Best Online Stock Brokers & Trading Apps in the UK (2024)

As bank interest rates have been at an historic low for over a decade, savers are increasingly turning their attention to the stock market in a bid to make the most of their money.

Thanks to Hollywood films such as Wall Street and The Wolf of Wall Street, there are many misconceptions about what the stock market is, and who can invest.

The stock market isn’t just for those with large sums of money. It is also accessible for anyone who wants to try and improve their savings. But how do you get started?

The first step is to find a UK stock broker. This is someone who can manage your investment on your behalf.

To find out more about how you can start to invest in stocks and shares, we’re taking a look at what stock brokers are, and how to find the right stock broker for you.

Top 9 UK Stock Brokers List & Trading Apps (October 2024)

1. Best online broker UK for short-term exposure to markets (CFD trading): Plus500
2. Best stock broker UK for customer service: Pepperstone
3. Best broker UK for learning from others: eToro
4. Best UK broker for welcome bonus: AvaTrade
5. Best online stock broker UK for feature-stuffed mobile app: Vantage Markets
6. Best broker in UK for trading academy: XTB
7. Best broker with comprehensive trading package: IG
8. Best for a wide array of global stocks: Saxo
9. Best online broker for Millennials: Robinhood

Now we’ve explained more about what stock brokers are and how to choose one, here is a quick overview of some of the best stock brokers in the UK.

This list of best brokers and best trading platforms provides you with a brief look at different platforms, giving you further insights to make informed decisions.

It’s important to remember that this list isn’t exhaustive and shouldn’t constitute financial advice.

Before deciding to invest with any broker, make sure that you have undertaken further due diligence to check on its reliability, its success rate, its fees and its customer care.

Best UK Online Brokerage Sites & Trading Apps – Comparison Chart (October 2024)

51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Best Online Brokers UK – Reviewed (2024)

Best for: Short-term exposure to markets
Minimum deposit: £100
Withdrawal fees: Up to five withdrawals per month for free. More than this incur a $10 fee; overnight funding fee; currency conversion fee; inactivity fee; guaranteed stop order fees
Tradable assets: CFDs
Number of stocks: 1,000+

Plus500 is suited for experienced investors wanting to invest solely in CFDs.

It is designed for those who want short exposure to markets. You are not purchasing stock, instead, you are trading CFDs.

The Plus500 trading app is a comprehensive platform that provides users with the opportunity to engage in trading various financial instruments across global markets. With a user-friendly interface and a range of features, the app caters to both beginners and experienced traders.

At the core of the Plus500 app is its diverse range of tradable assets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities and indices. This allows users to build a diversified investment portfolio that suits their preferences and risk tolerance. The app's intuitive design makes it easy to navigate through different markets, analyze real-time price movements and execute trades efficiently.

One of the standout features of the Plus500 app is its demo account functionality, which provides users with a risk-free environment to practice trading strategies and familiarize themselves with the platform's features. This is particularly valuable for beginners who want to gain hands-on experience before committing real funds.

Furthermore, the app offers a range of tools and features for technical and fundamental analysis, helping users make informed trading decisions. The availability of real-time charts, indicators, and alerts empowers traders to stay updated on market trends and seize potential opportunities.

Best for: Customer service
Minimum deposit: £0
Withdrawal fees: £0
Tradable assets: Forex, Commodities, Cryptocurrencies (to pro clients in the UK only), Index CDFs, spread betting, ETFs and Stocks CFDs
Available trading platforms: TradingView, MT4, MT5, cTrader

Pepperstone is a highly regarded stock broker that offers exceptional 24-hour customer service for users.

This is hugely beneficial for investors wishing to take advantage of time differences across 14 different stock markets from around the world.

The Pepperstone trading app offers traders a user-friendly and efficient platform to access global financial markets. Known for its focus on forex and CFD trading, the app provides a range of tools and features for both beginner and experienced traders.

With the Pepperstone app, users can trade various financial instruments, including forex currency pairs, commodities, indices and cryptocurrencies.

The app's intuitive design allows for easy navigation through different markets and seamless execution of trades.

