Best Paper Trading Platforms UK January 2026

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Selecting the perfect paper trading platform can be a daunting endeavour, given the multitude of online brokerages vying for your attention. Fear not, though, for we have taken it upon ourselves to conduct thorough market research and tests in this dynamic financial landscape. Our mission is to present you with a comprehensive guide to the best paper trading platforms in the UK and equip you with invaluable insights into the realm of paper trading. This way, you can embark on your trading journey with unwavering confidence and a wealth of knowledge at your disposal.

Essence

  • Paper trading is a simulated trading method that enables investors to practice buying and selling securities without using real money.
  • Many online brokers offer paper trading accounts to their clients. These accounts provide access to the brokers’ trading platform and simulate real market conditions.
  • The best paper trading platforms offer novice traders an opportunity to become familiar with their offerings. They allow them to learn how to place orders, set stop-loss and take-profit levels, and analyse charts and technical indicators.
  • The best paper trading platforms provide access to real-time market data, enabling traders to practise in conditions that closely resemble actual market movements.
  • Like live trading accounts, signing up for accounts with the best paper trading platforms is a straightforward process.
  • Ensure you select a suitable paper trading platform by considering factors such as security, fees, and more for an exciting experience.

List of the Paper Trading Platforms in the UK

  • eToro – Best Paper Trading Platform For Beginners
  • Plus500 – Best CFD Paper Trading Platform*
  • Pepperstone – Best Option For Spread Betting
  • Capital.com – Top Provider for Forex Trading
  • XTB – Top Option for ETF Trading
  • IG Markets – Best Paper Trading Platform With a Wide Range of Assets 

*76% of CFD retail accounts lose money with this provider

Compare The Best Paper Trading Platforms

Now that you understand the top paper trading platforms in the UK, we believe that you can now identify a suitable option for your trading needs. However, should you still find it challenging to make a choice, we hope that our comparison table below sheds some helpful insights. This table highlights the platforms’ crucial features, including licensing, supported software, payment methods, and more.

Paper Trading PlatformLicenceSupport ServiceSoftwarePaymentDemo AccountMoney Insurance
eToroASIC, CySEC, FCA, FSAS24/5eToro investing platform, Multi-asset platform, Copy TraderDebit cards, Bank transfer, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money, Online BankingYesYes (up to $250,000)
Plus500 FCA, CySEC, ASIC, MAS, FSA24/7Plus500 WebtraderBank Wire Transfer, Credit/debit cards, PayPal, SkrillYesYes (up to £85,000)
PepperstoneFCA, ASIC, DFSA, CySEC, BaFin, SCB, CMA24/7MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, Pepperstone Trading PlatformApple Pay, Google Pay, Credit/debit cards, PayPal, Domestic bank transfer, International bank transferYesYes (up to £85,000)
Capital.comFCA, SCB, ASIC, CySEC, SCA24/7TradingView, MT4, Web platform, Mobile appBank transfer, bank cards, Apple Pay, TrueLayerYesYes (up to £85,000)
XTBFCA, FSC, CySEC24/5xStation 5, xStation MobileCredit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPalYesYes (up to £85,000)
IG MarketsSEC, FCA, BaFin, DFSA, FSCA, MAS, JFSA, ASIC, CFTC, BMA, CySEC24/5MT4, ProRealTime, L2 Dealer, TradingViewCredit/Debit cards, Apple Pay, Bank transferYesYes (up to £85,000 by FSCS)

Brief Overview of Our Recommended Paper Trading Platforms’ Fees and Assets

Embarking on your paper trading journey in the UK requires a clear understanding of platform fees and available assets. In the tables below, we provide a brief overview of the fees and asset offerings of our recommended platforms with paper trading options, helping you make informed decisions for your virtual trading experience.

