What is a robo-advice pension?
A robo-advice pension uses an online questionnaire to assess your attitude to risk, then automatically builds and rebalances a diversified portfolio for you. It sits between a fully DIY SIPP and a traditional financial adviser — you get a managed portfolio without paying ongoing adviser fees. It suits people who want a hands-off pension but more personalisation than a single tracker fund.
| Provider | All-in cost (approx) | Portfolios | Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nutmeg | 0.45%–0.75% + fund fees | Fixed, fully managed, smart alpha, socially responsible | £500 |
| Moneyfarm | 0.35%–0.75% + fund fees | 7 risk levels, classic & ESG | £1,500 |
| Wealthify | 0.60% + fund fees | 5 risk levels, original & ethical | £50 |
| PensionBee | 0.50%–0.95% | Single plan choice (e.g. Tailored, Tracker) | No minimum |
| Vanguard managed | ~0.48% all-in | Managed ISA/SIPP risk profiles | £500 |
Nutmeg vs Moneyfarm
Nutmeg, owned by JP Morgan, has the widest robo range including a "smart alpha" tier that blends active management. Moneyfarm undercuts it slightly on tiered pricing as your pot grows and assigns each customer an investment consultant, blurring the line between robo and human advice. Both rebalance automatically and offer socially responsible options.
Where PensionBee fits
PensionBee is technically a single-plan provider rather than a true risk-questionnaire robo, but its slick app and emphasis on consolidating old workplace pensions make it a popular hands-off choice. It charges a single annual fee with the second £100,000 halved.
Verdict
Choose Moneyfarm if you want the lowest tiered cost and a named consultant, Nutmeg for the broadest portfolio menu, and Wealthify if you want the lowest minimum to start. PensionBee wins for sheer simplicity and consolidation. None replaces full regulated advice — for that, see our best pension UK guide. DIY investors should compare costs in our best SIPP providers guide.