The best trading platforms in the UK in 2026 offer FCA regulation, competitive fees, and tools suited to both beginners and experienced traders.
This guide compares the top UK brokers based on costs, platforms, market access, and usability.
It is designed to help you choose the right trading platform for your goals and experience level.
Key takeaway: What’s the best trading platform in the UK?
IG is the best trading platform in the UK for most users, offering FCA regulation, a wide market range, competitive fees, and access to ISAs and SIPPs, while still supporting advanced trading tools.
Best UK trading platforms compared
| Platform | Fees & costs | Platforms | Market range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IG | Low–medium spreads, £0 share dealing, no withdrawal fees | IG Platform, MT4, mobile apps | 17,000+ markets incl. shares, ETFs, CFDs, spread betting | All-round UK traders, shares, ISAs & SIPPs |
| CMC Markets | Very competitive spreads, £0 deposits/withdrawals | Next Generation, MT4, mobile apps | 12,000+ markets incl. shares, ETFs, CFDs, spread betting | Advanced traders and technical analysis |
| eToro | £0 stock & ETF commission, higher FX and crypto spreads | Web platform, iOS & Android | Shares, ETFs, crypto, CFDs | Beginners and copy trading |
| Pepperstone | Ultra-low spreads, no inactivity or withdrawal fees | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView | Forex, indices, CFDs, spread betting | Active, scalping and algorithmic traders |
| Capital.com | Low CFD spreads, no commission, inactivity fee after 12 months | Web platform, MT4, TradingView, mobile apps | CFDs on forex, indices, shares, commodities | Low-cost CFD traders and beginners |
Top 5 trading platforms – best for
- IG – All-round UK trading, shares, ISAs, SIPPs, and research
- CMC Markets – Advanced charting, active trading, and technical analysis
- eToro – Beginners, copy trading, and simple mobile investing
- Pepperstone – Low-cost forex, scalping, and algorithmic trading
- Capital.com – Low-fee CFD trading and beginner-friendly platforms
UK online trading platform reviews
Below are detailed reviews of the top UK trading platforms, highlighting who each platform suits best based on experience level, features, fees, and overall ease of use.
1. eToro – Beginners, copy trading, and simple mobile investing
Key information at a glance
| Feature | eToro UK |
|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA regulated (eToro UK Ltd) |
| FSCS protection | Up to £85,000 on eligible investments |
| Minimum deposit | $50 via UK bank transfer or card |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on stocks and ETFs |
| Withdrawal fee | $5 per withdrawal |
| Base currencies | USD, GBP |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android |
| Best known for | CopyTrader and social investing |
| Risk warning | 61% of retail CFD accounts lose money |
How competitive are this platform’s fees and trading costs?
eToro offers competitive fees for beginners through commission-free stock and ETF trading, but some non-trading costs apply. UK users should watch for FX conversion fees, crypto spreads, and the fixed $5 withdrawal fee, which can add up for smaller accounts or frequent withdrawals.
- £0 commission on UK and US stocks and ETFs
- 1% fee on crypto buy and sell transactions
- FX conversion fees when trading or holding non-GBP assets
- $10 inactivity fee after 12 months with no login
Is this trading platform safe and properly regulated?
Yes. eToro is FCA regulated in the UK and meets strict investor protection rules. Eligible UK client funds are protected up to £85,000 under the FSCS if eToro fails. Cryptoassets are not FSCS protected, and CFD trading carries high risk.
What markets and assets can I trade on this platform?
eToro is a multi-asset platform offering broad market access, especially for casual investors who want everything in one app. You can invest in real assets or trade CFDs, depending on the product and leverage used.
Available markets:
- UK and global stocks
- Exchange-traded funds
- Cryptocurrencies
- CFDs on forex, indices, commodities, and shares
What trading tools, features, and apps does this platform offer?
- CopyTrader to automatically follow top investors
- Demo account with $100,000 virtual funds
- Smart Portfolios for themed investing
- Mobile and web apps with TradingView-powered charts
- Price alerts, watchlists, and one-click trading
How easy is this platform to use and how good is customer support?
eToro is one of the easiest trading platforms to use in the UK, particularly for beginners.
