Sterling Savvy

Best Trading 212 Alternatives in the UK

Tobi Opeyemi Amure
Reviewed by:
Trading Platform

Trading 212 is one of the most popular UK trading apps, but other FCA-regulated brokers now offer lower fees, wider market access, and more powerful tools.

This guide compares the best Trading 212 alternatives, including eToro, IG, and XTB, covering fees, platform features, and account protection.

Quick answer: What are the best Trading 212 alternatives in the UK?

eToro is best for all-round investing and social copy trading. XTB offers advanced charting tools, tight spreads, and fast execution. IG provides the most comprehensive market access with professional-grade research and education tools. All three are FCA-regulated and suitable for UK traders seeking secure, low-fee platforms.

This article was reviewed by Tobi Opeyemi Amure, a trading expert and writer at InvestopediaInvesting.com, and Trading.biz.
Best overall
Best for forex
Award-winning
Primary Rating:
4.8
Primary Rating:
4.7
Primary Rating:
4.5
Description:

30 million users globally trust eToro for their social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, funds, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

Description:

A reliable trading platform offering a wide range of markets, advanced tools, and educational resources to empower traders of all skill levels.

Description:

Award-winning trading platform offering extensive market access and advanced tools for both beginner and experienced traders.

Pros:
  • User-friendly
  • Copy the moves of professional traders
  • Social trading & educational features
Pros:
  • User-friendly platforms with intuitive design
  • Wide range of instruments, including forex, stocks, and CFDs
  • Comprehensive educational tools and webinars
Pros:
  • User-friendly platform with advanced trading tools
  • Comprehensive educational resources and demo account
  • Wide range of markets
Disclaimer:
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Disclaimer:
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Disclaimer:
69% 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.
Best overall
Primary Rating:
4.8
Description:

30 million users globally trust eToro for their social trading needs, benefiting from a vast array of stocks, funds, ETFs, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

Pros:
  • User-friendly
  • Copy the moves of professional traders
  • Social trading & educational features
Disclaimer:
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Best for forex
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:

A reliable trading platform offering a wide range of markets, advanced tools, and educational resources to empower traders of all skill levels.

Pros:
  • User-friendly platforms with intuitive design
  • Wide range of instruments, including forex, stocks, and CFDs
  • Comprehensive educational tools and webinars
Disclaimer:
73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Award-winning
Primary Rating:
4.5
Description:

Award-winning trading platform offering extensive market access and advanced tools for both beginner and experienced traders.

Pros:
  • User-friendly platform with advanced trading tools
  • Comprehensive educational resources and demo account
  • Wide range of markets
Disclaimer:
69% 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.

Top apps like Trading 212

Here is a quick list of the best Trading 212 alternatives available in the UK, based on expert testing and platform analysis:

  1. eToro – Best overall
  2. XTB – Best for Forex and CFD Trading
  3. IG – Best for advanced trading tools
  4. Plus500 – One of the best CFD Trading Platform
  5. InvestEngine – Best Low-Cost ETF Investment Platform

Best Trading 212 alternatives compared

This table compares the top Trading 212 alternatives in the UK across four key factors:

RankPlatformRange of Investment ProductsFees & CostsUser Experience & OnboardingResearch & Tools
1eToroOffers stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, commodities, CFDs; known for copy-trading.No deposit fees, no commission on stocks/ETFs; $5 withdrawal fee, $10 inactivity fee.User-friendly, quick onboarding, demo account, but FX conversion fees for non-USD deposits.Comprehensive: economic calendar, technical analysis, social trading, and news feed.
2XTBOffers stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, indices, and CFDs; lacks mutual funds and bonds.Commission-free stock and ETF trading up to £85,000 monthly; 0.2% commission above this threshold; £10 inactivity fee after 12 months; £12 withdrawal fee for amounts under £60.User-friendly xStation 5 platform; quick onboarding; demo account available; mobile app with high ratings.Provides economic calendar, stock and ETF scanners, market sentiment data, and technical indicators; lacks advanced fundamental analysis tools.
3IGOver 17,000 markets, including stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and crypto.£0 commission on US shares, £8 on UK shares (reduced to £3 for active traders).Advanced platform options including MT4 and ProRealTime.Extensive educational tools and advanced charting, better suited for experienced traders.
4Plus500Focuses entirely on CFDs (forex, stocks, ETFs, commodities, crypto derivatives); no real assets.No deposit/withdrawal fees; high spread fees for CFDs, £10 inactivity fee after 3 months.Smooth onboarding, demo account; limited customisability; web and mobile platforms, no desktop.Good charting tools (109 indicators), economic calendar; lacks trading ideas and copy trading.
5InvestmentEngineSpecialises in ETFs; offers DIY and Managed portfolios but no direct share or commodity trading.No platform fees for DIY portfolios; 0.25% annual fee for Managed; no setup, withdrawal, or transfer fees.Simple and intuitive, supports web and mobile; one-click rebalancing and demo without real money.Basic: one-click rebalancing, blog insights; no deep research or technical tools.

