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 TSBWhich should you choose?
First Direct and TSB 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 TSB may be worth comparing if you prefer local banking, simple current accounts and branch access.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick TSB if you want local branch banking.
Choose TSB if...
- You want local branch banking.
- You prefer a straightforward current account.
- You may use TSB savings or borrowing products.
- You want branch support alongside app banking.
First Direct vs TSB: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | TSB | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Local banking, simple current accounts and branch access | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Standard and Spend & Save 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. | Mobile app for everyday account management. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Savings and ISA 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. | Spend & Save accounts, savings, loans and mortgages. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and TSB 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 local banking, simple current accounts and branch access.
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