N26 Instant Savings vs Wise Interest
Two savings accounts for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
Wise Interest is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Interest rate: 1.57% as a promotion, then 1.72% vs 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal)
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Interest rate | 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal) | 1.57% as a promotion, then 1.72% (better) |
| Minimum deposit | None | None |
| Access to your money | Instant | Instant |
| Maximum deposit | No limit | No limit |
| Deposit guarantee | Up to €100,000 (DE scheme) (better) | Not covered |
| Rate check | Verified 29 October 2026 | Unverified since 5 October 2026 |
Bold marks the better value in a row. Figures are checked daily against provider sources; each product page shows when its figures were last confirmed.
N26 Instant Savings
What we like
- Excellent mobile app
- German bank with EU guarantee
- Easy account opening
- Round-up savings features
What to consider
- Low free tier rate (0.30%)
- Best rate (2.00%) requires paid plan
- Trade Republic beats it on rates
- Customer service issues reported
Wise Interest
What we like
- Interest paid monthly
- No lock-up period
- Excellent for multi-currency
- Instant access to funds
What to consider
- Not a bank deposit (money market fund)
- Not covered by €100k deposit guarantee
- Rate is variable and net of 0.26% fund fee
- Estonian investor protection only (€20k)
Questions
Is N26 Instant Savings or Wise Interest better for expats in the Netherlands?
Wise Interest comes out ahead for most expats. Interest rate: 1.57% as a promotion, then 1.72% vs 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal)
Which has the higher interest rate, N26 Instant Savings or Wise Interest?
Wise Interest pays more — 1.57% as a promotion, then 1.72% versus 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal).
Are N26 Instant Savings and Wise Interest covered by a deposit guarantee?
N26 Instant Savings: Up to €100,000 per person per bank, under the German deposit guarantee scheme (EdB). Wise Interest: Not covered by a deposit guarantee scheme. A money market fund, not a bank deposit. Wise Assets Europe AS is covered by the Estonian investor protection fund up to €20,000 if Wise fails; that doesn't cover losses in the fund.