20 Best ETF Brokers In The UK: Top UK ETF Brokers

In this article, I will discuss the best ETF brokers in the UK. With a variety of options available, choosing the right broker is essential for accessing a wide range of ETFs, low trading fees, and reliable customer support.

I will explore top brokers, highlighting their key features to help you make an informed decision for your investment journey.

Key Points & Best ETF Brokers In The UK List

Broker	Key Features
eToro	Social trading, user-friendly interface, wide range of assets
FP Markets	Tight spreads, ECN/STP broker, variety of account types
Pepperstone	Fast execution, low spreads, copy trading
AvaTrade	Regulated globally, educational tools, fixed spreads
Trading 212	Commission-free trading, fractional shares, intuitive app
AJ Bell	Strong research tools, ISA accounts, pensions options
Interactive Investors	Wide range of investments, pension plans, regular investment plans
Alpaca Trading	Commission-free, API-first platform, suitable for developers
MEXEM	Access to global markets, low fees, professional trading tools
Saxo	Advanced research, multi-asset trading, extensive educational content
XTB	Excellent educational resources, free demo account, tight spreads
Webull	Commission-free trading, strong charting tools, fractional shares
Charles Schwab	Wide variety of investment options, low fees, research tools
Lightyear	Commission-free, fractional shares, mobile-first approach
TradeStation Global	Advanced charting, powerful trading tools, multi-asset capabilities
Freedom Finance	Global access, low fees, IPO participation
Plus500	User-friendly interface, risk management tools, low spreads
IG	Comprehensive research tools, wide asset range, mobile app
Trade Nation	Low spreads, transparent pricing, reliable customer support
Hargreaves Lansdown	Extensive research tools, wide investment options, ISAs, SIPPs

20 Best ETF Brokers In The UK

1.eToro

eToro is recognized as one of the best UK ETF brokers on the basis of its offerings. They are altogether features, that are interesting for the potential investors – the easy-to-navigate interface and the social trading options.

It also enables ETF trading without commissions! They have numerous of ETFs to offer, and to compliment everything – a demo account and learning tools.

Pros And Cons eToro

Pros:

• Trading of ETFs and stocks comes commission-free.
• Such a platform is intuitive for novice traders.
• Allows social trading and copy trading.
• Expanse of different global ETFs and various asset classes available.
• A partnership with top regulators ensures additional security.

Cons:

• Compared to other brokers, there is a lack of research tools.
• Withdrawal fees are higher than other competitors.
• Fees for inactivity are charged after the 12-month period.
• Quite a few advanced trading charting tools available for expert traders.
• Spread fees may be higher on some assets.

2.FP Markets

Such a reputation, coupled with a regulation from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, has made FP Markets become one of the best ETF brokers in the UK.

Joining the company embraces the opportunity to trade on dual MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms, choose from multiple account types as well as enjoy tight spreads. There is also the ability to trade many global ETFs, all in low commission cost.

Pros And Cons FP Markets

Pros:

• Low commission rates with competitive spreads.
• Many markets and ETFs from all over the world.
• MT4 & 5 as trading platforms.
• Customer service is great as they provide live chat help and much more.
• Safety is provided as they are regulated by high tier authorities.

Cons:

• Beginners will find it rather easy to get started but educational traction material is quite minimal.
• They offer trading with stocks and ETFs but no fractional shares.
• In case of no trading activities for some time, inactivity fees will be applicable.
• Nascent and only few account types are available so buyers will have limited options.
• Compared to other brokers, there are quite few crypto currencies that can be traded with FP markets.

3.Pepperstone

UK’s best ETF brokers will never be complete without Pepperstone, a broker recognized for its low spreads and immediate execution. Targeting clients all around the world

Pepperstone has broadened its offer with dozens of global ETFs. The brokerage presents advanced trading tools including MetaTrader 4 and cTrader, which is ideal for both beginner and advanced traders.

Pros And Cons Pepperstone

Pros:

• They charge very reasonable spreads and commissions to traders.
• Various platforms available, including MetaTrader 4 and cTrader.
• Covers a wide range of international ETFs and assets.
• Safe business as it is regulated by leading financial authorities.
• Important tools and features of charting are provided to experienced traders.

