Short answer
Which is cheaper?
For a GBP-listed ETF ISA, both model at £0/year. If you enter £500/month FX for direct US-share buying, Trading 212 models at £9/year and InvestEngine DIY is no longer an exact fit because it is ETF-only.
- Pure ETF ISA
- InvestEngine is the cleanest fit for ETF-only portfolios.
- Shares
- Trading 212 adds individual shares; InvestEngine DIY does not.
- FX
- Trading 212 is the exact fit when the scenario requires direct US shares.
Fee model
Platform, dealing and FX fees
| Fee area | InvestEngine | Trading 212 |
|---|---|---|
| Platform/account fee | £0 | £0 |
| Dealing fee | £0 | £0 |
| FX fee | £0 | 0.15% on non-GBP trades. |
| Investment range | ETFs only. No funds, no individual shares. | Shares and ETFs, no open-ended funds. |
| Flexible ISA | Yes | Yes |
Worked examples
Calculator-backed scenarios
- £20,000 GBP-listed ETF ISA, no FX: InvestEngine DIY £0; Trading 212 £0.
- £20,000 ISA with £500/month direct US-share FX: Trading 212 £9; InvestEngine DIY is ETF-only and needs a substitution.
- £20,000 open-ended fund ISA: Neither is a like-for-like open-ended fund platform in this calculator.
These examples use the same fee assumptions as the main ISA fees calculator. They exclude fund ongoing charges, stamp duty, bid/offer spread, investment performance, and temporary promotions.
Important caveats
Before switching provider
Provider fees can change, and terms can vary by product, plan, transfer route, cash interest policy, and promotion. Verify the provider’s current terms before opening or transferring an ISA.
This page is factual educational content, not personal financial advice or a recommendation to buy, sell, transfer, or choose a specific investment platform.
FAQ
Common questions
Is InvestEngine or Trading 212 cheaper for a GBP ETF ISA?
For a GBP-listed ETF ISA with no FX, both InvestEngine DIY and Trading 212 model at £0/year in the calculator.
Which has lower FX fees, InvestEngine or Trading 212?
InvestEngine DIY is ETF-only and does not fulfil a direct US-share buying scenario. Trading 212 supports individual shares and models at £9/year with £500/month FX.
Does InvestEngine ISA support individual shares?
InvestEngine DIY is ETF-only. Trading 212 supports individual shares as well as ETFs.
Sources