The 12 Best Investment Apps

In an era where financial technology is reshaping the way we invest, the UK has seen a surge in investment apps that empower individuals to manage their portfolios with ease, transparency, and low cost. From commission-free trading platforms offering real-time access to global markets, to robo-advisors that blend automation with expert advice, and ethical-first apps that align portfolios with your values—today’s top choices cater to different investment styles and goals.

In this article, we will go over the difference between a broker and an app, as well as delve into detail about the best investing apps in the UK that you can use from your own mobile, whether you are a beginner or a professional.

What is an Investment App?

An investment app is a program for mobile devices that allows you to access the markets to invest in different products, from stocks and ETFs to derivatives and other assets.

Beyond easy access, investment apps offer powerful analysis tools and insights to help you better understand the market. Features like charts, news updates, and lists of the day's most bought and sold stocks provide valuable information at your fingertips.

While apps are designed for mobile devices, most brokers also offer web versions. Ideally, both should provide the same features—a key factor we'll explore later.

What should a good investment app fulfill?

These are the minimum requirements we should ask of an app, if we decide to use it to invest in the stock market:

• Security: two-factor authentication (2FA)
• All functionalities
• Ease and speed in navigation
• Range of services
• Access in local language
• Access to real-time or almost (15 minutes) prices

Best Apps for Investing in the UK

At Rankia, we are very aware that there are very diverse investor profiles, and therefore with different needs. Beginners should lean towards simpler apps for investing in the stock market, which help them get an idea of the market's functioning sufficient to invest, but without the need for a too deep technical analysis, at least while they are still learning. Therefore, we have listed the best investing apps for beginners as well as experienced investors:

• Hargreaves Lansdown
• Freetrade
• eToro
• AJ Bell
• Trading 212
• XTB

Hargreaves Lansdown

Hargreaves Lansdown is a UK-based broker that has been a leader in the investment industry since its founding in 1981. The company is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and is a member of the FTSE 100 index.

In short, Hargreaves Lansdown provides access to a wide range of investment options, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and savings products, with a strong focus on long-term investing. Investors can trade in UK, US, and international markets, benefiting from expert research and investment tools.

For more information, read our Hargreaves Lansdown review.

When using the HL app, its key sections are clearly structured:

Markets & Insights – A hub for stock prices, market news, and expert analysis.
Portfolio – A breakdown of all your holdings and their performance.
Investment Ideas – Curated suggestions based on market trends.
Menu – Access to account settings, fund transfers, and other features.

However, it's worth noting that trading fees can be higher compared to other brokers, especially for frequent traders, and some features of the platform may feel more geared toward long-term investors rather than active traders.

Two of its standout features include its cash savings service (Active Savings) and its wide selection of managed funds, offering diversified investment strategies.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK)

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, investment trusts, savings accounts

Fees:

• UK shares: £11.95 per trade (reduces to £5.95 for frequent traders)
• US & international shares: £11.95 + FX fee (0.25%–1%)
• Funds: Free to buy, 0.45% annual account charge (capped for large portfolios)

Platform: Proprietary web platform & mobile app

Difficulty level: Easy-medium (best suited for long-term investors)

Freetrade

Freetrade is a UK-based broker founded in 2016, designed with a focus on commission-free investing. It aims to make investing simple and accessible, particularly for beginners. The platform is regulated by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) and has gained popularity for its user-friendly app and transparent pricing.

In short, Freetrade allows investors to access UK and US stocks, ETFs, and investment trusts, with a commission-free model for standard trades. It also offers ISA and SIPP accounts for tax-efficient investing. If you are interested in this broker, read our Freetrade review to learn more.

When using the Freetrade app, its main sections are clearly structured:

Discover – Browse stocks, ETFs, and investment options with key data.
Portfolio – View your holdings, performance, and dividend payments.
Insights – Track trends and market movements.
Menu – Access account settings, deposits, and withdrawals.

However, it’s worth noting that real-time pricing is only available with a Plus subscription, and there are FX fees for US stock trades, which can add up for frequent investors.

