Navigating the financial markets has never been more accessible, thanks to the advent of automated trading apps. Seamlessly integrating technology and finance, these apps empower traders and investors to manage their portfolios while keeping up with their busy lives. However, the plethora of automated trading apps in the UK can leave traders overwhelmed when searching for the cream of the crop. This is where TradingGuide’s experts step in, guiding you through the maze to unveil the most promising options that have been meticulously tested and endorsed. Not only will we unveil the best, but we’ll also equip you with the knowledge to confidently get started.
List of the Best Automated Trading Apps in the UK
- Pepperstone – Best With High Leverage Limit
- eToro – Best Stocks Automated Trading Apps in the UK
- Interactive Brokers – Automated Best Trading App on Google Play
- FP Markets – Best Forex Automated Trading App in the UK
- IG Markets – Best App for Investors
In this guide
Best Automated trading apps in the UK
Compare The Best Automated Trading Apps
To ensure you are fully prepared, we have created a comparison table below showing the significant features of the best automated trading apps in the UK. These features are unbiased since they are based on our personal experiences and user testimonials on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot.
| Best Automated Trading App | Licence | Support Service | Software | Payment | Demo Account | Money Insurance (Negative money protection) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | FCA, ASIC, DFSA, CySEC, BaFin, SCB, CMA | 24/7 | MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView | Credit cards, Bank transfer, PayPal | Yes | Yes (up to £85,000) |
| eToro | ASIC, CySEC, FCA, FSAS | 24/5 | eToro investing platform, Multi-asset platform, Copy Trader | Debit cards, Bank transfer, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money, Online Banking | Yes | Yes (up to $250,000) |
| Interactive Brokers | FCA, FSA, CFTC | 24/5 | IBKR Mobile, APIs, Trader Workstation, | Bank or wire transfers | Yes | Yes. Up to £85,000, according to the FSCS |
| FP Markets | CySEC, ASIC, FCA, SEBI | 24/7 | MT4, MT5, cTrader, Iress | Credit/debit cards, Bank transfer, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, PayTrust FasaPay | Yes | Yes (up to $500,000) |
| IG Markets | FCA, ASIC, CySEC, FSA | 24/5 | MetaTrader 4, IG trading platform, ProRealTime, Web platform, Trading apps, L2 Dealer | Debit cards, Bank transfer, PayPal, HK FPS | Yes | Yes, up to £85,000 |
Overview of Our Recommended Automated Trading App’s Fees and Assets
In the quest for the ideal automated trading app, a balance between security and affordability reigns supreme. Traders in the UK seek the assurance of a secure platform while also keeping a watchful eye on costs, ensuring seamless trading without straining their financial boundaries. Furthermore, the availability of assets that align with their trading preferences adds another layer of importance to the decision-making process. At TradingGuide, we recognize these priorities, and as a result, we have meticulously curated a detailed insight into the fees and assets associated with the automated trading apps we recommend. See tables below.
Fees
| Automated Trading App | Fees | Minimum Deposit Requirement | Transaction | Inactivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | From 0.0 pips | £0 | Free | £0 |
| eToro | From 2 pips | $100 | $5 withdrawal | $10 monthly |
| Interactive Brokers | From $0.01 commission on US stocks | £0 | Free | None |
| FP Markets | From 0.0 pips | £100 | Free | None |
| IG Markets | From 0.1 points | £0 | Free | £12 monthly |
Assets
| Automated Trading App | Forex | Stocks | Commodities | ETFs | Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperstone | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| eToro | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Interactive Brokers | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| FP Markets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| IG Markets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Automated Trading Apps
We strive to ensure our readers get useful insights and advice that can help them make the most of their trading journey. For this reason, we put in the effort to test and compare various trading apps in the UK. After careful consideration, we’ve compiled a list of options below. Take a look at our opinions based on our experiences with them to make informed decisions that suit you best.
1. Pepperstone – Best With High Leverage Limit
Pepperstone is one of the apps that caught our attention, especially when it comes to featuring advanced elements like automated trading. Based on our analysis, automated trading is supported across multiple platforms, including MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView. This made it easier for us to explore different platforms with minimal effort. We also like that the app is highly rated by users for its easy-to-access features and high-security measures.
