In 2026, mobile trading has transformed how UK investors access the markets. With powerful apps offering everything from commission-free stock trades to advanced CFD tools and AI-driven insights, there’s never been more choice. Whether you’re a beginner dipping into fractional shares, a day trader chasing tight spreads, or a long-term investor building a portfolio, the right app can make all the difference.
All top platforms are FCA-regulated, providing segregated funds and up to £85,000 in FSCS protection. However, trading involves risk—CFD providers often report 70-80% of retail accounts losing money. This guide draws from hands-on testing and recent comparisons to highlight the leading trading apps UK residents can use today.
Key Factors When Choosing a Trading App
Look beyond headlines for:
- Fees: Commissions, spreads, inactivity charges, and FX conversion.
- Features: Charting, alerts, research, and order types.
- Asset Range: Real stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, or global markets.
- Usability: Intuitive design, speed, and reliability on iOS/Android.
- Account Options: ISA/SIPP availability for tax efficiency.
- Support & Education: Tools for beginners vs. pros.
Test with demo accounts where possible.
Top Trading Apps in the UK for 2026
- IG A veteran with a polished app mirroring its desktop platform. Commission-free on UK/US shares, advanced charting, Reuters news, and alerts. Ideal for active traders. Pros: Broad access, strong research. Cons: Potential custody fees. Best for experienced users.
- Trading 212 Commission-free real stocks/ETFs with fractional shares from £1. Sleek app, multi-currency support, and interest on cash. Pros: Beginner-friendly, no hidden fees. Cons: Limited advanced tools. Popular for passive investing.
- eToro Social/copy trading shines—follow top performers automatically. Zero-commission stocks, crypto, and community feeds. Pros: Great for learning from others. Cons: FX fees on deposits. Suited to novices.
- XTB xStation app delivers pro charting, heatmaps, and education. Zero commissions on stocks/ETFs up to limits, tight spreads. Pros: Excellent academy, no minimum. Cons: No ISA. Balanced for growing skills.
- Pepperstone Ultra-low spreads (from 0.0 pips) on Razor accounts, MT4/MT5/cTrader support. Pros: Fast execution for scalpers. Cons: Commission-based, CFD-focused. High-volume favourite.
- Capital.com AI-powered insights and analytics in a clean app. Commission-free CFDs, strong education. Pros: Smart tools for decisions. Cons: No real shares/ISA. Beginner-to-intermediate appeal.
- Saxo Professional-grade with 50+ exchanges and themes. Pros: Vast global access, ISA/SIPP. Cons: Higher fees/minimums. Advanced users’ choice.
Notable mentions: Freetrade (simple commission-free investing), CMC Markets (advanced CFDs), Spreadex (tax-efficient spread betting).
Quick Comparison Table (Key Features, Approx. 2026)
| App | Min Deposit | Commissions | Spreads (EUR/USD equiv.) | ISA/SIPP | Best For |
| IG | £0 | £0 (UK/US shares) | N/A | Yes/Yes | Active/Advanced |
| Trading 212 | £1 | £0 | N/A | Yes/No | Beginners/Passive |
| eToro | $10 | £0 (stocks) | From 1 pip | No/No | Social/Copy Trading |
| XTB | £0 | £0 (up to limits) | From 0.1 pips | No/No | Education/Low Costs |
| Pepperstone | £0 | Low/Raw | From 0.0 pips | No/No | Forex/CFD Scalping |
| Capital.com | £20 | £0 | From 0.6 pips | No/No | AI Insights/Beginners |
| Saxo | £0 | From £3 | Variable | Yes/Yes | Global/Professional |
Fees variable; check live quotes. Many waive inactivity charges initially.
Final Thoughts
The “best” app depends on you: Trading 212 or eToro for easy starts, IG or Saxo for depth, Pepperstone/XTB for costs. Competition keeps fees low and features rich in 2026.
For in-depth reviews and latest rankings of https://www.theinvestorscentre.co.uk/, visit theinvestorscentre.co.uk. Always trade responsibly—diversify, use stops, and never risk more than you can afford.