In a constantly evolving financial landscape, algorithmic/automated trading has become a vital tool for staying competitive. As professionals in this field, we’ve done the research and present the top trading algorithmic platforms in the UK for 2025. These platforms offer cutting-edge features, empowering you to thrive in the fast-paced world of trading. We’ll also provide an overview of algorithmic trading and how to kickstart your journey.
Essence
- Algorithmic trading offers automated, rule-based trading strategies.
- Choose a secure and regulated platform for algorithmic trading for this trading method. This means it must be highly encrypted and regulated by the FCA.
- Compatibility with your preferred programming language is essential.
- Diversify your portfolio with a platform that offers a range of assets.
- Transparent and competitive pricing structures are crucial.
- User recommendations and ratings can provide insights into platform capabilities.
- Trading using algorithmic platforms isn’t a guaranteed path to profits. Success requires learning and solid strategies.
- Follow a structured process to automate your trading strategies, from platform selection to strategy execution.
List of the Best Algorithmic Trading Platforms
- eToro – Best For Stock Investors
- FxPro – Safest Algorithmic Platform
- Pepperstone – Best for Beginners
- Capital.com – One of the Cheapest Options
- IG Markets – Best With Long-Term Investment Options
- XTB – Best for Mobile Trading
In this guide
Best CFD Algorithmic Trading Platforms in the UK
Compare the Best Algorithmic Trading Platforms
This section presents a brief comparison of the best algorithmic trading platforms in the UK to further aid in your platform selection.
| Best Algorithmic Trading Platform | Licence | Support Service | Software | Payment | Demo Account | Money Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | FCA, MAS, CySEC, FSCA, ASIC, SFSA ADGM, MFSA, FSAS, GFSC, SEC | 24/5 | eToro investing platform and app, Multi-asset platform, Social Trading, Copy Trader, Smart Portfolios | Credit/debit cards, Bank transfer, Klarna, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller | Yes | Yes (up to $250,000) |
| FxPro | FCA, FSCA, SCB | 24/5 | FxPro Mobile App, MT4, MT5, cTrader, FxPro WebTrader | Wire Transfers, Credit/Debit Cards, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill | Yes | Yes (up to €20,000) |
| Pepperstone | FCA, ASIC, DFSA, CySEC, BaFin, SCB, CMA | 24/7 | MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, Pepperstone Trading Platform | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Credit/debit cards, PayPal, Domestic bank transfer, International bank transfer | Yes | Yes (up to £85,000) |
| Capital.com | FCA, SCB, ASIC, CySEC, SCA | 24/7 | TradingView, MT4, Web platform, Mobile app | Bank transfer, bank cards, Apple Pay, TrueLayer | Yes | Yes (up to £85,000) |
| IG Markets | FCA, BaFin, DFSA, FSCA, MAS, ASIC, CySEC | 24/5 | Online platform, Trading apps, ProRealTime, MT4, L2 Dealer, TradingView, US options and futures | Credit/debit cards, bank transfer, PayPal | Yes | Yes, (up to £85,000 by FSCS) |
| XTB | CIRO, FCA, CNMV, KNF | 24/5 | xStation 5, xStation Mobile | Credit/debit cards, e-wallets, Bank transfers | Yes | Yes (up to £85,000) |
Brief Overview of Our Recommended Platforms’ Fees and Assets
Identifying the best trading platform in the UK with algorithmic features can be an overwhelming and daunting task. Various elements must be considered, which we will share later in this guide. Among these considerations are the assets available and the associated trading fees, both of which we’ve conveniently summarised in the tables below.
Fees
| Best Algorithmic Trading Platform | Fees | Minimum Deposit Requirement | Transaction | Inactivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | From 1 pip | £50 | Free | £10 per month after 12 months of inactivity |
| FxPro | From 0.0 pips | $100 | Free | $15 once + $5 monthly |
| Pepperstone | From 0.0 pips | £0 | Free | None |
| Capital.com | From 0.0006 pips | £20 | Free | None |
| IG Markets | From 0.1 points | £100 | Free | £18 monthly |
| XTB | From 0.1 pips | £0 | Free | £10 monthly |
Assets
| Best Algorithmic Trading Platform | Forex | Stocks | Commodities | ETFs | Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| FxPro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Pepperstone | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Capital.com | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| IG Markets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| XTB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Algorithmic Trading Platforms in the UK
After investing over 160 hours in research and evaluating numerous trading platforms with algorithmic features, we’ve distilled the best options in the UK. Our analysis considered factors like security, reliability, costs, customer support, available assets, and demo accounts. We’ve also incorporated user feedback from trustworthy sources, ensuring our recommendations are impartial and accurate. Here are our mini-reviews to ensure you make an informed choice.
