The Best Investment Apps (UK)

If ETFs are your focus, InvestEngine stands out as one of the most affordable and flexible platforms in the UK. The platform offers two main options: a Managed Portfolio for those who prefer a hands-off approach and a DIY Portfolio for more confident investors who want to build their own ETF strategy. The Managed option involves a low 0.25% annual fee, where their experts handle everything from selecting the ETFs to managing the portfolio. If you're more experienced or want complete control, the DIY option allows you to create your own ETF portfolio without any platform fees, making it highly cost-effective.

With over 700 ETFs from trusted providers like iShares and Vanguard, InvestEngine provides a wide range of asset classes to diversify your portfolio, from equities and bonds to commodities. Whether you're looking to invest in global markets or focus on niche sectors, the platform makes it easy to mix and match ETFs to fit your financial goals and risk tolerance. Their ETF range also includes options for ethical investing, which is becoming increasingly important for many investors.

Starting at just £100, InvestEngine is accessible to both new and seasoned investors. There are no setup, dealing, or withdrawal fees, which makes it a low-cost solution for those who want to build long-term wealth. For those looking to automate their investing, the platform also offers tools to set up recurring deposits, allowing you to invest consistently over time. Whether you're aiming for growth, income, or a balanced strategy, InvestEngine provides a cost-efficient way to take advantage of the benefits of ETF investing. InvestEngine's suite of products includes a Stocks and Shares ISA, SIPP, Personal Account, and Business Account.

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eToro is a versatile platform that caters to both beginners and experienced investors looking to explore a wide range of asset classes. It is particularly well-known for its social trading feature, which allows users to follow and automatically copy the trades of top investors through its Copy Trading function. This makes it an attractive choice for those new to investing who want to learn from the pros or those who don't have the time to manage their portfolios actively. eToro's thematic portfolios are another highlight, allowing you to invest in pre-constructed portfolios focused on specific sectors like tech, renewable energy, or even cryptocurrency, without needing to pick individual stocks.

eToro gives you access to over 6,000 instruments, including stocks, ETFs, cryptoassets, commodities, forex, and CFDs (Contracts for Difference), making it a one-stop platform for all your trading needs. Unlike some platforms that focus solely on stocks or ETFs, eToro allows you to diversify across multiple asset types, giving you flexibility in building a portfolio that matches your financial goals and risk tolerance. The platform also includes advanced charting tools, economic calendars, and news sentiment analysis, which provide in-depth information for those who want to dig deeper into their investment research.

One of the standout features of eToro is that it offers a free demo account with $100,000 (~£80,000) in virtual funds, perfect for practising trades and getting comfortable with the platform before risking real money. While eToro is free to use for stock trading, it is important to note that trades are conducted in USD, so UK users may face currency conversion fees when depositing or withdrawing GBP. To help with this, eToro offers its eToro Money app, which allows for free GBP to USD conversion. With its broad range of assets, intuitive interface, and social trading features, eToro is a powerful tool for investors at any level who want to explore global markets and copy the strategies of top traders.

Important note: Your capital is at risk. 51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Additionally, cryptoassets are high-risk investments, and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Tax on profits may apply. Copy Trading does not amount to investment advice. Other fees apply. For more information, visit eToro.

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Freetrade is an excellent option for beginners or those with smaller budgets looking to start investing in the UK. One of the standout features of Freetrade is its commission-free trading, allowing you to buy and sell UK and US stocks, ETFs, and investment trusts without the usual fees that can quickly add up. This makes it accessible for people who want to start small and grow their portfolio without worrying about costly charges eating into their gains. Freetrade also offers fractional shares, meaning you can own a part of high-priced stocks like Amazon or Tesla for as little as £2, which is a big plus for investors with limited funds.

The platform is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to navigate for those new to investing. The app has a clean, user-friendly interface that guides you through the process of selecting and purchasing stocks without overwhelming you with jargon or complex options. Freetrade offers several account types, including a General Investment Account (GIA) for casual investing, a Stocks and Shares ISA for tax-efficient investing, and a SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) for those looking to invest for retirement. Each account type caters to different investment goals, making Freetrade a versatile option.

For more committed investors, Freetrade offers a Plus Plan for £11.99/month, which unlocks additional features like access to premium stocks and a broader range of investment options. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to take your investments to the next level, Freetrade offers a low-cost, easy-to-use platform that helps you grow your portfolio at your own pace. With no minimum deposit required, it is a solid choice for those who want to get started with investing without a large financial commitment upfront.

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If you're just starting and want to invest small amounts consistently, Moneybox could be your perfect match. The app makes investing effortless by rounding up your everyday purchases to the nearest pound and investing the spare change for you. This micro-investing feature is a great way to dip your toes into the investment world without feeling overwhelmed, and it is especially useful for those who might not have a large lump sum to invest right away. You can also set up regular deposits to grow your portfolio over time, even if it is just a few pounds a week.

