Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025
Author
Christian Harris
Christian is a UK-based investment writer who's been actively trading an array of financial instruments for over 10 years. Having used most of the major brokers in the UK, Christian provides valuable insights on all things investing for British traders.
Looking to invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) but not sure which broker to trust with your money? With dozens of platforms available—each claiming low fees, wide ETF access, and slick apps—choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we cut through the noise and break down the best ETF brokers in the UK—so you can invest with confidence.
Best ETF Brokers UK
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When we evaluated Pepperstone's ETF options through MT5 and cTrader, execution speed was exceptional, with spreads typically ranging from 0.0 to 0.3 pips. More than 100 ETF CFDs were available, commission-free on standard accounts. As ASIC and FCA regulate it, the minimal $0 deposit requirement suits smaller ETF trades well.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto (only Pro clients), Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) -
When reviewing XTB's ETF offering on xStation 5, we explored over 300 ETFs in sectors such as technology, energy, real estate, and emerging markets. The platform boasts commission-free trading up to €100,000 monthly, with competitive spreads starting at 0.08%. Regulated by FCA and KNF with no minimum deposit, it suits cost-conscious traders perfectly.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs on shares, Indices, ETFs, Raw Materials, Forex currencies, cryptocurrencies, Real shares, Real ETFs FCA, CySEC, KNF, DFSA, FSC xStation Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In our tests, we utilised IBKR’s professional platforms to trade thousands of ETFs across key sectors like AI, utilities, and ESG. U.S. clients benefit from zero commission, whereas others are charged minimal fees starting at $0.005 per share. Globally regulated and offering no minimum deposit on IBKR Lite, it’s nearly unrivalled for serious traders dealing in high volumes of ETFs.
Instruments Regulator Platforms Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 $100 1:50 -
In our recent evaluations, IG provided 6,000+ ETFs spanning global sectors like biotech, renewables, finance, and commodities, surpassing nearly all competitors. Its advanced platform offers ETF CFD trading with spreads starting at 0.04%, and DMA is accessible for professionals. IG, highly regulated and requiring a low minimum, is ideal for serious ETF traders seeking depth, speed, and robust tools.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Futures, Options, Crypto, Spread Betting FCA, ASIC, NFA, CFTC, DFSA, BaFin, MAS, FSCA, FINMA, CONSOB, AFM, JFSA Web, L2 Dealer, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist, TradingCentral, ProRealTime Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $0 0.01 Lots 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) -
We tested ETF trading on eToro and discovered over 300 options in tech, energy, healthcare, and ESG. The zero-commission model was notable, with spreads around 0.09%. Regulated by FCA and CySEC, the platform's $10 minimum deposit and social trading tools simplify and enhance ETF investment accessibility.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, ETFs, Smart Portfolios, Commodities, Futures, Crypto, NFTs FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA, FSRA, MFSA, CNMV, AMF eToro Web, CopyTrader, TradingCentral Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $50 $10 1:30 -
In our practical tests, Vantage provided CFD access to around 55 global ETFs, spanning equity indices, commodities, bonds, real estate, and energy. Raw ECN accounts feature spreads from 0.0 pips, with commissions of USD 3.00 per lot (Pro accounts enjoy even lower commissions at USD 1.50 per lot).
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Spread betting FCA, ASIC, FSCA, VFSC ProTrader, MT4, MT5, TradingView, DupliTrade Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $50 0.01 Lots 1:30 -
In our comprehensive analysis, Plus500 provided ETF CFD access to international markets with leverage up to 1:5 in sectors such as equity indices, commodities, bonds, and energy. There are no commissions, but spreads vary (e.g., ETF spreads around 0.02%) and include overnight swaps and currency conversion fees up to 0.7%. It's suitable for casual leveraged ETF CFD traders.