- Very simple onboarding and account setup
- Excellent mobile app experience
- Help centre, ticket system, and live chat
- No phone support
Who is this trading platform best for?
| Best for | Not ideal for |
|---|---|
| Beginners learning how markets work | Advanced or professional traders |
| Passive investors using CopyTrader | Frequent withdrawers |
| Mobile-first users | Long-term ISA optimisers |
| Investors who want stocks, ETFs, and crypto in one app | — |
Read the complete eToro review here.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Commission-free stock and ETF trading | $5 withdrawal fee |
| Extremely beginner-friendly platform | FX conversion costs |
| CopyTrader and social investing | Wider spreads on crypto and CFDs |
| Strong mobile app | CFDs are high risk |
2. IG – All-round UK trading, shares, ISAs, SIPPs, and research
Key information at a glance
| Feature | IG UK |
|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA regulated (IG Markets Ltd) |
| FSCS protection | Up to £85,000 on eligible investments |
| Minimum deposit | £0 (bank transfer) |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on online share dealing |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Base currencies | GBP, USD, EUR, AUD, SGD, HKD |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android, MT4 |
| Best known for | Spread betting, CFDs, advanced platforms |
| Risk warning | 68% of retail investors lose money trading spread bets and CFDs |
How competitive are this platform’s fees and trading costs?
IG offers competitive pricing for forex, indices, and spread betting, but stock CFD fees are relatively high. There are no withdrawal fees and inactivity fees only apply after two years, which helps reduce long-term costs for UK traders.
- £0 commission on online UK and US share dealing
- Low spreads on forex and indices
- Higher fees on stock CFDs
- 0.7% FX conversion fee on overseas trades
- Inactivity fee charged only after 24 months
Is this trading platform safe and properly regulated?
Yes. IG is one of the most established and heavily regulated brokers in the UK. It is authorised by the FCA and listed on the London Stock Exchange, which adds transparency and financial oversight.
UK clients receive FSCS protection up to £85,000 if IG fails. Client funds are held in segregated accounts. Spread betting and CFDs are not FSCS protected and carry a high risk of loss.
What markets and assets can I trade on this platform?
IG focuses heavily on leveraged trading but also supports investing for UK clients. Market coverage is deep, particularly for CFDs and spread betting.
Available markets include:
- UK and global shares
- Forex
- Indices
- Commodities
- ETFs
- Options
- Futures
- Bonds
- Spread betting
UK clients can also access:
- Stocks and Shares ISAs
- SIPPs for long-term investing
What trading tools, features, and apps does this platform offer?
IG delivers one of the strongest platform suites in the UK, balancing professional tools with beginner-friendly education.
Key features include:
- Powerful proprietary web trading platform
- MetaTrader 4 support
- Advanced charting and risk management tools
- Free demo account
- IG Academy with courses and webinars
- Smart Portfolios for passive investing
- Robust mobile apps for iOS and Android
How easy is this platform to use and how good is customer support?
IG’s platform is polished and reliable, though it can feel complex for beginners at first. Once familiar, navigation is smooth and execution is fast.
Account setup is fully digital, mobile and web apps are stable, and support is available via live chat, email, and phone during business hours. Support quality is good, but not 24/7.
Who is this trading platform best for?
| Best for | Not ideal for |
|---|---|
| Intermediate and advanced traders | Absolute beginners |
| Spread betting and CFD traders | Fee-sensitive casual investors |
| Traders who value platform depth | Users wanting ultra-simple apps |
| UK investors wanting ISA or SIPP access | Those avoiding leveraged products |
Read the complete IG review here.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FCA regulated and highly trusted | High stock CFD fees |
| Excellent trading platforms | Platform can feel complex |
| No withdrawal fees | FX conversion costs |
| Strong education and demo tools | Customer support not 24/7 |
3. XTB – Best for low cost CFD trading and built in education
Key information at a glance
| Feature | XTB UK |
|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA regulated (XTB Limited UK) |
| FSCS protection | Up to £85,000 on eligible investments |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | £0 commission on trading stocks and ETFs up to €100,000 per month |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 (above minimum thresholds) |
| Base currencies | GBP, EUR, USD |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android (xStation 5) |
| Best known for | Low-cost CFDs, xStation platform, education |
| Risk warning | 75% of retail investors lose money trading CFDs |
How competitive are this platform’s fees and trading costs?
