Overview of N26 and Bunq
N26 and Bunq are both online banks that offer a range of services to their customers. N26 is a German-based bank that has been in operation since 2013, while Bunq is a newer Dutch-based bank that was founded in 2015. Both banks offer mobile banking apps that allow customers to manage their accounts and perform transactions on the go.
N26 offers a range of accounts, including a free basic account and premium accounts that come with additional benefits such as travel insurance and cashback rewards. The bank also offers a range of services such as overdraft protection and investment options.
Bunq, on the other hand, offers a range of accounts that cater to different needs, including personal and business accounts. The bank also offers a unique feature called “Green Card,” which allows customers to plant a tree with every €100 spent using the card. Additionally, Bunq offers a range of payment options, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Both banks offer competitive fees and exchange rates for international transactions, making them a popular choice for travelers and expats. However, it’s important to note that Bunq charges a monthly fee for some of its accounts, while N26’s basic account is free.
Overall, N26 and Bunq are both solid options for those looking for a modern banking experience with a range of features and benefits.
Services Offered
N26 Services
N26 is a digital bank that offers a range of financial services to its customers. Some of the services offered by N26 include:
- Bank Accounts: N26 offers a range of bank accounts to its customers, including free and premium accounts. The free account comes with a Mastercard debit card, free ATM withdrawals, and no foreign transaction fees.
- Mobile Banking: N26’s mobile app allows customers to manage their accounts, track their spending, and make payments on the go.
- Investments: N26 offers investment options to its customers, including ETFs and savings plans.
- Insurance: N26 offers insurance options, including travel insurance and smartphone insurance.
Bunq Services
Bunq is a digital bank that offers a range of financial services to its customers. Some of the services offered by Bunq include:
- Bank Accounts: Bunq offers a range of bank accounts to its customers, including personal and business accounts. The personal account comes with a Mastercard debit card, free ATM withdrawals, and no foreign transaction fees.
- Mobile Banking: Bunq’s mobile app allows customers to manage their accounts, track their spending, and make payments on the go.
- Investments: Bunq offers investment options to its customers, including savings goals and green investments.
- Group Accounts: Bunq allows customers to create group accounts, which can be shared with friends or family members.
Both N26 and Bunq offer a range of financial services to their customers, including bank accounts, mobile banking, and investment options. However, Bunq offers group accounts, while N26 offers insurance options.
Fee Structures
N26 Fees
N26 offers a range of accounts with different fee structures. The standard N26 account is free, but there are fees for certain transactions, such as ATM withdrawals outside the Eurozone. The N26 You account costs €9.90 per month and includes additional benefits such as travel insurance and discounts on partner services. The N26 Metal account costs €16.90 per month and includes even more benefits, such as dedicated customer support and exclusive partner offers.
Bunq Fees
Bunq also offers a range of accounts with different fee structures. The Easy Money account costs €7.99 per month and includes features such as multiple sub-accounts and budgeting tools. The Easy Green account costs €16.99 per month and includes additional benefits such as a metal card and carbon offsetting. Business accounts are also available with different fee structures depending on the size of the business.
It’s important to note that both N26 and Bunq offer free withdrawals within the Eurozone and have no minimum balance requirements. However, fees for certain transactions and services can vary depending on the account type and usage. It’s important to carefully consider your needs and usage patterns before choosing an account.
User Experience
N26 User Experience
N26 offers a user-friendly mobile app that is easy to navigate and use. The app is available in multiple languages and allows users to manage their accounts, view transactions, and make payments. The app also offers budgeting tools, such as spending categorization and real-time notifications. N26 also has a responsive and helpful customer service team that is available 24/7 via chat, phone, and email. However, some users have reported issues with the app’s stability and occasional glitches.
