Hargreaves Lansdown vs Interactive Brokers 2026: Which Broker is Better?
When comparing Hargreaves Lansdown and Interactive Brokers, the key distinction lies in their target audiences and market reach. Hargreaves Lansdown, with a 2.79/5 rating, primarily services UK investors seeking comprehensive investment options like Stocks and Shares ISAs and SIPPs, but its higher trading fees and UK focus may deter active traders. In contrast, Interactive Brokers, rated 4.43/5, appeals to professional traders looking for low commissions and access to over 150 markets globally, though its complex platform may not suit beginners. Each broker offers distinct advantages depending on whether one prioritises a UK-centric investment platform or a global, cost-effective trading solution.
Hargreaves Lansdown
Interactive Brokers
| Hargreaves Lansdown | Interactive Brokers | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 2.8/5 | 4.4/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Spread from | 0 pips ✓ | 0.2 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:1 | 1:4 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA | SEC, CFTC, FCA ✓ |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile |
Interactive Brokers is the better choice overall, scoring 4.4/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Hargreaves Lansdown offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowHargreaves Lansdown vs Interactive Brokers: Key Differences
Hargreaves Lansdown
Interactive Brokers
WinnerStill deciding between Hargreaves Lansdown and Interactive Brokers?
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Fees Comparison
Hargreaves Lansdown
Interactive Brokers
BrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
Hargreaves Lansdown
2.8/5
Choose Hargreaves Lansdown if you want…
- Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
Interactive Brokers
4.4/5
Choose Interactive Brokers if you want…
- Higher overall rating (4.4/5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:4)
- More regulatory licences (5)
- More market types (5)
Also consider
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.
Both Hargreaves Lansdown & Interactive Brokers are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is Hargreaves Lansdown better than Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Hargreaves Lansdown holds a 2.8/5 rating vs Interactive Brokers's 4.4/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, Hargreaves Lansdown or Interactive Brokers?
Hargreaves Lansdown offers spreads from 0 pips, while Interactive Brokers starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for Hargreaves Lansdown vs Interactive Brokers?
Hargreaves Lansdown requires a minimum deposit of $0. Interactive Brokers requires $0.
4Which broker is safer, Hargreaves Lansdown or Interactive Brokers?
Hargreaves Lansdown is regulated by FCA, while Interactive Brokers holds licences from SEC, CFTC, FCA, MAS, ASIC.
5What trading platforms do Hargreaves Lansdown and Interactive Brokers support?
Hargreaves Lansdown supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Interactive Brokers supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both Hargreaves Lansdown and Interactive Brokers?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
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