Fees

Paper Trading PlatformFeesMinimum Deposit RequirementTransactionInactivity
eToroFrom 2 pips£50£5 withdrawal£10 monthly
Plus500From 0.0 pips£100Free£10 monthly
PepperstoneFrom 0.0 pips£0FreeNone
Capital.comFrom 0.0006 pips£20Free£10 per month after 12 months of inactivity
XTBFrom 0.1 pips£0Free£10 monthly
IG MarketsFrom 0.1 points£0Free£18 monthly

Assets

Paper Trading PlatformForexStocksCommoditiesETFsOptions
eToroYesYesYesYesNo
Plus500 (CFDs)YesYesYesYesYes
PepperstoneYesYesYesYesNo
Capital.comYesYesYesYesNo
XTBYesYesYesYesYes
IG MarketsYesYesYesYesYes

Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Paper Trading Platforms in the UK

As mentioned earlier, navigating the vast landscape of paper trading platforms in the UK can be a daunting task. To assist you in making an informed choice, we thoroughly tested and compared hundreds of paper trading UK platforms to come up with this list of the best options available. Below, we provide comprehensive insights into each platform, highlighting their key features, strengths, and what sets them apart in the world of paper trading.

1. eToro – Best Paper Trading Platform For Beginners

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After our thorough exploration of various paper trading platforms, eToro emerges as the ideal choice for beginners. The platform provides a significant advantage with its generously funded £100,000 paper trading account, offering ample virtual capital for skill development. eToro’s user-friendly interface and modern design make trading navigation effortless.

The platform boasts an extensive portfolio of over 3,000 securities, including stocks and cryptocurrencies, allowing beginners to explore diverse markets. What sets eToro apart is its award-winning copy and social trading features, enabling users to gain insights from experienced investors and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

We also discovered that eToro paper trading enhances the learning experience with comprehensive resources, including guides, articles, webinars, seminars, and more. With no time constraints on paper trading, users can progress at their own pace, transitioning to live trading when they feel ready. Moreover, the platform’s low minimum deposit requirement of just $100 for live trading and commission-free stock trading further solidifies its position as the top choice for novice traders, making us give it a 5-star rating. 

Read about the best copy trading platforms in our other guide.

eToro Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Copy/Social trading
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
{etoroCFDrisk}% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • No time constraints on paper trading
  • £100,000 virtually funded paper trading platform
  • $100 minimum deposit required when switching to the live trading account
  • An award-winning social and copy trading platform
Cons
  • Spreads can be high for some trading assets like forex and commodities
  • Support service availability is only five days a week

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)

  • Stocks – there are more than 6000 stocks offered ranging from the biggest tech businesses in the U.S. to smaller companies from all over the world. Stock trading is always commission-free with eToro.
  • Cryptocurrencies – being one of the first brokers to jump on the cryptocurrency bandwagon, it comes as no surprise that eToro dominates this segment. With more than 20 coins and a number of cryptocurrency pairs, there is enough for all crypto traders.
  • Currency Pairs – in the early days, eToro was just another FX broker and even though they’ve developed since, the broker has stayed true to its roots. As a trader, you can choose between 56 currency pairs ranging from majors and minors to a few exotic ones.
  • Long-Term Investments – unlike many online brokers, eToro is also suitable for long-term investments. For example, their investment portfolios are a great way to diversify your portfolio and limit risk.
  • Additional assets – in addition to the above, eToro provides access to commodities, indices, and ETFs as CFDs. There is also a range of unique assets such as Crypto Portfolios that are only offered by eToro. This means that you can create a diverse portfolio with ease.

2. Plus500 – Best CFD Paper Trading Platform

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If you are looking for a reliable paper trading platform for CFD trades, Plus500 is a considerable choice. Commonly known as a demo account, this platform works just like its live version, but you should not expect real-money profits. Plus500’s demo account is loaded with £40,000 virtual funds to enable you to test its performance and gauge your skill level before committing real money. It is a perfect platform to simulate real-life trades without risking and potentially losing your hard-earned money. 

We also like Plus500’s demo account because it has no expiry date. This makes it easier for users, especially beginners, to gradually gain confidence before transitioning to live accounts. The demo account is also suitable for professional traders looking to join the Plus500 community, as we believe they have something new to learn about the broker. And when you are ready to transition to CFD live trading, ensure you deposit at least £100 per the broker’s requirement. You will enjoy over 2,000 CFD assets commission-free with low spreads from 0.0 pips. From our analysis, we believe Plus500 deserves a 5-star rating.

