Hello to all friends of TuttoSemplice.com! Today I want to talk to you about a banking entity that has managed to win over millions of users throughout Europe, Italy included: N26. If you are looking for a modern and completely digital alternative to traditional banks, you are in the right place. In this in-depth review, based exclusively on information I found online, I will tell you about my virtual experience with N26, analyzing its offer, costs, pros, and cons in detail. Get ready, because we are going to get to the bottom of every aspect, just the way we like it at TuttoSemplice.com!

N26 is not a prepaid card, as some might think. In fact, N26 is a full-fledged bank with a German license that offers current accounts with associated Mastercard debit cards. This is an important distinction to make immediately to avoid misunderstandings. Many users search for information on the “N26 prepaid card” because they might be looking for a flexible and easy-to-manage solution, and indeed, N26’s proposal comes very close to this need, even though it is technically an account with a debit card.

In this article, we will explore together the features that make N26 an interesting choice for those who want simple, transparent, and accessible management of their finances directly from their smartphone. We will see how opening an account works, what the different available plans are, what the costs and fees are, what the app features are, and what users who already use this service think. In short, we will try to answer all the questions you might have about N26 and its Mastercard debit card.

My goal is to provide you with a complete and detailed review that helps you understand if N26 is the right solution for you. I spent hours navigating through the information available online, reading reviews, articles, and the official N26 pages, to offer you a picture that is as precise and complete as possible. And as always, I will try to do it with simple and direct language, just the way we like it at TuttoSemplice.com. So, sit back and get ready to discover everything there is to know about N26: the digital bank that lives in your smartphone.

What is N26 and How It Works: The 100% Digital Bank

To start our exploration of the N26 world, it is fundamental to understand exactly what it is and how this completely digital bank works. N26 is a bank based in Berlin that operates without physical branches, offering its services exclusively online via a convenient smartphone app (available for both iOS and Android) and a web platform accessible from a computer. This 100% digital nature is one of its distinctive traits and the main reason why many users choose it.

N26’s operating model is based on simplicity and immediacy. Opening an account takes just a few minutes directly from the app, without the need to go to a branch or fill out mountains of paperwork. The entire process is guided and intuitive, designed to be accessible even to those who are not very familiar with online banking services. Once the account is opened, you receive a Mastercard debit card (in some cases also virtual) that allows you to make payments online and in physical stores, as well as withdraw cash from ATMs.

Account management takes place entirely through the N26 app, which represents the true heart of this digital bank. Through the app, it is possible to:

• View the balance and account movements in real-time.
• Make and receive SEPA transfers (in euros) for free.
• Set up standing orders and direct debits.
• Send and receive money instantly to other N26 users via the MoneyBeam function.
• Manage card settings, such as locking or unlocking it, changing the PIN, and setting spending and withdrawal limits.
• Receive push notifications in real-time for every transaction made.
• Access additional features depending on the type of account chosen, such as creating separate spaces for savings (Spaces), detailed spending statistics, and the ability to pay for purchases in installments.
• Make international transfers in different currencies via the integration with Wise (formerly TransferWise), with transparent and competitive fees.

An important aspect to highlight is that deposits with N26 are guaranteed up to 100,000 euros by the German Deposit Protection Fund, thus offering a high level of security for your savings. Furthermore, N26 uses advanced security systems to protect its customers’ data and transactions, such as the 3D Secure protocol for online purchases and the ability to lock and unlock the card in real-time via the app.

In summary, N26 presents itself as a modern and flexible banking solution, ideal for those looking for an alternative to traditional banks and prefer to manage their finances autonomously and digitally. Its 100% online operation, ease of use, and the numerous features offered through the app make it an interesting choice for a wide audience, from young people to professionals, to those who travel often and need an account that works without problems even abroad.

The Different N26 Plans: Which One to Choose?

N26 offers different subscription plans designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users. Each of these plans presents different features, benefits, and costs. Let’s analyze them in detail to understand which one might be the most suitable for your needs.

N26 Standard: The Free Basic Account

The N26 Standard plan represents the basic option offered by N26 and is characterized by being free of charge. This account includes a virtual Mastercard debit card (with the possibility of requesting a transparent physical card with an additional shipping cost) and allows you to make contactless and online payments via smartphone. With N26 Standard, you have available up to 3 free withdrawals per month in euros from ATMs. SEPA transfers in euros are free, as are standing orders and direct debits. This plan is ideal for those looking for a simple current account without fixed costs for daily operations.

