AJ Bell
FCA
Hargreaves Lansdown
FCA
AJ Bell vs Hargreaves Lansdown
Head-to-Head Comparison 2026
Our Verdict
Hargreaves Lansdown has a higher rating of 4.4/5 compared to AJ Bell (4.2/5). The minimum deposit is lower at AJ Bell with 0 £. Hargreaves Lansdown has been in the market since 1981, making it the more experienced provider.
Comparison Table
| Criteria | AJ Bell | Hargreaves Lansdown |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.2/5 (1100 reviews) | 4.4/5 (2200 reviews)✓ |
| Regulation | FCA | FCA |
| Fees | £5 per trade (11+ trades: £3.50), custody fee 0.25% | £11.95 per stock trade, ETFs from £0 (savings plan) |
| Min. Deposit | 0 £ | 1 £ |
| Instruments | Stocks, ETFs, Funds, Bonds, Investment Trusts | Stocks, ETFs, Funds, Bonds, REITs |
| Platforms | AJ Bell App, AJ Bell Web | HL App, HL Web Platform |
| Options Trading | No | No |
| Founded | 1995 | 1981 |
| Headquarters | Manchester | Bristol |
Detailed Comparison
Fee Comparison
AJ Bell: £5 per trade (11+ trades: £3.50), custody fee 0.25%. Minimum deposit: 0 £.
Hargreaves Lansdown: £11.95 per stock trade, ETFs from £0 (savings plan). Minimum deposit: 1 £.
Product Range
AJ Bell (5 categories)
Hargreaves Lansdown (5 categories)
Trading Platforms
AJ Bell
- AJ Bell App
- AJ Bell Web
Hargreaves Lansdown
- HL App
- HL Web Platform
Regulation & Security
AJ Bell is regulated by FCA (HQ: Manchester).
Hargreaves Lansdown is regulated by FCA (HQ: Bristol).
Who Is It For?
AJ Bell
UK investment broker with low costs and broad fund offering
✓ Low trading fees for frequent trading
✓ Publicly traded company (FTSE 250)
✓ Wide selection of funds and ETFs
✗ Custody fee on fund holdings
✗ Platform less modern than neobrokers
Hargreaves Lansdown
UK premium broker with comprehensive investment advice since 1981
✓ One of the most established brokers in UK since 1981
✓ Excellent research and analysis tools
✓ ISA, SIPP and junior accounts available
✗ Comparatively high trading fees
✗ Mainly focused on UK market
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AJ Bell or Hargreaves Lansdown cheaper?
Which broker offers more products: AJ Bell or Hargreaves Lansdown?
Which broker is better regulated?
Is AJ Bell or Hargreaves Lansdown better for beginners?
AJ Bell vs Hargreaves Lansdown: Which broker is better overall?
AJ Bell
UK investment broker with low costs and broad fund offering
Open Account →From 0 £ min. deposit
Hargreaves Lansdown
UK premium broker with comprehensive investment advice since 1981
Open Account →From 1 £ min. deposit