As digital banking continues to grow in popularity, more and more people are looking for alternatives to traditional banks. One of the most popular digital banks is Monzo, but there are many Monzo alternatives available that offer similar features and benefits. These alternatives are often referred to as "fintech" or "financial technology" companies, and they are changing the way people manage their money.
Digital banking is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility. With Monzo and other digital banks, customers can manage their accounts from their smartphones, making it easier to keep track of their finances. These banks also offer features like budgeting tools, spending insights, and fee-free transactions, making it easier for customers to save money and manage their finances.
Some of the most popular Monzo alternatives include Starling Bank, Revolut, and Chime. Each of these banks offers unique features and benefits, such as savings goals, marketplace access, and fee-free foreign currency transfers. As digital banking continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more Monzo alternatives emerge, offering even more features and benefits to customers.
Quick List: Best Monzo Alternatives
Here are the top 10 best Monzo Alternatives for 2024:
Revolut
Starling Bank
N26
Wise
Monese
Curve
Atom Bank
Payoneer
Currensea
10 Best Monzo Alternatives & Competitors 2024
For those who are looking for an alternative to Monzo, there are several options available in the market. Here are some of the top Monzo alternatives:
Revolut
Revolut is a digital banking app that offers a range of features, including bank accounts, cards, sort codes, and low fees. It is a popular alternative to Monzo, and like Monzo, it does not charge foreign transaction fees for using your debit card abroad.
One of the key features of Revolut is its ability to hold multiple currencies, which makes it a great option for people who frequently travel or make international transactions. Users can hold up to 28 different currencies, and exchange between them at the interbank exchange rate.
Revolut also offers a range of premium accounts, including a Metal account that comes with a range of benefits, such as cashback on purchases, travel insurance, and airport lounge access. However, these premium accounts do come with a monthly fee, which may not be suitable for everyone.
In terms of security, Revolut uses 3D Secure technology to protect users from fraud, and users can also freeze and unfreeze their card from the app if they suspect it has been lost or stolen.
Overall, Revolut is a solid alternative to Monzo, especially for users who frequently make international transactions or travel abroad. However, users should be aware of the fees associated with the premium accounts, and ensure that they are getting value for money.
Pros | Cons |
Multiple currencies | Premium accounts have a monthly fee |
Low foreign transaction fees | Limited customer support |
3D Secure technology for security | Limited features compared to Monzo |
Easy to freeze and unfreeze card | No physical branches |
Starling Bank
Starling Bank is a popular alternative to Monzo, offering free personal checking accounts that can be opened and managed entirely using a mobile app. The bank prides itself on its user-friendly app, which allows customers to monitor their spending by receiving alerts whenever money leaves or enters their account.
One of the standout features of Starling Bank is its savings goals, which allow customers to set targets and track their progress towards them. The bank also offers a marketplace where customers can access a range of financial products, including insurance and investments.
Another advantage of Starling Bank is its accessibility. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices, and customers can also access their accounts via desktop. The bank also offers support for Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Fitbit Pay, making it easy for customers to make payments on the go.
In terms of fees, Starling Bank is a good option for those looking for a no-fee digital banking experience. The bank does not charge any monthly fees, and there are no fees for ATM withdrawals or foreign transactions.
Overall, Starling Bank is a strong alternative to Monzo, offering a range of features and benefits for customers. With its user-friendly app, savings goals, marketplace, and accessibility, it is a great option for those looking for a digital banking experience.
N26
N26 is a digital bank that offers a range of banking services to its customers. It is one of the main alternatives to Monzo in the UK. The bank was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. N26 has over 7 million customers worldwide, making it one of the largest digital banks in Europe.
Features
N26 offers a range of features that are similar to Monzo. It provides a mobile app that allows customers to manage their accounts, make payments, and track their spending. The app also offers budgeting tools, savings goals, and real-time notifications.