N26 Smart: Extra Features at an Affordable Cost

The N26 Smart plan offers some additional features compared to the Standard plan for an affordable monthly cost. With this plan, you receive a free physical Mastercard debit card (available in different colors) and have the possibility to request an extra card linked to the account. Withdrawals in euros from ATMs are unlimited and free. Additionally, you have access to priority customer support features and advanced budget management tools. This plan is designed for those who want something more than the basic account, such as the convenience of a free physical card and unlimited withdrawals in euros.

N26 You: Ideal for Travelers

The N26 You plan is designed for those who travel often and need an account that offers specific benefits for abroad. In addition to the features included in the Smart plan, N26 You offers unlimited free withdrawals in foreign currency (other than the euro). It also includes an Allianz insurance package covering travel medical expenses, flight delays, luggage loss, and more. The Mastercard debit card included in this plan is available in several exclusive colors. N26 You is the ideal choice for frequent travelers who want an account that offers peace of mind and convenience even abroad.

N26 Metal: Top of the Line with Exclusive Benefits

The N26 Metal plan represents N26’s premium offer and includes all the benefits of the previous plans, plus a series of exclusive advantages. The Mastercard debit card included in this plan is made of stainless steel and offers a premium experience even to the touch. In addition to the travel insurance included in the You plan, N26 Metal offers coverage for car rentals, smartphone insurance, and access to exclusive experiences and partnerships with selected brands. This plan is designed for those looking for the maximum from a digital current account and desire an exclusive banking experience.

N26 Business: Current Account for Freelancers and Professionals

In addition to personal accounts, N26 also offers current accounts dedicated to freelancers and professionals. These accounts, available in Standard, Smart, You, and Metal versions, offer specific features for business finance management, such as the possibility to get 0.1% cashback on all purchases made with the N26 Business Mastercard. The features and costs of these accounts are similar to those of the corresponding personal plans, but with the addition of benefits designed for the needs of those who are self-employed.

N26 Plans Comparison Table

To help you choose the plan best suited to your needs, here is a summary table with the main features of each N26 personal account:

How to Open an N26 Account: A Simple and Fast Process

If you are interested in opening an account with N26, I will be happy to guide you through the process, based on the information I found online. As anticipated, one of the great advantages of N26 is the simplicity and speed with which it is possible to become a customer. The entire process takes place online, comfortably from your smartphone or computer.

Here are the main steps to open an N26 account:

1. Download the N26 app: The first step is to download the N26 app from your smartphone’s store (App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android). Alternatively, you can start the registration from the N26 website.
2. Register: Once the app is downloaded, open the application and follow the instructions for registration. You will be asked to enter your personal data, such as first name, last name, date of birth, email address, and phone number.
3. Verify your email address: After entering your data, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to click to verify your email address.
4. Choose your plan: At this point, you will be presented with an overview of the different subscription plans offered by N26 (Standard, Smart, You, Metal). Choose the plan that best suits your needs.
5. Verify your identity: To complete the account opening, it is necessary to verify your identity. This process takes place online via a video call with an N26 operator or by uploading a photo of your ID document (ID card, passport, or driver’s license) and, in some cases, a short video selfie. Make sure you have a valid document and a good internet connection at hand.
6. Link your smartphone: During the verification process, you will be asked to link your smartphone to your new N26 account. This step is fundamental for security and to be able to manage the account via the app.
7. Receive your Mastercard debit card: Once identity verification is complete, your account will be active and, depending on the chosen plan, you will receive your physical Mastercard debit card directly at home within a few days. If you chose the Standard plan, you will receive a virtual card immediately available in the app.

Requirements to open an N26 account:

• Be of legal age (have turned 18).
• Be a resident in one of the countries where N26 operates (Italy is included, but verify the current situation on the N26 website).
• Possess a smartphone with iOS or Android operating system.
• Have a valid email address.
• Have a valid phone number.
• Have a valid identity document (ID card, passport, or driver’s license).

As you can see, the process of opening an N26 account is simple, fast, and completely digital. It is not necessary to go to a branch or fill out paper forms. Everything happens comfortably from your home, in a few minutes. Once the account is opened, you can immediately start using your virtual card (if available) for online payments and via mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), while waiting to receive your physical card.

