If you want an app-based bank but still care about deposit protection, the key question is whether eligible deposits are protected by the FSCS or whether funds are safeguarded instead.
Quick answer
Monzo, Starling, Chase, Kroo, Zopa, Atom and Tandem are all useful app-based providers to compare if FSCS protection is important to you. Wise and Monese are different because they are not standard FSCS-protected UK bank accounts.
Ranked by practical fit for this specific use case.
#1 - FSCS-protected main account
Starling combines FSCS protection with a strong free current account, budgeting tools and travel features.
Watch: Check product terms for specific savings products and account limits.
#2 - FSCS with budgeting tools
Monzo is a fully licensed UK bank with strong budgeting features and FSCS protection for eligible deposits.
Watch: Savings products can involve partner providers, so check the exact protection wording.
#3 - FSCS with cashback and savings
Chase is backed by JPMorgan Chase and offers FSCS protection on eligible deposits, plus savings and cashback features.
Watch: The UK product range is narrower than some full-service banks.
#4 - FSCS with ethical positioning
Kroo is a UK bank with FSCS protection and a simple current account focused on transparency and fee-free use.
Watch: It has fewer extra products than larger digital banks.
#5 - FSCS savings and credit products
Zopa is useful to compare if you want app-based savings, credit products and FSCS protection.
Watch: It is less of a full everyday current account ecosystem than Monzo or Starling.
Trust and sourcing note
Rates, fees and eligibility can change. We use provider information, bank reviews and our review process to keep these guides useful, but always check the provider before applying.
Continue researching
Use the full comparison table to compare fees, protection, savings, travel and everyday features.