Top digital & app-based bank accounts
How good is your bank's app?
Digital and app-based banks come without the branch networks of the traditional banks, but typically offer slicker digital experiences. In this guide we'll run you through our top-pick app-based accounts, plus the ones you've rated the best. Though do take a look at our Best bank accounts guide as well, which includes the top accounts for upfront freebies, ongoing rewards and savings interest.
Best banking apps
What is an app-based bank?
If you 'do' digital banking, it means you use an app for all, or most, of your banking. In this guide we'll focus on digital and app-based banks (also known as online banks, mobile banks or challenger banks), which have great tech and features that can help you with your personal finances by showing you where you're spending, help you reach your savings goals, all within the same app and same account.
We know that some of the traditional high-street banks have popular apps too, and are catching up with their app-only competitors, so we feature the best of these as well.
While the app-based banks don't have a high-street presence, most have in-app customer support, with dedicated teams on hand to offer assistance if you've any questions or issues (though we've not assessed them for service quality). Plus, they are all regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
All apps featured in this guide are free to download – though some have costs associated with running them, which we clearly explain in our best buys below. You'll also need an up-to-date smartphone running iOS or Android.
What can you do on a mobile banking app?
Mobile banking apps are now so whizzy that perhaps the question should be 'what can't you do on a mobile banking app?' Almost all features offered by traditional banks and building societies on their websites have now been incorporated into mobile banking apps. These include the ability to:
View your account balance and recent transactions
Transfer money between accounts
Send money to friends and family
Set up Direct Debits and regular payments
Pay bills
Update your personal information
Apply for new accounts, loans and credit cards
Save money in separate 'savings pots'
Check your credit score
Immediately 'freeze' a card if it's lost or stolen
Chat with a customer adviser
Some online banks also provide better exchange rates than the more traditional bank accounts, and offer fee-free spending and withdrawals overseas, meaning they can be better to use when you're travelling abroad.
Plus, mobile banking apps make it easier to manage contactless payments. The majority allow you to adjust your contactless spending limit (or turn it off completely), and they can simplify the process of linking your card with a digital wallet, such as Google Pay or Apple Pay.
Business account holders can tap into even more features, such as the ability to accept contactless payments with just their smartphone, and automate business expenses.
One feature that mobile banking apps don't offer widely yet is the ability to withdraw cash from a cash machine simply by tapping your phone, but as a number of high-street banks have begun introducing cardless ATMs, this may also be on the horizon for app-based banks.
Warning: Those who use digital or app-based banking need to be just as aware of scams, as they would for a regular high street current account providers. It's worth checking their scam policies and making sure you are aware of your rights if you did fall victim to a scam. See our 30+ ways to stop scams guide for more.
How do I open an app-only bank account?
To set up an app-only bank account, you generally just need a smartphone (though some do allow you to use a computer if you prefer). And often you can open a new account by following a few simple steps:
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Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before you start. Usually you need to be over 16, live in the UK, and have valid photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence.
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Download the bank's app by searching in the relevant app store or scanning a QR code.
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Provide some personal details. This will include your full name, address, email address and telephone number. You may also be asked to give details of your salary, citizenship and what you plan to use the account for. Some banks might text or email a code for you to enter at this point too.
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Verify your identity. Do this by uploading a document such as your passport or driving licence. You may also need to upload a selfie or make a short video so the bank can double-check you are who you say you are.
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Activate your card. If you've applied for a current account, the bank will send you a debit card that's linked to your new account once you've finished signing up. Follow the instructions that the bank gives you to get your card up and running.
Some banks offer different account types – savings-only accounts, packaged accounts and business accounts, for example – so be sure to check you're signing up for the one that suits your personal banking needs best. Some will also let you open it as a joint bank account for couples. For more information and to compare options, see top app-based bank accounts below and also check out our various banking guides.
The five app-based banking need-to-knows
To get your head around app-based banking, it helps to know the following:
Although these apps aren't solely meant for budgeting, the main ones we feature in this guide can really help you to keep your finances in check.
They give real-time notifications when you spend or save – so for example, if you bought something for £5 in Boots, you'd get an instant notification on your phone telling you what you've spent.
This helps you spot fraud too. If you get a notification that your debit card's been used in Nando's, and you're sitting at home watching TV, you can immediately freeze the card within the app to stop any further fraudulent use, then call the bank to let it know about the fraud (and ask it to send you a new card).
Another feature they have is to give you insights into your spending habits. This means you'll easily be able to see how much you spend in one particular shop each month (coffee addicts beware!), or more generally how much you spend on a category, such as entertainment or travel.