One of the app's highlights is its competitive pricing and fast execution speed, which are crucial factors for active traders. Additionally, Pepperstone provides access to a variety of trading platforms, catering to different trading styles and preferences.

The app also offers real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and technical analysis indicators to help users make well-informed trading decisions. This, coupled with the option for demo accounts, allows users to practice and refine their strategies before trading with real funds.

The below content does not apply to US users

Best for: Learning from others
Commission: £0 (0% commission applies to stock investment)
Minimum deposit: £200
Withdrawal fees: £5
Tradable assets: Stocks and ETFs (exchange-traded funds), Cryptocurrencies, CFD trading
Number of stocks: 3,000+

eToro is one of the most popular online stock brokers in the UK. Over the past 15 years, it has developed a strong reputation as the best online stock broker for beginners and experienced investors alike.

The site allows you to invest in stocks and shares from across the world, including the London Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange.

The eToro trading app is a comprehensive platform designed for trading and investing in a variety of financial instruments. Users can access global markets and trade assets such as stocks, cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices and forex.

One of the distinctive features of the eToro app is its social trading aspect, which allows users to connect with fellow traders, observe their trading activities and even automatically replicate their trades.

This social trading feature is particularly helpful for those who are new to trading or seeking to diversify their investment strategies.

The app also offers a CopyTrader feature, enabling users to select successful traders and mirror their trading actions. This functionality is valuable for individuals who may not have extensive trading experience but wish to benefit from the expertise of more experienced traders.

Real-time market data, charts and analysis tools are integrated into the app, empowering users to make informed trading decisions. The ability to track price movements, set alerts, and perform technical and fundamental analysis provides users with comprehensive tools to navigate the markets effectively.

Mobile accessibility is a key component of the eToro app, allowing users to trade and manage their investments while on the go. With the app, users can monitor their account balances, execute trades, and stay up-to-date with market trends from their mobile devices.

Account management is straightforward through the app, allowing users to deposit and withdraw funds, review transaction history and monitor their account balances. Additionally, eToro's adherence to regulatory standards and implementation of security measures ensures the safety of users' funds and personal information.

The user interface of the eToro app is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. This design facilitates easy navigation through different sections of the app, simplifies the analysis of market data, and streamlines the execution of trades.

To find out more, read our eToro review.

51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Best for: Welcome bonus
Minimum deposit: May vary
Withdrawal fees: AvaTrade typically does not charge withdrawal fees
Tradable assets: Forex currency pairs, commodities, stocks, indices and cryptocurrencies
Available trading platforms: Proprietary platform and the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platforms.

AvaTrade is a CFD Regulated broker with +1,000 financial instruments and multiple trading platforms. It has been operating since 2006.

The AvaTrade trading app provides traders with a comprehensive platform to access global financial markets and trade a variety of assets. With a focus on forex and CFD trading, the app offers a range of features that cater to traders of all levels of experience.

Through the AvaTrade app, users can trade forex currency pairs, commodities, stocks, indices and cryptocurrencies. The platform's user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate between different markets and execute trades efficiently.

A notable feature of the AvaTrade app is its commitment to user education. The app offers a wealth of educational resources, including video tutorials, webinars and market analysis, which are valuable for both novice and seasoned traders looking to enhance their trading knowledge.

The app also provides real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and technical indicators to help users make informed trading decisions. Additionally, the app's demo account option allows users to practice their trading strategies without risking real funds.

Best for: Feature-stuffed mobile app
Minimum deposit: Based on the account type and region
Withdrawal fees: No withdrawal fees
Tradable assets: Forex currency pairs, commodities, indices, stocks and cryptocurrencies
Available trading platforms: Proprietary trading platform

The Vantage Markets trading app is a robust and versatile platform that provides traders with the tools to access global financial markets and engage in trading a diverse range of assets.

Designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced traders, the app offers an intuitive interface and a range of features to enhance the trading experience.

A notable feature of the Vantage Markets trading app is its accessibility to a wide array of tradable assets.

Users can trade forex currency pairs, commodities, indices, stocks, cryptocurrencies, and more. This expansive selection enables traders to build diversified portfolios and take advantage of various market opportunities.

