Neobanks are digital-only banks that operate without traditional physical branches. They offer banking services through mobile apps or websites, focusing on user-friendly interfaces and low fees. Neobanks typically provide services like checking accounts, savings accounts, international transfers, and budgeting tools. They appeal to tech-savvy users seeking convenience, speed, and better financial control. Unlike traditional banks, neobanks often partner with licensed banks to hold customer funds securely.

Atom Bank

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  • Min. balance: €0
  • Monthly fee: €0
  • APY: up to 4.2%
  • Currencies: GBP
  • Open online: Yes (UK only)
  • US/non-EU: No
  • UK’s first app-only bank
  • Excellent fixed savings rates
  • Digital mortgage approvals
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Pros

  • Highly competitive interest rates
  • Innovative digital mortgage process
  • No monthly fees
  • Strong security protocols

Cons

  • Only available to UK residents
  • No debit cards or checking accounts
  • Limited international support

About Atom Bank (UK)

Atom Bank, headquartered in Durham, is the UK’s first app-only bank, revolutionizing traditional banking through mobile-first services. The bank offers market-leading fixed savings accounts and was one of the first to implement biometric login. It has also disrupted the mortgage space with a fully digital approval process. Atom focuses heavily on user privacy, efficient digital experiences, and sustainable growth. With a strong Trustpilot rating and frequent feature updates, it appeals particularly to younger, tech-savvy UK residents. While it doesn’t yet offer full checking account services, its commitment to competitive interest rates and innovation places it among the fastest-growing neobanks in Europe.

Lunar

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  • No minimum balance
  • Monthly fee: Free / Premium €6.99
  • APY: Up to 2.25%
  • Currencies: DKK, EUR
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: Not available
  • Modern mobile-first experience
  • Real-time spending insights
  • Crypto & stock trading features
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Pros

  • Free basic account option
  • Excellent mobile app design
  • Built-in crypto and stock investing
  • Fast onboarding process

Cons

  • Limited currency support
  • No US/non-EU availability
  • Premium features behind paywall

About Lunar (🇩🇰 Denmark)

Lunar is a rapidly growing neobank based in Denmark, targeting digital-savvy users across the Nordic region. With a strong mobile-first approach, Lunar offers a smooth and intuitive banking app with features like real-time expense tracking, smart savings goals, and customizable cards. The bank supports both personal and business accounts and has expanded into crypto trading, stocks, and ETF investments directly from its app. Users can choose between free and premium tiers, with premium offering enhanced APY returns and travel insurance. Lunar is regulated under Danish financial authorities and is part of the EU banking ecosystem, making it a secure and compliant platform. Though US and non-EU citizens cannot open accounts yet, the onboarding for EU residents is fully digital and takes minutes. The app is frequently updated with new features and user-requested tools, positioning Lunar as one of the most user-centric neobanks in 2025. Its fresh branding and focus on innovation make it especially popular among Gen Z and young professionals in Scandinavia.

Zopa Bank

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  • Min. deposit: £1
  • Monthly fee: £0
  • APY: Up to 4.75%
  • Currencies: GBP
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: Not available
  • Top-rated fixed savings rates
  • FCA-authorized UK bank
  • Credit cards & personal loans
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Pros

  • High fixed-term savings rates
  • No account or monthly maintenance fees
  • Fully regulated UK bank (FCA)
  • Also offers loans and credit cards

Cons

  • GBP accounts only
  • Not available outside the UK
  • No multi-currency or international transfers

About Zopa Bank (🇬🇧 UK)

Zopa began as a peer-to-peer lending pioneer in 2005 and evolved into a fully licensed UK bank in 2020. Today, Zopa is one of the UK’s fastest-growing digital banks, offering high-yield savings accounts, fixed-term deposits, credit cards, and personal loans. It consistently ranks among the best in the UK for fixed savings rates, with APYs reaching up to 4.75% in 2025. Zopa’s sleek mobile app allows full control of finances, including loan management and real-time credit score tracking. The bank is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), ensuring strong consumer protection. Although Zopa does not currently support multi-currency or non-UK residents, it remains an ideal choice for UK-based savers looking for high returns without monthly fees. Its reliable service, competitive interest rates, and transparent approach have earned it high customer satisfaction and a reputation for trust and innovation.

