Trading has gone mobile.
In 2025, you don’t need a desktop terminal or a Wall Street broker. You just need your phone.
With dozens of apps competing for attention, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve rounded up the Top 10 UK trading apps to watch in 2025. Each one has its strengths, quirks, and ideal audience.
At Motivuu, we’ve kept this guide simple, entertaining, and practical.
📱 1. Freetrade
Freetrade is a favourite among beginners.
Pros:
- Commission‑free trading.
- Easy‑to‑use interface.
- Fractional shares available.
Cons:
- Limited advanced tools.
- Smaller stock selection compared to rivals.
Benefits: Perfect for new investors who want to dip their toes in without worrying about fees. You can start with as little as £1.
📱 2. Trading 212
Trading 212 is one of the UK’s most popular apps.
Pros:
- Commission‑free trades.
- Wide range of stocks, ETFs, and forex.
- Intuitive design.
Cons:
- Customer service can be slow.
- Advanced traders may find tools basic.
Benefits: Great for beginners and intermediate investors. It’s simple, sleek, and offers practice accounts to learn risk‑free.
📱 3. eToro
eToro is famous for social trading.
Pros:
- Copy trading lets you follow experienced investors.
- Huge range of assets, including crypto.
- Strong community features.
Cons:
- Higher spreads than some rivals.
- Limited advanced charting.
Benefits: Ideal if you want to learn by watching others. Beginners can copy trades while gaining confidence.
📱 4. Interactive Investor
Interactive Investor (II) is built for long‑term investors.
Pros:
- Flat monthly fee (good for larger portfolios).
- Wide choice of funds, shares, and ETFs.
- Strong research tools.
Cons:
- Not free for small investors.
- Interface less flashy than rivals.
Benefits: Best for serious investors who want to build wealth steadily. It’s reliable, regulated, and offers excellent customer support.
📱 5. IG
IG is one of the UK’s oldest trading platforms.
Pros:
- Huge range of markets (shares, forex, indices, commodities).
- Advanced charting tools.
- Strong reputation.
Cons:
- Higher fees than beginner apps.
- Can overwhelm new traders.
Benefits: Perfect for advanced traders who want depth and variety. IG is a powerhouse with decades of experience.
📱 6. InvestEngine
InvestEngine focuses on ETFs.
Pros:
- Commission‑free ETF investing.
- Automated portfolios available.
- Low fees.
Cons:
- Limited to ETFs (no individual shares).
- Less appealing for active traders.
Benefits: Great for beginners who want a simple, hands‑off approach. It’s like investing on autopilot.
📱 7. City Index
City Index is known for CFD trading.
Pros:
- Wide range of CFDs.
- Strong research and analysis tools.
- FCA‑regulated.
Cons:
- CFDs are risky for beginners.
- Fees can add up.
Benefits: Best for experienced traders who want leverage and advanced tools. Not ideal for casual investors.
📱 8. Saxo Bank
Saxo Bank offers a premium experience.
Pros:
- Professional‑grade tools.
- Huge range of global markets.
- Excellent research.
Cons:
- Higher fees.
- Complex interface.
Benefits: Tailored for serious investors and professionals. If you want depth and don’t mind paying, Saxo delivers.
📱 9. XTB
XTB is gaining traction in the UK.
Pros:
- Low‑cost trading.
- User‑friendly app.
- Good educational resources.
Cons:
- Limited product range compared to giants.
- No ISA options.
Benefits: A solid choice for beginners who want low fees and a clean interface.
📱 10. Hargreaves Lansdown
Hargreaves Lansdown is a household name.
Pros:
- Huge range of funds and shares.
- Excellent customer service.
- Strong reputation.
Cons:
- Higher fees than newer apps.
- Interface feels dated.
Benefits: Best for investors who value trust and support. HL has decades of credibility and a loyal user base.
🧠 How to Choose the Right App
With so many options, how do you decide?
- Beginners: Freetrade, Trading 212, InvestEngine.
- Intermediate: eToro, Interactive Investor, XTB.
- Advanced: IG, Saxo Bank, City Index.
- Long‑term investors: Hargreaves Lansdown, Interactive Investor.
Think about your goals. Do you want quick trades, long‑term growth, or passive investing?
📊 Pros and Cons Summary
| App | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freetrade | Beginners | Free trades, simple | Limited tools |
| Trading 212 | Beginners/Intermediate | Free trades, wide range | Service issues |
| eToro | Social traders | Copy trading, crypto | Higher spreads |
| Interactive Investor | Long‑term | Flat fee, research | Costly for small investors |
| IG | Advanced | Huge markets, tools | Higher fees |
| InvestEngine | Passive ETF investors | Low cost, automated | Limited products |
| City Index | CFD traders | Research, FCA‑regulated | Risky for beginners |
| Saxo Bank | Professionals | Depth, research | Expensive |
| XTB | Beginners | Low fees, education | Limited range |
| Hargreaves Lansdown | Long‑term trust | Reputation, support | Higher fees |
🏆 Final Thoughts
Trading apps in the UK have never been better.
From beginner‑friendly platforms like Freetrade to professional tools like Saxo Bank, there’s something for everyone.
The key is to match the app to your goals. Don’t chase trends. Don’t get lost in jargon. Start small, learn, and grow.
At Motivuu, we believe investing should be accessible, fun, and rewarding. With the right app, 2025 could be the year you take control of your financial future.
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