Pepperstone adheres to ESMA regulations. In this regard, it gives users leverage limits that go up to 30:1 per the authority’s requirement. However, professional clients who qualify for its “Pro” services can enjoy limits up to 500:1. While high leverage can bring about good profits, understand the risks involved and invest funds you are comfortable losing. You can get started at Pepperstone with any amount you can afford since the app has no minimum deposit requirement. Alternatively, explore its features via its £50,000 virtually funded demo account before making a commitment decision.
✔ No dealing desk intervention
- High leverage limits for professional UK clients
- No minimum deposit requirement
- Automated trading is supported across multiple platforms
- Hosts advanced trading tools for market analysis on its MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradingView platform
- No physical purchasing of the supported assets
- Once activated, its demo account expires after only 60 days
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 |
| Deposit fee | $0 |
| Inactivity fee | No |
| Account fee | No |
| Automated App Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | $0 |
| Supported Assets for AI Trading | Forex, shares, commodities, indices, ETFs, cryptocurrencies |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | Credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers |
| Transaction Fees | $0 |
2. eToro – Best Stocks Automated Trading Apps in the UK
eToro’s automated app has impressed us in many ways, especially when it comes to stock trading. During our experience, we had a streamlined account opening process, and we like that its minimum deposit requirement is $100 with no deposit fee*. Stock trading is commission-free, and the best part is that users can invest in fractional shares. eToro lists 3,000+ stocks from 17 exchanges, which we believe are adequate for any trader exploring the equity market.
eToro’s app is highly rated by the majority of users on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. Although it is not fully automated, users can engage in automated trading through the “CopyTrader” section, where diversified portfolios are managed by eToro’s algorithms based on predefined strategies. Copy trading allows you to follow expert traders and copy their positions with increased profitability. It is a trading strategy that can benefit any user with limited experience or time to conduct extensive market research and analysis.
*Conversion fees apply.
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
- A user-friendly and intuitive design automated trading platform
- Commission-free stock trading
- No deposit fees*
- Withdrawal charges apply
- No MetaTrader platforms
| Types | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| 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) |
*Conversion fees apply.
| Automated App Features | Availability |
| Minimum Deposit Requirement | $100 |
| Supported Assets for AI Trading | Stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, forex, indices, NFTs |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | E-wallets, Bank transfers, debit cards |
| Transaction Fees | $5 withdrawal fees apply |
3. Interactive Brokers – Automated Best Trading App on Google Play
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) has impressed many mobile device users, especially those with Android devices. With high ratings on Google Play, we consider it one of the top options when it comes to automated trading. To access its automated features, we visited its Capitalise.ai platform via our client portal, and we really enjoyed automating our trades with this app. Based on our experience, we primarily recommend IBKR to professional traders since newbies might find the app’s automated platform challenging to navigate.
With Interactive Brokers, you will explore thousands of securities, including stocks, options, futures, commodities, cryptos, and more. Users will also choose from multiple accounts depending on your skill level. When it comes to research materials, IBKR is one of the brokers listing quality ones for market research and analysis. All you have to do is deposit any amount you can afford to get started.
Additionally, it’s wise to examine an extensive Interactive Brokers review to determine if the platform suits your trading preferences.
✔ Top trading platform for advanced
- No minimum deposit requirement
- Highly-rated app by users
- Quality research and learning materials
- Thousands of securities to explore
- A challenging app for newbies to use
- Some users find its support service’s response rate slow
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 |
| Deposit Fee | Free |
| Withdrawal Fee | Free |
| Inactivity Fee | $0 |
| Automated App Features | Availability |
| Minimum Investment Amount | £0 |
| Supported Assets for Automated Trading | Stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, options, ETFs, forex, indices |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | Bank/Wire transfers |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
4. FP Markets – Best Forex Automated Trading App in the UK
FP Markets provides cutting-edge trading services to users in the UK via its user-friendly and intuitive design platforms. While trading on this app, our trades were seamlessly executed, which allowed us to trade multiple times. We also explored over 10,000 CFD securities, including forex, shares, commodities, cryptos, and more. All these assets are available for a minimum deposit of £100.
