Online Banks vs. Traditional Banks: Which Is the Better Option for You?

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For many years, the only way to open a checking or savings account was to visit the local brick-and-mortar branch of a bank or credit union. And while it's still possible to bank with a traditional financial institution this way, in-person banking is no longer your sole option—you can also choose from a variety of online banks. 

Storing your money with a traditional bank comes with pros and cons, and the same is true for online banks. So, if you're on the fence about whether an online or traditional bank might be best for your banking needs, the following guide can help you understand the difference between online banks vs. traditional banks.

Online vs. Traditional Banks Comparison

In many ways, online and traditional banks work the same. With both, you may be able to open checking accounts and savings accounts, and borrow money as well. Yet there are a few key differences that set these two types of financial institutions apart. 

Traditional Banks Overview

Traditional banks have existed in the United States for 240 years. The primary feature that differentiates traditional banks from online banks is that you can visit a branch in person. Whether you opt to do business with a large national bank or a smaller local brand, a traditional bank should have at least one brick-and-mortar location you can visit to speak with a live banking representative. (Some traditional banks may encourage or even require you to schedule an appointment to speak with someone about your account, apply for financing and handle other issues.) 

In addition to in-person customer service, traditional banks may also offer features that online banks do not. For example, some online banks do not accept cash deposits. And cash withdrawals from an online bank may be more limited since you're at the mercy of ATM limits and the specific cash denominations that the ATM stocks (typically $20 bills). 

Pros and Cons of Traditional Banks

Recommended Bank Accounts

Account	Intro Bonus	Monthly maintenance fee	Learn More
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Online Banks Overview

Online banks don't offer in-person banking services like traditional banks and credit unions. However, by not maintaining brick-and-mortar locations, these financial institutions are also able to reduce their expenses. In return, online banks can pass these savings on to their customers. Many online banks offer attractive benefits such as zero monthly banking fees and and high-yield savings accounts.

While digital banking traces its roots back to the 1980s, most early examples involve traditional banks offering online services. The first all-digital American bank—aptly named First Internet Bank—came about in 1999. Online banking didn't really take off until the mid-2000s, at which point technological advancements such as smartphones and laptops had greatly increased internet accessibility. Big players in the online bank scene like Quontic Bank and Ally Bank launched soon after, with others following suit in the early 2010s.

There are now many online banking options for consumers to choose from, with the best online banks offering a wide variety of checking accounts, savings accounts, CDs and more. 

Pros and Cons of Online Banks

Recommended High-Yield Savings Accounts

Bank Account	APY	Features	Learn More
BrioDirect High-Yield Savings Account Open Account	4.85% More Info *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is variable and is accurate as of 11/15/2024. Rate is subject to certain terms and conditions. You must deposit at least $5,000 to open your account and maintain $25 to earn the disclosed APY. Rate and APY may change at any time. Fees may reduce earnings.	$5,000 min. deposit No monthly fee	Open Account
UFB Direct Portfolio Savings Account Open Account	4.31% More Info UFB Direct breaks balances into five tiers, but, currently, there is only one interest rate.	No minimum deposit No monthly fee	Open Account
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CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account Open Account	4.55% More Info Earn 4.55% APY on balances over $5,000. Balances of less than $5,000 earn 0.25% APY. Annual Percentage Yield is accurate as of November 13, 2024. Interest rates for the Platinum Savings account are variable and subject to change at any time without notice.	$100 minimum deposit No monthly fee	Open Account

How to Choose the Best Bank for You

Gone are the days when you have to choose a single bank to serve all of your needs. It's now easy (and often wise) to store your money with more than one financial institution. Keeping your emergency fund in a separate account, for example, could help you remove the temptation to spend your savings and might help you earn a higher interest rate on your money. 

If you're in the market for a new deposit account, your best bet is to shop around and see what's available. Don't feel like just because you have your checking and savings account with on bank that you need to open a certificate of deposit (CD), for example, with the same financial institution. Instead, see which banks offer the best CD rates and go from there.

Likewise, if you're looking for a high-yield savings account to save money for a short-term savings goal, you'd be better off comparing offers and seeing which banks have the best high-yield savings account deals. In some cases, you may be able to find bank bonuses and promotions that you can earn when you open a new bank account—and even good offers for small business checking accounts. 

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Bottom Line

Depending on your banking needs and preferences, you might be able to benefit from opening both online and traditional bank accounts. Consider what services and features you prefer, such as in-person service, user-friendly mobile tools, low fees and high APYs. The good news is that you don't have to choose between these two options. 

There's nothing wrong with opening both types of bank accounts and linking them together. When you choose to work with both online banks and traditional banks, you can put together a variety of financial products to take the best care of your unique financial needs.