XTB offers low trading and non-trading fees, making it one of the most cost-effective platforms for UK traders. Stock and ETF trading is commission-free up to a monthly limit, and withdrawals are usually free, though an inactivity fee applies after one year.
- £0 commission on trading stocks and ETFs up to €100,000 monthly volume
- Low spreads on forex and index CFDs
- No withdrawal fees above minimum thresholds
- Interest paid on uninvested cash (XTB UK)
- €10 monthly inactivity fee after 12 months
Is this trading platform safe and properly regulated?
Yes. XTB is a well-established and fully regulated broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. Its parent company, XTB SA, is publicly listed, adding transparency and financial oversight.
UK clients receive FSCS protection up to £85,000. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, and negative balance protection applies. CFDs are high-risk products and are not FSCS protected.
What markets and assets can I trade on this platform?
XTB is primarily a CFD broker but also supports real investing for UK clients. Market access is broad across major asset classes, though some products like options are not available.
Available markets include:
- UK and global shares
- Forex
- Indices
- Commodities
- ETFs
- Cryptocurrencies (via CFDs)
UK clients can also access:
- Stocks and Shares ISAs
- Real stocks and ETFs (entity dependent)
What trading tools, features, and apps does this platform offer?
XTB focuses on simplicity, speed, and education, with its proprietary xStation platform at the core of the experience.
Key features include:
- xStation 5 proprietary trading platform
- Advanced charting and risk management tools
- Free demo account
- Extensive educational content and webinars
- Interest on uninvested cash
- Robust mobile apps for iOS and Android
How easy is this platform to use and how good is customer support?
XTB is very easy to use, even for beginners. Account opening is fast and fully digital, and the platform layout is clean and intuitive.
The mobile and web platforms are stable and responsive. Support is available via live chat, email, and phone during market hours. Service quality is strong, though not 24/7.
Who is this trading platform best for?
| Best for | Not ideal for |
|---|---|
| Beginner and intermediate traders | Long-term investors needing a SIPP |
| Low-cost CFD traders | Options traders |
| Traders who value education | Users avoiding inactivity fees |
| ISA investors wanting flexibility | Buy-and-hold investors only |
Read the complete XTB review here.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FCA regulated and FSCS protected | Inactivity fee after 12 months |
| Commission-free stocks and ETFs | Limited product range vs some rivals |
| Excellent xStation platform | No options trading |
| Strong education and research | FX conversion fees apply |
4. Capital.com – Low-fee CFD trading and beginner-friendly platforms
Key information at a glance
| Feature | Capital.com UK |
|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA regulated (Capital Com UK Ltd) |
| FSCS protection | Up to £85,000 on eligible investments |
| Minimum deposit | £20 (card), £50 (bank transfer) |
| Trading fees | 0% commission on all CFD trades |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Base currencies | GBP, USD, EUR and others |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android, MT4, TradingView |
| Best known for | Low-cost CFD trading, ease of use |
| Risk warning | 70% of retail investors lose money trading CFDs |
How competitive are this platform’s fees and trading costs?
Capital.com keeps trading costs low by building all fees into the spread, with no commissions on any trades. Withdrawals are free, though an inactivity fee applies after one year for some entities.
- Low forex CFD spreads, from around 0.6 pips on EUR/USD
- Low index CFD spreads, including S&P 500 from 0.4
- Low stock CFD spreads
- No withdrawal fees
- Inactivity fee of £10 per month after 12 months (entity dependent)
Is this trading platform safe and properly regulated?