Bunq

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  • Min. deposit: €0
  • Monthly fee: from €2.99
  • APY: Up to 3.46%
  • Currencies: EUR, USD
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: Yes (with passport)
  • Instant IBANs & sub-accounts
  • Supports 30+ currencies
  • Green savings with “SuperGreen”
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Pros

  • Multi-currency support (EUR, USD + more)
  • Real-time budgeting & instant IBANs
  • Open to non-EU residents (incl. US)
  • Eco-friendly “SuperGreen” option

Cons

  • Monthly fees on all plans
  • Customer support only via app
  • Some features gated behind higher-tier plans

About bunq (🇳🇱 Netherlands)

Founded in Amsterdam, bunq is a forward-thinking digital bank that champions flexibility, innovation, and sustainability. Known as the “Bank of The Free,” bunq allows users to open accounts in multiple currencies, create instant IBANs, and automate savings and spending directly from its user-friendly app. With APYs reaching up to 3.46% as of 2025, bunq combines strong returns with practical financial tools. It offers several pricing tiers starting from €2.99/month, including premium options like the SuperGreen plan, which plants trees as you spend. Open to EU and non-EU residents — including US citizens — bunq is one of the few European neobanks with such accessibility. Features like budgeting sub-accounts, joint accounts, travel insurance, and crypto integrations make it a standout among European fintechs. While some advanced features are behind higher-priced plans, bunq continues to attract users seeking smart, mobile-first banking with a positive environmental impact.

Vivid Money

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  • Min. deposit: €0
  • Monthly fee: €0–9.90
  • APY: Up to 3.0%
  • Currencies: EUR, USD, 30+ others
  • Open online: Yes
  • EEA residents only
  • Multi-IBAN sub-accounts (“Pockets”)
  • Up to 25% cashback on partner brands
  • Fractional investing in stocks, ETFs, crypto
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Pros

  • Integrated banking and investing in one app
  • High cashback rates on partner brands
  • Multi-currency support with competitive exchange rates
  • Accessible fractional investing starting from €1

Cons

  • Complex and evolving fee structure
  • Customer support reported as unresponsive by some users
  • Limited availability to EEA residents

About Vivid Money (🇩🇪 Germany)

Founded in Germany in 2020, Vivid Money has rapidly evolved into a comprehensive financial platform, offering a blend of banking, investing, and rewards. Users can manage multiple sub-accounts, known as “Pockets,” each with its own IBAN, facilitating organized budgeting and spending. The platform supports over 30 currencies and provides competitive exchange rates, making it suitable for international transactions. Vivid’s investment services allow users to engage in fractional investing in stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, starting from as little as €1. Additionally, the platform offers attractive cashback programs, with rates up to 25% on partner brands. While Vivid Money presents a robust set of features, potential users should be aware of its complex fee structures and reported customer support challenges. The service is currently available to residents within the European Economic Area (EEA).

Klarna Bank

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  • Min. deposit: €0
  • Monthly fee: €0
  • APY: Up to 2.5%
  • Currencies: EUR, SEK, USD
  • Open online: Yes
  • EU residents only
  • Integrated BNPL and savings account
  • Cashback rewards up to 10%
  • AI-powered spending insights
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Pros

  • Seamless integration of shopping and banking
  • Attractive cashback rewards
  • User-friendly mobile app

Cons

  • Limited to EU residents
  • Customer support response times can vary
  • BNPL services may encourage overspending

About Klarna Bank (🇸🇪 Sweden)

Klarna Bank, headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, has evolved from a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) provider into a comprehensive digital bank. As of 2025, Klarna offers a range of services including savings accounts with competitive interest rates, integrated BNPL options, and AI-driven financial insights. The bank’s user-friendly app provides seamless shopping and banking experiences, with cashback rewards up to 10% on select purchases. Klarna’s expansion into traditional banking services marks a significant shift in its business model, aiming to provide a holistic financial ecosystem for its users.

SoFi Bank

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  • Min. deposit: €0
  • Monthly fee: €0
  • APY: Up to 4.0%
  • Currencies: USD, EUR
  • Open online: Yes
  • Available in select EU countries
  • Comprehensive financial services
  • Crypto investing options
  • High-yield savings accounts
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Pros

  • Wide range of financial products
  • Competitive interest rates
  • Strong mobile app experience

Cons

  • Limited availability in the EU
  • Some services may have eligibility requirements
  • Crypto investments carry inherent risks

About SoFi Bank (🇺🇸 USA)

SoFi Bank, based in the United States, has expanded its services into select European markets as of 2025. The bank offers a comprehensive suite of financial products, including high-yield savings accounts, personal loans, and investment options in stocks and cryptocurrencies. SoFi’s user-friendly mobile app provides seamless access to its services, catering to a tech-savvy clientele. The bank’s recent expansion into Europe aims to provide competitive financial solutions to a broader audience.

