Best Trading 212 Alternatives in 2026
Discover the 7 best Trading 212 alternatives in 2026. Compare XTB, IG, eToro and more for stock investing, Forex, CFDs, trading fees and platforms.
- Trading 212 is trusted. Tested via live trading.
We rigorously test brokers on real accounts and evaluate them using our methodology. Here are the brokers based on our analysis:
- 1XTB
broker
- Regulated by several leading financial authorities.
- Variety of methods to deposit funds.
- Wide range of trading assets.
Visit69-80% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
- 2
- Licenses from regulators with a high level of credibility.
- Tight spreads.
- A variety of markets and products.
Visit68-72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
- 3
- A social network for traders.
- Good selection of trading instruments.
- Fractional shares purchasing.
VisitTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds
- 4
- High reliability and regulation by leading financial authorities.
- A wide range of financial instruments and access to more than 175 markets.
- Low trading commissions and favourable margin lending rates.
VisitTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds
- 5
- Low trading fees.
- Wide range of markets and products.
- Access to the popular MetaTrader 4 and CMC Markets platforms.
Visit69% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
- 6
- Intuitive CFD trading platform.
- 24/7 support.
- Built-in analytics.
Visit81% 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.
- 7
- Wide selection of trading platforms.
- Tight spreads and favourable trading conditions.
- Numerous regulatory licenses.
Visit81.7% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
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XTBbroker
Regulated by several leading financial authorities.Variety of methods to deposit funds.Wide range of trading assets.69-80% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
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IGLicenses from regulators with a high level of credibility.
Licenses from regulators with a high level of credibility.Tight spreads.A variety of markets and products.68-72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
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eToroA social network for traders.
A social network for traders.Good selection of trading instruments.Fractional shares purchasing.Trading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds
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Interactive BrokersHigh reliability and regulation by leading financial authorities.
High reliability and regulation by leading financial authorities.A wide range of financial instruments and access to more than 175 markets.Low trading commissions and favourable margin lending rates.Trading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds
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CMC MarketsLow trading fees.
Low trading fees.Wide range of markets and products.Access to the popular MetaTrader 4 and CMC Markets platforms.69% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
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Plus500Intuitive CFD trading platform.
Intuitive CFD trading platform.24/7 support.Built-in analytics.81% 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.
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PepperstoneWide selection of trading platforms.
Wide selection of trading platforms.Tight spreads and favourable trading conditions.Numerous regulatory licenses.81.7% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker
Looking for an alternative to Trading 212? While Trading 212 is popular for commission-free stock and ETF investing, fractional shares, and its user-friendly mobile platform, it may not meet the needs of investors seeking more advanced research tools, broader international market access, or specialist trading platforms.
XTB is our top overall Trading 212 alternative, combining real stock and ETF investing with access to Forex and CFD markets. IG is a strong choice for UK investors who want extensive market research and flexible account options, while eToro stands out for social and copy trading. Experienced investors looking for global market access may prefer Interactive Brokers.
Best Trading 212 Alternatives in 2026
We selected seven Trading 212 alternatives based on investment opportunities, trading fees, regulation, available markets, account types, and platform functionality.
Our top choices are:
- XTB – Best overall Trading 212 alternative.
- IG – Best for UK investors and active traders.
- eToro – Best for social and copy trading.
- Interactive Brokers – Best for experienced investors and global markets.
- CMC Markets – Best for investment options and advanced market analysis.
- Plus500 – Best for straightforward CFD trading.
- Pepperstone – Best for Forex and automated trading.
These platforms serve different purposes. Some provide direct ownership of stocks and ETFs, while others focus mainly on leveraged derivatives.
Trading 212 vs Alternatives: Broker Comparison
Compare Trading 212 with alternatives
Choose up to two alternatives from the editorial selection. The reference broker always stays in the comparison.
Only matching known values are hidden. Rows with incomplete data stay visible.
