Choosing between Revolut, Monzo, and Starling is one of the most common dilemmas for anyone looking to switch to a digital bank. All three are excellent, but they each have distinct strengths that make them better suited to different people.
In this head-to-head comparison, we'll break down the key differences across fees, features, savings, travel, and customer support so you can pick the one that actually fits your life.
Already know which one you want? Grab a referral bonus for Revolut, Monzo, or Starling before you sign up.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Revolut | Monzo | Starling | |---------|---------|-------|----------| | Monthly fee (basic) | Free | Free | Free | | UK banking licence | Yes | Yes | Yes | | FSCS protection | Yes (£85k) | Yes (£85k) | Yes (£85k) | | Instant notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Fee-free abroad spending | Yes (with limits) | Yes (with limits) | Yes (no limits) | | In-app savings | Yes | Yes (via Pots) | Yes (via Spaces) | | Crypto/stocks trading | Yes | No | No |
All three are regulated by the FCA and offer FSCS deposit protection up to £85,000, so your money is equally safe regardless of which you choose.
Everyday Banking
Account Features
All three banks offer the essentials: instant spending notifications, categorised transactions, and easy money transfers. But the details differ.
Monzo excels at budgeting and money management. Salary sorting, customisable spending categories, and clear monthly summaries make it the best option for people who want to get their finances organised. The app design is clean, intuitive, and consistently well-rated.
Starling takes a more traditional banking approach with a modern twist. It offers a joint account, business accounts, and integrates well with accounting software. The app is polished but slightly less feature-rich than Monzo for personal budgeting.