Why consider an alternative to Trading 212?

Trading 212 is an FCA-regulated broker known for its commission-free stock and ETF trading, ISA accounts, fractional shares, and auto-invest “Pies.”

However, while it suits many beginners, several traders now look for alternatives that provide broader tools, deeper research, or reduced costs in specific areas.

Broader instruments and strategies: Trading 212 does not support options or futures, which limits advanced strategies like hedging and covered calls. Brokers such as IG offer listed derivatives, spread betting, and professional-grade order types, appealing to traders who want more flexibility.

Automation and API depth: Trading 212’s live-trading API remains in limited beta testing. In contrast, brokers like IG and Interactive Brokers offer fully developed REST and streaming APIs, ideal for algorithmic trading, automated execution, and real-time data integration.

Multi-currency accounts and FX fees: Although Trading 212 recently introduced multi-currency functionality, it applies a 0.15% FX conversion fee on trades outside your base currency. Competitors such as XTB and eToro offer different FX models that may reduce conversion costs for global portfolios.

Market access and research tools: Trading 212’s market range is solid but narrower than some peers. IG provides access to over 15,000 markets with detailed technical analysis, economic calendars, and educational resources. XTB also offers extensive research, powerful charting, and 0% stock commission up to €100k monthly, appealing to active traders.

Crypto availability: Trading 212 focuses on traditional asset classes and CFDs but does not provide direct access to crypto. Platforms like eToro offer regulated crypto trading alongside equities, ETFs, and commodities, making them more suitable for multi-asset investors.

Transfers and portfolio flexibility: Trading 212 allows the transfer of full shares but not fractional holdings, which must be sold before moving an account. This can create unwanted tax events or slippage. Some alternatives support broader transfer capabilities and tax-efficient account structures.

Bottom line: If you need more instruments, automation, or research depth, exploring Trading 212 alternatives can improve your trading experience. IG is best for derivatives and APIs, XTB for low-cost active investing, and eToro for social and crypto trading. Always verify FCA regulation and review fee schedules before switching platforms.

Reviews of apps like Trading 212

Here you’ll find detailed reviews of the top UK trading apps similar to Trading 212, comparing their fees, features, and regulation.

1. eToro – Best overall

eToro – Overall best Robinhood alternative UK.

Quick summary: eToro is an FCA-regulated platform offering stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, and CFDs in one app. Compared with Trading 212, it provides a broader asset range and unique social trading tools that help beginners learn from experienced investors.

What markets can you trade on eToro?

eToro supports a wide range of markets, including global equities, ETFs, commodities, forex, and major cryptocurrencies. Trading 212 does not yet offer forex or crypto, making eToro better for diversification.

What is eToro’s CopyTrader feature?

CopyTrader lets users automatically mirror the trades of top investors. It’s ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a hands-off strategy. This feature is not available on Trading 212, Plus500, or InvestEngine.

How much does trading on eToro cost?

eToro offers commission-free stock and ETF trading. There’s a $5 withdrawal fee and a $10 inactivity fee after 12 months, while spreads on CFDs start from around 1%.

How does eToro compare to Trading 212?

PlatformBest ForAsset RangeKey FeaturesFees
eToroSocial & multi-asset tradingStocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, CFDsCopyTrader, social investing, demo accountCommission-free; $5 withdrawal
Trading 212Simple stock investingStocks, ETFsISA, fractional shares, auto-invest “Pies”Commission-free

Is eToro a good alternative?

Yes. eToro combines low-cost trading with social investing, crypto access, and advanced tools, making it a stronger all-round choice for UK traders seeking more flexibility than Trading 212.

