Head-to-head · Neobank Apps
Starling Bank vs KakaoBank
Starling Bank leads on 0 checks, KakaoBank on 0, and 3 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 3 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreStarling Bank · 9.3/10
- Free planboth
Starling Bank scores higher on our rubric for neobank apps: 9.3 against 8.6 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #6.
On account scope, Starling Bank gives you Both where KakaoBank offers Personal.
Starling Bank is the better fit for UK customers wanting a versatile everyday bank. KakaoBank is the better fit for kakaoTalk users seeking transfers and savings options.
- Starling Bank fits best
UK customers wanting a versatile everyday bank
- KakaoBank fits best
KakaoTalk users seeking transfers and savings options
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Side by side
| Feature | Starling Bank 9.3/10 Visit ↗ | KakaoBank 8.6/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.3 | 8.6 |
| Ranking | #1 in Neobank Apps | #6 in Neobank Apps |
| Best for | UK customers wanting a versatile everyday bank | KakaoTalk users seeking transfers and savings options |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Starting price | Free plan | Free plan |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile | Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | iOS, Android |
| Support | Live chat, Phone, Email, Docs · 24/7 | Phone |
| Integrations | 4 integrations | 2 integrations |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business |
| Features Starling Bank 2/3 · KakaoBank 2/3 | ||
| Early pay access | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Cash deposit support | ✓ | ✓ |
| International transfers | ✓ | ✓ |
| Specs | ||
| Account scope | Both | Personal |
| Savings yield | 4.00% AER variable on balances up to £25,000; 2.75% AER standard rate above that or after the first six months | 1.80% annual pretax for Safe Box (rate shown on checking-account page) |
| Supported currencies | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Starling Bank is a UK bank with personal, joint and business current accounts managed through its mobile app and online banking. It is suited to customers who want an everyday account with budgeting and payment tools, as well as sole… Read the review → |
KakaoBank is a Korea-based digital bank for personal banking through iOS and Android apps. It combines checking with savings products, time deposits, installment savings, debit cards, loans, and international remittances. It is… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Starling Bank — where it wins
- Offers personal, joint and business current accounts.
- Spaces, virtual cards and Bills Manager help organize spending.
- Supports cash deposits, cheque deposits and international payments.
Where it doesn't
- Some optional services may carry charges.
- The Easy Saver interest rate is variable.
- It is a bank account offering, not a conventional software subscription.
KakaoBank — where it wins
- Send money to KakaoTalk friends without entering an account number
- Choose scheduled or multiple transfers and manage group accounts
- Remit through bank transfers to 22 countries or Western Union to about 200
Where it doesn't
- Available through mobile apps only
- Support is limited to phone and is not available 24/7
- Fees and eligibility vary by transaction and product
- Starling Bank9.3/10 · Free plan
A no-monthly-fee UK bank account with budgeting, payments and savings tools.
Visit Starling BankFull verdict → - KakaoBank8.6/10 · Free plan
A mobile-only personal bank built around KakaoTalk transfers and savings options.
Visit KakaoBankFull verdict →
Starling Bank vs KakaoBank: questions
Which is better for neobank apps, Starling Bank or KakaoBank?
Starling Bank scores higher on our rubric for neobank apps: 9.3 against 8.6 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #6.
How do Starling Bank and KakaoBank compare?
All 3 checks we put side by side come out level: neither leads on any.
Do Starling Bank and KakaoBank have a free plan?
Starling Bank: Yes. KakaoBank: Yes.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
Last updated · How we research and update