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Showing 9 of 9 parametersShowing 9 of 9 parameters
| Broker |  Trading 212Reference broker |  XTB |  IG |
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| Broker at a glance | Trading 212 is suitable for beginners thanks to educational materials and a low minimum deposit, and for experienced traders looking for affordability and simplicity | XTB suits experienced traders looking for a reliable broker with a wide selection of instruments and high-quality analytics. | Broker IG.com is suitable for traders of all levels, offering reliability, convenience, a wide selection of instruments, and good customer support. |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2004 | 2002 | 1974 |
| Regulated in Countries | United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Australia, Germany | Belize, Poland, United Kingdom, Spain, United Arab Emirates, Germany | United Kingdom, Bermuda, Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, France, Sweden, Switzerland, United States, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Africa, United Arab Emirates |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0.5 points | from 0.165 points |
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| Register | Register72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker | Register69-80% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker | Register68-72% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker |
Compare Trading 212 with two competing brokers using the interactive tool above. Explore differences in trading conditions, available instruments, account features, and trading platforms to find the most suitable option.
When evaluating alternatives, distinguish between investing in real shares and trading share CFDs. These products involve different costs, risks, and ownership rights.
1. XTB
XTB is a highly regulated broker with licenses from leading bodies such as the FCA, reinforcing its reliability and transparency. This broker offers a wide range of trading products, including currencies, indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, making it a flexible choice for traders of different levels and interests. Various deposit options and advanced analytical support further enhance its appeal against competitors.
XTB suits traders who value regulation and security, those looking for various trading tools, and those who want access to extensive analytical resources. The broker will especially suit active traders who maximize low spreads and product diversity.
Pros and Cons of XTB
Pros
- Regulated by several leading financial authorities.
- Variety of methods to deposit funds.
- Wide range of trading assets.
- Extensive analytical tools and resources.
Cons
- Withdrawal methods are limited.
- Lack of educational materials.
2. IG
IG is a highly regulated broker with licenses from reliable financial authorities, providing clients with high funds protection. Thanks to narrow spreads, traders can effectively manage their costs and increase the profitability of their operations. Quality trading platforms and advanced analytical tools support informed trading decisions, while extensive educational resources make IG attractive to traders of all experience levels.
Pros and Cons of IG
Pros
- Licenses from regulators with a high level of credibility.
- Tight spreads.
- A variety of markets and products.
- Extensive set of analytical tools and content.
- Quality educational resources for different levels of traders.
Cons
- Limited choice of trading accounts.
- High trading fee on DMA account.
- Inactivity fee.
- Limited choice of payment methods.
3. eToro
eToro stands out from other brokers due to its unique combination of trading services and social features, making it particularly attractive to traders interested in innovative approaches to investing. Narrow spreads and the ability to buy securities in fractions simplify access to different assets, while the social network allows users to share strategies and copy trades of successful traders, which is a big plus for beginners and those looking for new investment ideas. The simple and intuitive interface makes the platform accessible even for those who are just starting their trading journey.
eToro is best suited for beginner traders who are looking to capitalize on the social aspects of trading and do not require complex individual trading account settings. The platform is also ideal for those looking for an active community to share ideas and strategies.
Pros and Cons of eToro
Pros
- A social network for traders.
- Good selection of trading instruments.
- Fractional shares purchasing.
- Narrow spreads.
Cons
- Only one trading account is available.
- eToro has its own trading platform, but there is no alternative to it.
- Poor customer support performance.
- Delays and hidden fees during fund withdrawal.
4. Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers is one of the largest international brokers, offering extensive opportunities for trading and investing in global financial markets. The company combines high reliability, competitive trading conditions and advanced technological infrastructure. Thanks to its many years of experience, international regulation and continuous service development, Interactive Brokers holds a leading position among brokers for self-directed investing.
