Revolut vs N26: Which is Better?
Revolut vs N26: Which is Better?
Revolut and N26 are two of the most popular digital banks in Europe, offering mobile-first banking solutions with low fees, multi-currency accounts, and modern features. However, they cater to slightly different audiences.
- Revolut is best for international travelers, offering multi-currency support, crypto trading, and stock investments.
- N26 is more like a traditional digital bank with a banking license, offering better deposit protection and a simple, easy-to-use banking experience.
1. Key Differences: Revolut vs N26
| Feature | Revolut | N26 |
|---|---|---|
| Banking License | No (E-money license) | Yes (Full banking license) |
| Deposit Protection | No FSCS protection | Protected up to €100,000 (European Deposit Scheme) |
| Best For | Multi-currency accounts, international transfers, and investing | Simple banking, secure deposits, and traditional banking services |
| Multi-Currency Accounts | Yes (30+ currencies) | No (Euro only) |
| International Transfers | Yes (real exchange rates, low fees) | Yes, but more expensive |
| Stock & Crypto Trading | Yes | No |
| Cash Deposits | No | Yes (via CASH26 in select countries) |
| Free ATM Withdrawals | Limited | Free (up to 3-5 per month) |
| Overdraft & Credit | No | Yes |
| Business Accounts | Yes | Yes |
| Card Type | Visa or Mastercard | Mastercard |
| Availability | Global (except some countries) | Mainly Europe |
| Customer Support | Live chat (can be slow) | 24/7 customer support |
2. Features Breakdown
🔹 Banking License & Deposit Protection
- N26 is a fully licensed bank, meaning customer funds are protected up to €100,000.
- Revolut is not a licensed bank in most countries, so funds are not insured under the FSCS or European Deposit Scheme.
🏆 Winner: N26 (better security for deposits).
🔹 Multi-Currency Support
- Revolut allows users to hold, exchange, and spend in 30+ currencies.
- N26 only supports Euro (€) accounts, making it less useful for international transactions.
🏆 Winner: Revolut (best for multi-currency use).
🔹 International Transfers
- Revolut offers real exchange rates with low fees, making it a great choice for international transfers.
- N26 uses Wise for international transfers, which is good but often has higher fees than Revolut.
🏆 Winner: Revolut (cheaper international transfers).
🔹 Stock & Crypto Trading
- Revolut allows users to trade stocks, cryptocurrencies, and commodities like gold & silver.
- N26 does not offer investment options.
🏆 Winner: Revolut (for investing & trading).
🔹 ATM Withdrawals & Cash Deposits
- Revolut offers limited free ATM withdrawals (based on plan), with fees after the limit.
- N26 allows 3-5 free ATM withdrawals per month and supports cash deposits through CASH26.
🏆 Winner: N26 (better for ATM access & cash deposits).
🔹 Overdraft & Credit
- N26 offers overdrafts and personal loans, making it more like a traditional bank.
- Revolut does not offer overdrafts or credit options.
🏆 Winner: N26 (for loans & overdrafts).
🔹 Customer Support
- N26 has 24/7 customer service via chat, email, and phone.
- Revolut’s customer support can be slow, with some users reporting issues.
🏆 Winner: N26 (better customer service).
3. Which One Should You Choose?
| Choose Revolut if… | Choose N26 if… |
|---|---|
| You need a multi-currency account for travel & international payments. | You want a fully licensed bank with deposit protection. |
| You want cheap international transfers with real exchange rates. | You prefer free ATM withdrawals & cash deposits. |
| You’re interested in crypto & stock trading. | You need overdraft and personal loan options. |
4. Conclusion: Which is Better?
✔ For international travelers & multi-currency banking → Revolut is better.
✔ For secure banking with deposit protection & loans → N26 is better.
Overall Winner? ✅ It depends on your needs:
- Revolut is better for frequent travelers & traders.
- N26 is better for everyday banking & financial security.