Yes. Capital.com is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and several other top-tier regulators globally. It applies strict client protection rules and negative balance protection for retail clients.
UK clients are protected by the FSCS up to £85,000 if the broker fails. Capital.com does not hold a banking licence and is not publicly listed. CFDs are high-risk instruments and are not FSCS protected.
What markets and assets can I trade on this platform?
Capital.com is a CFD-focused broker and does not offer real stocks or ETFs. Its strength lies in the breadth of its CFD market coverage.
Available markets include:
- Forex
- Indices
- Commodities
- Share CFDs ,ETF, CFDs
UK clients can also access:
- Spread betting (tax treatment depends on individual circumstances)
What trading tools, features, and apps does this platform offer?
Capital.com delivers a modern, intuitive trading experience designed to suit beginners while still offering advanced charting.
Key features include:
- Proprietary web trading platform
- Mobile trading apps for iOS and Android
- MetaTrader 4 and TradingView integration
- Advanced charting with TradingView-powered tools
- Demo account with virtual funds
- Educational content via the Investmate app
How easy is this platform to use and how good is customer support?
Capital.com is one of the easiest CFD platforms to use, particularly for beginners. The interface is clean, intuitive, and fast across web and mobile.
Account opening is fully digital and usually completed within one day. Customer support is available via live chat and email, with generally fast response times. Phone support is not offered.
Who is this trading platform best for?
| Best for | Not ideal for |
|---|---|
| Beginner CFD traders | Long-term investors |
| Low-cost forex and index traders | Those wanting real stocks or ETFs |
| Mobile-first traders | Options or futures traders |
| UK spread betting users | Buy-and-hold investors |
Read the complete Capital.com review here.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FCA regulated and FSCS protected | Only CFDs available |
| Very low trading costs | Inactivity fee after 12 months |
| Excellent ease of use | No real stocks or ETFs |
| Strong mobile and web platforms | Limited advanced trading features |
5. Pepperstone – Low-cost forex, scalping, and algorithmic trading
Key information at a glance
| Feature | Pepperstone UK |
|---|---|
| Regulation | FCA regulated (Pepperstone Limited) |
| FSCS protection | Up to £85,000 on eligible investments |
| Minimum deposit | £0 |
| Trading fees | Ultra-low spreads from 0.6 pips (spread betting) |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Base currencies | GBP, USD, EUR and others |
| Platforms | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, Pepperstone app |
| Best known for | Low spreads, fast execution, advanced platforms |
| Risk warning | 72% of retail investors lose money trading CFDs |
How competitive are this platform’s fees and trading costs?
Pepperstone is one of the lowest-cost brokers available to UK traders. It offers tight spreads, no non-trading fees, and transparent pricing, making it especially attractive for frequent and active traders.
- Spreads from 0.6 pips on forex spread betting
- Razor account spreads from 0.0 pips plus low commission
- No deposit, withdrawal, or inactivity fees
- Standard overnight financing applies on leveraged positions
Is this trading platform safe and properly regulated?
Yes. Pepperstone is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and is considered highly trustworthy. Client funds are held in segregated accounts at Tier-1 banks, and negative balance protection applies to UK retail clients.
UK traders are covered by the FSCS up to £85,000 if Pepperstone fails. CFDs and spread betting are high-risk products and are not FSCS protected.
What markets and assets can I trade on this platform?
Pepperstone focuses on forex, indices, and leveraged trading rather than long-term investing. Market coverage is strong for active trading but narrower than some multi-asset brokers.
Available markets include:
- Forex (90+ pairs)
- Indices
- Commodities
- Share CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Currency indices
UK clients can also access:
- Spread betting (tax treatment depends on individual circumstances)
Crypto derivatives are not available to UK retail clients due to FCA restrictions.
What trading tools, features, and apps does this platform offer?
Pepperstone delivers one of the strongest platform selections in the UK, particularly for technical and algorithmic traders.