We primarily recommend FP Markets to forex traders because we were impressed with how the app executes forex trades. Besides choosing from over 70 currency pairs, we encountered amazing automated trading tools in the app’s MT4 and MT5 platforms. Plus. forex spreads are low, starting from 0.0 pips and the leverage limit is up to 500:1. FP Markets also features social and copy trading, whereby you have an opportunity to copy the trades of professional traders with proven track records.
✔Accounts can be opened fast and easy
- Automated trades via MT4, MT5, and Myfxbook copy trading platforms
- Low minimum deposit requirement
- Low forex trading fees
- Plenty of learning and educational materials
- No forex price plan
- Automated trading securities are available for CFD trading only
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum deposit | $100 |
| Overnight fee | $0 |
| Deposit fee | $0 |
| Withdrawal fee | Depends on payment method |
| Inactivity fee | $0 |
| Automated App Features | Availability |
| Minimum Investment Amount | £100 |
| Supported Assets for Automated Trading | Stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, forex, indices |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | E-wallets, Bank transfers, credit/debit cards |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
5. IG Markets – Best App for Investors
Besides trading, do you like to invest in different assets? If so, IG Markets is the right app for you. We explored it thoroughly and discovered it allows its users to invest in 13,000+ stocks from some of the most successful companies today, like Tesla and Apple.
In addition to stocks, IG Markets offers you the chance to buy ETFs. The icing on the cake is that the platform has a modern screener that makes it easier to find your preferred exchange-traded funds. Both ETFs and stocks are ideal for traders who want to maximise their income sources.
We can’t sign off without mentioning IG Market’s impressive array of tradable assets. While trading and investing with this broker, you’ll have uncapped access to over 17,000 markets, from forex and shares to commodities and indices.
✔ Leading broker with low fees
- Over 13,000 stocks and other investment products
- No minimum deposit threshold
- Over 17,000 tradable securities
- Top-tier customer support
- Uninvested funds can earn interest
- £18 rolling monthly fee for dormant accounts
- Limited educational resources
| Type | Fee |
| Minimum account | £0 |
| Opening an account | £0 |
| Overnight funding | yes (depends on market) |
| Withdrawal fee | £0 |
| Inactivity fee | £12 per month after 2 years of inactivity |
| Advanced graphs (ProRealTime) | £30 per months |
| Automated App Features | Availability |
| Minimum Investment Amount | £0 |
| Supported Assets for Automated Trading | Stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, ETFs, forex, options |
| Mobile App | Yes (Android or iOS) |
| Payment Methods | Debit cards, Bank transfer, PayPal, HK FPS |
| Transaction Fees | £0 |
Find out about crypto copy trading in our other guide.
The Ultimate Guide About Automated Trading
As a trader looking to automate their activities, you not only need to be familiar with the best automated trading apps but also learn how they work. We strive to ensure our readers are fully informed, and so the sections below will supply you with all the information needed on automated trading for informed decisions.
How to Start Using an Automated Trading App?
Before engaging in automated trading, there are various tips you should be familiar with to increase your success chances. Below, we take you through some of the things to note when using an automated trading app in the UK.
Before diving into automated trading, it’s essential to understand the basics of automated trading, different types of markets, and common automated trading strategies. This foundational knowledge will help you make informed decisions when setting up your automated trading app.
Selecting the right automated trading app is crucial. Look for apps that offer a user-friendly interface, robust features, and a history of reliable performance. Read user reviews, compare features, and consider whether the app aligns with your trading goals.
Automated trading relies on pre-programmed strategies. Determine your trading objectives, risk tolerance, and preferred trading style. Whether you’re interested in day trading, swing trading, or long-term investing, your chosen automated trading app should allow you to customize strategies accordingly.
Most automated trading apps in the UK offer backtesting features. Before deploying your strategy in real-time, use historical data to test its performance. This step helps you refine your strategy and identify potential pitfalls before risking real capital.
When transitioning from manual to automated trading, start with a small amount of capital. This allows you to observe the app’s performance in a live market environment without exposing yourself to excessive risk.
Although automated trading apps are capable of managing your positions on your behalf, you shouldn’t completely rely on them. This is because there are some opportunities, especially in volatile financial markets, the apps can miss out on. By keeping track of your positions, you can easily gauge a bot’s performance and limit your chances of missing out on potentially profitable opportunities.
