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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

Hargreaves Lansdown vs IG Group 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the comparison of Hargreaves Lansdown and IG Group, the key difference lies in their market focus and trader appeal. Hargreaves Lansdown, with a rating of 2.79/5, is ideal for investors seeking a comprehensive UK-focused investment platform, offering services like Stocks and Shares ISA and SIPP, but it lacks options for active and international traders. On the other hand, IG Group, with a higher rating of 4.33/5, caters to more diverse and global trading needs, providing access to over 17,000 markets including forex, commodities, and crypto, making it suitable for both novice and experienced traders. While IG Group offers a wider range of trading instruments and leverage, it requires a higher minimum deposit, contrasting with Hargreaves Lansdown's no minimum deposit policy.

Hargreaves Lansdown

IG Group

Higher ratedIG Group logo

IG Group

4.3/ 5
Visit IG Group →Full review
VS
Hargreaves LansdownIG Group
BrokerRank Score2.8/54.3/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$250
Spread from0 pips ✓0.6 pips
Max Leverage1:11:200 ✓
RegulationFCAFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
Hargreaves LansdownIG Group
Best for Low Fees
Hargreaves LansdownIG Group
Best for Regulation
IG GroupHargreaves Lansdown
Best Overall
IG GroupHargreaves Lansdown
Quick Answer

IG Group is the better choice overall, scoring 4.3/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Hargreaves Lansdown offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Hargreaves Lansdown vs IG Group: Key Differences

Feature

Hargreaves Lansdown

IG Group

Winner
Our Rating
2.8 / 5
4.3 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$250
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
$11.95/lot
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Markets
Stocks, Indices
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1981
1974
Headquarters
Bristol, UK
London, UK
Score
2 / 5
3 / 5

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Fees Comparison

Fee

Hargreaves Lansdown

IG Group

Spread From
0 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
$11.95/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Hargreaves Lansdown is the better choice due to its user-friendly platform, extensive educational resources, and focus on long-term investment products like ISAs and SIPPs, despite its higher trading fees. Professional traders are likely to prefer IG Group, given its broader market access, including forex and CFDs, and advanced charting tools. When it comes to fees, IG Group holds the advantage with no commission on trades, although its complex fee structure warrants careful consideration.

Who Should Choose Which?

Hargreaves Lansdown

Hargreaves Lansdown

2.8/5

Choose Hargreaves Lansdown if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
IG Group

IG Group

4.3/5

Top pick

Choose IG Group if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.3/5)
  • No per-trade commission
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:200)
  • More regulatory licences (4)

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.

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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Hargreaves Lansdown better than IG Group?

IG Group scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Hargreaves Lansdown holds a 2.8/5 rating vs IG Group's 4.3/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, Hargreaves Lansdown or IG Group?

Hargreaves Lansdown offers spreads from 0 pips, while IG Group starts at 0.6 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for Hargreaves Lansdown vs IG Group?

Hargreaves Lansdown requires a minimum deposit of $0. IG Group requires $250.

4

Which broker is safer, Hargreaves Lansdown or IG Group?

Hargreaves Lansdown is regulated by FCA, while IG Group holds licences from FCA, ASIC, MAS, SEC.

5

What trading platforms do Hargreaves Lansdown and IG Group support?

Hargreaves Lansdown supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. IG Group supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4.

6

Can I use both Hargreaves Lansdown and IG Group?

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

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