buying in other currencies |
| Investment types | Stocks, ETFs, forex, indices, commodities |
| ISA | Yes, Flexible Stocks & Shares ISA |
| Other fees | £0 withdrawals ≥ £50, £5 if < £50; £10 inactivity after 12 months with no trades and no recent funding |
| Cash interest | Up to 4.5% on uninvested GBP (variable) |
What can you trade on XTB?
You can access 6,600+ stocks across major exchanges and 1,800+ ETFs, plus forex, indices, and commodities. Crypto is not offered to UK retail clients.
Does XTB offer ISAs and other products?
Yes. XTB provides a Flexible Stocks & Shares ISA with no platform charges and commission-free dealing within the monthly allowance. It also offers Investment Plans that let you build low-cost ETF portfolios. There is no SIPP.
How much does XTB cost?
Share and ETF trades are commission-free up to €100,000 turnover per month. Above that, fees are 0.2% (min £10). There’s a 0.5% FX fee for international shares, no custody fees under €250k account value, and no deposit fees. An inactivity fee of £10/month can apply after 12 months.
Is XTB safe and FCA regulated?
Yes. XTB Limited is authorised and regulated by the FCA. UK clients benefit from segregated funds and FSCS protection up to £85,000 if the firm fails. Negative balance protection also applies.
Who is XTB best suited for?
- Active investors who want fast execution and robust tools (xStation 5)
- Cost-focused users who trade stocks/ETFs within the monthly free allowance
- DIY investors building ETF portfolios, including inside an ISA
Beginners may find the web platform complex at first, though the mobile app and education help flatten the learning curve.
XTB pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 commission on stocks/ETFs up to €100k monthly turnover | No SIPP and no mutual funds/bonds |
| xStation 5 with heatmaps, screeners, and alerts | Platform can feel complex for newcomers |
| Flexible ISA with no platform fee | 0.5% FX fee on non-GBP trades |
| Extensive education and free demo | Fees rise to 0.2% after the free turnover cap |
| Up to 4.5% interest on uninvested GBP | No direct crypto for UK retail |
Verdict
XTB delivers one of the strongest price-to-feature propositions in the UK: commission-free trading within a generous monthly cap, a flexible ISA, and pro-grade tools.
If you want low costs and advanced functionality without a platform fee, XTB is a standout. Lack of a SIPP and a steeper learning curve are the main drawbacks.
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFD
3. IG – Best for comprehensive market access
Is IG a good investment platform in the UK?
Yes. IG is a feature-rich, FCA-regulated platform with broad market access, strong education, and competitive pricing for active users. It suits investors who want commission-free share dealing plus advanced tools and a choice of ISA and SIPP.
IG key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on U.K., U.S., EU, AU shares; 0.7% FX on non-GBP trades |
| Custody fee | £96/yr unless you make 3+ trades per quarter or hold £15,000+ in a Smart Portfolio |
| Investment types | Shares, ETFs, investment trusts, CFDs, spread betting, forex, commodities, crypto |
| ISA | Yes (flexible Stocks & Shares ISA) |
| SIPP | Yes (£210/yr flat fee) |
| Cash interest | 4% on uninvested GBP (eligibility rules apply) |
| Crypto | Retail crypto via Uphold inside IG with ~1.49% trade fee |
| Platforms | IG Invest (simple), IG Trading (advanced), ProRealTime add-on |
What can you trade on IG?
Access 12,000+ shares and ETFs plus forex, indices, commodities, crypto, and 17,000+ CFD markets. Bonds are via ETFs rather than direct purchases.
Does IG offer ISAs and SIPPs?
Yes. A flexible Stocks & Shares ISA with commission-free share dealing for active users, and a SIPP at £210/yr. ISA custody is £0 if you trade 3+ times/quarter or hold £15,000+ in a Smart Portfolio; otherwise £96/yr.
How much does IG cost?
Share dealing is £0 commission; 0.7% FX on overseas shares. £96/yr custody if you are inactive. 4% interest on eligible uninvested GBP up to £100k. ProRealTime is £30/month but free with sufficient monthly trading activity.
Is IG safe and FCA regulated?
Yes. Authorised and regulated by the FCA, client money segregated, FSCS protection up to £85,000, and negative balance protection on retail accounts.
Who is IG best suited for?
- Active investors and traders who value breadth of markets and pro tools
- Hands-off investors using Smart Portfolios (BlackRock iShares)
- Beginners starting on the simpler IG Invest app
IG pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 commission on major markets | £96/yr custody if you do not trade enough |
| 4% interest on uninvested GBP | Some tools can overwhelm beginners |
| ISA and SIPP available | Limited direct bond access (use ETFs) |
| IG Academy education and webinars | ProRealTime fee unless active |
| Huge market coverage, strong screeners | Crypto fees around 1.49% via partner |
Verdict
IG delivers top-tier market access, education, and tooling with commission-free share dealing for active users. If you want one platform for shares, ETFs, CFDs, forex, and crypto with ISA/SIPP support, IG is a standout. Infrequent traders should watch the £96 custody charge.
