Best brokers for trading stocks
Ranked on our Platforms and Costs scores, the two sectors that matter most for share traders. Independent testing, real scores, and honest notes on each.
Trading shares well comes down to two things: a platform you can rely on and costs that do not eat your returns. So rather than a vague overall score, the ranking below is built on the two sectors we rate that matter most to a stock trader, Platforms and Costs. Each figure is out of ten, drawn from the same testing behind every review, and only regulated brokers appear.
What makes a broker good for stocks
Beyond the two scores above, a few practical things separate a great stock broker from an average one. Check these against your own shortlist before you commit:
- Range of shares, so the companies you actually want to trade are available.
- Platform quality, meaning fast execution, good charting and a solid mobile app.
- Total cost, including spread, commission and the overnight fee on held positions.
- Regulation, because a well-regulated broker protects your money whatever you trade.
Whichever you choose, a demo account lets you test the platform and the feel of trading shares before committing real money.
Match a broker to how you trade shares
Platforms and costs are the start. Answer 12 quick questions and the Matchmaker weighs them against everything else to find your closest fit.
Find my broker →Frequently asked
Rankings reflect our independent Platforms and Costs scores and are not influenced by commercial relationships. Trade4Gains may receive compensation from some brokers featured here, which does not affect their scores. This guide is educational and not financial advice. Trading forex and CFDs carries a high level of risk and can result in the loss of all your capital. Most retail investor accounts lose money.