Cons:

• No in-house developed trading platform and depend on third-party options.
• Education system is very limited especially for beginner traders.
• Traders are assessed with inactivity fees for accounts remaining dormant for 12 months.
• Such accounts are not available like ISAs which are tax efficient.
• Certain geographical areas and ETFs are not available.

4.AvaTrade

AvaTrade is an excellent choice for ETF traders in the UK. Thanks to its international regulation and diverse investment options, AvaTrade applies no commissions on ETF trading.

It provides solutions like MetaTrader 4 and AvaTradeGo with educational materials, making it very suitable for both new and experienced traders.

Pros And Cons AvaTrade

Pros:

• Multiple trading platforms including AvaTradeGo and MetaTrader 4.
• Ability to transact in a wide range of global ETFs and other assets.
• Good education and tutorials for the newbie trader.
• Registered in several jurisdictions meaning enhanced security.

Cons:

• Offer relatively lower cryptocurrency trading choices in comparison with other=brokers.
• Charges inactivity fees three months after a customer has no trading.
• Weak reportorial tools for thorough market analysts.
• Some asset classes such as some securities have wider spreads.
• Does not allow for fractional share trading of ETFs.

5.Trading 212

Trading 212 is one of the top ETF brokers in the UK. Allowing commission-free trading and offering fractional shares, Trading 212 provides easy accesses to numerous ETFs.

Its straightforward interface that also comes with instructional material is perfect for newbies whilst also catering for seasoned investors’ needs as they look for cheap priced ETF options.

Pros And Cons Trading 212

Pros:

• There are no trading fees for stocks and ETFs.
• The mobile app and web platform have a great user interface.
• Fractional shares trading on ETFs, stocks and more is possible.
• A variety of international ETFs and assets is available.
• Excellent beginner investor educational tools.

Cons:

• Basic and insufficient research tools and analysis features for high level traders.
• None of the users have accounts that are tax efficient such as ISAs.
• Customer service sometimes takes a while to respond to queries made by customers.
• There are few possibilities to create complex orders and customize them.
• There can be problems with the platform’s performance when high volatility is present.

6.AJ Bell

AJ Bell is one of the largest ETF brokerage companies in UK. AJ Bell offers one of the best ranges of ETFs for long-term and short-term investors

Due to its competitive pricing and great research tools. It has ISAs and pensions options which makes it possible to manage ETF investments easily and cost-efficient.

Pros And Cons AJ Bell

Pros:

• The service provides an enormous choice of ETFs and other investment vehicle options.
• Trading and account management expenses are reasonable.
• Availability of tax-efficient accounts like ISAs, SIPPs is present.
• Good research and other supporting educational materials for investors.
• The platform is very intuitive and the mobile application is very well designed.

Cons:

• The US market and international ETFs are not well covered.
• There are no bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency trading offers.
• This issue relates to withdrawals as well, they are higher than most rivals.
• No fractional share trading for stocks and ETFs.
• Other than through the business hours, there is not much customer help available.

7.Interactive Investors

In the UK, Interactive Investors is rated as one of the better ETF brokers. With many different ETFs, low trading costs, and sound research tools, Interactive Investors is suited for both novice as well as experienced traders.

It also has many different investment products such as ISAs, SIPPs and other tax positve accounts and is therefore a good option for ETF investors.

Pros And Cons Interactive Investors

Pros:

• Provides various kinds of global ETFs and investment alternatives.
• Availability of tax-advantaged accounts like ISAs and SIPPs.
• Does the company provide good research and educational materials?
• Because the pricing always remains the same, it is best suited for active traders.
• Excellent preparation materials, sophisticated investment products, and easy to use interface.

Cons:

• No free trading for securities of ETFs and stocks.
• Less feature-rich mobile application compared to desktop version.
• Maintain appropriate account inactivity levels; otherwise, there are very high fees.
• Fractional share trading in ETFs and stocks is not permitted.
• Center operating hours are not suitable for most customers and so there is less availability.

8.Alpaca Trading

ETFs brokerage in the UK could not have been better with Alpaca Trading. It has a zero commission trading model and an API-first platform making it best suited for developers and algo trading.

It provides exposure to a variety of US sourced ETFs and allows easy import of user outreach strategies making it a very usable tool.