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. Interactive investor – Best for a large selection of assets
Is interactive investor a good investment platform in the UK?
Yes. interactive investor (ii) is a flat-fee, FCA-regulated platform that shines for huge investment choice and cost efficiency on larger portfolios. It offers ISAs, JISAs, SIPPs, and a feature-rich desktop and app experience with research, model lists, and optional human advice.
Interactive investor key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment platform |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | £3.99 UK and US shares/ETFs; other international £9.99 (£5.99 on Super Investor) |
| Platform fee | £4.99 Investor Essentials, £11.99 Investor, £19.99 Super Investor per month |
| SIPP fee | Stand-alone SIPP plans £5.99 or £12.99 per month, or add to Investor plans from £5–£10 per month |
| Investments | 40,000+ options: shares, funds, ETFs, investment trusts, bonds, gilts, currencies, warrants |
| ISA | Yes (Stocks & Shares, Junior ISA) |
| SIPP | Yes |
| Regular investing | £0 per trade via monthly plan |
| Dividend reinvestment | £0.99 |
| Fractional shares | Not supported |
What can you invest in on ii?
Pretty much everything a UK DIY investor might want: shares, ETFs, funds, investment trusts, gilts and retail bonds, plus multi-currency dealing. ii also curates lists such as Super 60 and ACE 40 for ethical options, along with Quick-start funds for simple set-ups.
Does ii offer ISAs and SIPPs?
Yes. You can open a Stocks & Shares ISA, Junior ISA, and SIPP. The flat monthly fee covers account access, and regular investing is free, which helps frequent contributors. The flat-fee structure is especially good value for larger balances.
How much does interactive investor cost?
- Platform plans: £4.99 Essentials, £11.99 Investor, £19.99 Super Investor per month.
- Dealing: £3.99 UK and US shares/ETFs; other international £9.99 (£5.99 on Super Investor).
- Regular investing: £0.
- SIPP: £5.99 or £12.99 per month stand-alone, or add to Investor plans for £5–£10 per month.
For larger portfolios, the flat fee often works out cheaper than percentage-based rivals.
Is interactive investor safe?
Yes. ii is authorised and regulated by the FCA. Client money is segregated and FSCS protection up to £85,000 applies to eligible cash in the event of firm failure.
Who is ii best for?
- DIY investors with medium to large portfolios who benefit from a flat fee
- Investors who want wide market access and strong fund and trust coverage
- Regular investors using the £0 regular investing service
- Anyone who values phone support and optional access to human advisers
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flat-fee pricing can be great value as balances grow | Monthly platform fee applies even if you trade rarely |
| 40,000+ investments across markets and wrappers | No fractional shares |
| £0 regular investing and £0.99 dividend reinvestment | Charts and analytics are more basic than pro-grade platforms |
| Phone support and optional adviser access | Dealing fee of £3.99 per trade outside regular investing |
Verdict
interactive investor is a top pick if you want maximum choice and a predictable flat fee. It is less compelling for tiny portfolios that trade infrequently, but for committed DIY investors building wealth across ISA and SIPP, ii is one of the best overall values in the UK.
5. InvestEngine – Best platform for ETF investing
Is InvestEngine a good investment platform in the UK?
Yes. InvestEngine is an FCA-regulated, ETF-only platform that offers simple, low-cost investing through DIY and Managed portfolios. It’s ideal for cost-conscious investors who want diversified portfolios built around exchange-traded funds, without the complexity or high fees of traditional brokers.
InvestEngine key facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Investment (ETF) platform |
| Minimum deposit | £100 |
| Trading fees | £0 (DIY) / 0.25% (Managed) + ETF OCFs (typically 0.10%–0.50%) |
| Platform fee | None for DIY portfolios |
| Investments | 580+ ETFs across regions, sectors, ESG, equities, and bonds |
| ISA | Yes (Flexible Stocks & Shares ISA) |
| SIPP | No |
| Regular investing | Free |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Inactivity fee | £0 |
| Interest on cash | None |
| Fractional investing | Yes (fractional ETFs) |
What can you invest in on InvestEngine?
InvestEngine focuses exclusively on ETFs. You can choose from over 580 options spanning equities, bonds, and thematic markets such as ESG or tech.
The platform also includes a fund analytics tool that breaks down each ETF by region, sector, and holdings, giving you transparency into what you’re buying.
Does InvestEngine offer ISAs or SIPPs?
Yes, you can open a Stocks & Shares ISA or a General Investment Account (GIA). Both accounts allow DIY investing for free or Managed portfolios for a small 0.25% fee. There’s no SIPP option, but you can open a business investment account.
How much does InvestEngine cost?
