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8 Best Stocks & Shares ISA Providers

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated November 10, 2025

The right Stocks & Shares ISA helps you grow investments while minimizing costs. Top providers offer low fees, intuitive tools, and broad access to funds and shares. Whether you prefer active control or a simple, low-cost option, comparing ISAs ensures you choose one that fits your goals and investing style.

  • AJ Bell

    The “Best All-Rounder” AJ Bell charges £1.50 ($1.97) for funds, £5 ($6.56) for shares, or £3.50 ($4.59) for frequent traders, with a low 0.25% platform fee. Offering access to 10,000+ shares, 2,000+ funds, 3,500+ ETFs, and 450 trusts across 24 markets, it delivers investment options at competitive prices.

    Why We Picked It

    AJ Bell is a FTSE 250 company with over 490,000 clients, offering a general dealing account, SIPP, Lifetime, and Junior ISA. It charges £1.50 ($2) for online fund trades and 0.25% platform fees for portfolios under £250,000 ($327,500), with share fees capped at £42 ($55) annually. Interest is also paid on ISA cash balances.

    The platform provides nine ready-made and six non-managed portfolios, plus a “Favourite Funds” list of around 80 funds. It offers robust research tools and various trading options online through an app or phone, with minimum investments of £500 ($655) or £25 ($32.75) monthly.

    AJ Bell offers extensive customer support through a six-day telephone and live chat service. Overall, it’s an excellent all-round choice with low platform fees, diverse investment options, and comprehensive research resources.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Wide range of funds, shares, ETFs, and trusts
    • Low 0.25% platform fee keeps costs down
    • Fund trades cost only £1.50 ($2)
    • Choice between full AJ Bell platform and simplified Dodl app
    • Good educational resources and research tools
    • UK-based customer support with solid reputation
    • Access to 24 markets, including the UK, US, and Europe

    Cons

    • Trading fees may add up for small, frequent trades
    • £5 ($6.55) per share trade for infrequent traders
    • Dodl offers fewer investment options than the main platform
    • No completely commission-free share dealing
    • Website and app interfaces can feel less modern than some newer providers

  • Interactive Investor

    The “Best for High-Value Portfolios” Interactive Investor charges £3.99 ($5.23) per trade and a platform fee from £60 ($78.66) annually, with international trades at £9.99 ($13.10). It offers access to 40,000+ investments, including 3,000 funds, 1,000 ETFs, and 600 trusts across 17 markets.

    Why We Picked It

    Interactive Investor operates on a flat-fee model, making it ideal for larger portfolios seeking predictable costs. Instead of percentage-based fees, users pay a monthly subscription starting at £4.99 ($6.54). This approach often becomes more cost-effective than competitors as portfolio values rise, offering long-term savings and consistent pricing.

    The platform has three plans: Investor Essentials at £4.99 ($6.54), Investor at £11.99 ($15.72) with a free monthly trade, and Super Investor at £19.99 ($26.20) with two free trades and reduced dealing fees—all with Stocks and Shares ISAs, general trading accounts, and SIPPs, with interest on cash balances and flexible trading options.

    Interactive Investor also provides five ready-made portfolios and a curated “Super 60” list of top-rated funds. Investors can access detailed research tools and join the ii Community app to share insights and compare portfolios. New SIPP customers can also earn up to £3,000 ($3,933) cashback, adding extra value for long-term investors.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Flat monthly fee can be cheaper for larger portfolios
    • £3.99 ($5) per trade for UK and US shares is competitive
    • Wide range of investments, including shares, funds, ETFs, and trusts
    • Access to 40,000+ investment options, including funds, ETFs, and trusts
    • Free monthly trade included with each plan
    • Ability to manage multiple account types under one subscription
    • Strong research tools and model portfolios

    Cons

    • Flat fee less cost-effective for small portfolios
    • £9.99 fee for other international trades adds cost
    • No ultra-low-cost tier for very light investors
    • No commission-free trading beyond included trades

  • Hargreaves Lansdown

    The “Best Premium Provider” Hargreaves Lansdown charges no fund fees, £11.95 ($15.67) per share trade, and a 0.45% platform fee. With access to 8,500+ shares, 4,000 funds, 1,400 ETFs, and 400 trusts across the UK, US, Europe, and Canada, it’s ideal for investors seeking extensive global options.