The N26 App: The Heart of Your Digital Bank

The N26 app is the hub of the entire banking experience offered by this digital bank. It is through this application that users can manage their account, perform operations, check expenses, and access all the features offered by N26. I navigated through the reviews and descriptions of the app available online for a long time, and I can tell you that it seems to be an intuitive, easy-to-use, and feature-rich application.

Here are some of the main features that the N26 app offers its users:

• Account overview: The main screen of the app offers a clear overview of the available balance, recent movements, and pending transactions.
• Transaction management: It is possible to view the details of each transaction, filter them by category or period, and even add notes or tags to keep track of your expenses.
• Transfers and payments: The app allows you to make SEPA transfers simply and quickly, set up standing orders, and manage direct debits. It is also possible to send and receive money instantly to other N26 users via the MoneyBeam function.
• Spaces: This is one of the most interesting features of the N26 app. It allows you to create virtual sub-accounts (called “Spaces”) within your main account, to organize your savings for specific goals (for example, “Vacation”, “New car”, “Emergency fund”). It is possible to set automatic saving rules and transfer money between the main account and Spaces simply and quickly.
• Statistics and budget: The N26 app offers detailed charts and statistics on expenses, divided by categories (for example, “Groceries”, “Transport”, “Entertainment”). This helps users better understand where their money goes and keep their budget under control.
• Card management: Through the app, it is possible to lock and unlock the card in case of loss or theft, change the PIN, set spending and withdrawal limits, and even activate or deactivate online and foreign payments.
• Real-time notifications: The app sends push notifications for every movement on the account, keeping users always updated on incoming and outgoing funds.
• Customer support: The app offers a direct chat channel with N26 customer support, available in different languages. This allows users to get assistance quickly and conveniently directly from their smartphone.
• Integration with Wise: For international transfers, the N26 app integrates the Wise service (formerly TransferWise), allowing users to make money transfers in different currencies with transparent and competitive fees.
• N26 Installments: In some countries (check availability in Italy), the app offers the possibility to pay for recent eligible purchases in installments, offering greater flexibility in expense management.

From the reviews I read online, it seems that users particularly appreciate the ease of use, the intuitive interface, and the richness of features of the N26 app. The ability to manage your account completely and autonomously directly from your smartphone is certainly one of the strong points of this digital bank. However, some reviews report occasional problems with customer support or with some specific app features. It is always advisable to read the most recent reviews on the app store to get a more precise idea of the current user experience.

Costs and Fees of N26: Transparency First?

A fundamental aspect to consider when choosing a bank is that of costs and fees. N26 positions itself as a transparent bank, but it is important to carefully analyze the economic conditions of the different plans to understand if they fit your needs.

N26 Standard Account: As we have seen, the basic N26 Standard account is free regarding the monthly fee. However, there are some costs to consider:

• Physical card shipping (optional): 10 euros.
• Withdrawals in euros from ATMs: Free up to 3 per month, after which a fee of 2 euros per withdrawal is applied.
• Withdrawals in foreign currency: 1.7% fee on the withdrawn amount (this does not apply to You and Metal plans).
• Payments in foreign currency: No additional fee, the Mastercard exchange rate is applied.

N26 Smart, You, and Metal Accounts: These plans involve a monthly cost (check the updated amount on the N26 website). In return, they offer several benefits, including:

• Free physical Mastercard debit card (and possibility to request additional cards).
• Unlimited withdrawals in euros from ATMs (Smart plan).
• Unlimited withdrawals in euros and foreign currency from ATMs (You and Metal plans).
• Travel insurance (You and Metal plans).
• Other exclusive benefits (Metal plan).

Transfers and other operations:

• SEPA transfers in euros: Free for all plans.
• Standing orders and direct debits: Free for all plans.
• International transfers with Wise: Fees vary depending on the currency and the amount transferred. N26 always shows the fees transparently before performing the operation.
• Account top-up via bank transfer: Free.
• Account top-up via debit card: Fees may be applied by the card issuing bank.
• Cash deposits via Cash26 (if available in your country): Fees may apply (check specific conditions).

Other fees:

• Fees for failed direct debit payments: May apply (check specific conditions).
• Fees for card blocking and replacement (in certain circumstances): May apply (check specific conditions).

In general, N26 presents itself as a bank with low costs, especially regarding the basic Standard account and operations in euros. The paid plans offer interesting benefits, especially for those who travel often or have specific needs. It is fundamental, however, to carefully consult the updated price list on the official N26 website to have a complete and detailed picture of all costs and fees applied to the different services and plans. Transparency in this area is crucial to avoid surprises and choose the banking solution best suited to your spending habits and financial needs.