W1TTY

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  • No min. deposit
  • Monthly fee: Free / Premium €4.99
  • APY: up to 1.5%
  • Currencies: EUR, GBP
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: No
  • Gamified budgeting features
  • AI-powered financial insights
  • Referral rewards program
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Pros

  • Appeals to Gen Z with gamified tools
  • Free and low-cost premium options
  • Real-time financial coaching features

Cons

  • Still limited geographic availability
  • Not yet suitable for business accounts
  • Premium features require payment

About W1TTY (🇬🇧 UK)

W1TTY is a UK-based digital bank designed especially for Gen Z and digital natives. With its bright, engaging UI and gamified money-saving tools, W1TTY stands out in the neobank landscape of 2025. It offers no minimum deposit and accessible pricing with a free tier and a €4.99 premium option. Users benefit from real-time financial coaching and personalized spending analytics. Although still expanding across Europe, W1TTY has gained popularity in countries like Lithuania and Poland. Its focus on education, rewards, and budgeting makes it a strong choice for younger users seeking an engaging way to build financial literacy.

Lanistar

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  • No min. deposit
  • Monthly fee: Free / Premium €5.99
  • APY: 0.5–1%
  • Currencies: GBP, EUR
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: No
  • Customizable virtual cards
  • Focused on influencers and creators
  • 24/7 in-app support
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Pros

  • Highly visual and brand-driven
  • Flexible card management
  • Designed for social media generation

Cons

  • Still building user trust
  • No credit products offered
  • Not suitable for traditional banking needs

About Lanistar (🇬🇧 UK)

Lanistar is a UK-based neobank that markets itself toward digital influencers, content creators, and those seeking a visually bold banking experience. Known for its vibrant branding and customizable virtual cards, Lanistar is designed for a mobile-first generation that values aesthetics as much as function. While it does not currently offer loans or complex financial products, its app provides smooth multi-account handling, virtual and physical cards, and integrated savings. It’s still in a growth phase, with strong engagement across Instagram and TikTok, and continues to carve out its niche in the lifestyle banking sector.

Monese

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  • No min. deposit
  • Monthly fee: from €0–14.95
  • APY: 0–1.3%
  • Currencies: EUR, GBP
  • Open online: Yes
  • US/non-EU: Not supported
  • Great for newcomers & expats
  • Fast online sign-up
  • IBAN in multiple countries
  • Good budgeting tools
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Pros

  • Supports both GBP and EUR accounts
  • Designed for immigrants and travelers
  • Very fast account opening process
  • No credit checks required
  • Free and premium plans available

Cons

  • Limited features compared to competitors
  • No US or non-EU support
  • Lower interest rates

About Monese (🇪🇪 Estonia/🇬🇧 UK)

Monese is a mobile-first banking service based in the UK with operations rooted in Estonia. Launched in 2015, it has become a go-to financial solution for expats, digital nomads, and travelers who need flexible banking without traditional paperwork or credit history checks. Monese offers instant account setup via mobile, with access to both GBP and EUR accounts. Its services include money transfers, budgeting tools, bill tracking, and integration with services like PayPal and Avios. Monese is particularly appealing to users who struggle to open accounts in new countries due to lack of residency or credit history. While interest rates remain modest, the convenience, international flexibility, and low barriers to entry make it one of the top choices in the European neobank landscape for 2025. However, it currently doesn’t support US or non-EU users, which may limit its global reach.


What Services Do Neobanks Offer?

Neobanks provide a wide range of digital financial services tailored for convenience and speed. Common offerings include mobile-based checking and savings accounts, instant money transfers, and debit cards. Many also feature built-in budgeting tools, spending analytics, and savings goals to help users manage their finances better. Some neobanks support multi-currency accounts, crypto wallets, or low-cost international transfers. While they may not offer full banking services like mortgages or complex loans, they excel in streamlining day-to-day banking through easy-to-use apps.

