Vanguard UK vs Fidelity International: which is better in 2026?
Point-by-point comparison
| Category | Vanguard UK | Fidelity International | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax wrapper | ISA / SIPP tax wrapper | ISA / SIPP tax wrapper | Draw |
| Fees | 0.15% (capped £375/yr) | £7.50/trade (shares) | Vanguard UK |
| Regular investing | Free (no dealing fees) | £1.50/trade, funds free | Fidelity International |
| Platform | 6/10 | 8/10 | Fidelity International |
| Market coverage | 3/10 | 8/10 | Fidelity International |
| Customer support | 6/10 | 8/10 | Fidelity International |
The verdict
Vanguard UK has a clear edge on fees, while Fidelity International is stronger on market coverage. If fees matters most to you, Vanguard UK is probably the right choice; if you prioritise market coverage instead, Fidelity International is the better fit.
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
Why choose Fidelity International
- Free fund dealing — buy, sell and switch funds at zero cost
- £90/year cap on ETF and share fees in an ISA or SIPP, among the most competitive for growing ETF portfolios
- No service fee at all on Junior ISA, Junior SIPP, or GIA exchange-traded holdings
- SIPP named Which? Recommended Provider for six years running
Frequently asked questions
Vanguard UK or Fidelity International: which is cheaper?
Vanguard UK is generally cheaper: 0.15% (capped £375/yr), versus £7.50/trade (shares) for Fidelity International.
Vanguard UK or Fidelity International: which has the simpler tax treatment?
Tax treatment is comparable between the two: Vanguard UK — ISA / SIPP tax wrapper; Fidelity International — ISA / SIPP tax wrapper.
Vanguard UK or Fidelity International: which is better for beginners?
Fidelity International 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 Vanguard UK and Fidelity International?
On Vanguard UK: Free (no dealing fees). On Fidelity International: £1.50/trade, funds free.
Vanguard UK or Fidelity International: which is safer?
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. Fidelity International: Fidelity International is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Client money and investments are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 per person, per authorised firm. The SIPP has been named a Which? Recommended Provider for six consecutive years and includes pension drawdown with no additional charges beyond the standard service fee.
Read the full Vanguard UK review →
Read the full Fidelity International review →
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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.