InvestEngine vs Vanguard UK: which is better in 2026?
Point-by-point comparison
| Category | InvestEngine | Vanguard UK | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax wrapper | ISA / SIPP tax wrapper | ISA / SIPP tax wrapper | Draw |
| Fees | £0 platform fee (DIY) | 0.15% (capped £375/yr) | InvestEngine |
| Regular investing | Free, from £1 (AutoInvest) | Free (no dealing fees) | InvestEngine |
| Platform | 7/10 | 6/10 | InvestEngine |
| Market coverage | 5/10 | 3/10 | InvestEngine |
| Customer support | 6/10 | 6/10 | Draw |
The verdict
Overall, InvestEngine comes out slightly ahead in this comparison, but the difference depends heavily on what you're looking for: check the table above to see which criterion matters most for you.
Why choose InvestEngine
- Genuinely 0% platform fee on DIY portfolios across ISA, SIPP and GIA
- SIPP platform fee removed in December 2024, one of the lowest-cost DIY pensions available
- Fractional investing from £1 across around 800 ETFs
- Free in-specie transfers where InvestEngine offers matching ETFs
Why choose Vanguard UK
- One of the lowest percentage platform fees in the UK, at 0.15% capped at £375/year
- No dealing fees at all on Vanguard funds or ETFs, no transfer or exit fees
- LifeStrategy and Target Retirement funds are exclusive to Vanguard, genuinely "set and forget"
- One combined account fee across ISA, SIPP and other Vanguard accounts
Frequently asked questions
InvestEngine or Vanguard UK: which is cheaper?
InvestEngine is generally cheaper: £0 platform fee (DIY), versus 0.15% (capped £375/yr) for Vanguard UK.
InvestEngine or Vanguard UK: which has the simpler tax treatment?
Tax treatment is comparable between the two: InvestEngine — ISA / SIPP tax wrapper; Vanguard UK — ISA / SIPP tax wrapper.
InvestEngine or Vanguard UK: which is better for beginners?
InvestEngine tends to be more beginner-friendly, thanks to a stronger platform and customer support. Vanguard UK remains a solid choice if you're already familiar with the markets.
Can I set up regular investing on InvestEngine and Vanguard UK?
On InvestEngine: Free, from £1 (AutoInvest). On Vanguard UK: Free (no dealing fees).
InvestEngine or Vanguard UK: which is safer?
InvestEngine: InvestEngine is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and only accepts UK residents. Client cash and investments are held in line with FCA client money rules, with FSCS protection applying up to the standard limits in the event the firm were to fail. Vanguard UK: Vanguard Investor is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Eligible money and investments held with Vanguard UK are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 if the firm were to fail — the standard level of protection for any FCA-regulated UK investment platform.
Information on fees and features is accurate at the time of publication but may change: always check current terms on the broker's official website before opening an account. This is not financial advice.