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 NatWestWhich should you choose?
First Direct and NatWest 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 NatWest may be worth comparing if you prefer reward banking, app features and everyday current accounts.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick NatWest if you want reward-style everyday banking.
Choose NatWest if...
- You want reward-style everyday banking.
- You value a strong mobile app.
- You want branch support as backup.
- You may use wider NatWest products.
First Direct vs NatWest: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | NatWest | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Reward banking, app features and everyday current accounts | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Standard and reward account options available. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | Large branch network, with app and online banking. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | Highly rated mobile app with spending and card controls. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Linked savings and regular saver options 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. | Reward account, credit cards, loans, mortgages and business banking. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and NatWest 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 reward banking, app features and everyday current accounts.
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