Pros And Cons Alpaca Trading

Pros:

• Zero commissions for trading US stocks and ETFs.
• Ability to buy fractional shares while trading ETFs and stocks.
• Simple API for algorithmic trading.
• Easy and clear interface suitable for novice traders.
• It does offer a paper trading option for simulation of trades as well as for strategies.

Cons:

• Restrictions to international markets and global ETFs.
• No ISA or SIPPs tax-efficient accounts.
• Somewhat limited educational material for those who are newer to investing.
• Options trading and other sophisticated features are not available.
• Certain delays with customer support responses during busy times.

9.MEXEM

In the UK, MEXEM is regarded as one of the leading ETF brokers. Providing affordable rates, worldwide coverage, and advanced trading features, MEXEM is suitable for both newcomers and experienced traders alike.

It offers an extensive trading experience along with MetaTrader 4 and 5, making it a prominent option for anyone interested in investing in very specific funds such as ETFs.

Pros And Cons MEXEM

Pros:

• Wide exposure with a vast array of global ETFs and different stock fairs.
• Affordable fees with low commissions charged, and their spread is normally tight.
• Provides the use of both MT4 and MT5 for greater versatility when trading.
• Good technical support available that is multilingual.
• Licensed by leading global regulatory bodies, making it safe.

Cons:

• Insufficient materials for beginners, which might affect their growth.
• Shares of ETFs cannot be traded in fractional quantities.
• Fees for inactivity are imposed after an extended period of no trade.
• Fewer advanced tools for charting compared to others in the broker’s category.
• Other tax-sheltered accounts such as ISAs or SIPPs are unavailable.

10.Saxo

Saxo is among the top ETF brokers from Depositary UK companies. With uh… advanced research tools and quite a number of available markets Saxo offers global coverage of ETFs.

Nano pricing is complemented by professional platforms like SaxoTraderGo; therefore it’s for serious investors who need a full package and smooth ETF crossover experience.

Pros And Cons Saxo

Pros:

• The perfect combination of professional tools and functional trading platforms.
• Investment accounts for UK residents are available such as ISAs and SIPPs.
• Each investment made with the use of powerful software is well thought out.
• Level of protection is guaranteed by the legislation of sound financial regulators.

Cons:

• On the higher side for the amount of commission charged as compared to other brokers.
• Minimum deposit and maintenance fees can be more than other brokers.
• Any trading of equivalent shares is not allowed for ETFs and stocks.
• Complaints about this service provider are often observed where demand was peaked.
• Number of cryptocurrency options for trading is lower than average when compared with peers.

11.XTB

XTB provides some of the best services as ETF brokers in the UK. They have cheap spreads and plenty of educational materials, not to mention that the application is easy to navigate making a wide range of global ETFs accessible for all.

The provision of desiring assets accompanied with reliable trading tools as well as customer service is a plus for both novice and experienced ETF investors.

Pros And Cons XTB

Pros:

• The broker does not impose a fee for trading ETFs and stocks.
• Huge collections of ETFs and assets.
• High-tech trading platform with great charting capabilities.
• Excellent trading school completions for traders at any skill.
• Place of multiple regulatory bodies to protect investors.

Cons:

• Absence of efficiently structured accounts is a drawback for financial planners such as ISAs.
• Considerably higher spreads on some assets than most brokers.
• No small fractional component bought for the ETFs.
• A charge will be levied for inactivity after on period of abstinence from trade.
• Support for the clients can be slow when there is a high volume of requests.

12.Webull

Webull is an excellent ETF trading broker for the UK traders. It is also well-loved for charting functionalities has no commissions. US and Global-based exchanges made available through Webull’s retail brokerage service.

No matter their years in extensive research and real-time interaction, the user-friendly interface always remains one of the crowd favorites.

Pros And Cons Webull

Pros:

• A zero-commission policy is applicable to trading stocks, ETFs and options.
• The platform has a built-in technical analysis and advanced charting features.
• Users are able to trade outside the regular market including before and after hours.
• Full shares are not required when buying ETFs and stocks.
• Well-designed mobile and desktop interfaces.

Cons:

• International markets and ETFs are not widely available.
• No IRS-approved schemes like ISAs are on offer.
• Responses to customer complaints and queries sometimes take considerable time.
• The language focused on beginners is almost absent.
• Users cannot trade cryptocurrencies straight away, rather trade through ETFs and options.

