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 Virgin MoneyWhich should you choose?
First Direct and Virgin Money 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 Virgin Money may be worth comparing if you prefer linked savings, packaged accounts and branch-backed everyday banking.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick Virgin Money if you want current account-linked savings.
Choose Virgin Money if...
- You want current account-linked savings.
- You may value packaged account benefits.
- You want branch-backed banking with app support.
- You understand Nationwide and Virgin Money FSCS grouping should be checked.
First Direct vs Virgin Money: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | Virgin Money | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Linked savings, packaged accounts and branch-backed everyday banking | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Fee-free and paid Club M-style packaged current account options may be available. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | UK branch support, with Nationwide group context to consider. | 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. | Linked savings, online savings, cash ISA, fixed-rate and limited-access 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. | Current accounts, linked savings, packaged account benefits, credit cards, loans and mortgages. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and Virgin Money 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 linked savings, packaged accounts and branch-backed everyday banking.
Continue researching
Read the full reviews and guides
We link to every high street bank review here so the comparison pages do not favour one provider over another.
All high street bank reviews
Finished comparing First Direct and Virgin Money?
Return to the top, compare more banks, or browse the full set of high street bank reviews.