Freetradevs
SkillingStock Broker Comparison
This comparison pits Freetrade's commission-free, beginner-friendly mobile experience against Skilling's algorithm-friendly platforms and global share CFDs. The tension centers on cost, long term features, and market access.
Our Verdict
Freetrade winsby 0.3 pts
Freetrade is the overall winner on editorial score, 4.0 to 3.7. This reflects stronger Trust & Regulation and Fees & Spreads scores.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1Freetrade charges no commissions on stocks and ETFs.
- 2Skilling supports short selling.
- 3Freetrade offers ISA and SIPP wrappers.
Who should choose Freetrade vs Skilling?
Find out which stock broker best suits your investing profile.
Choose Freetrade if…
Choose Freetrade if you want commission-free stock and ETF trading. You also gain ISA and SIPP wrappers and a mobile-first experience.
Choose Skilling if…
Choose Skilling if you want short selling and advanced charting for equity CFDs. You gain access to 800+ share CFDs and platforms like Skilling Trader and cTrader.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which broker wins for each type of stock trader, based on costs, safety, features, and editorial scoring.
Best for low cost trading
Recommended
Freetrade wins for low cost trading due to commission-free stocks and ETFs.
Best for safety & regulation
Recommended
Freetrade vs Skilling: Side-by-Side Stock Broker Comparison
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.0/ 5 | 3.7/ 5 |
| Min deposit | N/A | $50 |
| Spreads from | N/A | 0.7 pips |
| Commission / lot | N/A | N/A |
| Inactivity fee | None | $10/month (after 90 days) |
| Deposit fee | Free |
Freetrade vs Skilling Stock Broker Pros & Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Narrower stock universe than full-service brokers
Freetrade vs Skilling: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each broker meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
Freetrade
criteria wins
3
Skilling
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two brokers differ
| Criteria | Freetrade | Skilling |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| No deposit fee | Pass | — |
| Features | ||
| Fractional shares | Pass | Fail |
| Dividend reinvestment (DRIP) | Fail | Fail |
| Extended hours trading | Fail | Fail |
| IPO access | Fail | Fail |
| Short selling | Fail | Pass |
| Stock screener tool | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| Advanced charting tools | Fail | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Fail | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Fail |
Freetrade vs Skilling: Frequently Asked Questions
The scores are close: Freetrade rates 4/5 and Skilling rates 3.7/5. Freetrade has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
Skilling starts from 0.7. Current spread data is not available for Freetrade. Check both brokers' websites for up-to-date spread and commission pricing.
Skilling requires $50. Minimum deposit information is not currently available for Freetrade.
Both Freetrade and Skilling hold licences from top-tier regulators, indicating a high standard of regulatory oversight. Check each broker's specific regulatory bodies to confirm coverage in your jurisdiction.
For beginners, Skilling provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each broker's site before deciding.
Freetrade lists maximum leverage of 1:1, while Skilling lists up to 20:1. Available leverage depends on your jurisdiction. EU retail clients under ESMA rules are capped at 1:30 on major forex pairs.
Freetrade supports Freetrade App, while Skilling supports cTrader, Skilling Trader, MetaTrader 4. Freetrade has exclusive access to Freetrade App. Skilling has exclusive access to cTrader and Skilling Trader and MetaTrader 4.
Freetrade offers commission-free stock trading while Skilling does not according to our data. Commission-free trading can reduce costs for frequent traders. Always confirm the current fee structure directly on each broker's website.
Both Freetrade and Skilling are covered by a compensation scheme according to our data, providing an additional safety net for your stock investments. Confirm the specific scheme and coverage limit that applies to your account before depositing.