    Why We Picked It

    Hargreaves Lansdown is one of the UK’s largest investment platforms, serving over 1.7 million clients with a vast range of UK and global shares, funds, and trusts. Its “Wealth Shortlist” of 70+ recommended funds, paired with expert research and advisory services, makes it appealing for investors seeking professional guidance and variety.

    The platform charges no trading fee for funds but applies a 0.45% platform fee for portfolios under £250,000 ($327,750), with share trading fees capped at £45 ($59.02) annually. Investors can begin with just £100 or £25 ($32.78) monthly, and ISAs earn interest on cash balances, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.

    Hargreaves Lansdown also earns praise for its reliable six-day phone support and secure messaging system. Its intuitive website and app simplify portfolio management, and while its fees are higher than some rivals, its strong service, research tools, and broad investment options make it a top-tier premium choice.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Wide choice of funds, shares, ETFs, and trusts
    • No trading fees for funds, reducing costs for fund investors
    • Wide selection of 8,500+ shares, 4,000 funds, and 1,400 ETFs
    • Strong research tools and daily market analysis
    • Easy-to-use website and mobile app
    • Reliable customer service with phone support
    • Long-standing reputation and financial stability

    Cons

    • High share trading fee at £11.95 ($15.65) per trade
    • 0.45% platform fee is higher than some competitors
    • No commission-free trading for shares
    • May be more complex than needed for very small portfolios
    • Interest on cash holdings is lower than some rivals

  • Trading 212 Stocks & Shares ISA

    The “Best for Commission-Free Trading” Trading 212 Stocks & Shares ISA charges no trading or platform fees, making it a cost-effective option. It offers access to over 13,000 shares and ETFs, giving investors a broad range of choices without added costs.

    Why We Picked It

    Trading 212 offers a commission-free Stocks & Shares ISA, giving you access to 13,000 global stocks and funds, as well as pre-made ETF portfolios called “pies.” It also supports fractional shares, making it easier to invest in big-name companies without needing the full share price. Any uninvested cash earns interest, and holding investments is free.

    The platform is app-based and designed for simplicity, which makes it a good fit if you’re new to investing. However, it doesn’t provide as much research or guidance as traditional platforms, so it’s better suited for those confident in building their own portfolios. Customer support is available through online chat, though there is no telephone helpline.

    Overall, Trading 212 combines low fees with accessibility and flexibility, including the ability to transfer ISAs from other providers. If you want ease of use, tax efficiency, and a wide investment choice, it’s a practical option, but experienced investors may need to supplement with outside research.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Minimum investment of only £1 ($1.31)
    • No trading or platform fees, making it completely commission-free
    • Access to 13,000+ shares and ETFs for strong global diversification
    • ISA tax benefits on capital gains and dividends
    • Ideal for beginners and cost-conscious investors
    • Transfers allowed from other ISA providers
    • Mobile-first platform with an easy interface

    Cons

    • Limited research tools compared to some larger brokers
    • Limited access to funds or investment trusts
    • No in-person customer service; support is app-based
    • Focus on simplicity may lack advanced features for experienced investors
    • Currency conversion fees apply when trading in non-GBP assets

  • Prosper

    The “Best for Tracker Funds” Prosper ISA charges no trading or platform fees, making it a cost-efficient choice for investors. It provides access to over 150 funds and ETFs, offering a straightforward way to build a diversified portfolio without added costs.