Key rating criteria:

Range of Investment ProductsFeesUser ExperienceResearch & Tools
Wide range of assets including stocks, ETFs, CFDs, crypto, and forex. Broader than Plus500 and InvestEngine.£0Smooth onboarding and easy-to-use platform with strong social trading features.Excellent range of tools, including market insights and technical analysis. Far more comprehensive than Trading 212, Plus500, or InvestEngine.

Read our eToro review.

Pros:

  • Broad range of assets including stocks, ETFs, CFDs, crypto, and forex.
  • CopyTrader feature allows easy replication of expert traders’ strategies.
  • Comprehensive research tools including economic calendars and real-time market insights.

Cons:

  • $5 withdrawal fee and $10 inactivity fee after 12 months.
  • Not as low-cost as InvestEngine for ETF-focused investors.

51% 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.

2. XTB – Best for forex and CFD trading

XTB

Quick summary: XTB is a trusted FCA-regulated broker that excels in forex and CFD trading. It combines tight spreads, advanced charting, and a powerful proprietary platform, xStation 5, making it one of the best Trading 212 alternatives for active traders.

What assets can you trade on XTB?

XTB offers access to over 2,100 instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, stocks, and ETFs. This broad selection supports both short-term traders and long-term investors. Unlike Trading 212, XTB provides deeper exposure to currency markets and leveraged CFDs, appealing to those who want to trade more actively.

What makes XTB’s xStation 5 platform stand out?

The xStation 5 platform is XTB’s biggest advantage. It combines user-friendly navigation with advanced tools such as real-time performance analytics, market sentiment heatmaps, and custom charting layouts.

Compared with Trading 212’s simpler interface, xStation 5 delivers a more data-rich environment for serious traders. The mobile app is also highly responsive, allowing efficient trading and portfolio management anywhere.

How competitive are XTB’s fees and spreads?

XTB is known for low spreads and transparent pricing. While Trading 212 focuses on zero commissions, XTB offers better value for forex and CFD traders through spreads starting from 0.1 pips on EUR/USD.

There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, though an inactivity fee applies after 12 months of no trading activity.

Does XTB offer strong educational tools?

Yes. XTB’s Trading Academy includes structured courses, webinars, and tutorials tailored to all skill levels. The platform also features detailed market analysis and daily commentary, far exceeding the limited educational materials found on Trading 212.

How does XTB compare to Trading 212?

PlatformBest ForAsset RangeKey FeaturesFees
XTBActive forex & CFD tradersForex, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFsxStation 5, real-time analytics, education hubLow spreads from 0.1 pips; inactivity fee after 12 months
Trading 212Simple stock investingStocks, ETFsISA, fractional shares, auto-invest “Pies”Commission-free

What are the pros and cons of using XTB?

Pros

  • Competitive spreads, especially for forex
  • Advanced xStation 5 with real-time analytics and heatmaps
  • Strong educational resources and daily market updates
  • FCA-regulated and transparent pricing

Cons

  • Inactivity fee after 12 months
  • Limited direct access to UK-listed shares compared with Trading 212

Is XTB a good alternative to Trading 212?

Yes. XTB is ideal for traders seeking more advanced tools, tighter spreads, and greater market variety. Its xStation 5 platform, deep educational resources, and FCA oversight make it one of the most complete Trading 212 alternatives for active UK traders in 2025.

73% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

3. IG – Best for advanced trading tools

IG

Quick summary: IG is one of the most established FCA-regulated brokers in the UK, offering access to over 17,000 markets across stocks, forex, commodities, indices, ETFs, and crypto. It’s ideal for traders who want powerful tools, deep analysis, and more global market exposure than Trading 212 provides.

What assets can you trade on IG?

IG gives UK traders access to a huge selection of markets, far beyond what Trading 212 offers. You can trade stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, indices, and crypto, all through the same platform.

While Trading 212 focuses mainly on stocks and ETFs, IG caters to multi-asset traders who want diversification across both traditional and derivative markets.

What makes IG’s trading tools stand out?

IG is known for its advanced charting and analysis capabilities. Its ProRealTime software lets traders create and customise charts, apply technical indicators, and even automate trading strategies.

IG also supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4), giving experienced traders the flexibility to use Expert Advisors (EAs) or third-party plugins. In contrast, Trading 212’s charting and automation options are limited, designed for simplicity rather than depth.