Read about Best AI Trading Apps in our other guide.
How to Choose the Automated Trading App?
Automated trading has gained significant traction in the United Kingdom as traders seek more efficient and effective ways to manage their investments. However, with a plethora of automated trading apps available in the market, selecting the right one for your needs can be a challenging task. Here’s a guide on how to choose the perfect automated trading app in the UK:
The first and foremost consideration when choosing an automated trading app in the UK is ensuring that the app and the broker it connects to are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Opting for a regulated app provides you with a level of assurance that your investments are protected and that the app adheres to industry standards. In addition, the automated trading app should be highly encrypted and backed up with a strong passcode to prevent unauthorised access.
The app’s platform performance plays a significant role in your trading experience. Ensure that the app provides fast and reliable execution of trades, minimal downtime, and real-time market data. Slow or lagging platforms can lead to missed opportunities and losses.
Consider the cost of using the automated trading app in relation to the value it offers. Some apps may have a one-time fee, subscription plans, or even free basic versions with limited features. Assess whether the features provided justify the cost and whether the app’s pricing model aligns with your budget.
Look for an automated trading app that offers a range of research and educational tools. Access to market analysis, economic calendars, and educational resources can enhance your trading knowledge and decision-making process. A well-informed trader is better equipped to maximize the potential of automated trading.
Different markets have distinct characteristics, and the UK trading landscape is no exception. Look for auto trading apps that offer features tailored to the UK market. This may include access to UK-specific assets, real-time data from UK exchanges, and compliance with UK tax regulations.
Research and read user reviews on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot to gauge the reputation of the automated trading app. Positive feedback from other traders can provide insights into the app’s performance, reliability, and user experience. Conversely, negative reviews may indicate potential issues that you should be aware of before making a decision.
A reputable automated trading app often offers a demo account. This allows you to test the app’s functionality and features in a risk-free environment. Using a demo account can help you determine whether the app meets your needs and expectations before committing real capital.
What is Automated Trading?
Automated trading, also known as algorithmic trading, is a strategy where computer programs execute trades based on predefined rules and conditions. Instead of manual intervention, trading decisions are made by algorithms that analyze market data, such as price movements and technical indicators, to determine when to buy or sell. This technology-driven approach offers benefits like speed, precision, and the ability to operate in multiple markets simultaneously.
Automated trading systems can range from simple rule-based strategies to complex algorithms that adapt to changing market conditions. These systems aim to remove human emotions and biases from trading decisions, aiming for consistent and objective execution. While automated trading can enhance efficiency, it requires careful development, testing, and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal performance in dynamic market environments.
Best Automated Trading Strategies
Automated trading offers a diverse array of strategies that can be executed with precision and speed. These strategies are designed to cater to various trading styles, risk profiles, and market conditions. Here are some of the best automated trading strategies that traders commonly employ.
- Trend Following – This strategy involves identifying and trading in the direction of prevailing market trends. Algorithms analyze historical price data and technical indicators to identify trends and execute trades when the market is moving constantly in one direction. Trend-following strategies aim to capture extended price movements and can be effective in trending markets.
- Mean Reversion – Mean reversion strategies capitalize on the tendency of prices to revert to their historical averages. Algorithms identify overbought or oversold conditions in the market and execute trades based on the expectation that prices will eventually return to their mean value. Mean reversion strategies work well in markets that exhibit price fluctuations around a central value.
- Arbitrage – Arbitrage strategies exploit price discrepancies for the same asset across different markets or platforms. Algorithms simultaneously buy and sell an asset in different markets to capture profits from the price difference. Arbitrage strategies require high-speed execution and are often used in highly liquid markets.
- Breakout Strategy – Breakout strategies involve trading assets that are breaking out of well-defined price ranges. Algorithms identify support and resistance levels and execute trades when prices break above resistance or below support. Breakout strategies aim to capitalize on significant price movements after periods of consolidation.
5 Quick Steps To Start Automated Trading
Learning how to start automated trading using our recommended apps above is crucial for every trader looking to automate their activities. Below are the step-by-step procedures of how to go about this activity.
Since we have listed the best apps for automated trading above, the first step in getting started is identifying the best app suitable for your trading requirements. Look for features such as compatibility with UK brokers, user-friendly interfaces, costs, security measures, support services, and more. Considering such elements is proof that you will have an exciting trading experience, thus increasing your success chances.
