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 Metro BankWhich should you choose?
First Direct and Metro Bank 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 Metro Bank may be worth comparing if you prefer store-style branch access, everyday banking and face-to-face support.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick Metro Bank if you live near a metro bank store.
Choose Metro Bank if...
- You live near a Metro Bank store.
- You value face-to-face support.
- You want a no-monthly-fee current account.
- You may use savings or business banking alongside personal banking.
First Direct vs Metro Bank: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | Metro Bank | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Store-style branch access, everyday banking and face-to-face support | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Personal current account has no monthly account fee. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | Store-style branch network, but coverage is smaller than the largest UK banks. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | App and online banking for everyday account management. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Instant access, cash ISA, children's savings and fixed-term products may be available. | Tie |
| Support | App, online and telephone support, with limited branch-style access through HSBC/Post Office routes. | Store, phone, app and online support. | Tie |
| Extra products | Regular saver, fixed-rate savings, ISAs, loans, overdrafts and HSBC-backed services. | Current accounts, savings, business banking and safe deposit boxes in selected stores. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and Metro Bank 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 store-style branch access, everyday banking and face-to-face support.
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