How much does IG charge in fees?

IG offers £0 commission on US shares and £8 on UK shares, reduced to £3 if you place three or more trades per month.
These fees make IG appealing to active traders, while casual investors may prefer Trading 212’s fully commission-free model.
IG also applies a small inactivity fee (£12 per month after two years), but this is easy to avoid with regular use.

Does IG offer education and research tools?

Yes. The IG Academy provides free webinars, tutorials, and trading courses for all levels. It also includes a demo account to practise strategies risk-free.

This educational depth far surpasses Trading 212’s basic learning tools, making IG better suited for traders who want to improve their technical and strategic skills.

How does IG compare to Trading 212?

PlatformBest ForAsset RangeKey FeaturesFees
IGAdvanced traders & multi-asset accessStocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, indices, cryptoMT4, ProRealTime, IG Academy, 17,000+ markets£0 US shares; £8 UK shares (£3 for active users)
Trading 212Simple stock investingStocks, ETFsISA, fractional shares, auto-invest “Pies”Commission-free

What are the pros and cons of using IG?

Pros

  • Access to 17,000+ markets across all asset classes
  • Advanced tools such as MT4 and ProRealTime
  • Excellent educational resources via IG Academy
  • FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected

Cons

  • Complex platform may overwhelm beginners
  • £12 monthly inactivity fee after two years of no trading

Is IG a good alternative to Trading 212?

Yes. IG is one of the best Trading 212 alternatives for traders seeking professional-level tools, global market access, and detailed analytics. Its depth of features, education, and regulation make it ideal for intermediate and advanced UK traders.

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 – Best CFD trading platform

Quick summary: Plus500 is an FCA-regulated CFD broker designed for traders who want fast execution and advanced technical tools. Unlike Trading 212, which focuses on stock and ETF investing, Plus500 specialises exclusively in Contracts for Difference (CFDs) across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and crypto.

What assets can you trade on Plus500?

Plus500 offers a wide range of CFD instruments, including forex pairs, commodities, crypto derivatives, indices, ETFs, and stock CFDs. You do not own the underlying assets, but you can speculate on price movements both long and short.
This makes Plus500 ideal for active traders looking for volatility and leverage opportunities rather than long-term investing.

How easy is it to use Plus500?

The platform is built for speed and simplicity. During testing, onboarding took less than 20 minutes, and switching between Demo and Real Money mode was seamless.
The interface is intuitive, with over 100 built-in technical indicators, drawing tools, and chart layouts that suit technical traders. Compared to Trading 212’s minimal approach, Plus500’s analytics toolkit gives traders more control over CFD setups.

How does Plus500’s fee structure compare?

Plus500 charges no deposit or withdrawal fees, making it appealing for frequent traders.
However, spreads can be higher than eToro or Trading 212, especially on popular instruments like Apple or Tesla CFDs. The platform also applies a £10 inactivity fee after three months of no login activity.

What research and tools does Plus500 provide?

Plus500 includes an “Insights” and “Discovery” feature that shows real-time client positioning data, offering a unique look into market sentiment.
While these tools are useful, educational content is limited compared to brokers like eToro or IG. Plus500’s strength lies in its technical precision, not in-depth research or learning resources.

How does Plus500 compare to Trading 212?

PlatformBest ForAsset RangeKey FeaturesFees
Plus500Active CFD tradersCFDs on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto100+ indicators, fast execution, sentiment tools£0 deposit/withdrawal; inactivity fee after 3 months
Trading 212Stock & ETF investorsStocks, ETFsISA, fractional shares, auto-invest “Pies”Commission-free

What are the pros and cons of using Plus500?

Pros

  • No deposit or withdrawal fees
  • Excellent CFD focus with over 100 charting tools
  • Simple onboarding and easy-to-use demo account
  • FCA-regulated with strong security

Cons

  • Higher spreads than some competitors
  • No real asset ownership (CFDs only)
  • Limited educational and research materials

Is Plus500 a good alternative to Trading 212?

Yes. Plus500 is one of the best Trading 212 alternatives for traders who prefer short-term speculation, leverage, and technical analysis. It’s less suitable for long-term investors but perfect for those who want a streamlined CFD trading experience backed by strong regulation and reliable execution.

