European neobanks — digital-first banks with no physical branches — have attracted over 100 million customers by offering zero fees, multi-currency accounts, and instant payments. But they're not all equal in regulation, features, or reliability. Here's our full comparison of the top four.

Revolut: The super-app

Revolut is the most feature-rich neobank in Europe. Monthly plans: Standard (free), Plus (€3.99), Premium (€9.99), Metal (€15.99). Key features: Multi-currency account in 30+ currencies, stock and ETF trading (fractional shares), crypto buying, savings 'vaults', travel insurance on premium plans, and instant card freezing. Regulation: Revolut Bank UAB holds an EU banking licence (Lithuania), covering deposits up to €100,000. The e-money institution in the UK is separately regulated.

Best for: Travellers who use multiple currencies, those who want banking and investing in one app, and users who want the widest feature set.

N26: The proper bank

N26 holds a full German banking licence from BaFin — not just an e-money licence. This makes it a 'proper' bank in the strictest sense. Plans: Standard (free), Smart (€4.90), You (€9.90), Metal (€16.90). Features: IBAN (German or Spanish), deposit protection up to €100,000, Spaces (savings sub-accounts), cashback on Metal plan. Weaknesses: No crypto, limited investment features, slower international transfers than Revolut.

Best for: Those who want a German-regulated bank with a clean mobile experience and no hidden fees.

Wise: The FX specialist

Wise isn't a traditional bank — it's a multi-currency account with the best exchange rates in the market. No monthly fee for the basic account. Key features: Hold and convert 50+ currencies at the mid-market rate (no mark-up), send international transfers at real exchange rates plus a small transparent fee, local account details in 10+ currencies (UK sort code, US routing number, EU IBAN, etc.). Regulated by the FCA (UK) and in the EU.

Best for: Freelancers working internationally, expats, and anyone who regularly sends or receives money internationally.

Bunq: The sustainable choice

Bunq is a Dutch neobank (DNB regulated, full banking licence) known for its sustainability focus and generous feature set. Plans: Light (free, basic), Easy Bank (€3.99), Easy Bank Pro (€9.99). Unique features: Tree-planting for card spending, interest on current account balance, multiple sub-accounts, 'Auto-Save' round-up feature. Available in 30 EU countries.

Best for: Eco-conscious users and those who want high savings interest and multi-account features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my money safe in a neobank? +
It depends on the neobank's licence. N26 and Bunq hold full banking licences and offer deposit protection up to €100,000 under the EU Deposit Guarantee Schemes Directive. Revolut's banking arm (Revolut Bank UAB) also offers €100,000 protection. Wise is an e-money institution — funds are safeguarded but not covered by deposit guarantee schemes.
Which neobank has the best exchange rates? +
Wise consistently offers the best exchange rates — the real mid-market rate with a transparent percentage fee. Revolut offers mid-market rates during weekdays (surcharges apply at weekends). N26 and Bunq use Mastercard exchange rates, which are competitive but include a margin.