Hargreaves Lansdown
Lightyear
VS
Compare
Hargreaves Lansdown
Capital at risk · T&Cs apply
In this broker comparison, we explore the key differences between Hargreaves Lansdown and Lightyear, two distinct players in the UK investment landscape. Hargreaves Lansdown, with its extensive history and comprehensive investment options, caters primarily to long-term investors seeking a trusted and robust platform with diverse account offerings like ISAs and SIPPs. Conversely, Lightyear appeals to cost-conscious traders interested in commission-free stock trading, particularly those focused on US and EU markets, and who prefer a streamlined, mobile-only experience. While both brokers are regulated by the FCA, Hargreaves Lansdown's higher fees contrast sharply with Lightyear's modern, fee-free approach.
Hargreaves Lansdown
Lightyear
| Hargreaves Lansdown | Lightyear | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 2.8/5 ✓ | 2.7/5 |
| Min. Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Spread from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:1 | 1:1 |
| Regulation | FCA | FCA |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | Proprietary Mobile |
Hargreaves Lansdown (2.8/5) and Lightyear (2.7/5) are closely matched. Hargreaves Lansdown has lower spreads; the better pick depends on your priorities.
See full side-by-side comparison belowHargreaves Lansdown
Lightyear
WinnerHargreaves Lansdown
Lightyear
Lower fees
Hargreaves Lansdown
2.8/5
Choose Hargreaves Lansdown if you want…
Lightyear
2.7/5
Choose Lightyear if you want…
Hargreaves Lansdown (2.8/5) and Lightyear (2.7/5) are closely matched on our independent rating scale. The better choice depends on your priorities — fees, regulation, platforms, or available markets. See the full comparison above.
Hargreaves Lansdown offers spreads from 0 pips, while Lightyear starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
Hargreaves Lansdown requires a minimum deposit of $0. Lightyear requires $0.
Hargreaves Lansdown is regulated by FCA, while Lightyear holds licences from FCA.
Hargreaves Lansdown supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Lightyear supports Proprietary Mobile.
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
Only 26% of Brokers Are Truly Fee-Free
BrokerRank Research — Hidden costs across 345 brokers
58% of Brokers Hold a Single Licence
BrokerRank Research — Regulation quality analysis
71% of Retail Traders Lose Money
BrokerRank Research — Loss rates across 50 EU brokers
76% of Brokers Use Proprietary Platforms
BrokerRank Research — MT4 vs MT5 vs proprietary
Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.