Difference Between Neobanks and Online Banks

Structure:

  • Neobanks are typically fintech companies without a banking license of their own and often partner with licensed banks.
  • Online banks are fully licensed traditional banks that operate entirely online.

Regulation:

  • Neobanks may not be directly regulated as banks but must comply with financial regulations through their partners.
  • Online banks are regulated and insured like traditional banks (e.g., FDIC in the U.S. or ECB in the EU).

Services:

  • Neobanks often focus on niche services like budgeting tools, low-fee foreign transactions, or quick account setup.
  • Online banks tend to offer a full suite of banking products—loans, mortgages, savings, and investment services.

Technology & Innovation:

  • Neobanks lead in UX design, app functionality, and rapid feature rollouts.
  • Online banks are more conservative, balancing innovation with traditional banking infrastructure.

Target Audience:

  • Neobanks appeal to digital-native, tech-savvy users looking for flexibility.
  • Online banks target customers who want the benefits of traditional banking without visiting a branch.

How to Choose the Right Neobank:

Factor What to Consider Why It Matters
Licensing & Regulation Check if the neobank is licensed or partners with a regulated bank. Ensures your money is protected and the neobank complies with financial laws and security standards.
Fees & Charges Look for clear info on fees: account maintenance, ATM withdrawals, foreign transactions, currency exchange. Hidden or high fees can add up, reducing the benefits of digital banking.
Account Features Evaluate services like savings goals, budgeting tools, instant transfers, multi-currency accounts, crypto options. Find a neobank that matches your lifestyle and financial habits.
User Experience (UX) Review app design, ease of navigation, speed, and reliability. A smooth, intuitive app makes banking faster and less frustrating.
Customer Support Check availability and responsiveness of support channels (chat, phone, email). Good support is essential if you face issues or need help quickly.
Security Measures Look for two-factor authentication, encryption, fraud protection, and data privacy policies. Protects your account from unauthorized access and data breaches.
International Use Confirm if the neobank supports global payments, multi-currency accounts, and has low foreign transaction fees. Important if you travel often or send/receive money internationally.
Integration & Compatibility Check if the neobank integrates with other financial apps, payment systems, or services you use. Seamless integration helps you manage all finances more efficiently.
Account Limits & Accessibility Review minimum deposit requirements, withdrawal limits, and geographic availability. Ensures the neobank fits your financial situation and location.
Reputation & Reviews Research customer reviews and ratings on app stores and forums. Real user feedback helps reveal potential issues or advantages.

FAQ

Which neobank offers the best all-around features and user experience in 2025?

bunq, Lunar, and Zopa Bank stand out. bunq is ideal for travelers and sustainability-focused users, Lunar caters to Nordic customers with clean UX, and Zopa offers competitive UK savings rates.

What are the main reasons why some neobanks fail to survive in the market?

Common reasons include poor scalability, unclear revenue models, weak user retention, and regulatory challenges. Startups like Lanistar have struggled in the past due to early-stage instability.

Which traditional bank is currently the most powerful and influential in Europe?

While not directly named here, this typically refers to large, established banks based on assets and market impact, such as Klarna Bank, Lunar, or bunq, which dominate the European landscape.

Are neobanks and digital banks truly the same, or do they differ in structure and licensing?

Not always. Some neobanks, like Klarna Bank, are fully licensed, while others like W1TTY may rely on partnerships with licensed institutions to operate.

Which neobank offers better features than most competitors in Europe today?

bunq is praised for its sustainability tools and travel features. Sofi Bank excels in lending and credit management, while Vivid Money appeals to users with cashback and investment options.

What is the top-rated online-only bank for reliability and customer support?

Monese is well-regarded among expats and mobile users for its simplicity and multilingual support. Zopa Bank is also known for responsive UK-based customer service.

Does a neobank like W1TTY qualify as a full digital bank, or is it something different?

W1TTY operates more as a fintech app with banking features and may rely on third-party banking infrastructure rather than holding a full banking license.

Which UK-based bank currently provides the highest interest rate on savings—up to 7%?

Zopa Bank is among the leaders in the UK savings market and has been known to offer rates around 7% on specific fixed-term accounts.

What is the most popular mobile banking app in Europe based on user satisfaction and features?

bunq, Klarna Bank, and Vivid Money rank high in app stores for their modern design, budgeting tools, and global usability.