Trading 212 vs Freetrade: 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 broader account choice (ISA, SIPP, LISA).
- Trading 212 wins on higher user ratings.
Platform overview
Trading 212
Commission-free stocks, ETFs and an interest-paying Cash ISA, all in a slick app. Best suited to cost-conscious DIY investors who want a broad range without paying per trade.
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.
Fees compared
| Fee type | Trading 212 | Freetrade |
|---|---|---|
| Annual platform fee | Free | Free |
| Share/ETF trading fee | Free | Free |
| FX fee | 0.15% | 0.99% |
| Exit fee | Free | Free |
| Interest on cash | 3.85% | 3.5% |
Accounts & investments
| Feature | Trading 212 | Freetrade |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks & Shares ISA | ✓ | ✓ |
| SIPP (pension) | – | ✓ |
| Lifetime ISA (LISA) | – | – |
| Junior ISA | – | – |
| General Investment Account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funds | – | ✓ |
| Individual shares | ✓ | ✓ |
| Managed portfolios | – | ✓ |
| Fractional shares | ✓ | ✓ |
Ratings & support
| Metric | Trading 212 | Freetrade |
|---|---|---|
| App Store rating | 4.6 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.6 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
| Phone support | – | – |
| FSCS protected | ✓ | ✓ |
| Minimum investment | £1 | £0 |
| Founded | 2004 | 2016 |
Common questions
Can I transfer my ISA from Trading 212 to Freetrade?
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?
Freetrade offers managed portfolios, making it easier for beginners who don't want to pick investments themselves. Trading 212 is better if you're comfortable making your own choices.
Are both platforms safe and regulated?
Yes. Both Trading 212 and Freetrade 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?
Only Freetrade offers a SIPP. If a pension is important to you, Freetrade would be the right choice between the two.