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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Mar 9, 2026

AJ Bell vs AvaTrade 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In this broker comparison, we delve into the offerings of AJ Bell and AvaTrade, two distinct entities catering to different trading needs. AJ Bell, with a rating of 2.76/5, is a Manchester-based broker specialising in UK stock investments and appealing to traders focused on ISAs and SIPPs, albeit with higher dealing charges and limited to UK markets. On the other hand, AvaTrade, rated 3.98/5, operates out of Dublin and is well-suited for those interested in a diverse array of markets including forex and crypto, offering leverage up to 1:400 and commission-free trading on most accounts. While AJ Bell is ideal for UK investors seeking robust fund selection, AvaTrade attracts global traders looking for multi-market exposure and advanced trading platforms.

AJ Bell

AvaTrade

VS
AJ BellAvaTrade
BrokerRank Score2.8/54.0/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$100
Spread from0 pips ✓0.9 pips
Max Leverage1:11:400 ✓
RegulationFCAFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileMT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
AJ BellAvaTrade
Best for Low Fees
AJ BellAvaTrade
Best for Regulation
AvaTradeAJ Bell
Best Overall
AvaTradeAJ Bell
Quick Answer

AvaTrade is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, AJ Bell offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

AJ Bell vs AvaTrade: Key Differences

Feature

AJ Bell

AvaTrade

Winner
Our Rating
2.8 / 5
4.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.9 pips
Commission
$9.95/lot
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Stocks, Indices
Forex, Cfd, Crypto, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Founded
1995
2006
Headquarters
Manchester, UK
Dublin, Ireland
Score
2 / 5
3 / 5

Fees Comparison

Fee

AJ Bell

AvaTrade

Spread From
0 pips
0.9 pips
Commission
$9.95/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, AvaTrade is the superior choice due to its comprehensive educational resources, user-friendly platforms, and copy trading options, which can facilitate learning. Professional traders might prefer AvaTrade as well, given its broader range of markets, including forex, crypto, and commodities, alongside higher leverage options. In terms of fees, AvaTrade leads with its commission-free trading on most accounts and lower minimum deposit requirement, although AJ Bell offers competitive platform charges.

Who Should Choose Which?

AJ Bell

AJ Bell

2.8/5

Choose AJ Bell if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
  • More established (est. 1995)
AvaTrade

AvaTrade

4.0/5

Top pick

Choose AvaTrade if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
  • No per-trade commission
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:400)
  • More regulatory licences (3)

Also consider

View all rankings

We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.

#1ForTrade logo
ForTrade
4.3
FCA
Visit
#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
Visit
#4Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both AJ Bell & AvaTrade are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is AJ Bell better than AvaTrade?

AvaTrade scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AJ Bell holds a 2.8/5 rating vs AvaTrade's 4.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, AJ Bell or AvaTrade?

AJ Bell offers spreads from 0 pips, while AvaTrade starts at 0.9 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for AJ Bell vs AvaTrade?

AJ Bell requires a minimum deposit of $0. AvaTrade requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, AJ Bell or AvaTrade?

AJ Bell is regulated by FCA, while AvaTrade holds licences from FCA, ASIC, MAS.

5

What trading platforms do AJ Bell and AvaTrade support?

AJ Bell supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. AvaTrade supports MT4, MT5, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both AJ Bell and AvaTrade?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.

Higher Rated

AvaTrade

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