Investing in the stock market has become more accessible than ever, thanks to the rise of free stock trading apps. These innovative platforms have democratised investing, allowing both novices and seasoned traders to manage their portfolios without incurring hefty commissions. Our expert team has evaluated each app’s features, user interface, educational resources, and overall performance to ensure you can make informed decisions about your financial future. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes into the market or expand your existing investment strategy, our curated list of the best free stock trading apps will help you find the perfect tool to suit your needs.
eToro
eToro is a popular social trading platform that offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of investment options. The app allows users to trade stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, and more. One of eToro’s unique features is its social trading functionality, which enables users to follow and copy the trades of successful investors.
This can be particularly helpful for beginners who are just starting their investment journey. The platform also provides educational resources and market analysis tools to help users make informed decisions.
Key Features
- Social trading and copy trading
- Commission-free stock trading
- Access to multiple asset classes
- User-friendly mobile app
- Practice account with virtual money
- Educational resources and market analysis
eToro offers a free plan that includes access to most features, including commission-free stock trading and social trading. However, there are fees for certain actions, such as withdrawals and currency conversions. For more advanced traders, eToro provides paid options with additional features and lower fees.
Trading 212
Trading 212 is a fintech company that has gained popularity in the UK for its commission-free trading platform. The app offers a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it accessible for both novice and experienced traders. Users can trade stocks, ETFs, forex, and CFDs on various global markets.
One of the app’s strengths is its educational content, which includes video tutorials, articles, and a demo account for practice trading. Trading 212 also provides real-time price alerts and customisable charts to help users stay informed about market movements.
Key Features
- Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs
- Fractional shares available
- Demo account with £50,000 virtual money
- Advanced charting tools
- Automated investing with pies
- Price alerts and notifications
Trading 212 offers a completely free plan for stock and ETF trading, with no commissions or account fees. However, there are charges for CFD trading and currency conversion. The app also provides a premium subscription called Trading 212 Pro, which offers additional features such as extended trading hours and priority customer support.
Freetrade
Freetrade is a UK-based investment app that aims to make investing more accessible and affordable for everyone. The platform offers a clean, minimalist interface that’s easy to navigate, even for those new to investing. Freetrade provides access to a wide range of UK and US stocks, as well as ETFs.
One of the app’s key selling points is its commitment to transparency, with clear pricing and no hidden fees. Freetrade also emphasises responsible investing, offering a selection of socially responsible investment options.
Key Features
- Commission-free basic stock and ETF trading
- Fractional shares available
- ISA and SIPP accounts offered
- Regular investment feature
- Basic market news and company information
- UK-based customer support
Freetrade offers a free basic account that includes commission-free trading on a selection of stocks and ETFs. For more advanced features, such as limit orders, stop losses, and a wider range of investment options, users can upgrade to Freetrade Plus for £9.99 per month. The app also offers ISA accounts for £3 per month and SIPP accounts for an additional fee.
Revolut
Revolut, primarily known for its digital banking services, has expanded its offerings to include stock trading. The app provides a seamless integration of banking and investing features, allowing users to manage their finances and investments in one place. Revolut’s trading platform offers access to a selection of US stocks and ETFs, with plans to expand to other markets.
The app’s user interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy for beginners to start investing. Revolut also provides real-time market data and basic analytical tools to help users make informed decisions.
Key Features
- Commission-free trading on US stocks and ETFs
- Fractional shares available
- Integration with Revolut’s banking features
- Real-time market data
- Basic portfolio analytics
- Automated recurring investments
Revolut offers a free plan that includes one commission-free trade per month and access to basic features. For more frequent traders, Revolut provides paid plans (Plus, Premium, and Metal) that offer additional commission-free trades and advanced features such as priority customer support and higher withdrawal limits. Prices for these plans range from £2.99 to £12.99 per month.
IG Group
IG Group is a well-established name in the trading world, offering a comprehensive platform for various financial instruments, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. While primarily catering to more experienced traders, IG provides a free demo account that allows newcomers to practice trading without risking real money.
The platform offers advanced charting tools, real-time news feeds, and market analysis to help users make informed trading decisions. IG’s mobile app brings the power of its desktop platform to smartphones, enabling traders to monitor and execute trades on the go.
Key Features
- Access to multiple asset classes
- Advanced charting and analysis tools
- Real-time news and market insights
- Risk management features
- Educational resources and webinars
- 24-hour customer support
IG Group offers a free demo account with £10,000 in virtual funds, allowing users to practice trading strategies without financial risk. This demo account provides access to most of IG’s features and markets. For live trading, IG charges commissions and spreads, with pricing varying depending on the asset class and account type. The platform also offers more advanced accounts for professional traders with additional features and potentially lower fees.