Key features include:
- MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5
- cTrader and TradingView integration
- Proprietary Pepperstone mobile app
- Smart Trader Tools add-ons
- Autochartist market scanning
- Capitalise.ai for no-code automation
How easy is this platform to use and how good is customer support?
Pepperstone is easy to open and use, though its platforms are more advanced than beginner-first apps. Account setup is fully digital and usually completed within 24 hours.
Customer support is strong, with 24/5 live chat, email, and UK phone support. Response times are fast and support quality is consistently high.
Who is this trading platform best for?
| Best for | Not ideal for |
|---|---|
| Active forex and index traders | Long-term investors |
| Scalpers and day traders | Beginners wanting simple apps |
| Algorithmic and automated traders | Users needing GSLOs |
| UK spread bettors | Crypto-focused traders |
Read the complete Pepperstone review here.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| FCA regulated and FSCS protected | No guaranteed stop losses |
| Ultra-low spreads and fast execution | Smaller share range than IG |
| Excellent platform choice | Demo expires after 60 days |
| No inactivity or withdrawal fees | No crypto for UK retail clients |
What is online stock trading?
Online stock trading is the process of buying and selling shares through a digital platform or mobile app without using a traditional stockbroker. UK traders can place trades instantly, track prices in real time, and manage investments themselves using FCA-regulated platforms, usually with lower fees and greater control.
Online trading gives investors direct market access, faster execution, and a wide choice of tools for research, charting, and portfolio management. UK trading platforms typically support pounds sterling, UK-listed shares, and local tax wrappers such as ISAs.
How does online trading work in the UK?
Online trading in the UK works through regulated platforms that connect investors directly to stock exchanges.
Once an account is funded, trades can be placed in seconds and are executed electronically.
Key steps include:
- Orders placed via web or mobile trading apps
- Trades routed to stock exchanges such as the London Stock Exchange
- Prices updating in real time during market hours
All UK trading platforms must follow FCA rules, including client money segregation and best execution standards.
What types of online trading platforms exist?
There are different types of online trading platforms designed for different investing styles. Choosing the right one depends on how often you trade and what assets you want to access.
Common platform types include:
- Investment platforms for long-term investing in shares, ETFs, and funds
- Trading platforms for active traders using real-time charts and frequent trades
- CFD and spread betting platforms for leveraged trading and short-term strategies
It is important to note that CFDs and spread betting are high-risk products, and losses can exceed deposits. They are not suitable for all investors and are not covered by the FSCS.
What should you look for in a trading platform?
The best trading platforms combine low fees, FCA regulation, reliable tools, and an easy-to-use interface that suits your experience level. UK traders should focus on strong regulation, transparent costs, broad market access, and dependable customer support to trade confidently and safely.
A good platform should make trading clear and controlled, not complex or risky by default. The right choice depends on whether you are investing long term or trading actively.
Regulation and platform safety
Regulation is the most important factor when choosing a trading platform in the UK. Proper oversight protects your money and ensures fair dealing standards.
Key safety features to look for include:
- FCA authorisation or registration for UK operations
- Segregated client funds held separately from company money
- Clear risk disclosures, especially for leveraged products
Eligible investments may be protected by the FSCS up to £85,000, but CFDs and crypto are not FSCS protected.
Available markets and investment options
A strong trading platform should offer access to the markets you want to trade, without forcing you into unsuitable products.
Common market options include:
- UK and international shares
- ETFs and investment funds
- CFDs, forex, or crypto, where applicable and regulated
UK retail clients should be aware that some products, such as crypto derivatives, are restricted by the FCA.
Platform usability and tools
The platform itself should be easy to use, fast, and stable across devices. Poor usability can increase mistakes and trading risk.
Important usability features include:
- Charting and analysis tools for informed decisions
- Mobile and desktop apps for flexible access
- Order types such as stop-losses and limit orders to manage risk
A platform that matches your experience level will help you trade more confidently and avoid unnecessary errors.
What type of UK trading account should you use?
The right trading account depends on your tax position and long-term goals. While standard trading accounts are flexible, Individual Savings Account (ISA) and Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) wrappers offer significant tax advantages, allowing investments to grow free from income tax and capital gains tax. Many leading UK trading platforms offer multiple account types under one login.