Instruments Regulator Platforms CFDs on Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Options FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, MAS, FSA, FSCA, FMA, EFSA WebTrader, App Min. Deposit Min. Trade Leverage $100 Variable 1:30
Pepperstone
XTB
Interactive Brokers
IG
eToro
Vantage FX
Plus500Safety Comparison
Compare how safe the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 are and what features they offer to protect traders.
| Broker | Trust Rating | FCA Regulated | Negative Balance Protection | Guaranteed Stop Loss | Segregated Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Interactive Brokers | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| eToro | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | |
| Plus500 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Payments Comparison
Compare which popular payment methods the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 support and whether they have trading accounts denominated in British Pounds (GBP).
| Broker | GBP Account | Debit Card | Credit Card | Neteller | Skrill | Apple Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| XTB | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Interactive Brokers | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| IG | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| eToro | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Vantage FX | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Plus500 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
Mobile Trading Comparison
How good are the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 at mobile trading using apps or other mobile interfaces.
| Broker | Mobile Apps | iOS Rating | Android Rating | Smart Watch App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| XTB | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| Interactive Brokers | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| IG | iOS & Android | ✔ | ||
| eToro | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| Vantage FX | iOS & Android | ✘ | ||
| Plus500 | iOS, Android & Windows | ✘ |
Beginners Comparison
Are the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 good for beginner traders, that might want an affordable setup to get started, along with good support and educational resources?
| Broker | Demo Account | Minimum Deposit | Minimum Trade | Support Rating | Education Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| XTB | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ✔ | $0 | $100 | ||
| IG | ✔ | $0 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| eToro | ✔ | $50 | $10 | ||
| Vantage FX | ✔ | $50 | 0.01 Lots | ||
| Plus500 | ✔ | $100 | Variable |
Advanced Trading Comparison
Do the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025 offer features that allow for more advanced trading strategies?
| Broker | Automated Trading | Pro Account | Leverage | VPS | AI | Low Latency | Extended Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro) | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| XTB | - | ✔ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ |
| Interactive Brokers | Capitalise.ai & TWS API | ✘ | 1:50 | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| IG | Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader, build your own on ProRealTime | ✔ | 1:30 (Retail), 1:222 (Pro) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| eToro | Automate your trades via CopyTrader - follow profitable traders. Open and close trades automatically when they do. | ✘ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Vantage FX | Myfxbook AutoTrade, Expert Advisors (EAs) on MetaTrader | ✘ | 1:30 | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Plus500 | ✘ | ✘ | 1:30 | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
Detailed Rating Comparison
Use this heatmap to compare our detailed ratings for all of the Best ETF Brokers In The UK 2025.
| Broker | Trust | Platforms | Mobile | Assets | Fees | Accounts | Support | Research | Education |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | |||||||||
| XTB | |||||||||
| Interactive Brokers | |||||||||
| IG | |||||||||
| eToro | |||||||||
| Vantage FX | |||||||||
| Plus500 |
Our Take On Pepperstone
"Pepperstone is a premier trading platform, providing tight spreads, swift execution, and sophisticated charting tools for seasoned traders. Beginners benefit from no minimum deposit, comprehensive learning materials, and outstanding 24/7 support."
Tobias Robinson
Reviewer
Pros
- The award-winning customer support can be accessed through phone, email, or live chat. During tests, response times have consistently been under 5 minutes.
- Support for top-tier charting platforms such as MT4, MT5, TradingView, and cTrader. These tools accommodate different short-term trading methods, including algorithmic trading.
- In recent years, Pepperstone has significantly enhanced the deposit and withdrawal process. By 2025, clients can use Apple Pay and Google Pay, while 2024 saw the introduction of PIX and SPEI for customers in Brazil and Mexico.
Cons
- Pepperstone's demo accounts expire after 30 days, which may not provide sufficient time to explore various platforms and evaluate trading strategies.
- Although its market range has improved, its crypto offerings remain limited compared to brokers specialising in this sector, lacking real coin investment options.
- Pepperstone doesn't offer cTrader Copy, a favoured feature for copying trades found in the cTrader platform, which is available on other platforms such as IC Markets. However, Pepperstone has launched its own user-friendly copy trading app.