Two of its standout features include its commission-free stock trading and its Freetrade Plus subscription, which offers access to more stocks, limit orders, and interest on cash balances.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK)

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, investment trusts, ISAs and SIPPs

Fees:

• UK & US stocks & ETFs: Commission-free (FX fee of 0.59% for US stocks)
• Freetrade Plus: £4.99/month (includes additional stocks, limit orders, and interest on cash)
• ISA: £5.99/month
• SIPP: £11.99/month (£7 for Plus members)

Platform: Mobile app only

Difficulty level: Easy (ideal for beginners and long-term investors)

eToro

eToro is a social trading and multi-asset brokerage platform founded in 2007. It is widely known for its copy trading feature, which allows users to replicate the strategies of experienced investors. If you're thinking about using eToro, be sure to check out this comprehensive eToro review for a deeper look into its features and benefits

In short, eToro provides access to stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, CFDs, forex, and commodities. It is particularly popular among retail investors due to its easy-to-use platform and commission-free stock trading (though spreads and FX fees apply).

When using the eToro app, the main sections are clearly structured:

Watchlist – Track stocks, crypto, and other assets in real time.
Portfolio – View and manage your open positions.
Copy Trading – Follow and copy professional traders.
Menu – Access account settings, deposits, and withdrawals.

However, it’s important to note that CFD trading fees can be high, and withdrawals incur a $5 fee.

Two of its standout features include its social trading network, where users can interact and discuss strategies, and its wide selection of crypto assets.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), ASIC (Australia)

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, crypto, CFDs, forex, commodities

Fees:

• Stocks & ETFs: Commission-free (FX fee of 0.50% applies)
• CFDs: Spreads vary based on the asset
• Crypto: 1% fee per trade
• Withdrawals: $5 fee

Platform: Proprietary web platform & mobile app

Difficulty level: Easy-medium (ideal for beginners and social traders)

AJ Bell

AJ Bell is a UK-based broker founded in 1995, specialising in long-term investing through ISAs, SIPPs, and investment accounts. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

In short, AJ Bell offers access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and investment trusts, making it a strong choice for investors focused on retirement and tax-efficient investing. You can find out more in our AJ Bell review.

When using the AJ Bell app, the main sections are clearly structured:

Markets – View stock prices and market insights.
Portfolio – Manage investments and track performance.
Investment Ideas – Discover suggested funds and shares.
Menu – Access account settings, deposits, and withdrawals.

However, it’s worth noting that trading fees are higher than some competitors, and the platform is more tailored to long-term investors rather than active traders.

Two of its standout features include its low-cost pension (SIPP) offering and its broad range of investment options, including actively managed portfolios.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK)

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, funds, bonds, SIPPs, ISAs

Fees:

• UK shares: £9.95 per trade (£4.95 for frequent traders)
• US & international shares: £9.95 + FX fee (0.75%)
• Funds: Free to buy, 0.25% annual account charge

Platform: Web-based platform & mobile app

Difficulty level: Medium (best for long-term investors)

Trading 212

Trading 212 is a UK-based broker founded in 2004, known for its zero-commission stock and ETF trading. It is regulated by the FCA (UK) and CySEC (Cyprus) and offers fractional shares, making it attractive for beginners and small investors. Read more about this broker in our Trading 212 review.

In short, Trading 212 provides access to stocks, ETFs, forex, and CFDs. The platform is split into two main accounts: Trading 212 Invest (for stocks & ETFs) and Trading 212 CFD (for leveraged trading).

When using the Trading 212 app, its sections are clearly structured:

Discover – Search and browse stocks, ETFs, and forex pairs.
Portfolio – View and manage open positions.
Pie Investing – Create and automate diversified portfolios.
Menu – Access account settings and deposits.

However, CFD trading involves higher risks and spreads, and FX fees apply when trading international stocks.

Two of its standout features include fractional shares, allowing investors to buy small portions of expensive stocks, and auto-investing tools for long-term portfolio management.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus)

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, CFDs, forex, commodities

Fees:

• Stocks & ETFs: Commission-free (FX fee of 0.15%)
• CFDs: Variable spreads apply
• ISA: Free to open and use

Platform: Mobile app & web platform

Difficulty level: Easy-medium (great for beginners and passive investors)

XTB

 XTB is a Polish-based broker founded in 2002, specialising in forex, CFDs, and stock trading. Regulated by top authorities like the FCA (UK) and KNF (Poland), XTB stands out for its powerful xStation platform, offering advanced trading tools. If you're considering this broker, I recommend checking out this detailed XTB review for more insights. 

In short, XTB offers access to forex, stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, with low-cost spreads and fast execution speeds.