If you do not have a trading account with a broker hosting an automated trading app. Consider creating one. This means that you should go to Google Play or the App Store to download the app and create a trading account using your personal details. These include your name, email, date of birth, and more. Some brokers will also require that you create a strong username and password and verify your account using copies of personal documents, including ID cards and utility bills.
Once your automated trading account is verified, fund it by making a deposit. Fortunately, most automated trading apps in the UK offer flexible payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and electronic wallets. Choose a deposit amount that aligns with your risk tolerance and trading objectives.
Before trading with real capital, take advantage of the app’s demo account feature. A demo account allows you to practice your trading strategy in a simulated environment using virtual funds. Use this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the app’s interface, test your strategy, and refine its parameters.
After gaining confidence through demo trading, define your trading strategy based on your risk tolerance and objectives. Input the strategy’s rules, conditions, and risk management parameters into the app. Once you’re ready, switch to a live trading account and activate your automated strategy. Monitor the app’s performance and market conditions, making adjustments as necessary to ensure optimal results.
Pros and Cons of Using Automated Trading Apps
While automated trading has significantly transformed training activities in the UK, it has its drawbacks that you should note for informed decisions. Here is a table showing some of the pros and cons of using an automated trading app in the UK.
- Fast trade execution, thus eliminating delays caused by human intervention
- The apps make decisions based on algorithms, removing emotional biases
- They operate around the clock, allowing traders to participate in markets at any time
- Automated trading apps feature backtesting and strategy optimisation
- The apps can manage multiple strategies and assets simultaneously, enabling diversification
- The apps can experience technical problems or errors, leading to unintended and potentially costly trades.
- Depending solely on auto trading apps may lead to a lack of understanding of market dynamics and fundamentals
- Automated strategies might struggle to adapt to sudden market changes, potentially resulting in losses during unforeseen events or shifting conditions
FAQs
No. Most modern automated trading apps in the UK are designed to be user-friendly and accessible to traders without programming skills. These apps typically offer intuitive interfaces that allow users to create, modify, and implement trading strategies without needing to write code.
Absolutely. Many automated trading apps provide customization options for trading strategies. Users can often define parameters, indicators, and conditions that align with their specific trading preferences. This customization enables tailoring strategies to fit individual risk tolerance and market outlook.
The reliability of automated trading apps in generating profits depends on various factors, including the strategy implemented, market conditions, and risk management. While automated systems can execute trades quickly and without emotion, there’s no guarantee of consistent profitability. Traders should thoroughly test and optimize strategies and be prepared for potential losses.
Yes. Many automated trading apps in the UK offer compatibility with a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and more. Users can choose to diversify their trading across different markets using a single platform.
No. There’s no guaranteed minimum investment threshold for success when it comes to using automated trading apps in the UK. The investment required to start using automated trading apps varies depending on the platform and your chosen trading strategy. Some platforms have low minimum deposit requirements, making them accessible to traders with smaller budgets.
Conclusion
The best automated trading apps in the UK above present an intriguing opportunity. However, it is crucial to approach automated trading with caution, considering that the financial market can be unpredictable. For instance, identify an app that suits your trading style and requirements. Also, always track an app’s performance in managing your trades to ensure all potentially profitable opportunities are taken advantage of. By validating your strategies, adapting to changing market conditions, and managing risks, you will enjoy all the features of these apps, thus maximizing your potential.
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.
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This insightful article on the Best Automated Trading Apps is a game-changer for crypto enthusiasts like me. It meticulously reviews top platforms like eToro, AvaTrade, CMC Markets, FP Markets, and OANDA, providing real user feedback. The pros and cons section is a practical guide. The FAQ section is a bonus, answering crucial queries. Kudos to TradingGuide for simplifying the complex world of automated trading.
Overall, this guide serves as a valuable resource for individuals looking to learn about automated trading, offering both application recommendations and important information on how to navigate this evolving landscape. I recommend familiarizing yourself with it because I paid particular attention to the points described by other traders in their reviews, the pros and cons, all the risks and ratings. I am contemplating switching to automated trading, as trying something new seems very interesting to me.
Great article! Thank you