1. eToro – Best For Stock Investors
From our experience testing eToro, it is a solid choice for investors who want algorithmic-style exposure without coding. While eToro doesn’t offer traditional algorithmic trading or API access for custom bots, its CopyTrader feature lets you automatically replicate the moves of successful investors in real time. For diversified, theme-based strategies, Smart Portfolios provide pre-built allocations you can copy. This is ideal for stock-focused or multi-asset investing.
UK clients can start stock investing with just a £50 minimum deposit and gain access to 7,000+ equities across 20+ global markets. You also have an opportunity to diversify your portfolio with additional asset classes, including ETFs, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, forex, and more.
Fractional shares allow investment from £10, and the platform also offers a stock lending programme for potential passive income. On top of that, you can earn up to 3.8% annual interest on idle cash balances, paid monthly.
Additional perks we found useful include a £100,000 virtual demo account for testing strategies, commission-free stock and ETF trading, and a comprehensive education hub with courses, webinars, and trading podcasts. We also like eToro’s free deposits, though there’s a £5 withdrawal fee and a £10 inactivity fee after 12 months of dormancy.
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
- CopyTrader and Smart Portfolios support algorithmic-style automated investing
- Lists 7,000+ global stocks plus additional securities for portfolio diversification
- Commission-free stock and ETF trading
- You can invest in fractional shares and earn dividends
- Gives users an opportunity to earn up to 3.8% annual interest on cash balances
- £5 withdrawal fee
- Not a full algorithmic platform. There is no custom coding or backtesting
- Copying a trader requires £200 minimum allocation
| Types | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $50 |
| Conversion Fee | depends on your payment method, currency, and eToro Club level. |
| Overnight Fee | vary according to the value and direction (BUY or SELL) of your position |
| Withdrawal Fee | all withdrawal requests are subject to a $5 USD fee |
| Inactivity Fee | monthly inactivity fee of $10 USD (charged after 12 months) |
2. FxPro – Safest Algorithmic Platform
Having rigorously tested and explored various trading platforms in the UK, our analysis highlights FxPro as the safest. Regulated by multiple authorities, including the FCA, its commitment to user safety is undeniable. The trading platform is highly encrypted, and its app has a two-factor authentication feature to ensure unauthorised access. Through our thorough examination, we found FxPro’s third-party platforms—cTrader, MT4, and MT5—equipped with advanced auto trading features, ensuring a seamless and dynamic trading experience.
FxPro users can automate trading strategies across 2100+ CFD assets, including forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and more. The platform’s £100 minimum deposit requirement, coupled with fee-free transactions, enhances accessibility for all traders as we consider the requirement among the lowest in the industry. From our perspective, FxPro stands out as a secure and user-friendly haven for algorithmic traders, earning a solid 5-star rating from us.
✔ Trustworthy broker
- A highly encrypted and regulated trading platform with algorithmic feature
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Reliable 24/5 support service
- Quality advanced trading tools on cTrader, MT4, and MT5 platforms
- Limited asset offerings compared to its peers
- Its learning resources availability can be improved
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum deposit | £100 |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Inactivity fee | £15 once + £5 monthly |
3. Pepperstone – Best for Beginners
Our research highlights Pepperstone as the top trading platform with algorithms for beginner traders in the UK. Its user-friendliness and competitive pricing cater to newcomers and budget-conscious traders. Pepperstone provides access to 1,200+ CFD trading instruments, spanning forex, commodities, indices, shares, and ETFs. This allows users to explore new markets and effectively diversify their portfolios.
Auto trading is supported on MT4, MT5, and cTrader platforms, with Python compatibility and pre-built trading algorithm. Customisation options and expert advisor features empower traders to adapt strategies to mingle with their peers and copy positions from professionals. These factors led us to award Pepperstone a 5-star rating.
✔ No dealing desk intervention
- Low spreads starting from 0.0 pips.
- A user-friendly and highly customisable auto trading platform.
- No minimum deposit requirement.
- Excellent collection of learning resources and a demo account.
- Limited tradable securities compared to its peers.
- You can only trade the featured securities as CFDs and spread betting.