When using the XTB app (xStation), the main sections are clearly structured:

Markets – View real-time prices and charts.
Portfolio – Track your open trades and investments.
News & Analysis – Access market insights and research.
Menu – Customise settings and manage your account.

However, CFD trading comes with high risk, and the platform does not support direct share purchases in some regions.

Two of its standout features include its powerful trading platform (xStation) and commission-free stock and ETF trading in some markets.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK), KNF (Poland), CySEC (Cyprus)

Financial assets: Forex, stocks, ETFs, CFDs, commodities, crypto

Fees:

• Stocks & ETFs: Commission-free in some markets (FX fees may apply)
• CFDs & Forex: Variable spreads
• Minimum deposit: £0 (varies by account type)

Platform: xStation web platform & mobile app

Difficulty level: Medium-hard (best for active traders and forex investors)

Moneyfarm

Moneyfarm is a UK-based digital wealth manager founded in 2011, designed to simplify investing through a combination of automated portfolios and human advice. It is regulated by the FCA (UK) and offers both passive and actively managed investment options, making it ideal for beginners and long-term investors.

In short, Moneyfarm provides access to fully managed portfolios, ethical (ESG) portfolios, and DIY share investing. Users can open various account types including Stocks & Shares ISA, SIPP, and General Investment Accounts (GIA).

When using the Moneyfarm platform (web or app), its sections are intuitively laid out:

• Portfolio – View your current investments and performance.
• Insights – Receive regular updates, commentary, and portfolio breakdowns.
• Plans – Set savings goals or retirement plans with tailored portfolio suggestions.
• Menu – Manage account settings, deposits, and investment preferences.

Moneyfarm uses globally diversified portfolios built with low-cost ETFs, and offers two portfolio styles: Actively Managed (with regular rebalancing) and Fixed Allocation (for lower fees).

Two of its standout features include access to real human investment consultants, even at entry levels, and automated portfolio management with transparent fees and ethical options.

Key Features:

Regulation: FCA (UK)

Account Types: ISA, Junior ISA, SIPP, General Investment Account (GIA), Liquidity+

Financial Assets: Global ETFs, UK & US shares, bonds, money market funds

Fees:

• Actively Managed Portfolios: 0.45%–0.10% (sliding scale based on investment amount)
• Platform Fee: 0.25% (min £1.25/month)
• Fixed Allocation Portfolios: 0.15% flat
• Share Investing (DIY): £3.95/trade (UK shares), FX conversion 0.70%
• SIPP Admin Fee: None charged by Moneyfarm; included in platform fees
• ISA: Free to open and manage

Platform: Web & mobile app

Difficulty Level: Easy – Best for beginners, ethical investors, and those seeking expert-managed portfolios with minimal involvement.

Best Trading Apps in the UK

If you're an experienced investor, you may be looking for a more advanced stock market app than the ones we've mentioned. Brokers catering to professionals often provide access to multiple trading platforms, though some offer only their own proprietary app.

These advanced apps come equipped with powerful analysis tools, enabling in-depth technical analysis on a wide range of assets and markets.

Here are the best trading apps available in the UK:

• Revolut
• Saxo Markets
• Webull
• Robinhood
• Interactive Brokers

Revolut

Revolut is an all-in-one financial platform that seamlessly combines banking and trading in one app, you can also read about this in our Revolut review. With a user-friendly design, Revolut allows you to trade stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies directly from your smartphone. Whether you're on iOS or Android, this app makes trading simple and accessible with just an internet connection.

Thus, it stands out essentially in the following three points:

• Quick and Easy Account Setup: Revolut allows users to quickly create an account and start trading with no minimum deposit. This ease of access makes it ideal for new traders.
• Integrated Financial Services: Revolut is a hybrid platform, allowing users to trade, send money, and manage finances all from the same app, making it highly convenient.
• Cryptocurrency Trading: Apart from stocks, Revolut also offers easy access to cryptocurrency trading, which is a key selling point for those looking to diversify their portfolio.

Minimum deposit: €1.00
Regulation: FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), Central Bank of Ireland
Score: 7.5/10

Nevertheless, these are the features of the trading platform:

Regulation: European and UK regulators
Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, commodities, and metals
Fees:

• App usage: Free for basic services
• Operations: Free for European and US stocks; additional fees for international stocks and premium accounts

Degree of difficulty: Easy (simplified mobile app)

Saxo Markets

Saxo Markets is a professional-grade trading platform that offers an array of tools and features for experienced traders. Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, Saxo Markets provides quick access to global markets with real-time updates, making it a powerful solution for serious investors.