The app's interface is designed with user-friendliness in mind, allowing users to easily navigate through different markets, access real-time market data and execute trades efficiently. The platform also provides a comprehensive set of charting tools and technical indicators, empowering traders to conduct thorough analysis and make informed trading decisions.

Vantage Markets places emphasis on customer support and education. The trading app offers access to a range of educational materials, including video tutorials, webinars, and market analysis, enabling traders to enhance their trading skills and stay informed about market developments.

Additionally, the Vantage Markets trading app offers risk management tools, such as stop-loss and take-profit orders, to assist traders in managing their risk exposure. A demo account option is also available, allowing users to practice trading strategies without risking real capital.

Best for: Trading accademy
Minimum deposit: Can vary
Withdrawal fees: No withdrawal fees for standard transactions
Tradable assets: Forex currency pairs, indices, commodities, stocks, cryptocurrencies and more
Available trading platforms: xStation 5

XTB was founded in 2002 and has an excellent reputation for customer service.

The XTB trading app is a versatile platform that offers traders the ability to access a wide range of financial markets and trade various assets. Designed with both novice and experienced traders in mind, the app provides a user-friendly interface and a suite of features to enhance the trading experience.

One of the key strengths of the XTB trading app is its diverse offering of tradable assets. Users can trade forex currency pairs, commodities, indices, stocks, cryptocurrencies, and more. This extensive selection allows traders to create diversified portfolios and capitalize on various market opportunities.

The app's interface is designed for ease of use, enabling users to navigate different markets, access real-time market data, and execute trades seamlessly. The platform also provides a range of charting tools and technical indicators, empowering traders to conduct in-depth analysis and make informed trading decisions.

XTB places a strong emphasis on education and research. The app offers educational resources, including video tutorials, webinars and market analysis, to help traders enhance their trading skills and stay informed about market trends.

Moreover, the XTB trading app provides risk management tools, such as stop-loss and take-profit orders, to help traders manage their risk effectively. Additionally, a demo account option allows users to practice trading strategies without risking real funds.

CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Best for: Traders of all level
Minimum deposit: Varies based on region and account type
Withdrawal fees: No withdrawal fees for standard withdrawals
Tradable assets: Forex, commodities, indices, shares and cryptocurrencies
Available trading platforms: Proprietary platform and the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform.

The IG trading app stands out as a versatile and comprehensive platform for traders to access a wide range of financial markets.

With a strong reputation in the trading industry, the app offers an array of features that cater to traders of various levels of expertise.

One of the key strengths of the IG trading app is its extensive selection of tradable instruments. Users can trade forex currency pairs, commodities, indices, shares, cryptocurrencies and more. This diversity enables traders to build diverse portfolios and capitalize on various market opportunities.

The app's user-friendly interface is designed to streamline the trading process. It allows users to navigate seamlessly between different markets, access real-time market data and execute trades with ease.

The app also offers a range of charting tools and technical indicators to aid in making informed trading decisions.

An important aspect of the IG app is its focus on research and analysis. The platform provides users with access to a wide range of research materials, including market news, analysis and insights from experts. This information empowers traders to stay up-to-date with market trends and make well-informed trading choices.

The app's risk management features, such as stop-loss and take-profit orders, provide traders with tools to manage their risk effectively. Additionally, the IG app offers a demo account option, allowing users to practice trading strategies in a risk-free environment before trading with real funds.

Saxo is highly regarded as one of the best online stock brokers and trading apps due to its robust offerings that cater to both novice and experienced investors.

Saxo offers its clients access to over 23,500 stocks from more than 50 global markets, including major exchanges in London, New York, Hong Kong, and many others. This extensive range allows investors to diversify their portfolios internationally.

Saxo provides two primary trading platforms – SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO. Both platforms are highly regarded for their advanced features, intuitive design, and mobile accessibility, making them suitable for trading on the go. SaxoTraderGO is designed for all traders and offers ease of use with comprehensive tools and features, while SaxoTraderPRO caters to professional traders requiring more complex tools and multi-screen setups.

