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 SantanderWhich should you choose?
First Direct and Santander 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 Santander may be worth comparing if you prefer cashback-style accounts, bills and broad everyday banking.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick Santander if you want cashback-style account benefits.
Choose Santander if...
- You want cashback-style account benefits.
- You pay household bills from your current account.
- You want branch and app access.
- You may use Santander savings or borrowing products.
First Direct vs Santander: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | Santander | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Cashback-style accounts, bills and broad everyday banking | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Standard and paid cashback-style account options available. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | UK branch network with app and online banking. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | Good app for day-to-day banking and card management. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Savings and ISA 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. | Cashback-style accounts, credit cards, loans and mortgages. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and Santander 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 cashback-style accounts, bills and broad everyday banking.
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