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 NationwideWhich should you choose?
First Direct and Nationwide 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 Nationwide may be worth comparing if you prefer member-owned banking, branches and current account perks.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick Nationwide if you prefer a building society model.
Choose Nationwide if...
- You prefer a building society model.
- You want branch access.
- You may use savings or mortgage products.
- You like member-focused account perks.
First Direct vs Nationwide: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | Nationwide | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Member-owned banking, branches and current account perks | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Free and packaged current account options available. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | Branch network plus Post Office access for some services. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | Good mobile app for everyday account management. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Often competitive member-focused savings products. | 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. | Flex accounts, savings, mortgages and member-focused benefits. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and Nationwide 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 member-owned banking, branches and current account perks.
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