Saxo offers competitive pricing on stock trading, with transparent fee structures that are particularly advantageous for active traders. The broker provides detailed information about its commissions, which can vary by region and the volume of trades, allowing investors to manage their trading costs effectively.

For new investors, Saxo’s comprehensive range of educational materials—including webinars, videos, and articles—helps demystify stock trading and investment strategies. These resources are valuable for both beginners learning the basics and more experienced traders looking to refine their skills.

As a globally regulated entity, Saxo offers a secure trading environment. It adheres to strict regulatory standards, ensuring a high level of investor protection and financial integrity across its operations.

Saxo provides excellent customer service with support available through multiple channels, including live chat, email, and phone. This responsive support ensures that clients can receive timely assistance with their accounts or trading activities.

Best for: Millennials
Minimum deposit: No minimum deposit requirement
Withdrawal fees: No withdrawal fees for standard ACH transfers, but fees may apply for expedited transfers
Tradable assets: Stocks, ETFs, options and cryptocurrencies
Available trading platforms: Mobile app

This app is a favorite among millennials wanting to practice trading with small budgets. It is free to use with no commission fees.

Features include:

• Real-time market data
• Various investment options
• Zero balance requirement to open an account
• Instant access to deposited cash

While it does make trading accessible, the app lacks research and educational resources.

It is a straightforward app with limited portfolio analysis and customer service, but it does meet a trader's basic needs.

What Is a Stock Broker?

A stock broker is someone who buys stocks and shares on behalf of someone else. This may be on behalf of a commercial organization or a person.

The stock broker looks after the investment portfolio. They will work as an intermediary between the stock exchange and the investor.

Stock brokers can work in different ways:

• Some will take full management of the investment and make decisions on behalf of their client (known as a discretionary way of working).
• Others will work in an advisory capacity where they will advise and offer suggestions but only act when given authorization by their client.
• The final option is those who are execution-only. This is when stock brokers only make the investments that they are directed to. They will not offer any advice or support.

51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

What Are the Different Types of Stock Brokers?

The UK stock market has grown enormously in recent years. If you are keen to start investing your money, then you must first understand the different types of stock brokerages:

Full-Service Brokers

These offer everything you need so that you do not need to worry about managing your wealth portfolio.

Your broker will make recommendations and offer advice and guidance. They’ll manage investments on your behalf and will provide you with comprehensive reports giving details of your portfolio performance.

Discount Brokers

These will be more affordable than full-service brokers. They will only act upon a client’s orders – so whilst they will manage the actual buying/selling of stocks, they will not provide any advice or support.

It’s more affordable but more time-consuming for investors who will need to stay up to date with their investments.

Online Stock Brokers

These can be used by new investors as well as experienced investors. You’ll have the opportunity to manage your wealth portfolio and you can make new investments at the click of a button.

How Do Stock Brokers Make Money?

Typically, a stock broker will take a small commission, or they will charge specific fees for managing your investment.

Are UK Stock Brokers Regulated?

If you are providing money to a stock broker to act on your behalf, you must have confidence that they are fully regulated and trustworthy.

In the UK, there are stringent checks which are used to confirm the viability of stock brokers. This means that the London Stock Exchange is one of the strongest in the world. Investors can have confidence that they are fully protected from fraud and/or financial mismanagement.

Reputable UK stock brokers should be a member of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Not only does this provide peace of mind for investors that the broker is following operational guidelines, but it also provides insurance. UK retail clients can receive compensation up to £85,000.

Before appointing any stock broker, you should check to see that they are listed within the Financial Services Register.

Choosing the Best Online Broker UK – Key Considerations

When it comes to finding a UK stock broker, there are many different things that you should consider.

It’s important to remember that each stock broker will work differently. You need to consider whether you are looking for a stock broker who can manage your investment on your behalf or whether you want to remain in control.

Listening to References but Keeping an Open Mind

An easy way to find a UK stock broker is to find references and recommendations from other investors.

Listen to what they have to say but remember to keep an open mind. Different investors will have different needs – so what works well for one person, may not work for another.

This is particularly true if you are new to the stock market but are seeking advice from an experienced investor.

