N26

German mobile bank founded in Berlin in 2013

App-first current accounts, cards and savings tools for consumers across Europe with a Berlin headquarters.

GermanyGermanyDigital ServicesNeobankMobile bankingFounded 2013Unicorn

About N26

N26 launched in Berlin in 2013 as a smartphone-based bank offering current accounts, debit cards and money management tools without traditional branch networks. Licensed as N26 Bank SE, it serves customers in multiple European countries with a focus on simple onboarding and in-app banking features.

Why consider N26

  • Fully digital account opening for eligible European residents
  • Transparent fee structures on standard and premium plans
  • Real-time notifications and spending analytics in-app
  • European banking licence with euro account capabilities
  • Travel-friendly cards and partner perks on premium tiers

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Brand comparison

BrandCountryPositioningMain categoryPrice level
N26GermanyGermanyMobile-first neobankBankingFree / subscription tiers
RevolutUnited KingdomUnited KingdomGlobal finance super-appBanking and fintechFree / subscription tiers
WiseUnited KingdomUnited KingdomMulti-currency accounts and transfersMoney transferLow-fee transfers

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Brand details

Brand ownership

  1. N26 Group
  2. N26 Bank SE

Market presence

  • Mobile apps on iOS and Android
  • Retail banking in supported EU markets
  • Online onboarding
  • Partner offers on premium plans
  • Business banking in selected countries

Brand timeline

  1. 2013Founded in Berlin as Number26
  2. 2016Receives German banking licence and rebrands to N26
  3. 2018Expands into major European markets
  4. 2021Regulatory growth review leads to US exit and refocus on Europe
  5. 2023Continues profitability and product refinement push
  6. TodayLeading European neobank headquartered in Berlin