    Why We Picked It

    Prosper is a UK-based app launched in 2022 that offers a Stocks & Shares ISA, general investing account, and SIPP. It charges no trading or platform fees and even refunds management fees on 30 index funds, making them free to hold. Investors can access over 150 funds and ETFs from providers like iShares, Vanguard, and Fidelity.

    The platform also features a “Standard Fund,” a globally diversified BlackRock fund for long-term investors aiming to hold for at least 10 years. While the streamlined selection may feel limited for DIY investors, it provides a straightforward entry point for beginners. However, educational resources are minimal, so new investors may need extra guidance.

    Unlike many app-based providers, Prosper offers a customer helpline available on weekdays. Its simplicity, low costs, and passive investing options make it attractive for those looking to start investing without the hassle of complicated fees or too many choices.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • No trading or platform fees, making it highly cost-effective
    • Wide range of investment options, including funds, ETFs, and shares
    • Access to 150+ funds and ETFs, focused on diversified, low-cost investing
    • Simple, user-friendly platform suitable for beginners
    • Automatic investing tools for consistent contributions
    • Regulated provider with standard protections for your money

    Cons

    • Flat fee may feel expensive if you only invest small amounts
    • Limited investment range compared to larger platforms
    • Limited advanced research tools compared to some competitors
    • No in-person support, as services are online only
    • Fewer promotional offers than larger ISA providers

  • InvestEngine

    The “Best for ETFs” InvestEngine ISA has no trading or platform fees, making it one of the most affordable options for ETF investors. It offers access to over 790 ETFs plus 10 ready-made portfolios, giving you flexibility to build or diversify your investments at no extra cost.

    Why We Picked It

    InvestEngine, launched in 2019, offers a low-cost ETF-only platform ideal for ISA investors seeking simple, diversified portfolios. DIY investors pay no trading or platform fees, while managed portfolios cost just 0.25% annually. This structure appeals to cost-conscious users who want either hands-on control or automated management.

    Investors can select from five ready-made “LifePlan” portfolios or build custom ETF mixes with automatic rebalancing. Minimum investments start at £100 ($131.15) or £50 ($65.58) monthly. The platform has limited support via live chat and trades once daily, but its low fees and simplicity make it very accessible.

    While InvestEngine doesn’t offer individual shares or in-depth research, its streamlined, app-based platform makes it ideal for those who want low fees and straightforward ETF-focused investing. New customers may also benefit from promotions like cashback offers, adding extra value when opening an account.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • No trading fees and no platform fees for DIY investors
    • Low 0.25% management fee for ready-made portfolios
    • Access to 800+ ETFs plus five ready-made portfolios
    • Ideal for ETF-focused and cost-conscious investors
    • Clean design with easy navigation
    • Lets you invest smaller amounts

    Cons

    • ETFs only, no individual shares
    • Limited investment types beyond ETFs
    • Fewer customization options compared to broader platforms
    • No cash ISA option, only a stocks and shares ISA
    • Less track record than larger providers

  • Bestinvest

    The “Best for Low-Cost Ready-Made Portfolios” Bestinvest ISA charges no fund trading fees, £4.95 ($6.49) per share trade, and platform fees of 0.20% for shares and 0.40% for funds. With access to 1,400+ shares, 1,600 funds, 390 ETFs, and 270 trusts across the UK and US, it offers variety.

    Why We Picked It

    Bestinvest offers low-cost investing paired with personalized guidance, appealing to both beginners and experienced investors. It features 20 ready-made portfolios and about 130 curated funds, ETFs, and trusts, with platform fees starting at 0.2% and decreasing for larger portfolios. Investors pay no trading fees on funds and earn interest on ISA cash.

    A key highlight is its free one-on-one investment coaching, supported by portfolio simulation and research tools. This allows investors to remain self-directed while still accessing expert insight. The platform is available online, via app, or by phone, with a low £50 ($65.58) minimum investment for accessibility.