If you are interested in this broker, read our Saxo Bank review to learn more.

Saxo Markets stands out particularly with the following three points:

• Comprehensive Asset Selection: Saxo Markets offers a wide array of tradable assets, including stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, options, and cryptocurrencies, making it a versatile choice for diverse portfolios.
• Advanced Trading Tools: The platform includes sophisticated charting tools, research, and real-time market data, ideal for experienced traders.
• Professional-Grade Platforms: Saxo’s platforms, like SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO, cater to high-volume traders, offering a range of advanced features.

Minimum deposit: €2,000

Regulation: FCA (UK), Danish FSA, ASIC (Australia), and other global regulators

Score: 9/10

In addition, these are the features of the trading platform:

Regulation: European and global regulators

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, indices, options, futures, bonds, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies
Fees:

• App usage: Free
• Operations: Fees vary depending on account type and asset class

Degree of difficulty: Medium (advanced tools for experienced traders)

Webull

Webull is a dynamic trading app designed to provide an engaging and informative experience for active traders. Offering commission-free trading on stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies, Webull is equipped with advanced charting tools and real-time data, making it a popular choice for traders on the go. You can read more about this broker in our Webull review.

This platform is particularly distinguished by the following three key features:

• Commission-Free Trading: Webull’s commission-free structure for stocks, ETFs, and options makes it a cost-effective choice for frequent traders.
• Advanced Charting and Technical Indicators: Webull offers an impressive set of technical analysis tools, including over 40 indicators and charting features, suitable for active traders.
• Paper Trading Feature: Webull includes a paper trading feature, allowing users to practice trades without risking real money, which is great for beginners and learning.

Minimum deposit: $0

Regulation: FCA (UK), SEC (US), FINRA (US)

Score: 8/10

That said, the platform offers the following features:

Regulation: US-based regulators

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, options, cryptocurrencies
Fees:

• App usage: Free
• Operations: Commission-free for stocks and ETFs; options contracts have fees

Degree of difficulty: Medium (suitable for both beginners and more experienced traders)

Robinhood

Robinhood is an easy-to-use, commission-free trading app that has revolutionised the way people trade stocks and cryptocurrencies. Its sleek interface makes it ideal for beginner investors, offering access to US markets directly from your mobile device. Robinhood's simplicity allows anyone to start trading with minimal hassle. More on information on this broker can be found in our Robinhood review.

The app sets itself apart with these three main highlights:

• Commission-Free Trading: Robinhood was one of the pioneers in offering commission-free trades for stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
• Beginner-Friendly Interface: The platform has an easy-to-navigate, streamlined interface that allows new users to start trading quickly without much learning curve.
• Zero Minimum Deposit: Robinhood allows users to start trading with no minimum deposit, making it accessible for people just starting their investment journey.

Minimum deposit: $0

Regulation: FCA (UK), SEC (US), FINRA (US)

Score: 7/10

Nonetheless, these are the features provided by the platform:

Regulation: US-based regulators

Financial assets: Stocks, ETFs, options, cryptocurrencies
Fees:

• App usage: Free
• Operations: Commission-free trading; margin trading incurs fees

Degree of difficulty: Easy (beginner-friendly interface)

Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers is a professional trading platform offering an extensive selection of tools for seasoned traders. With access to global markets and a range of sophisticated features, it provides a robust trading experience, available both on desktop and mobile devices. Interactive Brokers is ideal for those seeking advanced trading capabilities.

Here are the three primary aspects that make it stand out:

• Global Market Access: Interactive Brokers offers access to over 135 markets worldwide, making it ideal for global traders who need exposure to international assets.
• Advanced Tools and Research: The platform provides a robust set of research tools, technical indicators, and trading platforms for professional-level trading.
• Low-Cost Trading for High-Volume Traders: Interactive Brokers offers some of the lowest trading costs for active traders, especially for high-volume trades, thanks to its tiered pricing structure.