This should make it easier to budget and keep track of your money, allowing you to cut the cloth where needed.
For more on the features of these apps, see our section on the budgeting tools that they offer.
Another way to keep on top of your finances, whether you use these apps or not, is to do a Direct Debit audit. See our cancelling Direct Debits guide for more.
When it comes to your finances, you want to be sure your money's safe – so it's important to understand how your money's protected. UK-regulated banks have Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protection. This covers up to £85,000 of your money in the unlikely event of a bank going bust (for more on this, see our Savings safety guide).
Three of the apps below – Starling, Chase and Monzo – are fully regulated UK banks, and are therefore covered by the FSCS (though Chase's protection is shared with JPMorgan). This means your money is protected in exactly the same way as it would be with a traditional big bank, such as Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds or NatWest.
This doesn't apply to Revolut, however, which operates under an e-money licence. Funds are kept in a safeguarding account, meaning Revolut can't lend it out to others and you should get your money reimbursed (minus potential admin fees) in case of a collapse. Money saved in a Revolut 'Savings Vault' is deposited with a third-party bank, and is FSCS-protected.
The financial technology firms – or fintechs – below offer a fully fledged alternative to the main high-street players. Like their high-street counterparts, they offer debit cards, overdrafts, Direct Debits, standing orders and more. These challenger banks sell themselves on their high-tech, easy-to-use features, but it's still worth being aware of the old-school brands.
Occasionally high-street banks offer incentives of £100+ if you switch to them, which can be really lucrative, or they offer ongoing rewards such as in-credit interest or cashback on bills, something the challenger banks don't tend to do. For what's currently on offer, see our Best bank accounts guide. Many have made £1,000+ repeatedly switching. See our How often can you switch bank accounts guide for inspiration.
But it's worth noting that you don't HAVE to switch to open an app-only account – you can simply open one as an extra account. For example, many people use their traditional bank account for their salary and bills, then transfer their monthly spending money into an app-based bank so they can keep tight control of their spending.
This might be a good option if you aren't convinced of the benefits of app banking but are keen to see what all the fuss is about.
All of the accounts below do 'soft searches' of your credit report when you apply (unless you're applying for an overdraft – in which case, it's usually a hard search). A soft search means that other lenders usually can't see it, unlike a 'hard search' which is visible to other lenders searching your report and can lower your credit score.
This search is for three reasons:
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To check your identity so the bank is happy you are who you say you are and not a fraudster trying to use someone else's information.
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To look at your credit history, and see if you're the kind of person who they'd like as a customer.
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To check how you manage any other borrowing you have. The banks use this as part of their checks to see if they'd be happy to give you an overdraft.
If you do apply for an overdraft, the soft search generally turns into a hard search. This is to let other lenders know that you've applied for credit with that particular bank.
See our Credit scores guide for more information on the different types of searches, plus information on how you can check your credit report.
Banks have security systems in place that ensure fraudsters can't hack into your account whether you're logged in online or on your phone. But still be careful – never share your online/mobile banking information with anyone.
If using one of the mobile apps featured in this guide, make sure you download the official version from your app store, and update the app regularly to ensure you benefit from any new security features. You should also protect your phone by setting a password, PIN or other screen lock (for example, pattern, fingerprint).
It's also worth keeping your computer up to date with free antivirus software, so you're protected from viruses and spyware.
The apps really help you know where your money's going – many rely on them to stick to a budget
Like with any other bank, your money's protected up to £85,000 in an app-based bank
App-based accounts are cool and high-tech BUT often you can get better rewards elsewhere
Want one of these accounts? You'll still need to pass a credit check
Digital banking is secure – but it's still worth being careful
What sort of budgeting tools do app-based banks offer?
Budgeting doesn't come easily to everyone, and to help, many mobile banking apps have introduced budgeting features. These allow you to keep track of your personal finances and spending without having to use a separate budgeting app or update a spreadsheet. Here are some of the budgeting tools that app-based banks offer:
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Savings pots. Like a digital piggybank, a 'pot' is a place in your account where you can stash some of the money from your current account to keep it separate from your main balance. Some banks even allow you to hide or lock your pots in case you're tempted to dip into them.
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Round-ups. A great way to save small amounts regularly without much effort, this budgeting feature rounds up your card payments to the nearest pound and automatically transfers the spare change into your designated pot.
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Spending alerts. These give instant notifications when you spend, which can help the more tap-happy among us to think twice about a purchase, especially if the account is shared with someone else who will also receive an alert.
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Spending insights. This feature shines a spotlight on your spending habits more generally. You'll be able to see how much money you spend in particular shops each month, or simply which category uses up most of your cash.