Bunq User Experience
Bunq also offers a mobile app that is easy to use and navigate. The app allows users to manage their accounts, view transactions, and make payments. One unique feature of Bunq is the ability to create multiple sub-accounts, each with its own IBAN number, which can be used for specific purposes, such as saving or budgeting. The app also offers budgeting tools, such as spending categorization and real-time notifications. However, some users have reported that the app’s interface can be confusing and overwhelming, and the customer service team can be slow to respond to inquiries.
Security Measures
N26 Security
N26 takes security very seriously, and they have several measures in place to ensure that their customers’ data and funds are safe. Some of the security measures that N26 uses include:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) for logging in and making transactions
- Fingerprint or Face ID recognition for mobile logins
- Real-time transaction alerts and the ability to freeze your card instantly if you suspect fraud
- 24/7 customer support in multiple languages
- End-to-end encryption for all transactions and communications
Bunq Security
Bunq also prioritizes security and has implemented several measures to protect their customers’ information and funds. Some of the security measures that Bunq uses include:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) for logging in and making transactions
- Fingerprint or Face ID recognition for mobile logins
- Real-time transaction alerts and the ability to freeze your card instantly if you suspect fraud
- 24/7 customer support in multiple languages
- End-to-end encryption for all transactions and communications
In addition to these measures, Bunq also uses a unique system called “Joint Control” that allows customers to control their accounts with others in a secure and transparent way.
Overall, both N26 and Bunq have robust security measures in place to protect their customers’ data and funds.
Customer Support
N26 Customer Support
N26 offers customer support through their in-app chat feature, email, and phone support. Their customer support team is available 24/7 and is known for being responsive and helpful. N26 also has a comprehensive FAQ section on their website that covers a wide range of topics related to their services.
Bunq Customer Support
Bunq offers customer support through their in-app chat feature, email, and phone support. Their customer support team is available 24/7 and is known for being responsive and helpful. Bunq also has a comprehensive FAQ section on their website that covers a wide range of topics related to their services.
In terms of customer support, N26 and Bunq are both reliable options. They offer multiple channels of communication and have responsive and helpful customer support teams.
Pros and Cons
N26 Pros and Cons
N26 is a popular online bank that offers a range of features and benefits to its customers. Here are some of the pros and cons of using N26:
Pros
- No monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements for the N26 Account.
- Ample benefits such as travel insurance and purchase protection for N26 You customers.
- Easy to use mobile app with a sleek design.
- Fast and easy account opening process.
- Offers a range of investment options through N26 Invest.
Cons
- Limited ATM withdrawals per month for free.
- No physical branches or in-person customer service.
- No joint accounts available.
- Some customers have reported issues with account freezes and customer service.
Bunq Pros and Cons
Bunq is another popular online bank that offers a range of features and benefits to its customers. Here are some of the pros and cons of using Bunq:
Pros
- Offers a range of account options to fit different needs and lifestyles.
- No foreign exchange fees for transactions in any currency.
- Easy to use mobile app with a sleek design.
- Offers a range of investment options through Bunq Green and Bunq SuperGreen.
- Offers a unique feature called “Travel Card” which allows customers to set aside money for travel expenses.
Cons
- Monthly fees for most account options.
- No physical branches or in-person customer service.
- Limited ATM withdrawals per month for free.
- Some customers have reported issues with account freezes and customer service.
Final Verdict
Both N26 and Bunq offer excellent banking services with unique features and benefits. N26 is a better choice for individuals who frequently travel abroad and want to avoid foreign transaction fees. Additionally, N26 offers a wider range of account options, including premium accounts with added benefits such as travel insurance and purchase protection.
On the other hand, Bunq is a great option for those who want more control over their banking experience and are willing to pay for it. Bunq’s unique features such as the ability to create multiple accounts and the option to choose where your money is invested make it an attractive option for those who want more control over their finances.
In terms of fees, both N26 and Bunq offer competitive pricing, but Bunq’s fees are slightly higher due to its unique features. However, the added benefits and control over your finances may be worth the extra cost for some individuals.
Overall, the choice between N26 and Bunq depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both offer excellent banking services, and it’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for you.