Interactive Brokers is primarily suited to experienced traders, active investors and professional market participants who value a wide range of instruments, low fees and advanced trading capabilities. The broker is also an excellent choice for long-term investors building diversified portfolios. For beginners, Interactive Brokers is suitable if they are willing to learn a fairly complex trading infrastructure.
Pros and Cons of Interactive Brokers
Pros
- High reliability and regulation by leading financial authorities.
- A wide range of financial instruments and access to more than 175 markets.
- Low trading commissions and favourable margin lending rates.
- Powerful trading platforms and professional analytical tools.
- A wide range of account types and high-quality educational materials.
Cons
- Complex interface and a steep learning curve for beginners.
- Inconsistent quality of technical support.
- Limited choice of deposit and withdrawal methods.
5. CMC Markets
CMC Markets has been a reliable CFD and Forex broker in the business for a long time. Top-tier financial authorities regulate the company, offers an excellent trading platform, and has low commission fees.
We believe it is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced traders. CMC Markets is a good option if you are seeking a trustworthy broker with extensive experience.
Pros and Cons of CMC Markets
Pros
- Low trading fees.
- Wide range of markets and products.
- Access to the popular MetaTrader 4 and CMC Markets platforms.
- Extensive analytical materials.
- Comprehensive educational materials.
Cons
- Limited account options.
- Inactivity fee.
- No online chat.
6. Plus500
Plus500 is ideal for traders seeking a convenient and intuitive platform with a broad spectrum of trading instruments. It's particularly well-suited for those who value a diverse range of CFDs on stocks, indices, currencies, commodities, and ETFs. The built-in Insight+ analytics tool is a significant advantage for those keen on analyzing trends and activities based on real-time data.
Pros and Cons of Plus500
Pros
- Intuitive CFD trading platform.
- 24/7 support.
- Built-in analytics.
- Diversity of trading assets.
Cons
- Limited channels for communication with technical support.
- Limited choice of trading accounts.
7. Pepperstone
Pepperstone is a significant and reliable broker that offers a broad range of trading instruments and attractive trading conditions. With regulation by serious authorities, clients can be confident in the security of their funds.
The broker is suitable for various types of traders. Beginners will find extensive educational materials, including trading guides, webinars, instructional videos, and Forex trading courses. Experienced traders will also appreciate Pepperstone's opportunities, including favorable trading conditions, various trading platforms, and access to complex trading instruments.
The broker's technical support operates at a high level, offering clients quick and efficient responses to any questions.
Pepperstone is an excellent choice for traders of all experience levels. With a unique combination of educational materials, trading tools, and high-quality customer service, this broker ensures excellent conditions for successful trading.
Pros and Cons of Pepperstone
Pros
- Wide selection of trading platforms.
- Tight spreads and favourable trading conditions.
- Numerous regulatory licenses.
- A large number of trading assets.
Cons
- Lack of diversity in types of trading accounts.
Why Look for an Alternative to Trading 212?
Trading 212 offers an accessible way to invest and trade, but its features may not suit every investment strategy.
Investors and traders typically consider switching platforms because they need more markets, advanced trading functionality, additional account types, or different fee structures.
More Markets and Investment Products
Trading 212 provides access to stocks, ETFs, and various CFDs. Its Invest account is particularly attractive to retail investors building portfolios of individual shares and exchange-traded funds.
However, experienced investors may want access to additional financial instruments.
Interactive Brokers offers a significantly broader range of investment products, including stocks, ETFs, options, futures, bonds, and currencies across international markets.
IG provides access to share dealing, investment accounts, and leveraged products in supported jurisdictions.
XTB combines investments in real stocks and ETFs with Forex and CFD trading, making it one of the closest alternatives to Trading 212 for investors interested in both long-term investments and active trading.
The appropriate choice depends on whether your priority is buying assets, managing a diversified portfolio, or trading short-term market movements.
Advanced Trading Platforms and Automation
Trading 212 uses a proprietary platform designed around accessibility and simplicity. However, it does not support MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, or cTrader.