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Spending caps. Once you've used the spending insights feature, you might find it helpful to set yourself a spending cap to limit the amount you can spend on certain things.
If you're looking for a budgeting app solely for the savings pot feature, check out our guide to automatic savings apps – these automatically move money from your bank account to a virtual savings account.
Lastly, do remember that while these budgeting tools are useful for encouraging mindful spending and saving, they're not a substitute for really considering your finances and setting yourself a proper budget. And if you're struggling with debt, do have a look at our Debt help guide.
Top app-based bank accounts
To get a current account with one of the challenger banks below, you apply through their apps – the process is quick and easy, typically taking just a few minutes if you're accepted.
Do note these accounts can be beaten if you're looking for £150+ to switch or monthly cashback or a track record of top service quality. But if you're after a high-tech account, these are our top picks. We've also included MSE users' app ratings from our most recent banking apps poll.
Service rating: 85% 'great' | Overseas fees: None In-credit interest (AER variable): 4% on £1m via linked easy-access saver How to pay in? Cash at any post office, cheques via app/post Arranged overdraft cost (EAR variable): 15%, 25% or 35% Unarranged overdraft cost: None Get the app: iOS (rated 4.9/5) or Android (rated 4.8/5) MSE users' app rating: 83% 'great' for usability, 85% 'great' for features | Starling: Useful spending notifications, great for budgeting + top for overseas use. Starling Bank gives real-time notifications when you use your debit card, plus spending insights, and lets you set up savings goals. Starling has recently released a new 4% easy-access linked savings account (subject to eligibility) – a decent rate, but it can be beaten. Starling offers a 'round-up' feature, which rounds all purchases up to the nearest £1 and autosaves the difference. It's also a top-pick debit card to use abroad, as it's fee-free for overseas spending and cash withdrawals. |
Service rating: 83% 'great' | Overseas fees: None In-credit interest (AER variable): 3% on £3m via its linked savings account (newbies get an extra 1.75% 'boost' for six months) & 5% on small amounts saved in the round-up account Unarranged overdraft cost: Not available | Chase: 1% supermaket, transport & fuel cashback for at least a year, plus no fees to spend/withdraw cash abroad. The app-only Chase current account* gives a top rate of cashback on most supermarket, transport and fuel spending (max £15/month), though there are some exclusions. There's no minimum pay-in required in the first year, but you'll have to pay in £1,500+/month after that to continue getting cashback. To use Chase, you'll need a device with at least iOS 14.1 or Android 8.1. You can also set up its 'round-up' feature, which rounds all purchases up to the nearest £1, with the difference autosaved into a separate account paying 5% (for example, spend £1.45 and 55p is transferred). You can create up to 20 extra accounts, and there's also a monthly spending overview – great for helping to manage your money. |
Service rating: 86% 'great' | Overseas fees: None on spending, ATM withdrawals are only fee-free in the UK and in European Economic Area (EEA) countries up to £400 per 30-day period, 3% fee after (i) In-credit interest (AER variable): 3.5% via its linked instant-access savings account How to pay in? Cash at any PayPoint (£1 fee), cheques via post Arranged overdraft cost (EAR variable): 19%, 29% or 39% Unarranged overdraft cost: As above if applicable, or 39% (max £15.50/month) | Monzo: Helps you budget & also offers savings accounts with partner banks. Monzo has similar features to Starling – real-time spending notifications and insights into where you're spending. It's also good for overseas use, particularly if you won't withdraw cash or will only get small amounts. The difference comes with savings – Monzo has its own instant-access savings 'pot', but also lets you set up 'pots' with its partner banks too, which often pay higher interest rates – though top-pick savings usually pay even more. Monzo also has a 'round-up' feature, which rounds all purchases up to the nearest £1 and autosaves the difference in a 'pot' of your choice. Monzo also offers three tiers of paid accounts: Extra (£3/mth), Perks (£7/mth) and Max (£17/mth). Each tier comes with additional benefits including connecting your accounts via open banking (Extra), free Greggs coffee (Perks) and travel insurance (Max). Full details of each package can be found on Monzo's website. |
| Overseas fees: None Monday to Friday, 1% fee on weekends. 1% fee if exchanging £1,000+/month In-credit interest (AER variable): 4% via linked instant-access savings account How to pay in? Cash at any participating retailer Arranged overdraft cost (EAR variable): Not available Unarranged overdraft cost: Not available Get the app: iOS (rated 4.9/5) or Android (rated 4.8/5) MSE users' app rating: N/A | Revolut: Good for anyone who travels a lot. In addition to common banking app features such as real-time spending notifications and insights, the Revolut* standard plan has advantages for those who regularly spend overseas. Revolut customers are authorised to hold up to 30 currencies at a time, with no exchange fees on weekdays. Account holders can also send money in over 70 currencies to more than 160 countries. Note: Recent news stories have come to light of people finding fraud protection at Revolut inadequate. While Revolut denies this, it's worth bearing in mind – particularly if you intend on saving large amounts of money with it. |
(i) In the UK and EEA countries, ATM withdrawals are fee-free up to £400 per 30-day period, 3% fee above. Though if you use Monzo as your main account (pay in £500+ per month and have one or more Direct Debits), then you're authorised to use it fee-free in these countries. Outside of these countries, it's only fee-free up to £200 per 30-day period, 3% fee above. See full info. Our service ratings are from our January 2025 poll of 12,300 people.