Our Take On XTB
"XTB emerges as an ideal option for novice traders, offering the impressive xStation platform, zero commission pricing, no required minimum deposit, and outstanding educational resources, many of which are conveniently integrated into the platform."
Pros
- The xStation platform stands out with its user-friendly design and intuitive tools, such as adaptable news feeds, sentiment heatmaps, and a trader calculator. These features streamline the learning process for new traders.
- Setting up an XTB account is straightforward and fully online, requiring only a few minutes. This simplicity eases new traders into the world of trading.
- Top-notch customer support, available 24/5, includes a welcoming live chat with response times under two minutes during tests.
Cons
- The demo account lasts only four weeks, posing a challenge for traders wanting to fully explore the xStation platform and refine short-term strategies before investing actual money.
- XTB has stopped supporting MT4, restricting traders to its own platform, xStation. This decision may discourage experienced traders accustomed to using the MetaTrader suite.
- Trading fees are competitive, with average EUR/USD spreads of about 1 pip. However, they are not as low as the most affordable brokers, such as IC Markets. Additionally, an inactivity fee applies after a year.
Our Take On Interactive Brokers
"Interactive Brokers ranks highly for seasoned traders due to its robust charting platforms, live data, and bespoke layouts via the new IBKR Desktop app. Its competitive pricing and sophisticated order choices appeal to traders, and its wide equity options are industry-leading."
Pros
- Interactive Brokers has introduced ForecastTrader, an innovative product offering zero-commission trading with yes/no Forecast Contracts on political, economic, and climate events. It features fixed $1 contract payouts, 24/6 market access, and a 3.83% APY on positions held.
- The TWS platform is tailored for intermediate and advanced traders, featuring over 100 order types and a dependable real-time market data feed with exceptional uptime.
- The new IBKR Desktop platform combines the top features of TWS with customised tools such as Option Lattice and MultiSort Screeners, providing an impressive trading experience for traders of all skill levels.
Cons
- You are limited to a single active session per account, meaning you cannot use both your desktop programme and mobile app at the same time. This restriction can occasionally lead to a frustrating experience for traders.
- Support can be sluggish and frustrating. Tests reveal that you may face challenges reaching customer service quickly, which could result in delays in issue resolution.
- IBKR offers a variety of research tools, but their inconsistent placement across trading platforms and the 'Account Management' webpage creates a confusing experience for users.
Our Take On IG
"IG offers a complete package with an intuitive online platform, top-tier beginner education, advanced charting tools through its TradingView integration, real-time data, and swift execution for seasoned traders."
Pros
- As a seasoned broker, IG adheres to stringent regulatory standards across various regions, ensuring significant trust.
- IG stands out with its extensive range of instruments, offering stocks, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Additionally, it has recently introduced US-listed futures and options, along with an AI Index. These options enhance opportunities for diversification in trading.
- IG provides a wide range of professional and engaging educational materials, such as webinars, articles, and analyses, tailored for traders.
Cons
- In the UK and EU, negative balance protection is available. However, US clients lack account protection and guaranteed stop losses.
- IG has ended its swap-free account, diminishing its attractiveness to Islamic traders.
- IG imposes a monthly inactivity fee of $12 after two years, discouraging occasional traders.
Our Take On eToro
"eToro's social trading platform excels with its outstanding user experience and lively community chat, aiding beginners in spotting opportunities. It offers competitive fees on numerous CFDs and real stocks, alongside exceptional rewards for seasoned strategists."
Pros
- The broker offers excellent services for beginners, featuring commission-free stock trading, a low minimum deposit, and an unlimited demo account.
- The trading app provides a top-tier social environment featuring an engaging feed and community chat, which we enjoy using.
- There is an extensive online training academy offering a range of accessible resources, from concise articles to detailed courses.
Cons
- The absence of extra charting platforms such as MT4 may deter experienced traders who rely on external software.
- There are no assured stop-loss orders, which could be a valuable risk management tool for novice traders.
- The minimum withdrawal is set at $30, accompanied by a $5 fee. This may impact traders with limited funds, particularly those just starting out.