General investment accounts
- No contribution limits
- Subject to CGT and dividend tax
- Suitable for short-term or higher-frequency trading
Stocks and Shares ISAs
- £20,000 annual allowance
- No CGT or dividend tax
- Ideal for long-term investing and portfolio building
SIPPs and Junior ISAs
- SIPPs offer tax relief on contributions but funds are locked until retirement
- Junior ISAs allow tax-free investing for children with an £9,000 annual limit
Not all trading platforms support every wrapper, so availability of ISAs and SIPPs is a key comparison factor when choosing a provider.
How do you open a trading account in the UK?
Opening a UK trading account is a quick online process that usually takes 5 to 15 minutes on FCA-regulated platforms. You choose a platform, complete an application, verify your identity, fund the account, and can often start trading the same day once checks are approved.
Step 1: Choose a regulated platform
Select a provider authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority, which ensures client money rules, fund segregation, and FSCS protection on eligible investments. Many platforms let you choose between a general account, Stocks and Shares ISA, or SIPP at signup.
Step 2: Complete the application and verification
You’ll provide basic details such as your name, UK address, National Insurance number, and bank or debit card information. Identity checks are completed electronically using a passport or driving licence and are often approved within minutes.
Step 3: Fund your account and start trading
Deposit funds via bank transfer, Faster Payments, or debit card. Minimum deposits typically range from £0 to £100. Once funded, you can trade UK shares in real time when the London Stock Exchange is open, usually 8:00am to 4:30pm on weekdays.
How do fees and trading costs affect your returns?
Trading fees directly reduce your returns, especially if you trade frequently. Even small commissions, spreads, or FX charges can add up over time, which makes fee transparency one of the most important factors when choosing a trading platform in the UK.
Lower costs do not guarantee profits, but high or hidden fees almost always work against you.
Common trading platform fees explained
Most UK trading platforms charge a mix of trading and non-trading fees. Understanding each one helps you compare platforms accurately.
Common fees include:
- Trading commissions, charged per trade or as a percentage of the deal
- Spreads, the difference between the buy and sell price
- FX conversion fees when trading non-GBP assets such as US shares
- Inactivity charges applied after long periods without trading
Some platforms advertise “commission-free” trading but recover costs through wider spreads or FX fees.
Why low fees matter for UK traders
Fees have a compounding effect over time and can significantly impact long-term performance, particularly for active traders.
Key reasons low fees matter include:
- Compounding impact over time, where saved fees stay invested
- Higher costs for frequent traders, as fees apply on every trade
- FX fees on US shares, which can quietly reduce returns for UK investors
UK traders should always review full fee schedules, including spreads and currency conversion costs,
Do you have to pay tax on profits made through trading platforms?
Yes. Profits made through UK trading platforms can be subject to capital gains tax, dividend tax, and stamp duty, depending on what you trade and which account you use. UK shares attract 0.5% Stamp Duty Reserve Tax, while profits above the £3,000 capital gains allowance and dividends above £500 may be taxable in the 2025 to 2026 tax year.
Capital gains tax on investments
- Capital gains apply when assets are sold for more than their purchase price
- Annual CGT allowance: £3,000
- CGT rates depend on income band
- 10% for basic rate taxpayers
- 20% for higher and additional rate taxpayers
Dividend tax rules
- Dividend allowance: £500 per tax year
- Dividend tax rates
- 8.75% basic rate
- 33.75% higher rate
- 39.35% additional rate
Stamp Duty Reserve Tax
- 0.5% SDRT applies when buying UK-listed shares
- Does not apply to ETFs, overseas shares, or AIM-listed stocks
All taxable investment activity must be reported to HM Revenue & Customs, either through Self Assessment or PAYE adjustments.
Yes. Most UK trading platforms allow access to US equities, but extra costs and paperwork apply. Investors usually pay a foreign exchange fee between 0.15% and 1.50%, and must submit a W-8BEN form to reduce US dividend withholding tax from 30% to 15% for three years.