Like Monzo, N26 offers a range of account types to its customers. Its standard account is free and comes with a Mastercard debit card. N26 also offers premium accounts that come with additional features such as travel insurance, cashback on purchases, and higher withdrawal limits.
Fees
N26's standard account is free, but it charges fees for some services. For example, customers are charged a fee for withdrawing cash from ATMs outside of Europe. N26 also charges a fee for some international transactions.
Security
N26 takes security seriously and uses a range of measures to protect its customers' accounts. The bank uses two-factor authentication to verify transactions and offers real-time notifications to alert customers to any suspicious activity.
N26 is a solid alternative to Monzo, especially for those who frequently travel outside of Europe. Its range of account types and features make it a good option for a wide range of customers. However, customers should be aware of the fees that N26 charges for some services.
Wise
Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, is a popular online banking alternative to Monzo. It offers a range of services including personal and business accounts, international money transfers, and multi-currency accounts.
One of the standout features of Wise is its low fees for international money transfers. It claims to offer the real exchange rate with no hidden fees, making it a cost-effective option for those who need to transfer money abroad. Additionally, Wise offers a multi-currency account that allows users to hold and manage money in over 50 currencies.
Wise also offers a debit card that can be used worldwide, with no transaction fees for spending in foreign currencies. The card can be managed through the Wise app, which provides users with real-time notifications and spending insights.
In terms of security, Wise is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and is required to adhere to strict security standards. The company also offers two-factor authentication and biometric login options to ensure the safety of its users' accounts.
Overall, Wise is a reliable and cost-effective alternative to Monzo for those who need to transfer money internationally or manage multiple currencies.
Monese
Monese is a digital banking app that offers a range of features for both personal and business accounts. It is a good alternative to Monzo for those who need to manage their finances across multiple currencies.
One of the key benefits of Monese is that it allows users to hold and manage money in multiple currencies. This is particularly useful for those who travel frequently or work with clients abroad. Monese allows users to hold money in 14 different currencies and offers competitive exchange rates.
In terms of fees, Monese offers a range of pricing plans to suit different needs. The basic plan is free and includes a contactless debit card, mobile banking, and ATM withdrawals. The Plus plan costs £4.95 per month and offers additional features such as free ATM withdrawals abroad and higher transaction limits. For business accounts, Monese offers a range of pricing plans starting at £9.95 per month.
Like Monzo, Monese offers in-app budgeting tools to help users manage their spending. Users can set up spending categories and receive notifications when they exceed their budget. Monese also offers savings pots, which allow users to set aside money for specific goals.
Overall, Monese is a good alternative to Monzo for those who need to manage their finances across multiple currencies. Its range of pricing plans and features make it a flexible option for both personal and business users.
Curve
Curve is a UK-based fintech company that offers a unique card that combines all of a user's debit and credit cards into one. This means that users only need to carry one card and can switch between their various cards through the Curve app.
Curve has a number of features that make it an attractive alternative to Monzo. For example, it offers cashback on purchases made with select retailers, which can be a great way to save money. Additionally, Curve offers users a "Go Back in Time" feature that allows them to switch the card they used for a purchase up to 14 days after the transaction was made.
Curve also offers users a range of other features, including real-time notifications of transactions, the ability to freeze and unfreeze their card, and the ability to set spending limits. Users can also earn rewards points for using their Curve card, which can be redeemed for a variety of products and services.
One potential downside of Curve is that it does charge fees for some transactions, such as ATM withdrawals and foreign currency transactions. However, these fees are generally lower than those charged by traditional banks.
Overall, Curve can be a great alternative to Monzo for users who want to combine their various cards into one and take advantage of cashback offers and other rewards.
Atom Bank
Atom Bank is a digital banking service provider that offers a range of banking products and services, including savings accounts, mortgages, and business loans. The bank operates solely through its mobile application, which is available for both iOS and Android devices.
One of the unique features of Atom Bank is its focus on offering customers a personalized banking experience. The bank uses advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence to analyze customer data and provide tailored recommendations and advice.