This can be a limitation for traders who rely on Expert Advisors, custom indicators, automated strategies, or advanced order execution.
Several alternatives offer additional functionality:
- Pepperstone: Supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and TradingView integrations for eligible accounts.
- Interactive Brokers: Provides Trader Workstation (TWS), advanced order types, and API access.
- IG: Offers advanced charting, market research, and specialist trading platforms.
- XTB: Provides its proprietary xStation platform with integrated analytical tools.
For algorithmic Forex and CFD trading, Pepperstone is particularly worth considering. For sophisticated multi-asset trading, Interactive Brokers offers broader market access.
Different Trading Fees and Currency Conversion Costs
Trading 212's main attraction is its straightforward pricing for stock and ETF investing.
For its Invest and eligible ISA accounts, Trading 212 generally charges:
- No standard commission on stock and ETF transactions.
- No custody fee.
- A 0.15% currency conversion fee when applicable.
Other taxes, exchange charges, or payment-related fees may still apply.
Competitors use different pricing models. Some charge commissions for stock transactions, while others generate revenue from spreads, currency conversion, account subscriptions, or overnight financing.
A broker with lower advertised trading commissions will not necessarily offer lower total costs.
Additional Account Types and Tax-Efficient Investing
Another reason to consider an alternative is access to different investment account structures.
In the United Kingdom, Trading 212 offers tax-efficient investment accounts, including a Stocks and Shares ISA.
Other providers also offer UK investment accounts, although their conditions differ.
For example:
- IG offers Stocks and Shares ISAs and other investment account options.
- XTB provides a Stocks and Shares ISA for eligible UK clients.
- Interactive Brokers offers an ISA alongside its standard brokerage accounts.
- CMC Invest, part of the CMC Markets group, offers investment accounts, including ISAs and SIPPs, subject to the selected plan.
eToro also provides access to a UK ISA offering through its partnership with Moneyfarm. This is separate from the standard eToro investment account and should not be confused with a conventional self-directed share-dealing ISA.
Account availability and tax treatment depend on residency and local regulations.
Trading 212 Alternatives for Stocks, ETFs, and CFDs
Not every alternative to Trading 212 provides the same investment experience.
The table below summarises the main differences, with particular attention to the UK market.
Broker | Real Stocks and ETFs | CFDs | UK Stocks and Shares ISA |
|---|---|---|---|
Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Yes | Yes | Partner-managed ISA | |
Yes | Jurisdiction-dependent | Yes | |
Via CMC Invest | Yes | Via CMC Invest | |
Not through its UK CFD platform | Yes | No | |
Not through its UK CFD accounts | Yes | No |
Products and account availability may differ outside the UK.
Alternatives for Long-Term Stock and ETF Investors
If you primarily use Trading 212 to purchase shares or ETFs, XTB, IG, Interactive Brokers, and CMC Invest are more directly comparable than brokers focused exclusively on CFDs.
These platforms allow eligible investors to build portfolios using underlying securities rather than leveraged derivatives.
Compare their investment selection, currency conversion fees, recurring investment features, and account charges before switching.
Alternatives for Forex and CFD Traders
If you mainly use Trading 212's CFD account, your priorities may be different.
Pepperstone offers MetaTrader and cTrader environments, while Plus500 provides a proprietary CFD platform that may appeal to traders who prefer straightforward order placement.
IG and CMC Markets also provide extensive CFD markets and advanced trading tools.
CFDs are leveraged products and do not provide ownership of the underlying assets. They also carry the risk of substantial losses, particularly when positions are held with leverage.
Which Trading 212 Alternative Has Lower Fees?
There is no single cheapest Trading 212 alternative for every investor.
Trading 212 offers competitive pricing for commission-free stock and ETF investing, particularly for users who make regular small investments.
However, the overall cost of using another platform depends on the products traded, trading frequency, account type, and currency.
