Running a business today means you need more than a traditional high-street bank. For freelancers, growing SMEs, or companies with international clients, choosing the right digital business bank account simplifies operations and gives you the flexibility to grow globally.
But with so many providers available, how do you know which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll compare some of the best online business banking accounts in the UK to help you decide.
Why Choose Digital Business Banking?
Digital business banking has revolutionised how UK companies manage their finances. Unlike traditional high street banks, digital banking platforms offer:
24/7 accessibility through mobile apps and web platforms
Real-time transaction monitoring and instant notifications
Lower operational costs are passed on as reduced fees
Seamless integrations with accounting software and business tools
Faster account opening processes (often within minutes)
Enhanced security features, including biometric authentication
Multi-currency capabilities for international businesses
Top 5 Digital Business Banking Accounts
Here's our curated list of the best digital business banking accounts available in the UK:
Quick Comparison Table
Detailed Comparison & Analysis
1. Revolut Business - Best for Tech-Savvy Businesses
Key Features:
Multi-currency account supporting 30+ currencies
Expense management tools with automated categorisation
Corporate cards with spending controls
Analytics dashboard with detailed insights
API integration for custom solutions
Cryptocurrency support (selected plans)
Pricing:
Plans from £10-£90/month
Free currency exchange (limits apply)
International transfers from 0.5%
Best For: Technology companies, startups, and businesses requiring advanced analytics and automation.
2. Tide
Key Features:
100% mobile-first banking experience
Instant notifications for all transactions
Invoice management system
Expense categorisation with receipt capture
Team access with different permission levels
Integrations with business tools
Pricing:
Free plan available
Premium plans: £12.49-£69.99/month
Transaction fees: £0.20 per transfer
ATM withdrawals: £1
Best For: Digital natives, freelancers, businesses prioritising mobile-first experience.
3. Wise Business
Key Features:
Multi-currency account holding 40+ currencies
Real mid-market exchange rates
Local account details in 8+ currencies
Batch payments to multiple recipients
No monthly fees (one-time £45 setup fee) Pricing:
£45 one-time setup fee
International transfers from 0.33%
Free monthly ATM withdrawals up to £200
Debit card: £3 one-time fee
Best For: International businesses, freelancers with global clients, import/export companies.
4. Monzo Business - Best for Small UK Businesses
Key Features:
Simple pricing structure with transparent fees
Real-time spending notifications and insights
Expense tracking and automated categorisation
Integration with popular accounting software
Team management features for growing businesses
UK payment focus with excellent domestic banking
Customer support with quick response times
Spending analytics and budgeting tools
Pricing:
£5/month basic plan
UK payments included
International transfers available
No hidden fee structure
Leatherback Business
Leatherback operates as an FCA-regulated financial technology company that provides innovative digital banking solutions to businesses operating internationally. With unmatched multi-currency capabilities and competitive international payment rates, you get a true global business bank account.
Key Features:
Hold and manage 15+ currencies in one account
Zero monthly fees with transparent pricing
Real-time exchange
Global payment rails supporting multiple countries
Advanced compliance and regulatory features
Multi-user access with granular permission controls
Analytics dashboard with detailed insights
24/7 customer support with dedicated account managers
FCA-regulated for complete security and trust
Pricing:
No monthly account fees
International transfer fees from 0.3%
No minimum balance requirements
Ideal For: Businesses with international operations, startups, e-commerce companies, digital agencies, import/export businesses, and any company dealing with multiple currencies.
How to Choose the Right Digital Business Account
Step 1: Assess Your Business Needs
Transaction volume and frequency
International requirements and currencies needed
Team size and access requirements
Integration needs with existing tools
Growth projections and scalability requirements
Step 2: Calculate Total Costs
Don't just look at monthly fees. Consider:
Average monthly transaction costs
International transfer expenses
Card usage fees
Hidden charges and FX margins
Setup and maintenance costs
Step 3: Test the User Experience
Most providers offer:
Demo accounts or trial periods
Mobile app downloads for interface testing
Customer testimonials and case studies
Support team consultations
Step 4: Verify Regulatory Status
Check provider credentials:
FCA authorisation status
Regulatory complaints history
Financial stability ratings
Deposit protection schemes
Step 5: Plan for Growth
Choose a provider that can scale:
API availability for custom integrations
Enterprise features for growing teams
Advanced reporting and analytics
Multiple entity management
Choosing the right digital business banking account depends entirely on your specific business needs, transaction patterns, and growth plans. While traditional factors like fees and features remain important, modern businesses should also consider multi-currency capabilities, integration ecosystems, and international payment efficiency.
Leatherback is built for businesses with international operations or multi-currency requirements, offering unmatched global capabilities with transparent pricing.
Ready to make the switch? Start by defining your specific requirements, calculating total costs across your preferred options, and taking advantage of trial periods or demos offered by the shortlisted providers.
For businesses seeking a globally-capable, transparent, and feature-rich digital banking solution, explore Leatherback's business account offerings and discover how modern digital banking can transform your financial operations.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered financial advice. All fees and features are subject to change. Please verify current terms directly with providers before making any banking decisions.
Last updated: September 2025