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 |
| Deposit fee | $0 |
| Inactivity fee | No |
| Account fee | No |
4. Capital.com – One of the Cheapest Options
Capital.com is a highly accessible and cost-effective platform for algorithmic trading, offering access to over 5,000 CFD and spread betting assets, including forex, shares, indices, and commodities. One feature that stands out is the 1X account, allowing traders to trade CFDs without leverage, eliminating overnight funding fees while maintaining competitive spreads. This makes it a great option for those prioritising risk management and cost-efficiency.
Opening an account with Capital.com is straightforward, with a minimum deposit of just £20 and zero fees for deposits or withdrawals. Users can also practice strategies in a free demo account, which is particularly useful for testing automated trading systems without financial risk.
Note that this algorithmic trading platform supports MT4 for advanced algorithmic trading, with Expert Advisors and automated strategies. Plus, its TradingView platform provides sophisticated charting, alerts, and access to a global trading community. Capital.com’s app works just like the web version, offering quality resources, with over 100 technical indicators and extensive drawing tools.
✔ Highly regulated
- Lists 5,000+ CFD and spread betting assets, including forex, shares, indices, and commodities
- Supports CFD trading without leverage via its 1X account
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Automated trading via its MT4 platform
- Hosts quality educational tools via its Investmate app
- All trading is via CFDs and spread betting. No physical asset ownership
- Guaranteed stop-loss fees may apply
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | £20 |
| Commission/Spreads | Free commissions, with Capital.com spreads from 0.0006 pips |
| Overnight Funding | Yes, except for the 1X account |
| Currency Conversions | £0 |
| Guaranteed Stop-Loss Orders | Yes |
| Inactivity | £10 per month after 12 months of inactivity |
| Deposits and Withdrawals | £0 |
5. IG Markets – Best With Long-Term Investment Options
IG Markets is a top choice for traders and investors seeking long-term growth and advanced trading tools. With over 15,000 trading and investment assets, the platform offers everything from stocks, ETFs, indices, to commodities, forex, and ESG-focused assets. Investors can open Stocks and Shares ISAs, investing up to £20,000 tax-free. You can also choose a SIPP account to manage your retirement savings, all with commission-free share dealing.
For more experienced traders, IG Markets provides advanced platforms including L-2 Dealer, MT4, ProRealTime, and TradingView. The L-2 Dealer gives direct market access to major exchanges, allowing precise control over order execution. This is essential for algorithmic and professional trading. The platform also offers Smart Portfolios, professionally managed investment options tailored to individual goals.
Other features we like about IG Markets are its comprehensive market insight tools, live trading shows, educational resources from IG Academy, and fast execution across global markets. Flexible withdrawals, variable interest on cash balances, and 24/7 expert support make it a reliable choice, whether you are an active trader or a long-term investor.
✔ Leading broker with low fees
- Lists over 15,000 markets, including shares, ETFs, indices, forex, commodities, and more
- Commission-free share dealing and tax-efficient ISAs & SIPPs
- Advanced algorithmic trading platforms
- Features Smart Portfolios with expert management
- 24/7 support and market insights
- High trading fees compared to its peers
- UK clients cannot access the MT4 platform
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum account | £0 |
| Opening an account | £0 |
| Overnight funding | yes (depends on market) |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Inactivity fee | £18 monthly after 24 consecutive months of inactivity |
| Advanced graphs (ProRealTime) | £30 per months |
6. XTB – Best for Mobile Trading
XTB is one of the most convenient platforms we have used, particularly for mobile trading. The xStation Mobile app mirrors much of the desktop experience, allowing me to monitor positions, execute trades, and manage stop-loss or take-profit orders efficiently. Users can access 60+ CFD currency pairs, indices, commodities, 6,600+ global stocks, and 1,800+ ETFs, making it versatile for diverse trading strategies. Trades are executed seamlessly, spreads are competitive from 0.8 pips, and microlot trading allows precise position sizing.
For long-term investors, XTB offers investment plans, enabling regular automated investments starting from £15 in ETFs of your choice. This beginner-friendly feature allows systematic top-ups through Auto Invest, while zero-commission investing applies up to £100,000 monthly turnover. We also appreciate the flexible Stocks & Shares ISA, which allows investing in 8,400+ stocks and ETFs with tax-free returns up to 4.25%.