Plus500
Plus500 is a leading provider of Contracts for Difference (CFDs), offering traders access to a wide range of financial instruments including stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. The platform is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced traders, with a user-friendly interface and advanced trading tools.
Plus500’s mobile app brings the full functionality of the desktop platform to smartphones, allowing users to trade on the go. The app features real-time quotes, charts with various timeframes and technical indicators, and the ability to set price alerts.
Key Features
- Wide range of CFD instruments
- User-friendly trading platform
- Advanced risk management tools
- Real-time alerts and notifications
- Negative balance protection
- 24/7 customer support
Plus500 offers a free unlimited demo account with £40,000 in virtual funds. This allows users to practice trading strategies and familiarise themselves with the platform without risking real money. The demo account provides access to all of Plus500’s features and markets. For live trading, Plus500 operates on a spread-based model, meaning there are no commissions but the cost of trading is built into the spread between buy and sell prices. The platform also offers various account types with different features and minimum deposit requirements.
Stake
Stake is a digital brokerage platform that focuses on providing UK investors with access to the US stock market. The app offers a clean, modern interface that’s easy to navigate, making it attractive to both new and experienced investors.
Stake stands out for its commission-free trading on US stocks and ETFs, as well as its fractional share offerings, which allow users to invest in high-priced stocks with small amounts of capital. The platform also provides real-time market data and basic research tools to help users make informed investment decisions.
Key Features
- Commission-free trading on US stocks and ETFs
- Fractional shares available
- Real-time market data
- Basic research and analysis tools
- Quick funding options
- Regular promotions for new users
Stake offers a free basic plan that includes commission-free trading on US stocks and ETFs. However, there is a 0.5% FX fee on deposits and withdrawals. For more active traders, Stake offers a premium plan called Stake Black, which provides additional features such as advanced market data, priority customer support, and reduced FX fees for a monthly subscription of £9.
Degiro
Degiro is a European online broker that has gained popularity in the UK for its low-cost trading options and access to a wide range of international markets. The platform offers trading in stocks, ETFs, options, futures, and bonds across multiple global exchanges.
Degiro’s interface is straightforward and functional, focusing on providing essential information and tools for trading. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some competitors, it compensates with its extensive market access and competitive pricing structure. The mobile app allows users to manage their portfolio and execute trades on the go.
Key Features
- Access to multiple international markets
- Low-cost trading fees
- Wide range of investment products
- Basic charting and analysis tools
- Real-time price streaming
- Mobile trading app
Degiro offers a free basic account with no monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements. While not entirely commission-free, Degiro’s fees are among the lowest in the industry. For example, trading UK stocks costs £1.75 + 0.014% per trade, with a maximum of £5. The platform also offers one commission-free ETF trade per month from a selected list. For more frequent traders or those seeking additional features, Degiro provides various account types with different fee structures and benefits.
Webull
Webull is a commission-free trading platform that has gained traction for its combination of user-friendly features and advanced trading tools. While primarily focused on the US market, it’s accessible to UK investors through international account options. The app offers a range of financial instruments including stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies.
Webull’s interface strikes a balance between simplicity and depth, providing powerful charting tools and real-time market data that cater to both novice and experienced traders. The platform also offers paper trading, allowing users to practice strategies with virtual money before committing real funds.
Key Features
- Commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs
- Advanced charting tools and technical indicators
- Real-time market data and news
- Paper trading account
- Extended trading hours
- In-depth analysis tools
Webull offers a free plan that includes commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, as well as access to most of its features. There are no account minimums or inactivity fees. However, users should be aware of potential fees for certain actions such as wire transfers or margin trading. Webull also offers a paid subscription service called Webull Level 2 Advance, which provides additional market depth data for a monthly fee.
Robinhood
Robinhood is a popular commission-free trading app that has revolutionised the retail investment landscape. While primarily serving the US market, UK investors can access it using a VPN. The app offers a sleek, minimalist interface that’s particularly appealing to younger, tech-savvy investors.
Robinhood provides trading in stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. One of its key features is the ability to buy fractional shares, allowing users to invest in high-priced stocks with small amounts of capital. The platform also offers real-time market data and basic news feeds to help users stay informed about their investments.
Key Features
- Commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options
- Fractional shares available
- Cryptocurrency trading
- User-friendly mobile app
- Basic market news and data
- Cash management account
Robinhood offers a free basic account with no minimum deposit and no monthly fees. This includes access to commission-free trades on stocks, ETFs, and options. For users seeking more advanced features, Robinhood offers a paid subscription service called Robinhood Gold, priced at $5 per month. This provides access to professional research reports, larger instant deposits, and margin investing. However, UK users should note that accessing Robinhood may require using a VPN and could have tax implications, so it’s important to consult with a financial advisor before proceeding.