Plus500 Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Educational materials
✔ Regulated in many countries
76% of retail CFD accounts lose money
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Commission-free trading with low spreads starting from 0.0 pips
  • Low minimum deposit requirement
  • Leverage limit up to 300:1 for professional traders
  • Fast and secure deposits and withdrawals
Cons
  • Only CFD assets offered
  • Inactivity fee only kicks in after three months of no activity

Type Fee
Overnight Funding yes
Currency Conversion Fee 0.7%
Guaranteed Stop Order spread applies
Inactivity Fee $10 per month
Withdrawls/Deposits  $0

Plus500 provides access to 2800+ CFDs across a wide range of different asset classes, including: Indices – Country and Sector, Forex, Commodities, Individual shares, ETFs, Options

Note: 76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

3. Pepperstone – Best Option For Spread Betting

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Pepperstone stands out as one of the strongest paper trading platforms for anyone who wants to learn spread betting in a realistic environment. What we like is that its demo setup closely mirrors live conditions, so you get real market prices across forex, indices, shares, commodities, and more, without risking any money. You start with unlimited virtual funds until you get comfortable trading live.

The platform range is a major advantage, too. You can paper trade on MT4 or MT5 if you prefer classic MetaTrader tools, automated strategies or custom indicators, or switch to TradingView for chart-heavy setups and social trading. If you want something cleaner, the Pepperstone platform is simple to navigate and works well on mobile. cTrader is available for traders who want faster execution and institutional-style depth of market, which is rare to see in a demo account.

When it comes to asset offerings, you have access to 2,700+ spread betting assets, which can also be traded as CFDs. The best part is that the broker charges low fees, from 0.0 pips on major currency pairs. Plus, there is no minimum deposit requirement, and all transactions are free. Other features worth mentioning include comprehensive learning resources, a reliable support service, and a user-friendly trading app.

Pepperstone Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Top tier liquidity
✔ No dealing desk intervention
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Unlimited virtual funds with real market pricing
  • Access to MT4, MT5, TradingView, Pepperstone platform and cTrader
  • Quality learning and market analysis tools
  • Dedicated professional support service
  • A user-friendly and customisable trading app
Cons
  • MT4, MT5 and Pepperstone demos expire after 60 days of inactivity
  • cTrader and TradingView demos expire after 90 days

Type Fee
Minimum Deposit  $0
Withdrawal fee $0
Deposit fee $0
Inactivity fee No
Account fee No

1200+ instruments across FX, indices, cryptocurrencies*, equities, energy and commodities, and more, across three, free powerful platforms.

*Only Pro clients get access to cryptos.

4. Capital.com – Top Provider for Forex Trading

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From our experience, Capital.com is an excellent platform for UK forex traders looking to practise strategies in a risk-free environment. Its paper trading account comes preloaded with £1,000 in virtual funds, allowing users to simulate trades realistically across over 120 currency pairs, including majors, minors, and exotics. 

Setting up a paper trading account is simple and free. Besides forex, traders can access 5,000+ instruments, including shares, indices, and commodities, for testing different strategies. For risk-conscious users, its 1X account offers leverage-free CFD trading on shares and indices, eliminating overnight funding fees and allowing traders to focus purely on technique.

Note that Capital.com supports multiple platforms, including the web platform, mobile app, MetaTrader 4, and TradingView. With these platforms, you are guaranteed advanced charting tools, automated trading, technical analysis resources, and more. The Investmate app further enhances learning with interactive courses and quizzes to build trading confidence.

Capital.com Review 2026
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Market-leading spreads
✔ Highly regulated
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • £1,000 virtual funds for realistic paper trading
  • Lists 120+ forex pairs and 5,000+ additional assets
  • Offers leverage-free trading via the 1X account
  • Quality educational tools via Investmate
  • £20 minimum deposit requirement for UK clients
Cons
  • Paper trading does not include ownership of underlying assets
  • 1X account covers only shares and indices

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

Capital.com provides access to a diverse range of financial instruments. While you cannot buy and take full ownership, you have the options to trade them as CFDs or spread betting. And the best part is that Capital.com gives you an opportunity to explore CFD positions without leverage. This can be done on its 1X account.