Our Take On Vantage FX
"Vantage is an ideal choice for CFD traders looking for a well-regulated broker with access to the dependable MetaTrader platforms. With a swift sign-up process and a minimum deposit of $50, starting trading is simple and fast."
Pros
- The broker recently expanded its range of CFDs, offering more trading opportunities.
- Opening a live account is both straightforward and swift, requiring under 5 minutes to complete.
- Vantage has enhanced its trading tools for experienced traders, introducing AutoFibo EA to pinpoint potential market reversals.
Cons
- Regrettably, cryptocurrencies are accessible solely to clients in Australia.
- To access optimal trading conditions, a substantial deposit of $10,000 is required. This includes a commission of $1.50 per transaction per side.
- It's unfortunate that some clients must register with the offshore firm, which provides reduced regulatory safeguards.
Our Take On Plus500
"Plus500 provides a seamless experience for traders with its CFD platform, featuring a sleek design and interactive charting. However, its research tools are basic, fees are higher than the most economical brokers, and its educational resources could be improved."
Pros
- Plus500 has expanded its range of short-term trading instruments by adding VIX options, which feature increased volatility. Additionally, it has extended trading hours for seven stock CFDs.
- Plus500 offers a dedicated WebTrader platform tailored specifically for CFD trading. It features a user-friendly and streamlined interface.
- In 2025, Plus500 expanded its range of share CFDs to include emerging sectors such as quantum computing and AI. This update opened up trading opportunities in stocks like IonQ, Rigetti, Duolingo, and Carvana.
Cons
- Educational resources are not as extensive as leading brokers such as eToro, which affects beginners' ability to learn quickly.
- Algorithmic trading and scalping are not available, potentially deterring certain traders.
- Plus500's omission of MetaTrader and cTrader charting tools may deter seasoned traders seeking familiar platforms.
How To Choose An ETF Broker
- The range of available ETFs at a broker determines how effectively you can build a diversified, goal-specific portfolio. Access to a broad selection—including UK, US, global, sector-specific, thematic, and ESG ETFs—allows you to align investments with your risk tolerance and interests, whether you’re targeting long-term global growth or niche areas like clean energy or robotics. Brokers that support fractional ETF shares let you invest in high-priced ETFs—such as US-listed funds—without needing significant upfront capital, making it easier for beginners to get started with proper asset allocation.
- Ease of use and platform experience directly affect how confidently and efficiently you can manage your ETF portfolio. A clear, intuitive interface—whether on mobile or desktop—makes it easier to place trades, track performance, and understand key metrics like ETF expense ratios or dividend yields. Platforms with built-in educational tools, ETF screeners, and tutorials can help beginners learn as they go, reducing the risk of costly mistakes. Some brokers also offer demo accounts, allowing you to practice trading with virtual funds before committing real money—an invaluable feature for building confidence and testing strategies without financial risk.
- Reliable customer support is especially important for beginner investors who may need guidance when placing trades, verifying account details, or resolving technical issues. Fast access to live chat, phone, or email support can make a big difference if you’re dealing with a login problem or a time-sensitive trade. Brokers with UK-based support teams may better understand local regulations, providing more relevant assistance than outsourced teams. Real-world issues—like delayed deposits, identity verification, or incorrect ETF order execution—can be stressful, so choosing a broker known for responsive, knowledgeable support helps ensure smoother investing and peace of mind.
- Minimum deposit requirements can affect how quickly you’re able to start investing and whether a broker suits your budget. Some platforms require a minimum deposit to open an account—often £100 or more—while others let you start with as little as £1, making them more accessible for beginners. It’s also important to check the minimum trade size for ETFs, as certain brokers may require full shares or fixed increments, limiting your ability to build a diversified portfolio with smaller amounts. If you’re starting with limited capital, choosing a broker that allows low or no minimums and supports fractional ETF investing can make it easier to invest regularly without needing to save significant sums first.