Stock and ETF Investing Fees
When comparing investment brokers, consider the following costs:
- Trading commissions: Charges for buying or selling shares and ETFs.
- Currency conversion fees: Costs when investing in assets denominated in a different currency.
- Account or custody fees: Ongoing charges for holding an investment account.
- Fund expenses: Annual operating costs charged by ETF and fund providers.
- Transfer fees: Potential charges for moving investments or withdrawing assets.
For example, XTB provides commission-free investing in eligible stocks and ETFs up to a specified monthly trading-volume threshold, although currency conversion charges may apply.
Interactive Brokers uses market-specific commission structures that can be competitive for experienced investors but may be less straightforward for small, infrequent transactions.
IG and CMC Invest also offer share-dealing services, with costs depending on the relevant account and investment product.
Forex and CFD Trading Costs
For CFD traders, comparing stock-dealing commissions is not enough.
The main costs include spreads, commissions, overnight financing, and currency conversion.
Pepperstone offers both spread-based and commission-based pricing structures.
Plus500 primarily uses spread-based CFD pricing, with additional charges potentially applying to overnight positions and other account activities.
IG and CMC Markets also provide different pricing arrangements depending on the instrument and trading account.
Always compare the total estimated cost of a complete trade rather than relying solely on advertised minimum spreads.
How to Choose the Best Trading 212 Alternative
The right platform depends on your investment goals, experience, and preferred markets.
For Beginners
XTB and eToro are worth considering for investors looking for accessible trading interfaces and educational resources.
XTB provides a combination of investing and trading functionality, while eToro's social features may appeal to users interested in observing other investors.
However, simplicity does not guarantee that a platform or investment strategy is suitable for everyone.
For Long-Term Investors
XTB, IG, and Interactive Brokers offer ways to invest in real stocks and ETFs.
XTB may appeal to investors seeking a familiar mobile-first experience, while IG offers additional research functionality.
Interactive Brokers is particularly attractive for investors who need access to international exchanges and more specialised investment products.
For Active Forex Traders
Pepperstone and IG may be more suitable than Trading 212 for active Forex traders who need specialised execution tools, advanced charts, or alternative trading platforms.
Pepperstone offers several popular third-party trading platforms, including MetaTrader and cTrader.
IG provides an extensive range of leveraged trading products and analytical functionality.
For Algorithmic Traders
Pepperstone and Interactive Brokers stand out for different kinds of automated trading.
Pepperstone supports MetaTrader Expert Advisors and cTrader automation for compatible accounts.
Interactive Brokers offers API access and advanced trading infrastructure suited to more sophisticated strategies.
Trading 212 is less suitable for traders who specifically require MetaTrader-based automated execution.
For UK ISA Investors
XTB, IG, Interactive Brokers, and CMC Invest are among the alternatives worth comparing for Stocks and Shares ISA investing.
However, their fees, investment selections, transfer processes, and account requirements differ.
Investors should also verify whether an ISA is flexible, whether they can transfer existing holdings without selling, and whether the provider supports the investments they intend to own.
Other Trading 212 Alternatives Worth Considering
UK investors who focus exclusively on long-term investing may also want to examine platforms outside our main broker selection.
Freetrade provides stock and ETF investing with UK investment account options. InvestEngine focuses on ETF portfolios rather than individual company shares.
Vanguard may appeal to investors interested in diversified funds and index investing, while Hargreaves Lansdown offers an established investment platform with access to funds, shares, and research tools.
These providers are especially relevant when the main goal is building a long-term investment portfolio rather than trading Forex or CFDs.
For investors seeking an alternative to Trading 212's automated investing tools, comparing portfolio rebalancing, recurring contributions, ETF selection, and account charges may be more important than the availability of leveraged trading products.
Is Trading 212 Still Worth Using?
Trading 212 remains a competitive option for beginners and long-term investors who value simplicity, commission-free stock and ETF trading, and convenient mobile portfolio management.