13.Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab is regarded among the best ETF brokers in the UK market. It has a vast selection of US and international ETFs, it has zero commissions and low fees, making it a great place for ETF trading.

US based traders, as well as newcomers and experienced traders alike, will appreciate its intuitive interface and its powerful research tools.

Pros And Cons Charles Schwab

Pros:

• There are no commissions on the purchase or sale of stocks, cocaine, or options.
• A large array of ETF’s and other investment instruments globally.
• Excellent tools of research and market evaluation for good engagement in the market.
• They provide ISAs, SIPPs, and other tax-efficient accounts.
• Great customer service with assistance available round the clock.

Cons:

• Very few retail traders have possibilities to access international markets.
• Bigger margin rates compared to other companies.
• Not many cryptocurrency trading possibilities existing.
• Not all stocks and ETFs allow the trading of fraction shares.
• Some accounts have inactivity fees.

14.Lightyear

In the United Kingdom, there are many brokers working with ETFs, but Lightyear is one of the best. With its commission-free trading and its choice to allow you to trade fractional shares, Lightyear democratizes trading in ETFs.

Their mobile-first app, emphasis on simple low-cost investing with education, makes Lightyear a great option whether you are a beginner or have broad experience in trading.

Pros And Cons Lightyear

Pros:

• Free commission for stock and ETF trading.
• Easy to use, ideal for the novice trader.
• Allows for fractional trading of shares and ETFs.
• Ethical investing and providing more sustainable options is emphasized.
• Clear and direct pricing with no other additional surprises.

Cons:

• Currently, the Circle of providers and assets for trading is much less compared with other brokers.
• There are no trading tools for senior traders.
• Little information is provided for traders who are new to the field.
• No t ax-advantaged account like an ISA or SIPP.
• Outside of working hours, there are not so many customer service channels.

15.TradeStation Global

TradeStation Global is regarded as one of the best ETF brokers in the UK. TradeStation Global is perfect even for active traders as it suits their needs with complex pricing, advanced tools and a wide array of globally traded ETFs.

It has a powerful platform, effective research capabilities, and low-cost fees which all contribute to making it a good option for investors in ETFs.

Pros And Cons TradeStation Global

Pros:

• Sophisticated trading software and other charting tools suitable for traders.
• Availability of various international ETFs and other markets.
• Commission costs for stock and ETF trading remains affordable.
• Permits the use of tax beneficial accounts such as ISAs within the United Kingdom.
• Automated and algorithmic trading is available as a feature rich API is provided.

Cons:

• Minimum deposits required for some accounts are quite obnoxious.
• No fractioned shares for stocks and ETFs and their respective trading.
• Limited hours of companies’ representatives for customer interactions.
• If the accounts are inactive for a certain period, a fee is charged for inactivity.
• Users that are less experienced may find the platform rather confusing.

16.Freedom Finance

Freedom Finance is known to be one of the best ETF brokers in the UK. It is valued for its availability of a range of global ETFs, relatively reasonable fees, and the opportunity to engage in IPOs.

The platform is designed with the user in mind and the customer service is great as well making it a solid option for even novice kinds of ETF traders and general investors as well as those who are seasoned when it comes to ETF’s trading.

Pros And Cons Freedom Finance

Pros:

• Has a large number of investment options including global ETFs.
• Does not charge commissions for specific assets.
• Advanced trading platforms with various tools and features.
• High regulatory controls which enhance safety.
• Extensive research and education support for investors.

Cons:

• High fees associated with some kinds of investments- for instance, options.
• Does not support fractional share trading in ETFS.
• Some brokers have more varied cryptocurrency trading than they provide.
• Following a period of inactivity, the account may be subject to fees.
• The response from the Customer support is relatively slow during peak times.

17.Plus500

Plus500 is a popular ETF broker operating in the UK. It has gained global recognition for its commission-free trading and attractive and tight spreads due to its extensive range of ETFs in several markets.

The platform appeals to both novice and seasoned ETF traders due to its easy-to-use interface, risk management features as well as excellent customer support.

Pros And Cons Plus500

Pros:

• There are no commissions on buying and selling stocks, ETFs, and CFDs.
• The interface handles most of the complicated tasks, especially for a new user.
• Has a variety of global ETFs and markets.
• Funds are backed by the best authorities in the world.
• There are tools for limiting exposure to risk, such as stop-loss orders.