Have all your cards in one place with Curve
Slightly different to the above, Curve is a Mastercard debit card that you can link to your existing debit or credit cards, so you only need to carry one. Then when you use the (virtual or physical) card to pay, it passes on the transaction to your linked card. This allows you to view payments from all cards in one app, which can make budgeting easier.
Curve has a variety of paid tiers, though the basic one is free (£5.99 card delivery fee) and offers some unique features...
Set two spending rules – decide which card spends when. For example, set grocery spends to be taken from one card & purchases over £100 to be taken from another.
Retroactively assign payments to a different card. You can change the card you used for a purchase up to 30 days after you've made it (max three per month). This could be useful if you accidentally use the wrong card, or need to manage your credit limit.
Set a backup card to be used if a payment is declined. Do be careful here – if your initial card has been declined due to busting a credit limit or going overdrawn, this may pass you by unnoticed and may mean it's easier to fall into debt.
You get Section 75 protection on both credit card AND debit card purchases. Section 75 (of the Consumer Credit Act) is a law that means that if you pay for something costing over £100 and less than £30,000 with a credit card, the lender's equally liable (along with the retailer) if something goes wrong (for example, you never received an item or it isn't quite right). This protection has historically only ever applied to credit card purchases, yet Curve is the first ever to extend this protection to debit card purchases.
However, there are some drawbacks – there are fees for withdrawing cash at ATMs (higher of 2% or £2), it's not compatible with American Express cards, and it has low fee-free limits and/or expensive fees when used overseas.
Top-rated traditional banks' apps
You may want a slick app, but from a banking name you know. We ran a banking apps poll to ask which apps are best – and while Starling and Monzo (above) came out on top for features and ease of use, the two below were the best-rated apps from the traditional banks.
For now, neither of these apps offers the same budgeting help as the newer players, but they're decent options if you want to stick with a name you know and you normally do a lot of mobile banking.
NatWest – 71% rated it 'great' for usability; 68% 'great' for features.
The NatWest app rates the best of the apps from the traditional banks. Our pick of NatWest accounts is its Rewards Account, which gives users £3/month cashback (it's £5/month but with a £2 monthly fee) every month they use the mobile app and pay out two £2+ Direct Debits. However, you'll need to be able to pay in £1,250+/month to hold the account.
The app will let you check your balance, see transactions and manage payees and recurring payments. Plus you can request money from friends with a QR code/link and easily split a bill. Download the app for iOS (rated 4.8/5) or Android (rated 4.7/5).
Lloyds – 68% rated it 'great' for usability; 66% 'great' for features.
The Lloyds app is also well-rated by MoneySavers for both features and usability. Our pick of accounts here is Club Lloyds, which pays interest of up to 1.5% when you have up to £5,000 in the account. However, you'll need to be able to pay in £1,500+/month, or you'll be charged a £3 monthly fee to keep the account. You can also qualify for rewards, including cinema tickets, movie rentals or magazine subscriptions.The Lloyds app gives you instant spending notifications, lets you see transactions on a map and helps you manage monthly subscriptions. Download it for iOS (rated 4.8/5) or Android (rated 4.5/5).
What can other traditional banks' apps do?
Our guide only mentions a small sample of the many banks which offer accounts you can manage via app. Most highstreet banks and building societies have apps for their customers, and the number of features they provide is ever-growing.
In brief, most providers will allow you to do basic things like freeze your card, and set up and cancel direct debits/standing orders – though not all. For some banks and building societies, its app is like a slimmed down version of its online banking service, while for others you can actually do more.
For an account by account breakdown, it's best to check the bank's website for more info
Other top MSE banking guides:
Best bank accounts | Autosaving apps | Top savings accounts | Prepaid cards | Best way to send money internationally.
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