⚠️ Risk warning: Investing involves risk. 74% of retail CFD accounts lose money. Capital at risk. Always verify FCA registration at register.fca.org.uk before depositing.
MZ
⭐ Editor's Choice
Monzo
Digital bank · FCA regulated · Full UK banking licence (PRA)
4.7
/5
Monthly fee
£0 (standard)
FSCS protection
Up to £85,000
Overdraft
Yes (arranged)
The UK's most popular digital bank. Full UK banking licence (PRA regulated), FSCS protection, and millions of active users. Free current account with brilliant spending analytics.
SB
🥈 Best for Features
Starling Bank
Digital bank · FCA & PRA regulated · Full UK banking licence
4.6
/5
Monthly fee
£0
FSCS protection
Up to £85,000
Business accounts
Yes
Award-winning UK digital bank with full PRA banking licence. Outstanding mobile app, free current account, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent business banking.
RV
🌍 Best Multi-Currency
Revolut
Fintech · FCA registered (e-money) · UK banking app
4.4
/5
Monthly fee
£0 (standard)
Protection
E-money safeguarding
Currencies
30+
Best for travellers and international users. Multi-currency accounts, zero-fee currency exchange on weekdays, and stock/crypto trading built in. Note: e-money institution, not a full bank.
WS
💱 Best for Transfers
Wise
Multi-currency account · FCA regulated · LSE listed
4.5
/5
Monthly fee
£0
FX rate
Real mid-market rate
Currencies
50+
The best account for sending and receiving money internationally. Real mid-market exchange rates, transparent fees, and local account details in 10+ currencies. Listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best UK digital bank in 2025?
Monzo and Starling Bank are the top two UK digital banks — both hold full UK banking licences (PRA regulated) and offer FSCS protection up to £85,000. Monzo leads on user base and app features; Starling edges ahead for business banking.
Are neobanks safe in the UK?
Monzo and Starling hold full UK banking licences and are FSCS protected up to £85,000. Revolut holds an e-money licence, not a banking licence — funds are safeguarded but not FSCS covered. Always check whether your provider is a bank or e-money institution.
What's the difference between a banking licence and an e-money licence?
A full banking licence (like Monzo and Starling have) means the institution can take deposits, lend money, and is PRA regulated. Your money is FSCS protected up to £85,000. An e-money licence (like Revolut's UK entity) allows payments and e-money issuance but funds must be safeguarded rather than deposited at the Bank of England — no FSCS protection.
Can I use a UK digital bank abroad?
Yes — most UK neobanks (Monzo, Starling, Revolut) offer zero or very low foreign transaction fees. Starling charges 0% on spending abroad. Monzo charges 0% with a 3% fee after £200/month in ATM withdrawals. Revolut offers the best rates during weekdays.