Let’s see the assets to trade at this broker.

  • Forex: Lists over 120 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs. Popular choices among UK traders include GBP/USD, EUR/USD, and AUD/USD.
  • Shares: Access to more than 4,000 global stocks, including companies like Amazon, NVIDIA, Tesla, Microsoft, and more.
  • Indices: Capital.com offers over 40 global indices, such as the US 500, Germany 40, Hong Kong 50, and more.
  • Commodities: Features commodity trading across over 85 instruments, including gold, silver, oil, and agricultural products. Commodities are popular among traders seeking to hedge against inflation or diversify their portfolios.
  • Cryptocurrencies: While not available to UK clients, Capital.com offers access to more than 400 cryptocurrencies for traders in other regions.

5. XTB – Top Option for ETF Trading

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When looking for a broker that excels in both ETF trading and paper trading, XTB is one of our top picks. Its £100,000 virtually-funded demo account lets you practice ETF trading and investing commission-free. Besides over 1,800 ETFs, the account supports risk-free trading across additional securities, including shares, commodities, forex, indices, and more. There are over 10,000 securities, which we find to be excellent for portfolio diversification.

To get started with ETF trading on XTB’s live account, deposit as little as £50, as the broker has no minimum deposit requirement. All transactions are also free, with low ETF trading fees from 0.2% commissions on investments over £100,000. The xStation 5 interface is intuitive and works seamlessly on desktop and mobile, meaning you can view and manage your paper-traded ETFs and other assets from anywhere.

Overall, XTB combines a robust ETF offering, realistic demo functionality, and advanced tools for expanding into other asset classes. We also like its responsive support service, though human support is only available 24/5. Besides the demo account, you can take advantage of its free learning resources to boost your skill level.

XTB Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Constantly improving trading platforms
✔ Wide range of global markets
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Lists over 1,800 ETFs
  • There are additional asset classes for portfolio diversification
  • Supports micro-lot CFD trading with competitive spreads from 0.8 pips on major currency pairs
  • Intuitive and mobile-friendly xStation 5 platform
  • Quality learning and market analysis tools
Cons
  • Demo period is limited to 30 days
  • No native algorithmic or automated trading support

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 broker boasts a wide selection of tradable assets, consisting of 3,500+ instruments, including a range of global markets, such as forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, and others.

6. IG Markets – Best Paper Trading Platform With a Wide Range of Assets

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We believe IG Markets is the ultimate choice for traders seeking a vast array of assets and comprehensive tools since it hosts over 15,000 assets. Available options range from forex pairs and CFDs to commission-free shares and ETFs from the UK, the US, and other regions.

This broker’s extensive selection caters to traders of all backgrounds and preferences. Plus, IG Markets’ paper trading account is funded with £20,000 virtual money. With this capital, users can easily engage in realistic simulations and test various strategies without risking a dime. Unfortunately, the paper trading platform has a 30-day expiration period, but you can request an adjustment by contacting the platform’s support team. 

Furthermore, IG Markets offers exclusive educational content through IG Academy and a social trading platform for connecting with other traders globally. With no minimum deposit requirement for live trading and no transaction charges, transitioning to live trading with IG Markets is seamless. And when you’re not trading and investing, your unused GBP balance earns up to 4.5% AER variable interest. This and more make us give this broker a 4.5-star rating.

67% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider

IG Markets Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Extensive range of offerings
✔ Leading broker with low fees
67% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • 15,000+ assets, including commission-free shares and ETFs
  • Grow your wealth with 4.5% AER variable interest for uninvested cash
  • MT4 and TradingView available
  • Virtual account with £20,000 for paper trading
  • No minimum deposit requirement
  • Plenty of research and educational materials
Cons
  • £18 monthly inactivity fee
  • £15 fee for same-day bank transfers of less than £100

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

  • Stocks – the majority of assets offered are stocks and there are a total of 11,000 international company shares to choose between. Trade everything from major UK and US corporations to penny stocks.
  • Forex – trade all the major, minor, and exotic currency pairs you want with a broker that has 45+ years of experience from the market. Also, enjoy competitive spread and fast execution.
  • Index – since IG’s main market is the stock market, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it also offers a large variety of indices. Trade major North American, European, and Asian indices with a world leading online trading platform.
  • Commodities – you can also take positions on commodity futures and commodity spots. Trade precious metals such as silver and gold, food commodities such as coffee and corn, or energy commodities including natural gas.
  • Cryptocurrencies (not UK) – IG also offers cryptocurrency trading, although not in the UK due to local regulations that bans crypto trading.

What do Other Traders Say?

We’ve invested a substantial amount of time in thoroughly analysing hundreds of thousands of user comments and ratings on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. We firmly believe that comprehending the experiences of fellow traders is paramount when selecting a paper trading platform. In our unwavering dedication to impartiality, we choose only a handful of these comments to provide you with a well-rounded and balanced perspective. 

Plus500

Plus500’s simplicity and user-friendliness are highly regarded by users, particularly beginners. The absence of commission fees and the diverse selection of CFD options are significant selling points.

  • “After many years of trading on this platform I had the chance to learn and improve my trading skills. It’s the best app and easy to use. I’ve tried other platforms but this one it’s far better ?” – Ludovic Gyorfi

  • “Very good, no problems with deposits or withdrawals, real time prices, you can make alot of money here.” – ramzyki

  • “I had a good experience with Plus500.
    I recommend for those who want to achieve their goals come and invest with Plus500 and you will never be regret.” – Anonymous user

eToro

User feedback on eToro is resoundingly positive. The majority of traders appreciate the innovative social and crypto paper trading features that allow them to learn from experienced investors and effectively explore the digital currency market. The platform’s engagement factor is a standout feature, and many users find it unique and valuable.

  • “I want to give a big shout-out to eToro for their awesome customer service. They’re a super cool company that genuinely cares and isn’t afraid to show it!” – Nicolas Griss-Trempe

  • “I have tried so many trading platforms before but Etoro is my favorite ? I truly recommend using it” – MaissAsh

  • “Great app. Preferred to other platforms. Enjoy the freedom of choosing my leverage rather than being forced into an unattractive leverage on stocks I wish to purchase. This is unfortunately the case on some other platforms.” – Gerald Thomson

IG Markets

Feedback on IG Markets underscores its excellence in research and analysis tools. Users rely on its comprehensive market insights for making informed trading decisions. It’s the preferred choice for data-driven traders.

  • “I have previously used one other well know Spread Betting/CFD trading app and I have found IG’s to be significantly better. Graphs are better, alerts given when markets I am following have significant moves and ease in which you can access news on a particular stock. I have one issue and that is being able to change the order in which markets are listed on my Android phone. However, I have raised this with customer support and it has been passed onto the software team to address.” – Jeremy Watson

  • “The platform works really well but unfortunately you don’t honour your own terms and conditions when it comes to expiries.” – @gmac1

  • “I just wanted to say how happy I was with the service provided over the phone by Sharif. He was able to resolve my issue quickly and took time to patiently and expertly explain what was going on. I’m most grateful. Thank you” – Adam S

The Ultimate Guide About Paper Trading

​​Having the best paper trading platform and a clear understanding of your preferred assets are crucial, but they’re just the beginning. To truly benefit from paper trading, you need to dive deeper into the mechanics and strategies that drive it. In the sections below, we will guide you through all aspects of paper trading, ensuring that you are fully prepared to take the plunge into the trading world.

How to Start Paper Trading

Paper trading serves as an invaluable stepping stone on your journey to becoming a successful trader. It offers a risk-free environment to develop your skills, test strategies, and gain confidence. Before you embark on your paper trading adventure, there are essential considerations to keep in mind. Let’s explore the key steps to start paper trading effectively.

