Vanguard vs AJ Bell: 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
- AJ Bell wins on broader account choice (ISA, SIPP, LISA).
Platform overview
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.
AJ Bell
One of the UK's largest DIY platforms, covering stocks, funds, ETFs, bonds and investment trusts. Competitive fees and a strong track record.
Fees compared
| Fee type | Vanguard | AJ Bell |
|---|---|---|
| Annual platform fee | 15%/yr (cap £375) | 25%/yr |
| Share/ETF trading fee | – | £5/trade |
| FX fee | Free | 0.75% |
| Exit fee | Free | £25 |
| Interest on cash | – | 3.5% |
Accounts & investments
| Feature | Vanguard | AJ Bell |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks & Shares ISA | ✓ | ✓ |
| SIPP (pension) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lifetime ISA (LISA) | – | ✓ |
| Junior ISA | ✓ | ✓ |
| General Investment Account | ✓ | ✓ |
| ETFs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Individual shares | – | ✓ |
| Managed portfolios | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fractional shares | – | – |
Ratings & support
| Metric | Vanguard | AJ Bell |
|---|---|---|
| App Store rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.4 / 5 |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.7 / 5 | 4.9 / 5 |
| Phone support | ✓ | ✓ |
| FSCS protected | ✓ | ✓ |
| Minimum investment | £500 | £0 |
| Founded | 1975 | 1995 |
Common questions
Can I transfer my ISA from Vanguard to AJ Bell?
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 Vanguard and AJ Bell 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 Vanguard and AJ Bell offer a SIPP. Compare the platform fee above to see which is cheaper for your pension pot size.