Is Your UK Stock Broker Regulated?

As previously mentioned, make sure you check on the Financial Services Register to see if your chosen broker is regulated.

Your broker should have details of professional memberships available on their website.

What Are the Trading Fees?

Stock brokers will make their money via commissions and trading fees. It may seem simple to choose the UK stock broker with the lowest possible trading fees, but that could cost you far more money in the long run.

Fees may differ depending on whether you are a casual trader, a beginner or an experienced investor.

It’s worthwhile comparing fees to your budget – this will help you to identify the right brokerage for your investment needs.

You may also need to consider whether you are charged a flat-fee or a percentage fee. Some brokers will charge for each transaction (deposit and withdrawals) which can become pricey. You may even be charged fees for inactivity on your account.

Before signing up with any brokerage, make sure that you are aware of the terms and conditions.

What Tradable Assets or Other Markets Are Offered?

As well as trading stocks and shares, many brokers (particularly online brokers) may offer opportunities to trade other assets such as foreign exchange currencies (forex).

If you are considering diversifying your investment portfolio, you may be interested in working with a stock broker with experience in other markets.

What Stock Trading Platforms Are Available?

A trading platform is a specific software that allows individual investors and stock brokers to make trades.

Some UK stock brokers may offer easy access to their trade platforms. This is typically in exchange for having full management of the investment.

Trading platforms can vary hugely and everyone is looking for the best online trading platform, but you will find that all of them have their pros and cons.

Some may have intuitive and easy-to-understand dashboards that allow investors to see how their investment is performing. Others may be complex, real-time charts and news feeds that are designed specifically for stock brokers to monitor the market.

Investors may wish to think about what features they need before deciding on a particular trading platform. For example, do they need the information to help with immediate decision making or are they looking for a platform that could make predictions and strategies for future investments?

The fees charged for trading platforms will also vary. You can expect to pay lower fees for trading platforms with reduced features.

51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with eToro. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

What Is the Minimum Amount of Money I Need to Invest in Stocks and Shares?

Stock brokers and online trading platforms will have different minimum requirements for investments. Some may be as little as £10, whilst other interactive brokers may require a minimum deposit of £100+.

Pay attention to the terms and details to establish how much you should invest.

Customer Care

It’s important to remember that if you are investing your money into a UK stock broker, you need to feel confident that they are supporting you and looking after you as best they can.

Look at customer reviews/testimonials to find out what people are saying.

If you are using an online stock broker, then try sites such as Feefo or TrustPilot to see if there are any advantages/disadvantages. You should be looking to work with a UK stock broker that offers consistent levels of customer care.

If you are trading online, is the dashboard easy to understand? Is it suitable for beginners or do you need extensive experience? Is there a helpline number to call if you need support?

If you’re working with a UK stock broker, what advice and guidance are they giving you? Do you feel that you are receiving a high level of customer care and satisfaction?

Remember that if you are choosing to invest money with a UK stock broker, you are paying for a service. Don’t be afraid to expect high levels of client care and attention.

Remember that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your chosen broker.

Always follow the instructions provided by the selected brokerage and ensure that you understand the terms and conditions before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there is much to consider when choosing which UK stock broker to use. Different online stock brokers have their own strengths and weaknesses, and what suits one person may not suit another.

We like the eToro platform. There are enough features on eToro to attract seasoned investors, whilst not being too alarming for beginners. This means that you can use the information to inform your knowledge and start trading effectively.

The innovative CopyTrader™ feature is particularly beneficial to allow newcomers to ‘practice’ investing by seeing what others are doing.

Before you make a final decision on your chosen UK stock broker, we recommend that you spend time working your way through the list and making the most of the free trading demos.

Most stock brokers will allow you access to its platforms and databases and will provide you with ‘virtual’ funding. This means that you can practice your investments, and see which interfaces work well for you without using your personal money.

As you become attuned to using different stock brokers you may start to establish which is best for your ability, interest and knowledge.

Don’t invest in unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.

WikiJob does not provide tax, investment, or financial services and advice. The information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk including the possible loss of principal.