A key limitation is that XTB does not support third-party platform integrations. Despite this, the app’s security, two-factor authentication, and interest of up to 4.25% on uninvested funds make it ideal for mobile traders and long-term investors seeking convenience, flexibility, and professional-grade tools.
✔ Wide range of global markets
- Intuitive mobile trading with real stocks, ETFs, and CFDs
- Features automated investment plans and an ISA account with tax-free returns
- Competitive spreads, from 0.8 pips on major currency pairs
- A user-friendly trading app with fast trade execution speed
- 2FA and passcode security
- Does not fully support algorithmic trading
- Cannot connect third-party platforms like MT4/MT5
| Type | Fee |
| Opening an account | $0 |
| Account type: Standard: spread | 0.5 |
| Account type: Swap Free: spread | 0.7 |
| Forex | From 0.1 pips |
| Stock CFDs commission | 0% |
| ETF CFDs | 0% |
| Crypto commission | From 0.22% |
| Monthly Fee for maintaining an Account | Free of charge or up to 10 EUR |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 |
| Deposit fee | $0 |
The Ultimate Guide About Algorithmic Trading
Algorithmic online trading is more than just executing automated strategies; it’s a journey into the world of data, automation, and financial markets. We aim to empower you with the knowledge needed for success in this fascinating field. To that end, we’ve crafted the sections below to provide you with essential insights and strategies that will help you navigate the intricacies of automated trading and achieve your financial objectives.
How to Choose the Right Algorithmic Trading Platform
When venturing into algorithmic online trading in the UK, choosing the right trading platform is paramount. While we’ve highlighted our top 6 recommendations above, it’s essential to know how to select an option that aligns with your trading needs. Here are the essential factors to consider.
Prioritise security. Ensure the trading platform is licensed and regulated by reputable authorities such as the FCA, CySEC, or ASIC . Look for strong encryption to safeguard your funds, assets, and data, allowing you to focus on your strategies without concerns.
Choose the best trading platform that aligns with your preferred programming language for automated trading. This compatibility enables seamless strategy development and execution. Confirming the availability of quality market data and trading tools is essential for informed decisions.
Opt for a trading platform that offers the assets you intend to trade. Look for diversity, including different asset classes, to diversify your portfolio. User-friendly navigation on both desktop and mobile devices is crucial.
Whether you’re a novice or a professional trader, responsive and knowledgeable customer support is invaluable. Trading challenges may arise, and having a reliable support team can provide assistance when needed.
Transparency in the platform’s pricing structure is key. As a trader on a budget, the right platform for automated trading should charge affordable trading fees. This will help you plan accordingly, knowing that you aren’t going to overspend. Some of the non-trading and trading fees to confirm include minimum deposit requirements, commission/spreads, inactivity fees, transaction costs, and more.
Before making your final decision, explore user comments and ratings on platforms like Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. These insights from fellow users offer valuable information about what a platform allows and its suitability for your trading needs.
What is Algorithmic Trading?
Algorithmic/automated trading, often referred to as algo trading or automated trading, is a method of executing financial transactions using pre-programmed computer algorithms. These algorithms follow a set of rules and instructions to automate the process of buying or selling assets like stocks, currencies, or commodities. Algo trading is driven by quantitative analysis, statistical models, and real-time data feeds, allowing for rapid and precise execution of trades.
Explore the leading AI trading platforms in our alternative guide.
How Does it Work?
Algorithmic online trading works by applying predefined algorithms to various trading strategies. These algorithms can process vast amounts of data, identify trading opportunities, and execute orders at optimal prices and speeds. The process typically involves the following steps.
- Data Analysis: Algorithms analyse market data, news feeds, and historical information to identify potential trading opportunities.
- Strategy Formulation: Traders develop algorithms based on specific strategies, such as trend following, statistical arbitrage, or market-making.
- Order Generation: The algorithm generates trading orders based on the identified opportunities, taking into account risk management and order execution parameters.
- Order Routing: Orders are sent to the market through the chosen trading platform or broker, aiming to achieve the best possible execution.
- Monitoring and Adjustments: Algorithms continuously monitor market conditions and the performance of executed orders. They may adapt to changing market dynamics or fine-tune strategies based on feedback.
Algorithmic trading can vary widely in complexity, from simple strategies to highly sophisticated systems that process vast amounts of data and execute trades at lightning speed. It has become a vital component of modern financial markets, serving institutional investors, hedge funds, and even retail traders looking to automate their strategies.