Key rating criteria:

Range of Investment ProductsFeesUser ExperienceResearch & Tools
Focused solely on CFDs, offering a wide range but lacking real assets like stocks and ETFs.£0
Fast onboarding and demo account but lacks social or interactive features.Strong charting tools with 100+ indicators but lacks in-depth market insights and educational content.

Read our Plus500 review.

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.

5. InvestEngine – Best Low-Cost ETF Investment Platform

InvestEngine

Quick summary: InvestEngine is an FCA-regulated investment platform designed for long-term investors who want low-cost access to ETF portfolios. Unlike Trading 212, eToro, or Plus500, which cater to active traders, InvestEngine focuses on passive investing, offering simple portfolio management with minimal fees.

What type of investor is InvestEngine best for?

InvestEngine is ideal for long-term and cost-conscious investors who prefer ETFs over individual stocks. The platform offers two options:

  • DIY portfolios, where you build your own ETF mix from over 580 funds
  • Managed portfolios, where InvestEngine automatically selects and rebalances investments for a 0.25% annual fee

This structure makes it perfect for those seeking steady, low-maintenance growth rather than short-term trading opportunities.

How affordable is InvestEngine?

InvestEngine is one of the most cost-effective investment platforms in the UK. DIY portfolios have no platform fees, trading fees, or withdrawal fees, and even managed portfolios charge just 0.25% annually, far below typical robo-advisor rates.

By comparison, eToro applies a $5 withdrawal fee, and Plus500 charges an inactivity fee after three months. InvestEngine’s transparent pricing helps investors maximise long-term returns.

What is the user experience like on InvestEngine?

The onboarding process is quick and straightforward, with intuitive navigation and clear portfolio management tools. Investors can open either an individual or business account and use features like one-click rebalancing to keep portfolios aligned with market movements.

While it lacks the live trading dashboards of Trading 212 or Plus500, InvestEngine’s simplicity is its strength; it removes unnecessary complexity for passive investors.

What are the limitations of InvestEngine?

InvestEngine focuses exclusively on ETFs, so it does not support individual stocks, forex, or crypto. Its research and analytical tools are also basic compared to platforms like eToro or IG. However, it provides the essential insights needed for long-term portfolio management.

How does InvestEngine compare to Trading 212?

PlatformBest ForAsset RangeKey FeaturesFees
InvestEnginePassive ETF investorsETFs only (580+)DIY and Managed portfolios, auto-rebalancing£0 platform fee; 0.25% managed fee
Trading 212Stock and ETF investorsStocks, ETFsISA, fractional shares, auto-invest “Pies”Commission-free

What are the pros and cons of using InvestEngine?

Pros

  • No platform fees for DIY investors
  • Low-cost managed portfolios (0.25% annual fee)
  • FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected
  • Simple interface with one-click rebalancing
  • Ideal for long-term, hands-off investing

Cons

  • Limited to ETFs (no stocks, forex, or crypto)
  • Basic research tools and no real-time analytics

Is InvestEngine a good alternative to Trading 212?

Yes. InvestEngine is an excellent choice for UK investors focused on long-term, low-cost ETF portfolios. It’s simpler, cheaper, and more goal-oriented than Trading 212, though it lacks real-time trading features. For passive investors seeking a transparent, FCA-regulated platform with strong automation, InvestEngine is a standout option.

Read our InvestEngine review.

Key decision factors for choosing the best Trading 212 equivalent

Regulation and safety

Always choose an FCA-regulated broker. This ensures client fund segregation and FSCS protection up to £85,000 in case of broker insolvency. Regulation is the foundation of trust and transparency in trading.

Range of investment products

A good alternative should offer diverse asset access, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs. Broader product availability allows you to build a more flexible and diversified portfolio.

Fees and costs

Compare commissions, spreads, and currency conversion fees carefully. The best brokers provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs that could reduce your returns over time.

Research tools and education

Advanced market research, charting, and educational content can significantly improve decision-making. As financial analyst Dan Blystone notes, “Choose tools that match your investing style, whether you prefer long-term simplicity or short-term precision.”

User experience

A user-friendly interface, fast onboarding, and intuitive app navigation make portfolio management easier. A smooth digital experience can help you stay focused on strategy rather than platform complexity.