Atom Bank offers several savings accounts, including fixed-term and instant-access accounts. Customers can open an account with as little as £50 and earn competitive interest rates. The bank also offers a range of mortgages, including fixed-rate and tracker mortgages, and business loans.
Atom Bank is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), which ensures that customers' funds are protected up to £85,000 per person under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
Overall, Atom Bank is a great alternative to Monzo for customers looking for a more personalized banking experience and a range of banking products and services.
Payoneer
Payoneer is a popular alternative to Monzo for businesses that need to make digital payments and online money transfers. The company was founded in 2005 and has since become a trusted MasterCard service provider throughout the world. Payoneer's primary objective is to transfer funds between businesses, both at home and abroad.
One of Payoneer's most significant advantages is its ability to serve small and mid-sized businesses as well as freelancers. The company provides access to virtual bank accounts in four currencies, which makes it easier to manage international payments. Additionally, users may access money in their Payoneer account by using a prepaid Mastercard.
Payoneer is also known for its excellent customer support. The company offers 24/7 customer service via phone, email, and live chat. It also provides a comprehensive knowledge base that includes articles, videos, and tutorials to help users get started and troubleshoot issues.
Overall, Payoneer is an excellent alternative to Monzo for businesses that need to make international payments. Its virtual bank accounts, prepaid Mastercard, and excellent customer support make it a popular choice for small and mid-sized businesses as well as freelancers.
Currensea
Currensea is a UK-based fintech company that offers a debit card that is designed to be used abroad. The card is linked to the user's existing bank account and can be used to withdraw cash and make purchases overseas.
One of the key features of Currensea is its use of the interbank exchange rate for currency conversions. This means that users can get a better exchange rate than they would with most other debit cards. The company also charges a flat fee of 0.5% for currency conversions, which is lower than the fees charged by many other providers.
Currensea offers 16 currencies at the real (interbank) exchange rate and 164 currencies at the Mastercard exchange rate. When signing up for the free plan, users will be charged at a flat FX rate of 0.5% over these two base rates - with no extra charges over a certain amount.
Currensea is a good alternative to Monzo for users who want to save money on foreign currency transactions. However, it is worth noting that Currensea is not a bank and does not offer the same level of protection as Monzo or other traditional banks. Users should also be aware that there may be limits on the amount of cash they can withdraw from ATMs using the Currensea card.
Overall, Currensea is a good option for users who want to save money on foreign currency transactions and are comfortable using a debit card that is not provided by a traditional bank.
ZEN.com is one of the best alternatives to Monzo in 2024. It is a digital financial service that offers a MasterCard contactless payment card, which allows customers to make purchases both online and in-store. One of the benefits of ZEN.com is that it offers a number of innovative digital financial services, thanks to its collaboration with MasterCard.
ZEN.com is a great option for customers, clients, and independent workers alike, as it provides them with tools to manage their finances efficiently. The platform offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for customers to access their accounts and manage their money.
One of the benefits of ZEN.com is that it provides customers with a range of features that are designed to help them manage their finances better. For example, customers can set up savings goals and track their progress towards them. They can also manage their budgets and keep track of their spending.
Overall, ZEN.com is a reliable and secure alternative to Monzo that provides customers with a range of useful features and tools to help them manage their finances more effectively.
Is it safe to trust these Monzo alternatives to store my money?
When it comes to storing your money, safety is a top priority. While Monzo is a fully licensed bank and offers FSCS protection, you may wonder if its alternatives are just as safe.
After researching the top Monzo alternatives, it's clear that many of them also offer FSCS protection and are fully licensed banks. For example, Starling Bank, which is often compared to Monzo, is also a fully licensed bank and offers FSCS protection up to £85,000.
Revolut, another popular Monzo alternative, is also fully licensed and offers FSCS protection through its partner bank. However, it's worth noting that FSCS protection only applies to funds held in Revolut's partner bank, not to funds held in Revolut's own accounts.
