Revolut v Starling: Which is Better?
Here’s a detailed comparison of Revolut vs Starling Bank, covering their features, pros & cons, and which one might be better for you.
1. Introduction
Revolut and Starling Bank are two of the most popular digital banking services in the UK and Europe. Both offer mobile banking with low fees, international transactions, and innovative financial features. However, they cater to slightly different audiences.
- Revolut is a fintech company that focuses on global spending, currency exchange, and financial tools like crypto and stocks.
- Starling Bank is a fully licensed UK bank that offers current accounts, business banking, and strong financial protections.
2. Key Differences Between Revolut & Starling Bank
| Feature | Revolut | Starling Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Banking License | No (E-money license in UK) | Yes (Fully licensed UK bank) |
| FSCS Protection | No | Yes (Up to £85,000) |
| Account Types | Personal, Business, Junior, and Metal accounts | Personal, Joint, Business, and Euro accounts |
| International Payments | Excellent (Interbank rates with fees after a limit) | Free international transfers (in SEPA & SWIFT) |
| Multi-Currency Support | Yes (Hold 30+ currencies) | No (Only GBP & Euro accounts) |
| Cash Deposits | Not available | Available at Post Office |
| Overdraft & Loans | No | Yes (Overdrafts, personal & business loans) |
| Crypto & Stocks | Yes (Trading available) | No |
| Customer Support | 24/7 in-app chat | 24/7 in-app chat |
| Physical Branches | No | No |
| Business Banking | Yes (Freemium & paid plans) | Yes (Business loans & overdrafts) |
| Debit Card | Yes (Virtual & physical) | Yes (Mastercard) |
| Spending Insights | Yes (Detailed analytics) | Yes (Smart budgeting tools) |
3. Features Breakdown
Banking & Account Types
- Starling Bank: A fully licensed bank, meaning your money is protected under the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme) up to £85,000.
- Revolut: Operates under an e-money license, meaning your money isn’t protected under FSCS. It partners with third-party banks for deposits in the EU.
Winner: Starling Bank (for financial security).
International Transactions & Currency Exchange
- Revolut: Allows fee-free currency exchange up to £1,000 per month, after which a 0.5% fee applies. Supports 30+ currencies and offers interbank rates.
- Starling: Only offers GBP and Euro accounts. However, international transfers via SEPA and SWIFT are free.
Winner: Revolut (for multi-currency support).
Spending Insights & Budgeting Tools
Both Revolut and Starling offer AI-driven spending insights, transaction categorization, and budgeting tools.
Winner: Tie (both are strong in this area).
Overdraft & Loans
- Starling offers overdrafts, business loans, and personal loans.
- Revolut does not offer loans or overdrafts in the UK.
Winner: Starling Bank (for credit options).
Crypto & Stock Trading
- Revolut: Allows users to trade crypto, stocks, and commodities. However, fees apply, and Revolut is not a regulated investment platform.
- Starling: Does not offer trading options.
Winner: Revolut (for investment options).
Customer Support & Security
- Both offer 24/7 in-app support, fraud detection, and instant card freezing.
- Starling Bank has additional security because it is a licensed bank.
Winner: Starling Bank (for security).
4. Fees & Pricing
| Feature | Revolut | Starling Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Account Fee | Free (Premium & Metal plans available) | Free |
| ATM Withdrawals | Free up to £200/month, then 2% fee | Free |
| Foreign Exchange | Free up to £1,000/month, then 0.5% fee | Free (GBP & Euro only) |
| International Transfers | Fees apply outside SEPA | Free SEPA & SWIFT |
| Card Replacement | £5-£40 | Free |
Winner: Starling Bank (lower fees for everyday banking).
5. Which One Should You Choose?
| Choose Revolut if… | Choose Starling Bank if… |
|---|---|
| You frequently travel or send money abroad | You want FSCS protection and a full bank |
| You want to trade crypto, stocks, or commodities | You need overdrafts, loans, or business financing |
| You prefer premium banking features (Metal, Premium) | You deposit cash regularly |
| You need a multi-currency account | You want fee-free banking with no monthly costs |
6. Conclusion: Which is Better?
For everyday banking in the UK → Starling Bank is the better choice because of its banking license, FSCS protection, free transactions, and overdraft options. For international travelers & traders → Revolut is better due to multi-currency accounts, crypto trading, and excellent exchange rates.
Overall Winner? 
There’s no clear winner—it depends on your needs. If you want a safe bank with free banking, choose Starling. If you want an international fintech service with investments, choose Revolut. 