Its fractional investing and automated investment features make it particularly accessible for people who regularly contribute smaller amounts to their portfolios.
However, investors seeking broader international markets, more sophisticated research tools, or specialised financial instruments may prefer another platform.
XTB is our preferred overall Trading 212 alternative, offering a practical combination of real stock and ETF investing alongside additional trading opportunities.
IG stands out for research and account flexibility, eToro for social investing, and Interactive Brokers for sophisticated international investment strategies.
For traders primarily interested in Forex and CFDs, Pepperstone and Plus500 provide alternatives with different platform features and pricing models.
The best choice ultimately depends on whether you are investing for the long term or actively trading financial markets.
How We Selected the Best Trading 212 Alternatives
We evaluated these brokers using the IamForexTrader review methodology, considering regulation, reliability, trading costs, markets, account types, platform functionality, and customer support.
For this comparison, we placed additional emphasis on factors particularly relevant to Trading 212 users:
- Access to real stocks and ETFs.
- Investment account availability and features.
- Currency conversion and non-trading fees.
- Trading platforms and automation capabilities.
- Market research and analytical tools.
- Regional eligibility and regulatory protections.
Unlike a general Forex broker ranking, this selection considers both investment platforms and CFD brokers.
The article is intended for an international audience, with additional information relevant to UK investors. Available products, fees, and investor protections may vary significantly by country and legal entity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best alternative to Trading 212?
XTB is our top overall Trading 212 alternative because it combines real stock and ETF investing with access to additional trading markets. IG, eToro, and Interactive Brokers are also strong options depending on your investment goals.
Which Trading 212 alternative is best for beginners?
XTB and eToro are worth considering for beginners. XTB combines investing tools with educational resources, while eToro offers social trading functionality. The most suitable platform depends on the investments and features you need.
Is XTB better than Trading 212?
XTB may be better for investors seeking integrated market analysis and additional trading functionality. Trading 212 may be preferable for users prioritising a simple interface, fractional investing, and automated portfolio contributions. Compare total fees before choosing.
Is IG better than Trading 212?
IG may be better for experienced investors who require advanced research tools, a wider range of account options, and extensive trading functionality. Trading 212 remains attractive for straightforward stock and ETF investing.
Is Plus500 a good alternative to Trading 212?
Plus500 can be an alternative for CFD traders, but its UK CFD platform is not a direct replacement for Trading 212's Invest account. Trading 212 allows investors to own eligible shares and ETFs, while CFDs provide exposure to price movements without ownership.
Which Trading 212 alternative offers lower fees?
The answer depends on your investment strategy. XTB, IG, and other competitors may offer competitive pricing for eligible products, but commissions, currency conversion costs, account charges, and other fees must be considered together.
Which Trading 212 alternatives offer MetaTrader?
Pepperstone supports MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, as well as cTrader. Trading 212 does not provide native MetaTrader access. Available platforms may vary by broker entity and account type.
What are the best Trading 212 alternatives in the UK?
XTB, IG, Interactive Brokers, and CMC Invest are worth considering for UK investors seeking stock and ETF investing. Freetrade and InvestEngine are additional options for investors primarily interested in long-term portfolios.
Can I transfer my Trading 212 ISA to another broker?
You may be able to transfer a Trading 212 ISA to another eligible ISA provider. The receiving provider usually initiates the formal ISA transfer. Whether investments can be transferred directly or must first be sold depends on the providers and assets involved. Avoid withdrawing funds manually if you intend to preserve their ISA status.
Does Interactive Brokers offer a Stocks and Shares ISA?
Yes. Interactive Brokers offers a Stocks and Shares ISA to eligible UK clients. Its fees, minimum charges, and available investment products differ from those of Trading 212, so reviewing the current ISA terms is important before opening an account.
Are Trading 212 alternatives regulated?
The brokers in our selection operate through regulated entities in one or more jurisdictions. However, investor protections, eligible products, and regulatory oversight depend on the legal entity serving your country of residence.