Moneybox offers a range of investment options, including tracker funds, ETFs, and US stocks, which makes it suitable for both cautious beginners and those looking for more control. For those unsure where to start, the app provides three ready-made portfolios (Cautious, Balanced, and Adventurous) that match your risk tolerance. These portfolios are designed to help you grow your money while keeping risk in check, making it easier to stick with long-term goals. Additionally, Moneybox's commission-free US stock trading means you can invest in popular companies without worrying about hidden fees eating into your returns.

Starting with as little as £1, Moneybox is accessible to anyone looking to start their investment journey. It is a particularly good option if you're also saving for major life goals, like buying your first home, thanks to their Lifetime ISA option, which comes with a government bonus. With its user-friendly design, automatic investing tools, and focus on accessibility, Moneybox makes it easy for new investors to build wealth over time without feeling intimidated by the process. Moneybox's suite of products includes a Stocks and Shares ISA, Lifetime ISA, Junior ISA, Personal Pension, and General Investment Account.

Important note: US stocks on Moneybox are only available via a Stocks and Shares ISA.

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XTB is a highly regarded investment platform that's particularly well-suited for traders who are interested in forex, CFDs (Contracts for Difference), and stock trading. With over 5,800 instruments available, XTB provides access to a wide range of global markets, including stocks, ETFs, commodities, indices, and forex. What sets XTB apart is its focus on customisation and advanced trading tools, making it an excellent option for both beginners looking to start with basic investments and experienced traders who want more control over their strategies. The platform offers competitive pricing, with commission-free stock and ETF trading on monthly turnovers up to €100,000 (~£85,000), making it attractive for those who want to keep trading costs low.

One of the key features of XTB is its proprietary trading platform, xStation 5, which is available on both desktop and mobile. This platform is well-known for its powerful charting tools, risk management features, and ease of use, making it a favourite among traders who want to track their investments in real-time and make informed decisions. xStation 5 also includes an in-built trading calculator, which helps users estimate profits, losses, and costs before placing a trade—great for those who want to minimise risk. For beginners, XTB offers an extensive library of educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and market analysis, helping new investors learn the ropes while trading.

For investors with a more passive, long-term approach, XTB offers a Passive Investment Plan that allows you to invest regularly in ETFs with as little as £15, benefiting from pound-cost averaging over time. This makes XTB not only a platform for active day traders but also a good choice for those who want to build wealth slowly and steadily. The platform also features a free demo account with £100,000 in virtual funds, so you can practice and refine your trading strategies without risking real money. With its mix of powerful tools, educational resources, and options for both active and passive investors, XTB is a comprehensive platform that suits a wide variety of investment styles. XTB does not offer an ISA or SIPP.

Important note: Contracts for Difference (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.

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Plum is a modern, easy-to-use app designed for those looking to micro-invest and manage their money effortlessly. By rounding up your everyday purchases to the nearest pound and investing the spare change, Plum makes it simple to start building an investment portfolio with as little as £1. The app offers access to over 3,000 stocks and funds, including ethical investment options, allowing users to align their investments with their values.

Plum takes the guesswork out of saving and investing by automatically calculating how much you can afford to set aside and investing it for you. It is ideal for those who want to save without thinking too much about it while still having control over weekly or one-off deposits into their investment accounts. The app also offers a range of subscription plans, with stock trading being commission-free, making it a cost-effective option for micro-investors.

With its slick design, simple functionality, and focus on automation, Plum is perfect for busy individuals looking to save and invest in small, regular amounts. Subscription fees start from £2.99 per month, with the first month free, and you can start investing with as little as £1. For those seeking a no-fuss way to invest, Plum delivers a streamlined experience. Plum's suite of products includes a Stocks and Shares ISA, General Investment Account, and Personal Pension.

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Moneyfarm is ideal for those looking for a hands-off, fully managed approach to investing. After a quick assessment of your financial situation and risk appetite, the platform recommends one of seven diversified portfolios built with low-cost ETFs and index trackers. These portfolios strike a balance between potential growth and risk management, making it easy for investors to meet their financial goals.

What makes Moneyfarm unique is its focus on ethical investing through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) portfolios. These options allow you to invest in line with your values, supporting sustainable and socially responsible companies. It is a great way to feel confident that your investments are making a positive impact.

Moneyfarm also offers free access to personalised advice from experts. Whether you prefer to chat, call, or meet in person, they're available to help. With a £500 minimum deposit and management fees that decrease as your portfolio grows, Moneyfarm is a straightforward and cost-effective option for UK investors. Moneyfarm's suite of products includes a Stocks and Shares ISA, Junior ISA, General Investment Account, and Personal Pension.

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