Current account comparison: The best accounts at a glance

Consider monthly fees

Although most banks nowadays offer an account for €0, there are still outliers where a monthly fee is due. We therefore recommend thinking: what additional services does this bank offer that justify the monthly costs?

In principle, there are no major differences between banks with and without account maintenance fees. That's why we at Tarifgigant.at recommend a current account with no monthly fees.

As banks are always finding other ways to collect money anyway, choosing an account with monthly account management fees is pointless and just an additional financial burden for the customer.

Where and at what price can I withdraw money?

Depending on one's lifestyle, this question is very important, because everyone withdraws money from the current account from time to time.

When choosing a current account, you always have to ask yourself where you spend the majority of your life. If you belong to the majority who rarely leave the eurozone and only need the account for everyday life, a current account with a free withdrawal function within the eurozone is enough.

However, if you are one of a few frequent travelers, a bank that allows free withdrawals worldwide is recommended.

What about customer service?

Of course, the service at the new online banks is not as good as at a conventional bank over the counter: there is no advisor sitting in front of you to deal with your concerns.

However, more and more online banks offer so-called live chats and customer hotlines, which are actually available at all times and around the clock. Those who are satisfied with this will have a lot of fun with online banks.

If you don't like this type of advice, we recommend a conventional bank. The fees are usually a little higher there, but you have a personal advisor with whom you can speak face-to-face.

Keep an eye on overdraft/overdraft interest rates!

All banks currently have very low or no credit interest rates. That's why we don't need to take them into account.

What you should consider when choosing a checking account, however, is the overdraft interest. These costs arise when you are short of cash and slip into the red. At banks with high overdraft interest rates, this hiccup can very quickly become a nightmare.

Our recommendation: If you are one of those who often overdraw your account, we recommend an account with a low overdraft facility. The ideal value is currently around 6.9%.

When can you open your own current account?

With the consent of the parent or guardian, every child can theoretically open their own checking account. However, banks are required by law to keep this account on a credit basis.

It is not possible to overdraw a so-called "child account"/cause debts.

How can I manage my checking account?

All providers in our list have online banking. This makes financial management much easier for private individuals. You don't have to go to the bank for every change and can make transfers from the comfort of your couch. All you need is a functioning smartphone or PC/laptop.

How many current accounts may one have?

Good news for all bank customers! There are no limits to the number of current accounts you can have. Whether you want 1, 2 or 100 accounts: everything is legal.

In many life situations, multiple checking accounts are recommended: For example, if you want to manage finances separately in a relationship, for efficient income control or simply to keep better track of your money.