  1. Educate Yourself About the Market
    Knowledge is your most potent tool in trading. Understand the basics of the financial markets, different asset classes, and how they behave. Familiarise yourself with trading terminology and strategies.
  2. Set a Realistic Budget
    Determine the amount of virtual capital you’ll allocate for paper trading. This simulated budget should mirror what you might invest in live trading. This practice will help you develop a realistic trading approach.
  3. Choose the Best Paper Trading Platform
    Selecting the best paper trading platform UK is crucial. Look for a platform that offers a wide range of assets, intuitive usability, robust analytical tools, educational resources, and more. Ensure it aligns with your trading goals and preferences for maximum experience and potential.
  4. Develop a Trading Strategy
    Establish clear goals and a trading strategy before you start. Decide on your preferred trading style (e.g., day trading, swing trading) and outline your entry and exit criteria. This strategy will serve as your roadmap.
  5. Utilise Risk Management Tools
    Implement risk management techniques, such as setting stop-loss orders and position sizing. These tools are vital to protect your virtual capital and minimise potential losses.
  6. Keep a Trading Journal
    Maintain a detailed journal to record your trades, strategies, and observations. This journal will help you track your progress, identify areas for improvement, and refine your approach over time.
  7. Practice Patience and Discipline
    Emotional control is key to successful trading. Practise patience, stick to your strategy, and avoid impulsive decisions. Emulate the discipline required for live trading.
  8. Gradually Increase Complexity
    As you become more comfortable with paper trading, consider gradually increasing the complexity of your strategies. Test more advanced techniques and risk management approaches.

How to Choose the Right Paper Trading Platform in the UK

Selecting the right paper trading platform is a pivotal step in your trading journey as it can significantly impact your experience and learning curve. To ensure you make an informed choice, consider the following key factors when choosing a paper trading platform in the UK.

Ensure the platform is regulated by recognised authorities like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. Regulatory oversight guarantees a level of trust and accountability. Verify the platform’s security protocols, including encryption and fund protection, to safeguard your virtual capital.

Examine whether the platform imposes any time restrictions on your paper trading account. Some platforms offer unlimited access, while others may limit your virtual trading period. Choose a platform that aligns with your learning pace and trading objectives.

Evaluate the diversity of assets available for paper trading. A well-rounded platform should offer a wide range of tradable instruments, including stocks, forex pairs, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and indices. This diversity allows you to explore different markets and strategies.

While paper trading is commission-free, it’s essential to consider the affordability aspect. Keep in mind that you’ll eventually transition to live trading, where real money is at stake. Understanding the fee structure and keeping trading costs in check will be crucial when you make that transition. Be aware of any hidden costs, such as data fees or high spreads, which can impact your profitability in live trading.

Look for an intuitive interface platform with easy navigation. Assess the availability of essential trading tools, including technical analysis indicators, charting capabilities, and order execution options. Also, consider one with comprehensive educational resources, especially for beginners. Rich repository of learning materials, such as tutorials, webinars, articles, and more can help enhance your trading knowledge and skills.

Consider the size of the virtual capital provided in your paper trading account. Ensure it aligns with your intended trading strategy and goals. Having an adequate amount of virtual capital allows for more realistic simulations and practice.

Reliable customer support is invaluable, particularly when you encounter issues or have questions. Assess the availability of customer service channels, such as live chat, email, or phone support. Read user reviews to gauge the platform’s reputation for prompt and helpful assistance.

What is Paper Trading?

What is Paper Trading?

Paper trading, often referred to as simulated or virtual trading, is a valuable tool for both novice and experienced traders alike. It’s a risk-free method of practising trading strategies and gaining valuable market experience without risking real capital. In paper trading, you use virtual money provided by the platform to execute trades based on real market conditions. It’s an excellent way to familiarise yourself with the mechanics of trading, test different strategies, and fine-tune your skills.

