Best Investing & Trading Apps in the UK for 2026

Investing or trading within the UK has never been easier. You can now do so from the comfort of your sofa, with investing and trading apps that are suitable even for beginners. A booming fintech sector is making it straightforward to buy shares, ETFs, or even cryptocurrency all from your phone.

But how do you know which is the right app for you? We’ll explore the best currency trading apps and the best investments apps for beginners until you find your perfect options. Let’s get into it.

How Do Investing & Trading Apps Work?

Investing and trading apps give you a simple way to buy, sell, and manage financial assets directly in the app. You typically create an account, select your account type, deposit money, and pick what to invest in or trade. You can then track your portfolio, and withdraw or reinvest your returns depending on your success and the financial outlook.

Does Choosing the Right App Matter?

Choosing the best currency trading apps or best investments apps for beginners can have a more significant impact than you think. Trading platform fees can eat into your returns, for example, so choosing your fees correctly is one consideration.

In-app tools and features shape what you can do, so ensure you opt for apps that have the right interface for you. The account type matters, too, and regulation and protection should be thought about before you go ahead.

The Best Investing & Trading Apps in the UK

1. Trading 212

This accessible, commission-free trading and investing app offers zero trading fees on many stocks. Its beginner-friendly interface makes it simple to use, even for novices, while the no-fuss approach makes it one of the best currency trading apps.

It’s great for investing, but lacks some of the more advanced options of other apps.

2. eToro

eToro is a social investing app where you can copy more experienced traders. With stocks, crypto and ETFs all in one app, as well as multiple ISA options, it’s one of the country’s most popular financial management options. The app itself is intuitive and straightforward to use.

3. IG

This online trading platform allows you to trade or invest with ease, no matter your level of experience. Offering tax-free trading and zero commission shares, it’s one of the most cost-effective options.

The app also allows you to invest up to £20,000 tax-free in a flexible stocks and shares ISA. While IG is one of the country’s best investments apps for beginners, some users complain of slow customer service and misleading promotions.

4. Freetrade

This simple, no-frills app is perfect for beginners, especially with the help of a financial advisor to talk you through the best investments and trades for you. Enjoy hundreds of choices to diversify your portfolio with no trading fees. There are plenty of commission-free options and the ability to pick a plan that suits you, starting at £0 per month.

5. InvestEngine

This platform is designed primarily for ETF investing, which InvestEngine automates with zero account fees. You can either manage your portfolio yourself or leave it to InvestEngine’s automated system, depending on how hands-on you want to be.

The app’s straightforward system allows you to start investing by putting as little as £1 in any ETF. Plus, the portfolio look-through feature makes it easy to break down your portfolio by companies, sectors, and regions.

6. XTB

Offering no commission on certain stocks and ETFs, XTB is one of the UK’s most popular investing and trading apps. With a well-designed app and learning materials to help beginners, it’s novice-friendly, although fees can add up if you regularly use advanced order types.

7. Revolut

Revolut is one of the digital challenger banks, but aside from offering everyday banking, the app now supports shares and trading. The stocks and shares ISA allows you to invest up to £20,000 per year tax free, and you can invest on your own terms, with low fees.

While this app certainly lacks some of the most advanced features of trading-only apps, it’s a good choice if you want to combine investing with your everyday banking, all in one space.

How to Get the Most Out of the Best Investments Apps for Beginners

Even the world’s easiest app can’t ensure you make the best investing and trading decisions, especially if you’re inexperienced. The most foolproof method of investing is coupling these easy-to-use app with expert advice and support from an experienced financial advisor.

When chosen correctly, investments and trades can make a huge impact on your earnings in a year, and the right financial advisor will help you maximise these returns. Chat with Clive, our AI-powered advisor, and get matched with an expert advisor who can help you manage your portfolio and make informed decisions. Say goodbye to not getting the return you want, and hello to a financial future to look forward to.