Choose First Direct if...
- You value telephone support.
- You want a simple no-monthly-fee current account.
- You do not need a First Direct-branded branch.
- You may use First Direct savings as an existing customer.
Updated 3 July 2026 - High street bank comparison
First Direct vs HSBCWhich should you choose?
First Direct and HSBC can both work as UK high street banking options, but they suit different priorities. First Direct may appeal if telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts matters most, while HSBC may be worth comparing if you prefer global banking, premier-style services and international reach.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick HSBC if you want an internationally recognised bank.
Choose HSBC if...
- You want an internationally recognised bank.
- You may need global banking support.
- You want a broad product range.
- You may qualify for premium banking.
First Direct vs HSBC: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | HSBC | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Global banking, Premier-style services and international reach | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Standard account available, with eligibility-based premium options. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | UK branches plus wider international banking presence. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | Strong app and online banking features. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Savings, ISAs and regular saver products may be available. | Tie |
| Support | App, online and telephone support, with limited branch-style access through HSBC/Post Office routes. | Branch, phone, app and online support. | Tie |
| Extra products | Regular saver, fixed-rate savings, ISAs, loans, overdrafts and HSBC-backed services. | Global banking, credit cards, loans, mortgages and wealth products. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and HSBC are worth comparing side by side. The better fit depends on whether you care more about telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts or global banking, premier-style services and international reach.
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