When it comes to business banking in the UK, there are several options available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Two popular choices among entrepreneurs and small business owners are Mettle vs Starling Bank. Both banks offer innovative solutions and digital banking services that cater specifically to the needs of businesses.
Featured pro tools
In this article, we will compare the features, pros and cons, fees and charges, as well as unique and standout features of Mettle and Starling Bank, helping you make an informed decision for your business banking needs.
Mettle vs Starling Bank
| Features | Mettle Bank | Starling Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | Business current account | Business current account |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Payment Services | Invoicing, payments, and transfers | Invoicing, payments, and transfers |
| Integration | Accounting software integrations | Integration with popular accounting software |
| Funding | No lending services | Overdraft and lending options available |
| Foreign Transactions | Currency conversion and international transfers | Fee-free foreign transactions |
| Customer Support | In-app chat and email support | In-app chat, phone support, and email support |
| Cash Deposits | Not available | Not available |
| Savings Accounts | No savings account offerings | In-app savings account available |
 | Wallester Business ✓ Virtual & Physical Cards ✓ No Setup Fees ✓ No Monthly Fee Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Revolut Business ✓ Business Current Account ✓ Award-Winning Mobile App ✓ Quick & Easy Application Process Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Tide Business Bank Accounts ✓ Free, Plus, or Pro Account ✓ iOS & Android Mobile App ✓ Upload & Auto-Match Receipts Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Card One Money ✓ No Credit Checks ✓ Simple Fees ✓ Up To 3.5% Cashback Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | ANNA Money ✓ Apply In 10 Minutes ✓ Bookkeeping & Payroll Tools ✓ User-Friendly Mobile App Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | HSBC Business Banking ✓ Business Current Account ✓ In-Branch, Online & App Banking ✓ FSCS Protected Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Metro Business Banking ✓ Business Current Account ✓ High Street Presence ✓ FSCS Protected Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Mettle Business Banking ✓ Business Bank Account ✓ Online & App ✓ Quick & Easy Application Process Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Monzo Business Banking ✓ Business Current Account ✓ Dedicated mobile app experience ✓ FSCS Protected Pricing Trial period Contact | |
 | Virgin Money ✓ Business M Account ✓ In-Store, Online & App Banking ✓ Insights & Forecasting Platform Pricing Trial period Contact |
Mettle Bank
Mettle Bank is a digital bank designed specifically for small businesses and freelancers. It offers a streamlined and intuitive mobile app that allows users to manage their business finances on the go. Mettle Bank is owned and operated by NatWest, one of the UK’s largest retail banks.
Cutting edge payroll software
- Powerful and easy to use
- HMRC & RTI compliant
- Used by payroll pros
The CRM platform to grow your business
- Great for entrepreneurs
- Powerful data analytics
- Manage sales and data
Powerful web builder and advanced business tools
- Great for startups
- Powerful web page builder
- E-commerce available
Supercharged content planning
- Great for marketing
- Better than lists or sheets
- Manage social media
Create a new website in 10 minutes. Easy.
- Launch your website fast
- Powerful data intuitive
- No coding skills needed
Pros
- Simple and user-friendly mobile app for easy account management.
- Quick and easy account setup process, with no paperwork required.
- Integration with popular accounting software such as Xero and FreeAgent.
- Invoicing, payments, and transfers services to streamline financial operations.
- In-app chat and email support for customer assistance.
Cons
- No lending services available, which may limit financing options for businesses.
- Limited customer support channels compared to some competitors.
- Cash deposits are not available, which may be inconvenient for businesses dealing with physical currency.
Fees and charges
Mettle Bank does not charge monthly or annual fees for its business current account.
Additionally, there are no fees for making payments or transfers within the UK.
However, international transfers and currency conversions do incur fees, which vary depending on the specific transaction.
Unique and standout features
One of the standout features of Mettle Bank is its integration with popular accounting software. This allows businesses to seamlessly sync their financial data and automate bookkeeping tasks.
The mobile app’s simplicity and ease of use also make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs looking for a straightforward banking solution.
Starling Bank
Starling Bank is a leading digital bank that offers a range of business banking services. With a focus on providing user-friendly and innovative solutions, Starling Bank has gained popularity among small businesses and startups in the UK.
Pros
- User-friendly mobile app with a range of features for efficient financial management.
- Overdraft and lending options available, providing businesses with additional financing choices.
- Fee-free foreign transactions, making it an excellent option for businesses with international dealings.
- Integration with popular accounting software for seamless financial management.
- In-app chat, phone support, and email support for comprehensive customer assistance.
Cons
- No cash deposit facility, which may be inconvenient for businesses dealing with physical currency.
- Savings account offerings are not available, limiting options for business savings.
- Some users may find the range of features overwhelming, especially if they require only basic banking services.
Fees and charges
Starling Bank does not charge monthly or annual fees for its business current account. Payments and transfers within the UK are also free of charge.
The bank offers fee-free foreign transactions, including currency conversion.
However, some additional services, such as sending money internationally, may incur nominal fees.
Unique and standout features
Starling Bank stands out with its fee-free foreign transactions, which can save businesses money on international payments and currency conversions.
The availability of overdraft and lending options provides flexibility for businesses requiring additional financing.
The integration with popular accounting software allows for seamless financial management, making it easier for businesses to track their finances.
Conclusion – Mettle vs Starling
Choosing the right business bank is crucial for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Both Mettle and Starling Bank offer attractive features and benefits tailored to the needs of businesses.
Mettle Bank stands out with its simplicity and accounting software integrations, while Starling Bank offers additional services such as overdrafts and fee-free foreign transactions.
Ultimately, the choice between the two banks depends on the specific requirements of your business, such as the need for lending options or international transactions.
FAQ
No, both Mettle and Starling Bank do not provide cash deposit facilities. They are purely digital banks.
No, neither Mettle nor Starling Bank charge monthly or annual fees for their business current accounts.
Yes, both banks offer customer support through their mobile apps. Mettle Bank provides in-app chat and email support, while Starling Bank offers in-app chat, phone support, and email support.
Yes, both banks offer integration with popular accounting software. Mettle Bank integrates with software like Xero and FreeAgent, while Starling Bank also offers accounting software integrations.
Mettle Bank does not offer savings accounts, while Starling Bank provides an in-app savings account for businesses.
Remember to carefully consider your business’s specific requirements and preferences when choosing between Mettle and Starling Bank.