How to choose the best free stock trading app for you
Assess your investment goals and experience
Start by considering your investment objectives and level of trading experience. Are you a beginner looking to learn the ropes, or an experienced investor seeking advanced features? Some apps cater to novices with educational resources and simple interfaces, while others offer sophisticated tools for active traders. Identify your needs to narrow down the options that align with your goals and skill level.
Compare fees and account minimums
Although these apps offer free stock trading, it’s essential to examine their fee structures for other services. Look for hidden costs such as account maintenance fees, inactivity charges, or fees for specific types of trades. Additionally, check if there are any account minimum requirements. Some apps may require a certain balance to access all features, so ensure the app’s requirements fit your financial situation.
Evaluate available investment options and research tools
Consider the range of investment products offered by each app. Do you want access to stocks, ETFs, options, or cryptocurrencies? Assess the quality and depth of research tools, real-time data, and analytical features provided. Look for apps that offer comprehensive market insights, customisable charts, and screening tools to help you make informed investment decisions. The ideal app should provide the resources you need to execute your investment strategy effectively.
Which Free Stock Trading App Is Best?
When it comes to stock trading for newcomers, eToro is great with its user-friendly interface and innovative social trading features. The free plan allows you to trade stocks commission-free, while also offering the unique opportunity to learn from and copy successful traders. This combination of accessibility and educational value makes eToro an excellent starting point for those looking to dip their toes into the stock market. We recommend eToro for beginner investors who value learning opportunities and social interaction.
Trading 212 offers a feature-rich free plan with access to a wide range of markets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. Freetrade, while offering a solid free tier, also provides premium features for those willing to upgrade, striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and advanced trading tools. We recommend Trading 212 for active traders who want access to diverse markets, and Freetrade for those who appreciate a mix of free and premium options.
If you prioritise a broader financial ecosystem, Revolut is worth considering. Its free plan integrates stock trading with other banking services, making it a convenient option if you want to manage your investments alongside your day-to-day finances. However, you should be aware that some of the more advanced features are locked behind a paid subscription. We recommend Revolut for those looking for an all-in-one financial solution that includes stock trading capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Stock Trading Apps
Are free stock trading apps really free?
Most free stock trading apps offer a basic plan with no account fees or commissions on trades. However, they may charge for premium features, currency conversion, or have wider spreads. It’s important to read the fine print and understand how each app makes money.
How do free stock trading apps make money?
Free apps typically generate revenue through methods like payment for order flow, premium subscriptions, interest on uninvested cash balances, foreign exchange fees, and offering additional paid services.
Are free stock trading apps safe to use?
Reputable free stock trading apps are generally safe, as they’re regulated by financial authorities. However, it’s crucial to choose well-known platforms and be aware of the risks associated with investing and trading.
What features should I look for in a free stock trading app?
Look for user-friendly interfaces, real-time market data, a wide range of available stocks and ETFs, educational resources, and robust security measures. Some apps also offer fractional shares, which can be beneficial for beginners.
Can I use multiple free stock trading apps?
Yes, you can use multiple apps. This can be beneficial for comparing features, accessing different markets, or taking advantage of various promotions. However, managing multiple accounts can be more complex for tracking your overall portfolio.
Do free stock trading apps offer access to international markets?
Some do, while others are limited to domestic markets. Apps like eToro and Trading 212 offer access to international stocks, while others may focus primarily on US or UK markets. Check each app’s offerings to ensure they align with your investment goals.
What’s the difference between a free plan and a free demo account?
A free plan allows you to trade with real money without paying account fees or commissions. A free demo account, offered by platforms like IG Group and Plus500, lets you practice trading with virtual money, risk-free, before committing real funds.
Are there any hidden costs with free stock trading apps?
While basic trading might be free, watch out for costs like currency conversion fees, withdrawal fees, inactivity fees, or charges for real-time data. Always review the full fee schedule before using an app.
Can I transfer my existing stocks to a free trading app?
Many apps allow you to transfer existing holdings, but policies vary. Some may charge transfer fees, while others offer free transfers. Check with both your current broker and the new app for their specific transfer processes and any associated costs.
How do I choose the best free stock trading app for me?
Consider factors like your investment experience, the types of assets you want to trade, the markets you’re interested in, and the features you need. Also, look at user reviews, customer support quality, and the app’s track record for reliability and security.
