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Best Trading Apps UK

Investing Brokers

July 8, 2026

Here’s a guide to the best trading apps available in the UK, tailored for traders at all levels, covering essential features, benefits, and considerations:

What Makes a Great Trading App?

Before diving into specific apps, it’s crucial to know the features that define the best trading platforms:

1. User Interface and Experience:
   • Clear layout, intuitive navigation, and easy-to-use tools for beginners and professionals alike.
2. Regulation and Security:
   • FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) regulation is a must for UK-based traders.
   • Secure logins, two-factor authentication, and data encryption.
3. Range of Markets:
   • Access to a broad range of markets, including stocks, ETFs, forex, cryptocurrencies, and CFDs.
4. Fees and Pricing:
   • Transparent pricing structures with no hidden charges.
   • Low commissions and competitive spreads.
5. Trading Tools:
   • Advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and educational resources.
   • Automated trading features like algorithms or copy trading.
6. Customer Support:
   • Prompt, professional, and available across multiple channels (live chat, phone, email).
7. Mobile Optimization:
   • Seamless trading experience on both Android and iOS platforms.

Top Trading Apps in the UK

1. eToro

• Best for Social Trading
  • Overview: eToro is popular for its social trading features, allowing users to follow and copy successful traders.
  • Features:
    • Zero-commission stock trading.
    • Access to stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities.
    • User-friendly interface with robust social trading tools.
  • Fees:
    • No commission on stocks; spreads apply to other assets.
    • $5 withdrawal fee.
  • Pros:
    • Innovative CopyTrader feature.
    • Suitable for beginners.
    • Strong crypto offering.
  • Cons:
    • Limited tools for advanced traders.
    • USD-only accounts (currency conversion fees apply).

2. Trading 212

• Best for Commission-Free Trading
  • Overview: Known for commission-free trading and fractional shares, Trading 212 is ideal for retail traders.
  • Features:
    • Trade stocks, ETFs, forex, and CFDs.
    • Practice mode with virtual funds.
    • AutoInvest tool for portfolio management.
  • Fees:
    • No commission on stocks and ETFs.
    • Fees apply to CFD trading and currency conversion.
  • Pros:
    • No deposit fees.
    • Beginner-friendly.
    • Advanced research and analysis tools.
  • Cons:
    • Limited options for professional traders.
    • Restricted crypto trading.

3. IG Trading

• Best for Advanced Traders
  • Overview: IG is a market leader with an extensive range of instruments and professional-grade tools.
  • Features:
    • Access to over 17,000 markets.
    • Advanced charting tools and educational resources.
    • Seamless integration with MT4 and ProRealTime.
  • Fees:
    • Competitive spreads for forex and CFDs.
    • Stock trading: £3 per trade (active traders).
  • Pros:
    • FCA-regulated and highly secure.
    • Comprehensive educational content.
    • Professional-grade tools.
  • Cons:
    • Higher fees for casual traders.
    • Platform complexity might overwhelm beginners.

4. Hargreaves Lansdown (HL)

• Best for Long-Term Investments
  • Overview: HL offers a comprehensive investment platform focusing on stocks and funds.
  • Features:
    • Broad range of investment products, including ISAs and pensions.
    • Trusted reputation with decades of experience.
  • Fees:
    • £11.95 per trade (reduces with volume).
    • Annual account fee for funds: 0.45%.
  • Pros:
    • Excellent customer service.
    • Strong research and market analysis tools.
  • Cons:
    • High fees for active traders.
    • Limited features for short-term trading.

5. Interactive Brokers (IBKR)

• Best for Professionals
  • Overview: IBKR is renowned for its sophisticated platform catering to advanced traders and institutions.
  • Features:
    • Global market access to 150+ markets in 33 countries.
    • Low margin rates and advanced trading algorithms.
    • Extensive research and educational tools.
  • Fees:
    • Low commissions: £0.0035 per share (minimum £1.40).
  • Pros:
    • Best-in-class execution and reliability.
    • Ideal for options and futures trading.
  • Cons:
    • Steep learning curve for beginners.
    • Monthly inactivity fees (for low-balance accounts).

6. Revolut

• Best for Casual Investors
  • Overview: Revolut, a digital banking app, offers trading alongside its financial services.
  • Features:
    • Buy stocks, crypto, and commodities.
    • Easy account setup with no minimum balance.
  • Fees:
    • Free trades (limits apply); additional trades cost £1 each.
    • Crypto trading fees: 1.5%-2.5%.
  • Pros:
    • Simple and convenient for everyday users.
    • Integrated with banking features.
  • Cons:
    • Limited trading tools.
    • Not suitable for serious traders.

Comparison Table

Key Considerations When Choosing a Trading App

1. Trading Goals:
   • Are you a day trader, long-term investor, or beginner? Different apps suit different needs.
2. Fees and Commissions:
   • Evaluate fees based on your trading volume and strategy.
3. Regulation:
   • Always ensure the app is regulated by the FCA for safety and compliance.
4. Mobile Functionality:
   • If you trade on the go, ensure the app is mobile-optimized without sacrificing features.
5. Support and Resources:
   • Look for apps offering robust customer support and educational content.

Conclusion

The best trading app for you depends on your trading style and goals:

• Beginners: Trading 212 or eToro.
• Advanced Traders: IG Trading or Interactive Brokers.
• Long-Term Investors: Hargreaves Lansdown.

Evaluate each app’s features, fees, and usability to find the one that aligns with your needs. Always start with a demo account when available to get comfortable with the platform.