In terms of security features, many Monzo alternatives offer similar measures to protect your money. For example, both Starling Bank and Revolut offer biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and face recognition, to access your account.
Overall, it's safe to trust Monzo alternatives to store your money as long as they are fully licensed banks and offer FSCS protection. However, it's important to do your own research and read the terms and conditions of each alternative to fully understand their security measures and protections.
Key Features of Monzo
Monzo is a digital bank that offers a range of features to help its customers manage their finances. Here are some of the key features of Monzo:
Budgeting Tools
One of the most popular features of Monzo is its budgeting tools. With Monzo, customers can set budgets for different categories of spending, such as groceries, entertainment, or transportation. Monzo will then track their spending in each category and provide real-time updates on how much they have left to spend. This can help customers stay on top of their finances and avoid overspending.
Overdrafts and Loans
Monzo offers overdrafts and loans to its customers. Overdrafts allow customers to spend more money than they have in their account, up to a certain limit. Monzo charges interest on overdrafts, but the interest rates are generally lower than those charged by traditional banks. Loans are also available to Monzo customers, with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
International Payments
Monzo allows customers to make international payments at competitive exchange rates. Customers can send money to over 160 countries, and the process is quick and easy. Monzo also offers a feature called "Split the Bill," which allows customers to split expenses with friends and family, even if they are in different countries.
Overall, Monzo is a popular digital bank that offers a range of features to help its customers manage their finances. With budgeting tools, overdrafts and loans, and international payment options, Monzo is a great choice for anyone looking for a modern, flexible banking experience.
Comparing Account Types
Monzo offers a range of account types to cater to different needs. Here is a breakdown of the different account types and their features.
Current Accounts
Monzo's personal current account is their flagship product. It comes with a range of features including a contactless debit card, mobile app, and instant notifications for transactions. Monzo's current account also comes with no monthly fees, overdraft charges or foreign transaction fees. This makes it an attractive option for people who want a simple, transparent account.
Savings Accounts
Monzo does not currently offer any savings products. However, there are several Monzo alternatives that do. For example, Starling Bank offers a range of savings accounts including a competitive interest rate on their personal savings account. Customers can also set savings goals within the app and track their progress.
Business Accounts
Monzo offers a business account for freelancers and small business owners. The account comes with a range of features including a contactless debit card, mobile app, and instant notifications for transactions. Monzo's business account also comes with no monthly fees, overdraft charges or foreign transaction fees. This makes it an attractive option for people who want a simple, transparent business account.
Other Monzo alternatives also offer business accounts. For example, Revolut offers a range of business accounts with varying features and pricing options. Starling Bank also offers a business account with similar features to their personal account, including no monthly fees and a competitive interest rate on balances.
Overall, Monzo offers a solid range of account types for personal and business use. While they do not currently offer any savings products, there are several Monzo alternatives that do. Customers looking for a simple, transparent account with no fees or charges may find Monzo's current and business accounts to be a good fit.
Banking Services
When it comes to banking services, Monzo offers a range of features that make it a popular choice amongst users. However, there are also several alternatives to Monzo that offer similar banking services.
Money Transfers
One of the most important features of any bank is the ability to transfer money quickly and easily. Monzo offers free and instant money transfers to other Monzo users, as well as to other UK bank accounts. However, several Monzo alternatives like Starling Bank, Revolut, and N26 also offer free and instant money transfers to other users and bank accounts.
ATM Withdrawals
Another important banking service is the ability to withdraw cash from ATMs. Monzo allows users to withdraw up to £200 per month for free from ATMs in the UK and abroad. However, several Monzo alternatives like Starling Bank, Revolut, and Cashplus offer unlimited free ATM withdrawals in the UK and abroad.
Cash and Cheque Processing
While cash and cheques are becoming less common, they are still an important part of banking services. Monzo allows users to deposit cash at PayPoint locations in the UK, but does not offer cheque processing services. However, several Monzo alternatives like Starling Bank and Cashplus offer cheque processing services, as well as the ability to deposit cash at Post Office locations in the UK.