5 Quick Steps To Start Algorithmic Trading
Starting algorithmic online trading with a trading platform in the UK is a streamlined process. Here are five quick steps to get you started with the best automated trading platform.
Begin by choosing an automated trading platform that aligns with your trading preferences. You can refer to our list of recommended platforms in the UK to make an informed decision. Remember, always understand a platform’s terms and conditions and install its app on your mobile device for an exciting experience.
Visit your chosen platform’s official website and locate the “Sign Up” or “Register” button. Complete the registration form by providing essential personal details, including your name, email address, phone number, date of birth, and more. Create a unique username and secure password to protect your account.
To meet FCA regulatory requirements, UK algorithmic trading platforms often mandate identity verification. You’ll typically need to submit identification documents, such as an ID card, passport, or driver’s licence. Additional documents, like a recent utility bill or bank statement, may be necessary to verify your location.
After successfully registering and verifying your identity, it’s time to fund your trading account. Most UK algorithmic online trading platforms offer multiple funding options, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. If you’re new to automated trading, consider starting with a demo account to get acquainted with the platform.
Once you fund your trading account, select a strategy that best aligns with your style and risk tolerance before you start trading. Algorithmic trading platforms in the UK offer various asset options, including stocks, forex, cryptocurrencies, and more. Continuously monitor your trades and be prepared to adjust your strategy as needed to maximise your potential.
Pros and Cons of Using an Algorithmic Trading Platform
Algorithmic/automated trading platforms offer a range of benefits and drawbacks, each of which should be considered when deciding whether to incorporate them into your trading strategy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick execution with pinpoint accuracy. | Developing algorithms can be challenging. |
| Trades on your behalf 24/7. | Unforeseen events can lead to losses. |
| Features backtesting to Test and refine strategies. | Technical glitches or system failures can disrupt algorithmic trading, causing unexpected losses. |
| Manage multiple assets easily. | |
| Algorithms follow predefined rules with pinpoint accuracy, minimising the impact of human emotions on trading decisions. This leads to consistent execution. |
FAQs
Algorithmic trading has become increasingly popular and is expected to continue growing in the future. With advancements in technology, algorithms are becoming more sophisticated and capable of processing large amounts of data in real time. Since the tools have proven to make better trading decisions, we believe they aren’t going away anytime soon.
The best platform to invest in the UK will depend on a trader’s individual needs and preferences. We list above the top 6 algorithmic platforms to consider, and all you have to do is compare them to select the best.
Yes. Algorithmic trading is legal in the UK for as long as you trade using a broker licensed and regulated by the FCA. There are hundreds of FCA-regulated platforms for algorithmic trading in the UK, and we list above the top 6 based on our thorough analysis and comparison.
The amount you need to start algorithmic trading will depend on the trading platform you use, the algorithms you employ, and the markets you trade. Some trading platforms may have minimum deposit requirements, while others may allow you to start with as little as 100.
Conclusion
Algorithmic trading has ushered in a new era of precision and automation in financial markets. By choosing the right platforms and strategies, traders can make more informed and efficient trading decisions. However, it’s essential to remember that automated trading isn’t a guaranteed path to riches; it comes with its share of risks. Learning the markets, starting with smaller investments, and implementing robust risk management are crucial steps on your journey.
How we test?
Our evaluation and testing process is thorough and exhaustive. First, we conduct extensive research. Our experts visit each broker’s official site and assess every offering. Then, we go to credible review sites like Trustpilot, Google Play, and the App Store and read user testimonials and feedback. After research, our experts proceed to the next step: testing.
The testing phase is critical in determining if brokers deliver as promised. We used demo and live accounts to vet available trading platforms, tools, and other resources. While doing so, our experts strive to identify the most pronounced strengths and weaknesses.
Why do we do all that? It’s simple. You are a valued member of the TradingGuide family, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to ensure you have access to the best brokers. Find out more about our test process here.
This article about trading really interested me! It's all about the best platforms and reviews from real traders. Now I clearly understand where to go. I was especially impressed by the reviews of FP Markets. I'll have to try it myself! Inspired by the information to do some stock exchange exploits!?
I wanted to understand how to choose the right platform and how it works. The article detailed what algorithmic trading is and recommended platforms in the UK. I especially liked how it broke down the process into stages and highlighted key factors for choosing a platform. Now I have a clear understanding of how to start and the pros and cons of this approach.
From my experience, it’s essential to choose a platform that not only offers the right tools but also ensures security and reliable customer support.