Cons:

• Quite restrictive in terms of gaining access on a wider scale to international stock exchanges.
• ETFs and stocks cannot be traded in fractional shares.
• Beginners will encounter a shortage of advanced research and education oriented toward a more practical use.
• There are no tax efficient accounts such as ISAs or SIPP.
• Any trading inactivity will subject the user to a fee after a specified period has lapsed.

18.IG

Among ETF brokers in the United Kingdom, IG is rated among the very best. For those interested in the global markets and overshadowing spreads, both IG and their comprehensive research modules and tools are most excellent.

The low fee, ease to use and availability of education makes it a very good place for a beginner or an advanced ETF investor and all in between.

Pros And Cons IG

Pros:

• Has a great selection of global markets with different ETFs.
• Some plans do not charge a commission for buying ETFs and stocks.
• Incorporates high-quality trading tools and platforms for trading.
• Thoroughly equipped with research and educational content for investors.
• Has an upper hand as it is supervised by solicitors of top tier authority.

Cons:

• Some trading types have higher fees than those of other competitors.
• Currently, it offers a small range of transactions with the possibility of trading cryptocurrency.
• Fractional share trading for ETFs is not offered.
• If the client has not performed an activity for some time, inactivity charges apply.
• Some users experience waiting in long queues to get their issues resolved.

19.Trade Nation

Trade Nation is one of the leading forex brokers with an emphasis on ETF trading in the United Kindgdom. The company uses a market maker model, which enables them to provide low spreads, and has a straightforward approach to pricing making this a go-to for many investors.

With a diverse choice of global ETFs and an easy platform, this is another good option for novice and experienced, active ETF traders, as they have competitive fees as well.

Pros And Cons Trade Nation

Pros:

• No commissions on trades for stocks as well as ETFs.
• Trading platform is effective and easy to use.
• Competitive pricing as well as narrow spreads can be found.
• Multiple global markets and ETFs are available.
• Authorised by leading financial regulatory bodies.

Cons:

• Doesn’t have features for complex trades for advanced traders.
• There is no ability to trade fractional shares of ETFs and stocks.
• Very few learning materials available for novice traders.
• There are inactivity fees that apply after some time of no activity.
• Tax efficient accounts such as ISAs or SIPPs are not offered.

20.Hargreaves Lansdown

Hargreaves Lansdown has been recognized as one of the best ETF investment platforms in the UK. The platform has a huge variety of ETFs for their clients to choose from and the trading costs are low which is good for customers.

It also includes great research features making it a complete trade experience. The platform also offers quick and easy access to tax-efficient accounts like ISAs, in turn, it is well suited to both new and experienced investors.

Pros And Cons Hargreaves Lansdown

Pros:

• It has many ETFs and investment opportunities.
• Charges a slightly higher commission as it has a good market reputation and has been established for many years.
• Taxes on Income or Capital gains through tax efficient accounts such as ISA’s and SIPPs can be avoided.
• Provides great tools for research and investments for the Novice as well as the advanced users.
• Highly rated Customer Service with several means of support available.

Cons:

• Comparatively higher on the cost scale when seeing most of their competitors.
• Below average number of international markets, not many ETFs as well.
• Stocks and ETFs can be bought and sold but fractional shares are not available.
• Investors who are new may find the platform rather difficult and complex.
• Period of inactivity may incur an inactivity charge if no trading activity is undertaken.

How We Choose Best ETF Brokers In The UK

Fees and Commissions – Of what we expect from the brokers, competitive spreads, and low trading fees.

Range of ETFs – Should have an adequate coverage of global, and niche products at least one ETF.

Platform Usability – Designed for trading with minimum clicks for maximum output.

Customer Support – The availability of efficient and fast customer service options.

Research and Tools – The ability to utilize considerable research and educational content.

Regulation – Registration and regulation of the brokerage offshore with solid UK regulatory bodies.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice of the UK most suitable ETF broker depends on low fees, extent of offerings such as the number of ETFs they deal in, ease of use of their platform etc.

Notable ETF brokers that stand out are eToro, IG, and Hargreaves Lansdown due to their strong competitive offerings. Even with these, clients with diverse trading and investment objectives would be able to make a more informed choice of brokers based on the above key aspects.