Pros and Cons of N26: An Honest Balance

After analyzing the features, costs, and functions of N26 in detail, it is time to make an honest balance, summarizing the main pros and cons I found from my online research.

Pros:

• Free current account (Standard plan): The possibility of having a current account without fixed costs is certainly a great advantage for many users.
• Ease and speed of account opening: The online registration process is simple and fast, allowing you to become a customer in a few minutes.
• Intuitive and feature-rich app: The N26 app is well-designed, easy to use, and offers numerous features for account and expense management.
• Mastercard debit card accepted globally: The N26 card can be used for payments and withdrawals all over the world.
• Free withdrawals in euros (up to a certain limit with the Standard plan, unlimited with higher plans): This is an important aspect for those who need to withdraw cash regularly.
• Free SEPA transfers: Money transfer operations in euros are free.
• Innovative features like Spaces: The ability to create virtual sub-accounts for savings is very useful for organizing your finances.
• Real-time notifications: Push notifications for every transaction offer a high level of control over your expenses.
• Security: N26 is a bank with a German license and deposits are guaranteed up to 100,000 euros.
• Plans suitable for different needs: The offer of different subscription plans allows you to choose the solution best suited to your needs and budget.
• Integration with Wise for international transfers: This offers competitive and transparent fees for money transfers abroad.

Cons:

• Absence of physical branches: For some users, the lack of a physical presence could be a limitation, especially in case of complex problems or the need for in-person assistance.
• Limitations on free withdrawals in euros with the Standard plan: Only 3 free withdrawals per month might not be enough for everyone.
• Fees for withdrawals in foreign currency with the Standard plan: The 1.7% fee could be a significant cost for those who travel often outside the euro zone (this does not apply to You and Metal plans).
• Customer support mainly online: Even though the app offers a support chat, some users might prefer telephone or in-person contact in case of problems.
• Temporary operational limitations in Italy for acquiring new customers: As mentioned earlier, it is important to check the current situation on the N26 website.
• Some online reviews report occasional problems with customer support: Although many users are satisfied, some negative reviews mention difficulties in solving problems or getting quick answers from customer support.
• No prepaid card offered: If you are specifically looking for a prepaid card, N26 is not the suitable solution, as it offers current accounts with debit cards.

In conclusion, N26 presents numerous advantages, especially for those looking for a digital, flexible banking solution with low costs (in the case of the Standard plan). Its intuitive and feature-rich app, combined with the convenience of a globally accepted Mastercard debit card, make it an interesting choice for many users. However, it is important to also consider the potential disadvantages, such as the absence of physical branches and fees for withdrawals in foreign currency with the basic plan, and evaluate if they fit your specific needs.

User Opinions on N26: What Do They Say Online?

To get an even more complete picture of N26, I searched online for the opinions of users who already use this digital bank. I consulted reviews on various online platforms (forums, social media) to understand experiences, strong points, and criticisms from users.

In general, many reviews on N26 are positive. Users often praise the app’s ease of use, the speed of the account opening process, and the transparency of costs (especially for the Standard plan). Many also appreciate innovative features like Spaces and real-time notifications, which help keep finances under control. The convenience of being able to manage everything from your smartphone and having a debit card accepted worldwide are other aspects often mentioned positively.

However, as with any service, there is no shortage of negative reviews. Some users have reported problems with customer support, complaining about long response times or difficulties in resolving certain issues. Other criticisms concern occasional account blocks or requests for additional identity verification, which can cause inconvenience. It is important to note that some negative reviews might be dated or refer to specific situations.

One aspect I noticed during my research is that some people confuse N26 with a prepaid card or a credit card. It is fundamental to reiterate that N26 offers current accounts with associated Mastercard debit cards. This distinction is important to understand the nature of the service offered.

Regarding security, most users feel safe with N26, knowing that it is a bank with a German license and that deposits are protected up to 100,000 euros. The security features integrated into the app, such as the ability to lock and unlock the card and receive real-time notifications, contribute to creating a sense of security and control.

In conclusion, user opinions on N26 are generally positive, with many appreciating its digital nature, ease of use, and features offered. However, it is important to be aware that, as with any service, there can also be negative experiences. I always recommend reading several reviews and considering your specific needs before making a decision.