- Fees and costs have a direct impact on your investment returns, especially over the long term. Brokers may charge trading commissions for buying or selling ETFs, as well as platform or account fees—either fixed monthly charges or percentage-based. If you’re investing in non-GBP ETFs, foreign exchange fees can apply when converting currency, often ranging from 0.25% to over 1%. Some brokers also charge inactivity fees if you don’t trade regularly. It’s important to distinguish between ETF fund fees (charged by the ETF provider and built into the fund’s performance) and broker fees (charged by the platform for services)—both affect your returns. Still, only broker fees are visible in your account statements. Comparing total costs across brokers helps you avoid hidden charges and maximise long-term growth.
- Regulation and safety ensure your money and investments are protected. Brokers regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) must meet strict standards around transparency, client fund segregation, and financial stability. Most FCA-regulated brokers also offer protection under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which covers up to £85,000 if the broker fails. Checking a broker’s track record, years in operation, and reputation for handling client issues can provide additional peace of mind.
When I first started investing in ETFs, I quickly realised that the best broker for me was the one that didn’t just offer low fees, but made it simple to navigate, learn, and stay consistent. Having a platform that feels intuitive and supportive turned investing from a chore into something I looked forward to.
What Is An ETF Broker?
An ETF broker is a regulated platform that lets you buy and sell ETFs—bundles of assets like stocks or bonds that trade on stock exchanges like regular shares.
Brokers such as IG, eToro, and Plus500 provide access to a wide range of ETFs through user-friendly apps.
While a fund provider manages the ETF itself, the broker handles your orders, stores your investments, and may offer tools to automate or analyse your portfolio.
Choosing the right ETF broker affects your fees, ETF access, leverage, and ease of use, especially if you’re just starting.
With over 300 ETFs, eToro puts a diversified range of investments at your fingertips
Pros Of Trading ETFs
- Diversification across asset classes: ETFs are structured to track a specific index or sector (e.g. the S&P 500, gold, or Bitcoin), allowing you to gain exposure to a broad basket of securities through a single trade. This reduces unsystematic risk and provides asset-class diversification—even across global equities, currencies, bonds, or commodities.
- Cost efficiency & low total expense ratios (TERs): Most ETFs are passively managed, meaning they replicate an index rather than rely on active stock picking. As a result, they typically have very low annual fees—often below 0.2%—making them a cost-effective way to build a portfolio, especially over the long term.
- Liquidity & intraday trading flexibility: ETFs trade on stock exchanges throughout the day, just like individual stocks. This gives you access to real-time pricing, the ability to use limit or stop orders, and transparency on bid-ask spreads—advantages that aren’t available with traditional mutual funds, which only price once daily.
Cons Of Trading ETFs
- Trading costs & bid-ask spreads: Although many ETFs have low management fees, frequent trading can still rack up costs. Bid-ask spreads—the difference between the price you buy and sell—can be wider for less liquid or niche ETFs, quietly eating into returns. Additionally, platform fees and foreign exchange charges (for non-GBP ETFs) can add up, especially with international exposure.
- Market risk & intraday volatility: Because ETFs trade like stocks, their prices fluctuate throughout the trading day based on supply, demand, and underlying asset movements. This intraday pricing means you are exposed to short-term volatility and potential overtrading, especially without a long-term strategy.
- Tracking error & synthetic structures: Some ETFs—particularly those using synthetic replication or derivatives—may not perfectly mirror the performance of the index they aim to track. Factors like tracking error, currency fluctuations, or counterparty risk can cause discrepancies between the ETF’s return and the index benchmark, especially in complex or leveraged products.
Early on, I underestimated how crucial strong regulation was until I faced a glitch with my account. Knowing my broker was FCA-regulated and covered by FSCS gave me real peace of mind—because in investing, trust isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best ETF broker in the UK depends on your personal goals, budget, and how hands-on you want to be with your investments.
Key factors like fees, ETF availability, platform usability, account types, and regulation all play a role in shaping your long-term returns and overall experience.
Starting with a broker that offers low costs, clear tools, and strong support can make the process far more accessible.