- DIY portfolios: £0 platform or trading fees.
- Managed portfolios: 0.25% annual fee + ETF costs (average 0.12%).
- Other fees: No deposit, withdrawal, or inactivity charges.
This makes InvestEngine one of the lowest-cost investment platforms in the UK, especially for long-term ETF investors.
Is InvestEngine safe?
Yes. InvestEngine is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and client assets are protected up to £85,000 under the FSCS in the event of company failure.
Who is InvestEngine best for?
- Beginners who want a simple, automated investing approach
- DIY investors seeking low-cost ETF portfolios
- Long-term investors looking to build diversified, tax-efficient portfolios
- Business owners wanting to invest through a company account
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| £0 fees for DIY portfolios | ETFs only, no individual shares |
| Managed portfolios at just 0.25% | No SIPP, LISA, or JISA options |
| Access to 580+ global ETFs | No interest on uninvested cash |
| Fractional ETF investing | Limited educational content |
| Simple, beginner-friendly platform | Still relatively new compared with larger brokers |
Verdict
InvestEngine is one of the best-value ETF investing platforms in the UK. Its zero-fee DIY option and low-cost Managed portfolios make it perfect for long-term investors seeking simplicity and diversification.
While it lacks broader assets and advanced tools, it’s a top choice for anyone focused on low-cost ETF investing in an ISA or general account.
Factors to consider when choosing an investment platform
Selecting the right UK investment platform can make a significant difference in your long-term returns, fees, and overall investing experience.
Before opening an account, it’s worth assessing these key factors to ensure the platform aligns with your goals, risk tolerance, and investing style.
1. Fees and charges
Compare the total cost of investing, including trading commissions, platform fees, FX costs, and withdrawal charges. Even small differences can compound over time.
- Flat fees (e.g., Interactive Investor) tend to benefit larger portfolios.
- Percentage-based fees (e.g., Hargreaves Lansdown) are often better for smaller balances.
Look for hidden costs such as inactivity or conversion fees if you trade foreign shares.
2. Investment options
Consider what you can invest in: stocks, ETFs, funds, bonds, trusts, or crypto.
Platforms like eToro and XTB offer access to a wide range of markets, while InvestEngine focuses solely on ETFs.
The best choice depends on whether you prefer to trade actively or invest passively through funds or managed portfolios.
3. Account types and tax wrappers
Ensure the platform supports the right account type for your needs:
- Stocks & Shares ISA – for tax-free investing up to £20,000 per year.
- SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) – for retirement savings with tax relief.
- GIA (General Investment Account) – for flexible investing beyond ISA limits.
Some brokers also offer Junior ISAs or Business Accounts.
4. Regulation and safety
Always check that a platform is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) for up to £85,000 of eligible funds.
This ensures your money is held securely in segregated client accounts.
5. Ease of use and mobile experience
A clear, intuitive platform makes investing less daunting, especially for beginners.
Platforms such as Trading 212 and Freetrade offer simple, mobile-first investment apps, while IG and XTB cater more to experienced users with advanced charting tools.
6. Research, education, and tools
If you’re new to investing, access to learning materials and market insights can be invaluable.
- IG Academy and XTB’s educational hub are great for developing trading knowledge.
- Platforms like Interactive Investor offer model portfolios and research lists like the Super 60 to help guide decision-making.
7. Customer support
Reliable customer service can make a big difference if you encounter technical or account issues. Look for multi-channel support (live chat, phone, email) and strong response times.
Brokers such as Spreadex and Pepperstone are known for their fast, helpful support.
8. Platform reputation and reviews
Check Trustpilot ratings, independent reviews, and regulatory history to confirm the platform’s reliability.
Well-established platforms tend to have more robust systems and investor protection measures in place.
Final thoughts
The right investment platform depends on your goals, budget, and how actively you want to manage your portfolio. If you prefer social investing and multi-asset access, eToro is a strong all-rounder.
For low-cost ETF portfolios, InvestEngine stands out, while Interactive Investor is ideal for larger portfolios thanks to its flat-fee model.
Those seeking advanced tools and market access may prefer IG or XTB, both offering powerful platforms for active traders.
FAQs
Which investing platform is best in the UK?
The best overall investing platform in the UK is eToro, offering commission-free trading, social investing tools, and a wide range of assets for all experience levels.
What is the best investment platform for beginners in the UK?
eToro and InvestEngine are top picks for beginners. eToro is easy to use and educational, while InvestEngine offers simple ETF portfolios with low fees.
What is the best investment platform UK for long term?
Interactive Investor is best for long-term investing thanks to its flat monthly fees, wide investment choice, and tax-efficient ISAs and SIPPs.
What are the best managed investment platforms UK?
Moneyfarm, Nutmeg, and InvestEngine Managed Portfolios are leading managed investment platforms, offering diversified portfolios and automated rebalancing based on your goals and risk level.
Sources:
