Why switch to an online bank?
Online banks pass cost savings from having no branches directly to customers as free accounts, free cards and better rates. They also tend to ship product updates faster, with better in-app budgeting tools and instant notifications.
Our top picks
C24 wins our top spot for combining free banking with cashback. N26 leads on app design and travel features. DKB is the best for anyone who withdraws cash internationally.
Are online banks safe?
Yes. Every bank in this guide holds a German banking license and is supervised by BaFin. Deposits up to €100,000 per customer are protected by the statutory deposit guarantee scheme.
Online banks compared
| Bank | Fee | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| C24 Bank | 0 € | Free banking + cashback |
| N26 | 0 € | Mobile-first travelers |
| DKB | 0 € (with salary) | Worldwide ATM |
| ING | 0 € (with salary) | Full-service classic |
| Comdirect | 0 € (conditional) | Investing & banking combo |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online banks regulated in Germany?
Yes. C24, N26, DKB, ING and Comdirect all hold full German banking licenses under BaFin supervision.
Can I get cash from an online bank?
Yes, via partner ATM networks (Cash Group, CashPool) or by withdrawing at supermarket checkouts (€50-200 limit).
How long does onboarding take?
Typically 10-15 minutes online plus a video-ID call. The account is usually active the same day.
Can I have multiple online bank accounts?
Yes — many Germans hold 2-3 accounts to optimize for daily spending, savings and travel.
Ready to get started?
Open your account in minutes — fully digital, BaFin-regulated, with German IBAN.