Key Decision FactorValue
Regulation and SafetyRegulated by trusted authorities like the FCA and offers FSCS protection where applicable.
Range of Investment ProductsA broker should provide access to a wide variety of assets, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, and CFDs, to allow for portfolio diversification.
Fees and CostsTransparent fee structure with low or no deposit, withdrawal, or hidden charges that could eat into your profits.
Research and ToolsOffers strong research tools, market insights, and educational resources to support both novice and experienced investors.
User ExperienceSeamless onboarding and easy-to-navigate platforms, including both mobile and web interfaces, ensuring a smooth trading experience.

Final thoughts

Trading 212 remains a strong choice for commission-free investing, but UK traders now have a wide range of alternatives to suit different goals.

eToro is best for social and multi-asset trading, XTB excels in forex and CFDs, IG offers advanced tools and global markets, Plus500 focuses on pure CFD trading, and InvestEngine is ideal for long-term ETF investors.

Each platform is FCA-regulated and caters to a distinct trading style, so the best option depends on your experience level and investment strategy.

FAQs

What’s better than Trading 212?

The best alternatives to Trading 212 is eToro if you want a broad range of assets like crypto and CFDs, Plus500 if you’re a CFD trader, and InvestEngine for low-cost ETF investing, especially for passive investors focused on long-term growth.

Is eToro better than Trading 212?

eToro offers a broader selection of tradable assets than Trading 212, including cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities, alongside stocks and ETFs. It also features CopyTrader, a social trading tool allowing users to replicate the strategies of experienced investors, a functionality that Trading 212 lacks. Trading 212’s strength lies in its simplicity and fee-free structure for stock and ETF investing, which suits long-term investors and beginners. eToro, however, provides deeper market access and a community-driven experience, making it more suitable for traders seeking diversification and interaction.

What if Trading 212 go bust?

Trading 212 is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which enforces strict client fund protection measures. Customer assets are held separately from company funds and protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 per client if the company fails. While operational disruption could delay access temporarily, client holdings remain secure and recoverable through the appointed administrators or FSCS channels.

What’s better, Vanguard or Trading 212?

Vanguard is built for long-term passive investing, offering low-cost index funds and ETFs through its ISA and pension accounts. It provides a narrow but stable range of diversified portfolios with minimal management fees. Trading 212, by contrast, focuses on self-directed trading in stocks, ETFs, and CFDs with no commission charges and higher flexibility. Vanguard is the better choice for investors seeking simplicity, automation, and long-term compounding, while Trading 212 caters to those who want autonomy, active management, and market breadth.

Is Moneybox better than Trading 212?

Moneybox targets beginners and passive investors who want automated, goal-based investing through round-ups and managed portfolios. It prioritises ease of use and long-term savings, integrating ISAs and pensions rather than daily trading. Trading 212, however, allows direct share ownership and CFD trading, offering more control and flexibility. For users wanting a low-maintenance savings app, Moneybox is more convenient; for hands-on traders or stock pickers, Trading 212 remains superior.

Is Robinhood better than Trading 212?

Robinhood and Trading 212 share similar origins in commission-free trading, but Robinhood primarily serves the US market and lacks full FCA regulation or UK account protection. Trading 212, being UK-based and FCA-authorised, provides a safer environment for British investors. It also offers ISA accounts and broader access to UK and European equities, which Robinhood does not. In the UK context, Trading 212 remains the more secure and compliant platform, whereas Robinhood’s advantages are limited outside the US.

What is better, Trading 212 or InvestEngine?

InvestEngine excels in low-cost ETF investing, offering both DIY and managed portfolios with no platform fees for self-managed accounts and a modest 0.25% annual charge for managed ones. It is designed for passive investors focused on diversification and long-term wealth growth. Trading 212, meanwhile, provides commission-free share dealing and CFD trading, appealing to those who want to trade actively and access a wider asset universe. The distinction lies in intent: InvestEngine suits investors seeking automated, long-term ETF portfolios, while Trading 212 is better for self-directed, active portfolio management.

Will Fenton is the founder of Sterling Savvy. He is a personal finance expert and writes about trading, investing, budgeting, and other financial topics.

Along with his education in Economics & Finance, he has experience working in the financial services industry in London working for one of the UK’s leading financial companies, “a trustworthy and respected provider of news, education and market analysis for the everyday investor”.

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