One of the key benefits of paper trading is that it allows you to learn from both successes and mistakes without financial repercussions. It provides a safe environment to experiment with various trading techniques, understand market dynamics, and build the emotional discipline required for live trading. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps into the world of trading or an experienced trader looking to refine your strategies, paper trading is an essential tool that can help you become a more confident and successful trader in the long run.

Pros and Cons of Paper Trading

Pros and Cons of Paper Trading

Before engaging in paper trading, you must understand its pros and cons for informed decisions. These include:

Pros
  • Risk-Free Practice
  • Offers an opportunity to develop and refine their trading skills
  • You can use paper trading to test and fine-tune trading strategies
  • Helps you become familiar with the trading platform, charting tools, and order execution process free of charge
  • Since there’s no real money at stake, paper trading helps you practise emotional discipline
Cons
  • No Real Profit
  • Absence of real emotional involvement as traders may not experience the same psychological pressures they face in live trading
  • No Profits or Losses, which can lead to a lack of motivation and a reduced sense of responsibility compared to live trading.

FAQs

How does paper trading work?

Paper trading operates by providing users with a simulated trading environment. In this setup, traders are given virtual capital, which they can use to practise trading strategies and simulate real market conditions. They can place virtual trades, monitor their performance, and gain experience without risking actual money. It’s a risk-free way to learn how to trade and test strategies before transitioning to live trading.

Does Robinhood offer a paper trading platform?

No. Unfortunately, Robinhood doesn’t offer a paper trading platform to its users. The good news is that it does not have a minimum deposit requirement, meaning you do not need to spend a lot to get started with the broker. Simply deposit as little as £1, and you are good to go.

Is paper trading good for beginners?

Absolutely. A paper trading platform is an excellent tool for beginners. It offers a safe and controlled environment to learn the basics of trading, understand market dynamics, and develop trading strategies. Beginners can practise without the fear of financial losses, build confidence, and gain valuable experience before transitioning to live trading.

Is paper trading worth it?

Yes. Paper trading is definitely worth it, especially for those new to trading or looking to refine their skills. It provides an opportunity to learn and practice trading strategies, test various approaches, and gain experience. The knowledge and confidence gained through paper trading can significantly improve your success when you eventually start live trading with real capital. It’s a valuable step in your trading journey.

Conclusion

In your pursuit of trading success, selecting the right paper trading platform is a pivotal decision. Each platform we’ve highlighted above offers unique features to cater to various trading preferences and experience levels. As you embark on your paper trading journey, remember to educate yourself about the market, set realistic goals, and choose a platform aligned with your objectives.

Additionally, develop a sound trading strategy, implement risk management practices, and maintain a trading journal for continuous improvement. Paper trading provides a risk-free environment to hone your skills and gain confidence without financial exposure. By exploring different securities and strategies, you’ll be well-prepared for the eventual transition to live trading.

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.

thadeus geodfrey small foto
Thadeus Geodfrey

Is a regular dad trying to be smart about how we play and win in this big game of life. He has worked within the very best of the financial industry producing numerous training resources. He is an experienced copywriter with immense financial background. Now earns a full time living as a Trader, and as our writer.

His articles help everyday families build sustainable wealth, stop stressing about their financial security, and start living the life they’ve always wanted.
If he is not trading or writing, he is at the gym.

4 Replies to “Best Paper Trading Platforms UK”

  • Isabella Knight says:

    Thanks to this guide, I found a great paper trading platform for my needs. I recommend Plus500 - simple, no commissions, excellent selection of CFDs. The guide is clear, with helpful reviews and steps to start trading. For all newbies, it's worth checking out!

  • Noah Brown says:

    I've been trading for a year, and this article excellently summarizes all the key aspects of paper trading. I especially appreciated the advice on choosing the right platform and the importance of keeping a trading journal. Paper trading truly helps to refine strategies without financial risk. An excellent resource for all experience levels.

  • Daryn says:

    I've personally had great experiences with eToro and AvaTrade.

  • Hussain says:

    I'm concerned about the underlying message here - nearly every platform they recommend has loss rates between 61-80% for retail accounts when people move to real trading.

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60% of retail investor accounts lose money