    While it doesn’t match the share range of larger competitors, Bestinvest’s combination of low fees, guided support, and ready-made portfolios offers strong value. Its customer service, available through phone and live chat, enhances convenience and confidence for investors seeking affordable, flexible investment management.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Free investment coaching calls with qualified experts
    • No trading fees for funds and low £4.95 ($6.48) share fee
    • Competitive platform fees of 0.20% for shares and 0.40% for funds
    • Wide choice of funds, shares, and ready-made portfolios
    • Clear and competitive fee structure
    • Strong educational tools and resources
    • Option to combine self-directed investing with guided support

    Cons

    • No fully managed service for hands-off investors
    • Trading fees can add up if you buy and sell often
    • Platform fee slightly higher for funds than shares
    • Limited advanced research tools compared to some rivals
    • Coaching is guidance only, not full financial advice

  • Fidelity

    The “Best for Customer Service” Fidelity ISA charges no fund trading fees, £7.50 ($9.84) per share trade, or £1.50 ($1.97) for regular investing, with a 0.35% platform fee. It offers access to 2,500+ shares, 3,100 funds, 400 ETFs, and 180 trusts across the UK, US, and Europe.

    Why We Picked It

    Fidelity, one of the UK’s largest ISA providers, offers access to thousands of funds, ETFs, and investment trusts without restricting investors to its own products. Platform fees are capped at £90 ($118.03) annually for portfolios under £25,000 ($32,789), and interest is paid on ISA cash balances, ensuring flexibility and value.

    The platform includes fund shortlists, research tools, and advisory services to support informed investing. Users can trade online, via app, or by phone, with a £1,000 ($1,311.50) minimum or £25 ($32.78) monthly investment. Fidelity also provides excellent customer service, including a London investor centre for in-person guidance.

    While share trading fees are on the higher side, Fidelity’s flat platform fee structure may benefit those with larger portfolios. This makes it a particularly attractive choice for investors who want flexibility, professional resources, and reliable service in managing their ISA.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Wide selection of funds, including index and actively managed options
    • Competitive fees compared to many traditional providers
    • No trading fees for funds and low £1.50 ($2) fee for regular share investing
    • Reasonable 0.35% platform fee with capped annual costs
    • Strong research tools and educational resources
    • Reliable customer service and platform support
    • Flexible for both beginners and experienced investors

    Cons

    • Some funds carry higher costs than index-only providers
    • £7.50 ($9.82) per trade for ad hoc share dealing may add up for frequent traders
    • Platform interface may feel less modern than newer app-based rivals
    • Limited commission-free trading compared to certain competitors
    • Choice overload may be challenging if you prefer fewer options

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Stocks and Shares ISA?

A Stocks and Shares ISA is a tax-efficient investment account that allows you to invest in assets such as funds, shares, ETFs, and investment trusts. Any returns you earn, whether from dividends, interest, or capital growth, are protected from UK income and capital gains tax.

How do I choose the best Stocks and Shares ISA provider?

The best provider depends on your goals, investment style, and budget. Look for low platform fees, strong research tools, and a wide investment selection. If you’re a beginner, consider platforms with ready-made portfolios or free coaching, while experienced investors may prefer greater control and advanced trading features.

How much can I invest in a Stocks and Shares ISA each year?

For the 2024/2025 tax year, you can invest up to £20,000 ($26,200) across all ISA types combined. You can put the full amount into a Stocks and Shares ISA or split it between Cash, Lifetime, and Innovative Finance ISAs, depending on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Are Stocks and Shares ISAs risky?

Yes, investments in a Stocks and Shares ISA can fluctuate in value, and returns aren’t guaranteed. However, they generally offer higher long-term growth potential than cash savings. Diversifying across different funds, sectors, and regions can help reduce risk and smooth out performance over time.

Can I switch ISA providers?

Yes, you can transfer your Stocks and Shares ISA to another provider at any time without losing your tax-free status. Always use the official transfer process rather than withdrawing the funds yourself; this ensures your investments remain sheltered from tax during the transition.