Freetrade vs IG Stock Broker Comparison
A head-to-head comparison of Freetrade and IG across regulation, commissions, platforms, and editorial scoring.
Freetrade's clean mobile interface and support for both ISAs and SIPPs make it one of the best commission-free options for UK long-term investors. Its stock selection is good but narrower than full-service brokers.
IG edges ahead with a score of 4.5/5 vs Freetrade's 4/5. A narrow margin, so review the breakdown below to see where each broker has a clear advantage.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Freetrade offers commission-free trading while IG does not, making Freetrade the more cost-effective choice for frequent stock traders.
IG has a stronger safety profile: top-tier regulation, compensation scheme, segregated funds, negative balance protection.
Freetrade is better suited for long-term investing: fractional shares.
Both brokers offer equivalent conditions for active trading across commissions, platforms, and charting tools.
IG edges out Freetrade with a higher editorial score (4.5/5 vs 4/5), indicating a stronger overall experience for new stock investors.
Freetrade vs IG: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
| Editorial score | 4.0/ 5 | 4.5/ 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Min deposit | N/A | No minimum |
| Commission-free | Yes | No |
| Fractional shares | Yes | No |
| Dividend reinvestment | No | No |
| Extended hours | No | Yes |
| IPO access | No | No |
| Short selling | No | Yes |
| Regulators | FCA | FCA ASIC DFSA CMVM BaFin Finansinspektionen Finanstilsynet FMA CBI KNF Finanstilsynet |
| Platforms | Freetrade App | MetaTrader 4 Proprietary Web/Mobile TradingView |
| Active bonuses | 2 offers | None |
| Visit broker | Visit Freetrade | Visit IG |
Freetrade vs IG Stock Broker Pros & Cons
- Commission-free stocks and ETF trading
- Both Stocks & Shares ISA and SIPP available
- Clean, beginner-friendly mobile interface
- FCA regulated with FSCS protection
- No minimum deposit requirement
- Narrower stock universe than full-service brokers
- Advanced features require paid Plus subscription (£9.99/month)
- No desktop application - mobile only
- Limited research tools and market data
- Exchange-listed options trading alongside real share dealing in one account
- Bonds trading available in the same account as equities and options
- Stocks & Shares ISA with no annual platform fee
- 13,000+ shares across 30+ global exchanges
- FCA-regulated and LSE-listed - among the highest regulatory standards in UK retail
- Integrated ProRealTime charts, Reuters news, and Morningstar research
- Share dealing commission (£8 or 0.1%) is higher than commission-free platforms
- No SIPP - pension wrapper requires a separate provider
- Options trading requires a DMA account and is not available to all retail clients
- No fractional shares on the share dealing account
Freetrade vs IG: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | Freetrade | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Trust & Regulation | ||
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, SEC, etc.) | Pass | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Negative balance protection | Fail | Pass |
| Compensation scheme (e.g. FSCS, SIPC) | Pass | Pass |
| Costs | ||
| Commission-free trading | Pass | Fail |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Pass | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Pass |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Fail | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Pass |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Fail | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Fail | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Pass |
Freetrade vs IG: Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our independent editorial scoring, IG ranks higher with a score of 4.5/5 vs 4/5 for Freetrade. The best choice still depends on your needs — commissions, features like fractional shares, and regulatory coverage all matter.
Freetrade offers commission-free stock trading while IG does not according to our data. Commission-free trading can significantly reduce costs for frequent traders. Always confirm the current fee structure directly on each broker's website.
Both Freetrade and IG hold top-tier regulatory licences, indicating a high standard of investor protection. Confirm each broker's specific regulatory bodies and compensation scheme coverage to ensure they apply in your jurisdiction.
IG requires a minimum deposit of no minimum. Minimum deposit information is not currently available for the other broker.
Freetrade supports Freetrade App and IG offers MetaTrader 4, Proprietary Web/Mobile, TradingView. Platform availability affects the tools, charting, and order types available to you. If you rely on a specific platform like MetaTrader or a proprietary web app, confirm compatibility before opening an account.
For beginners: IG offers negative balance protection; IG has a higher overall editorial score. Also compare educational resources, customer support quality, and the simplicity of each broker's platform before deciding.
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