Freetrade vs Vanguard: Which is better in 2026?
A side-by-side comparison of fees, accounts, investment range, and ratings. Updated March 2026.
Not financial advice. Capital at risk. Fees verified March 2026.
Quick verdict
- Freetrade wins on lower platform fees (free vs 15%/yr (cap £375)).
- Vanguard wins on broader account choice (ISA, SIPP, LISA).
- Vanguard wins on higher user ratings.
Platform overview
Freetrade
Commission-free stocks and ETFs with no platform fee on the basic plan. Simple and low-cost, with a growing range that now includes bonds and investment trusts.
Vanguard
The home of index investing, built around Vanguard's own low-cost funds. Suits passive investors who want simplicity and rock-bottom ongoing costs.
Fees compared
| Fee type | Freetrade | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| Annual platform fee | Free | 15%/yr (cap £375) |
| Share/ETF trading fee | Free | – |
| FX fee | 0.99% | Free |
| Exit fee | Free | Free |
| Interest on cash | 3.5% | – |
Accounts & investments
| Feature | Freetrade | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks & Shares ISA | ✓ | ✓ |
| SIPP (pension) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lifetime ISA (LISA) | – | – |
| Junior ISA | – | ✓ |
| General Investment Account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Individual shares | ✓ | – |
| Managed portfolios | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fractional shares | ✓ | – |
Ratings & support
| Metric | Freetrade | Vanguard |
|---|---|---|
| App Store rating | 4.3 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.3 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 |
| Phone support | – | ✓ |
| FSCS protected | ✓ | ✓ |
| Minimum investment | £0 | £500 |
| Founded | 2016 | 1975 |
Common questions
Can I transfer my ISA from Freetrade to Vanguard?
Yes, ISA transfers are a legal right in the UK. You can initiate a transfer via your new provider without losing your ISA allowance or tax-free status. Check whether your current provider charges an exit fee first.
Which is better for a beginner?
Both platforms cater to varying experience levels. Look at each platform's app ratings and minimum investment requirements to find the closest match for your criteria.
Are both platforms safe and regulated?
Yes. Both Freetrade and Vanguard are FCA-regulated and FSCS-protected up to £85,000. Your investments are held in your name and kept separate from the company's own assets.
Can I hold a SIPP on both platforms?
Yes, both Freetrade and Vanguard offer a SIPP. Compare the platform fee above to see which is cheaper for your pension pot size.