N26 vs. Other Prepaid Cards and Digital Banks: A Comparison

To help you better understand N26’s positioning in the digital financial services landscape, it can be useful to make a brief comparison with other prepaid cards and digital banks available on the market.

N26 vs. Traditional Prepaid Cards

• Product nature: N26 offers a current account with a debit card, while traditional prepaid cards are generally reloadable and not linked to a bank account.
• IBAN: N26 accounts have an IBAN, which allows receiving and making transfers like a normal current account. Prepaid cards often do not have an IBAN or have one with limited functionality.
• Features: N26 offers a wider range of features compared to prepaid cards, such as the ability to set up direct debits, standing orders, create sub-accounts for savings (Spaces), and access detailed spending statistics.
• Costs: Costs can vary depending on the prepaid card and the chosen N26 plan. The N26 Standard plan is free regarding the monthly fee, while many prepaid cards involve issuance, reload, or management costs.

Comparison with other Digital Banks (like Revolut, Hype, etc.)

• Product offering: Many digital banks offer both current accounts with debit cards and prepaid cards. N26 focuses mainly on current accounts with debit cards.
• Costs and fees: Costs and fees can vary significantly between different digital banks. It is important to carefully compare the plans offered by each to understand which is the most convenient for your needs.
• App features: All digital banks put their app at the center. The features offered can vary, but often include account management, payments, transfers, budgeting, and savings tools.
• Customer support: Customer support is generally offered via digital channels (chat, email, phone). The quality and responsiveness of support can vary between different banks.
• Insurances and extra benefits: Some digital banks offer travel insurance or other benefits included in their premium plans, as N26 does with its You and Metal plans.

N26 is a digital bank with a current account and Mastercard, more complete than prepaid cards (with IBAN). For the choice compared to other digital banks, evaluate costs, functions, and support.

Conclusions

My immersion into the world of N26, based exclusively on the information I found online, left me with the impression of a dynamic and future-oriented bank. The focus on simplicity, transparency, and user experience through a well-designed app are certainly its strong points. The range of N26 plans, from free to premium with exclusive benefits, aims to satisfy a wide audience with different needs.

Of course, as with any service, there are also aspects to consider carefully. The absence of physical branches could be a deterrent for some, as well as the fees for withdrawals in foreign currency with the basic plan. Online reviews, while mostly positive, also highlight some areas for improvement, especially regarding customer support.

However, overall, N26 seems to offer a valid alternative to the traditional banking system, especially for those who are comfortable with technology and are looking for simple, fast, and completely digital management of their finances. Its nature as a licensed bank, combined with the deposit guarantee and advanced security systems, offers an important level of reliability.

If you are looking for a bank that lives in your smartphone, that allows you to manage your money autonomously and flexibly, and that offers you a debit card accepted worldwide, N26 certainly deserves to be considered. Visit the N26 website and explore the plans to understand if this digital bank is the ideal solution for your financial needs. Always remember to read the terms and conditions carefully and evaluate your specific needs before making a financial decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is N26 a prepaid card?
No, N26 offers current accounts with associated Mastercard debit cards, not prepaid cards.

How much does it cost to open an N26 Standard account?
Opening an N26 Standard account is free, but shipping the physical card (optional) costs 10 euros.

How many free withdrawals can I make with N26 Standard?
With N26 Standard you have up to 3 free withdrawals per month in euros from ATMs available.

Can I use the N26 card abroad?
Yes, the N26 Mastercard debit card is accepted worldwide for payments and withdrawals. However, with the Standard plan, withdrawals in foreign currency incur a 1.7% fee.

Is it safe to keep money on N26?
Yes, N26 is a bank with a German license and deposits are guaranteed up to 100,000 euros by the German Deposit Protection Fund.

How can I contact N26 customer support?
N26 customer support is available primarily through the chat integrated into the app.

Can I receive transfers to my N26 account?
Yes, N26 accounts have an IBAN, so you can receive and make SEPA transfers in euros.

What are N26 Spaces?
Spaces are virtual sub-accounts that you can create within your main N26 account to organize your savings for specific goals.

Does N26 offer accounts for businesses?
Yes, N26 also offers current accounts dedicated to freelancers and professionals (N26 Business).

What is the difference between N26 Standard and N26 Smart?
N26 Smart is a paid plan that offers additional benefits compared to N26 Standard, such as a free physical card, unlimited withdrawals in euros, and priority customer support.