Overall, there are several Monzo alternatives that offer similar banking services, including money transfers, ATM withdrawals, and cash and cheque processing. Users should consider their individual banking needs and preferences when choosing a bank.
Security and Protection
When considering a Monzo alternative, it's important to prioritize security and protection for your money. Here are some key factors to consider:
FSCS Protection
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) is a UK government-backed program that protects consumers in case a financial institution fails. Monzo is fully covered by the FSCS, which means that if the bank were to go bust, customers would be protected up to £85,000 per person. It's important to note that not all Monzo alternatives offer the same level of protection. For example, some digital banks may not be fully licensed and therefore not covered by the FSCS. It's important to research the protection offered by any bank you're considering.
Digital Security Measures
In addition to the FSCS protection, digital security measures are also important when choosing a Monzo alternative. Look for banks that use two-factor authentication, biometric login (such as fingerprint or face recognition), and encryption to protect your account. Some banks may also offer overdraft protection, which can help prevent fraud and unauthorized transactions. It's important to read the bank's security policies and understand how they protect your money.
Overall, when considering a Monzo alternative, it's important to prioritize security and protection for your money. Look for banks that offer FSCS protection and strong digital security measures to ensure that your money is safe and secure.
Conclusion
After researching and comparing various Monzo alternatives, it is clear that there are several options available for those looking for a mobile banking solution. Each alternative has its own unique features and benefits, making it important for individuals to consider their specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
One of the most popular alternatives to Monzo is Revolut, which offers free international transfers and purchases in over 200 countries. Another popular option is Starling Bank, which offers a personal finance marketplace and better cash withdrawal options abroad.
Chime is a great choice for those looking for a free online checking account with no monthly fees, while N26 offers a unique metal card and cashback rewards on purchases. Finally, Monese is a solid option for those looking for a straightforward and easy-to-use mobile banking app.
Overall, the best Monzo alternative will depend on an individual's specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as fees, international capabilities, and additional features when choosing a mobile banking solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which digital bank is considered the best alternative to Monzo in the UK?
Starling Bank is widely considered to be the best alternative to Monzo in the UK. It offers similar features and services, such as a user-friendly mobile app, fee-free spending abroad, and 24/7 customer support. Additionally, Starling Bank has won multiple awards for its digital banking services and has a high customer satisfaction rate.
How does Starling Bank compare to Monzo in terms of features and services?
In terms of features and services, Starling Bank is very similar to Monzo. Both banks offer fee-free spending abroad, 24/7 customer support, and user-friendly mobile apps. However, Starling Bank has a few additional features that Monzo does not offer, such as savings goals, a personal finance marketplace, and the ability to earn interest on your balance.
Can Revolut be seen as a superior option to Monzo for European customers?
Revolut is a popular digital bank in Europe and offers many similar features and services to Monzo. However, whether or not it is a superior option depends on the individual's needs and preferences. Revolut has a wider range of currencies available for exchange and offers cryptocurrency trading, but Monzo has a better reputation for customer service and user experience.
What are the top online banks in Europe offering similar services to Monzo?
Aside from Starling Bank and Revolut, there are several other online banks in Europe that offer similar services to Monzo. These include N26, Bunq, and Monese. Each bank has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to research and compare them to find the best fit for your needs.
Which digital bank in the US offers comparable services to Monzo?
Chime is a popular digital bank in the US that offers similar services to Monzo. It has a user-friendly mobile app, fee-free spending abroad, and no monthly fees. Additionally, Chime offers early direct deposit and automatic savings features.
Are there any significant differences between N26 and Monzo for UK users?
While both N26 and Monzo offer similar features and services, there are a few key differences. N26 offers a wider range of currencies for exchange and has a more extensive cashback program. However, Monzo has a better reputation for customer service and user experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's needs and preferences.
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