FX fees and currency conversion
| FX fee | Cost on £1,000 trade |
|---|---|
| 0.15% | £1.50 |
| 0.50% | £5.00 |
| 1.00% | £10.00 |
| 1.50% | £15.00 |
Platforms offering multi-currency wallets can reduce repeated FX costs for frequent US traders.
US dividend tax and forms
- W-8BEN required for reduced withholding
- Valid for three calendar years
- Applies to US stocks and ETFs paying dividends
Currency risk
Holding US shares exposes investors to GBP/USD exchange rate movements. A strengthening pound can reduce returns when converting profits back to sterling, even if the share price rises in dollars.
How we test trading platforms
UK trading platforms are reviewed using a consistent, hands on testing process focused on regulation, fees, usability, tools, and overall reliability. Each platform is scored from 1 to 5 across key categories based on real account use and live trade testing.
Our assessments prioritise FCA regulation, transparent pricing, platform stability, and ease of use. We compare spreads and commissions, test order execution and charting tools, and review funding, withdrawals, and customer support.
All reviews are independent and evidence-based, designed to help UK traders choose a safe and reliable platform based on real performance, not marketing claims.
For a full breakdown of our review process, visit our detailed guide on How We Test.
Conclusion: Choosing the best trading platform in the UK
The best trading platforms in the UK combine FCA regulation, fair pricing, reliable tools, and clear risk controls.
The right choice depends on how you trade, what markets you want, and how much support you need.
- IG stands out for its huge market range, strong research, and ISA and SIPP access.
- CMC Markets is ideal for advanced traders who want powerful charting and competitive spreads.
- eToro is best for beginners thanks to its simple app and copy trading features.
- Pepperstone is a top pick for active traders who prioritise ultra-low spreads and fast execution.
Whichever platform you choose, always check fees, regulation, and product risks. Trading and investing involve risk, and capital is never guaranteed.
FAQs
Which is the best trading platform in the UK?
IG is the best all round trading platform in the UK for most people because it combines FCA regulation, broad market access (17,000 plus markets), strong research, and both investing options like ISAs and SIPPs plus active trading tools.
What is the safest trading platform UK?
IG is the safest pick from this list on trust signals because it is FCA regulated, FSCS eligible up to £85,000 on eligible investments, and publicly listed, which adds transparency. XTB, CMC Markets, eToro, Pepperstone, and Capital.com are also FCA regulated with FSCS eligibility on eligible investments.
Which trading platform has the lowest fees in the UK?
Pepperstone is the lowest cost option for active trading due to ultra tight spreads and no deposit, withdrawal, or inactivity fees. For investing, XTB can be cheapest for shares and ETFs thanks to £0 commission up to €100,000 monthly volume, but inactivity fees can apply after 12 months.
What platform do the best traders use?
Many experienced traders use platforms that support advanced charting and automation such as MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView. From this list, Pepperstone is the strongest match for that style, while IG is popular for breadth of markets plus professional grade tools.
Which trading platform is best for beginners?
eToro is best for beginners because it is simple to use, mobile first, and offers CopyTrader plus a demo account, which helps new traders learn without starting on complex platforms. XTB is also beginner friendly due to its clean xStation platform and strong education.
What is the most reliable trading platform?
IG is the most reliable overall for UK users because it is established, well regulated, and has a strong platform suite plus customer support options. For pure execution focused trading, Pepperstone is also highly reliable for active traders thanks to fast execution and mature third party platforms.
Are trading profits always taxable in the UK?
No. Investments held inside ISAs, SIPPs, or Junior ISAs are fully tax sheltered.
Do UK trading platforms report to HMRC?
Most FCA-regulated platforms share data under UK tax reporting rules.
What are fractional shares?
Fractional shares let investors buy a portion of a share rather than a whole unit, allowing investment with smaller amounts of money. UK trading platforms use them to make expensive stocks more accessible and to enable precise investing, such as investing £50 instead of buying a full share.