Minimum deposit: $10,000 (or $0 for some accounts)

Regulation: FCA (UK), SEC (US), ASIC (Australia), and other global regulators

Score: 9.5/10

In any case, here are the defining features of the platform:

Regulation: Multiple global regulators

Financial assets: Stocks, options, ETFs, futures, forex, bonds, cryptocurrencies

Fees:

• App usage: Free
• Operations: Competitive low fees on most trades

Degree of difficulty: High (designed for experienced traders)

FAQs

What requirements must a good app meet to invest in the stock market?

For a stock market investment app to be considered good, it is essential that it meets the following requirements:

• Security: A good stock market investment app must offer two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of protection when logging in. Additionally, it must use data encryption both in transit and at rest to protect users' sensitive information. In fact, it is crucial that it complies with local and international financial security regulations, and that it has fraud detection and prevention systems active 24/7 for continuous monitoring.
• All functionalities: The app must offer the same functionalities as its web platform, adapted for use on mobile devices, ensuring a consistent and complete user experience. This includes full access to all analysis tools, trading options, and educational resources, optimised for fast and efficient navigation on mobile devices.

• Ease and speed in navigation: The interface must be intuitive, with a clean and simple design that facilitates the search and execution of operations. It is crucial that the app offers low latency in order execution and smooth navigation without delays. The user experience (UX) should be optimised, with well-designed user flows that simplify complex processes such as buying and selling stocks.  
• Range of services: The app should provide access to a wide variety of financial products, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and other instruments. Additionally, it should have advanced analysis tools, such as charts, technical indicators, and fundamental analysis. It is also important that it offers educational resources, such as tutorials, webinars, and articles, to help users improve their investment knowledge.  
• Access in local language: To cater to a global audience, the app must offer multilingual support, with the interface and documentation available in several languages, especially in the user's local language. Likewise, customer support should be available in the local language, through chat, email, and phone.  
• Access to real-time or near real-time prices (15 minutes): It is essential that the app provides real-time market data (preferably free) or with a maximum delay of 15 minutes.

Are investment apps worth it?

Whether investment apps are "worth it" depends on your investment goals, experience, and preferences. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:

• For beginners: Yes, investment apps are a great starting point due to low costs, ease of use, and educational resources. They allow you to start investing with minimal capital and effort.
• For experienced investors: It depends. Some experienced investors may find the limited research tools or more basic functionality of certain apps frustrating, especially if they require more sophisticated tools or want more personalised support.
• For long-term investors: Apps with low or no fees (like Freetrade or Trading 212) can be excellent for holding long-term investments, especially if you don't need to trade frequently.

Are investment apps the same as a broker?

Investment apps and brokers are closely related, but they are not the same thing.

A broker is the intermediary that gives you access to stocks, ETFs, or other assets you want to invest in, while an app is simply the tool that allows you to do so. This distinction might seem a bit confusing at first, but the following example will make it clear:

Take Interactive Brokers, for instance. It’s a U.S.-based broker that offers several stock market apps for trading. A client can open an account with Interactive Brokers and then choose from various apps like Global Client, IBKR Mobile, or Trader Workstation to manage their investments.

As we mentioned earlier, most brokers provide both a web-based platform accessible from their website and a mobile app that makes their services more convenient on the go.

In short, a broker is the gateway to investing, while an investment app is the tool that facilitates the process.

Are investment apps difficult to use?

The degree of difficulty of an app refers to the complexity and number of features it offers, and it is classified into four levels: Very Simple, Simple, Medium, and Advanced. It is important to note that these levels do not imply that one category is better or worse than another, but rather that each is designed for different needs and users.

• Very Simple: These apps are designed to perform basic functions directly and without complications. They are ideal for users seeking an extremely intuitive experience, with few options and no need for prior knowledge.
• Simple: These apps allow performing essential functions efficiently. They are perfect for beginners or people looking for practical tools without unnecessary complexities. They may include features such as buying, selling, price alerts (notifications when an asset reaches a certain price) and, occasionally, orders of take profit(to gain profits) and stop loss (to stop losses)
• Medium: This type of application offers a balance between ease of use and variety of options. Here we are already talking about higher-level operations; futures, options, warrants, etc.
• Advanced: These apps have a wide range of features and configurable options. They are more suitable for expert users or those with specific needs, as the number of options and configurations can be overwhelming for those not familiar with this level of complexity.

In conclusion, investment apps can be very worthwhile if you're looking for convenience, low-cost entry, and simplicity. However, if you have more advanced needs or want more personalised support, you might want to explore other options or consider a hybrid approach with traditional financial advisors.