Co-operative Bank vs Metro Bank compared

Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying. You can check a firm’s details on the FCA Register.

FSCS protects eligible deposits up to £120,000 per person, per authorised institution.

Quick answer

Both have no-fee current accounts. The Co-operative Bank adds 0% currency conversion abroad and a 7.00% Regular Saver; Metro Bank offers walk-in stores and capped overdraft charges but charges 2.99% abroad.

The Co-operative Bank plans to transfer to Coventry Building Society on 1 January 2027, subject to court approval.

Co-op Bank vs Metro Bank compared

FeatureCo-operative BankMetro Bank
Monthly fee£0£0
Card abroad0% currency conversion2.99% (+£1.50 for cash)
Regular saver7.00% variable, up to £250 a monthNone listed
Fixed savings4.25% AER for 1, 2 or 3 years (from £1,000; Co-operative Bank, 19 Oct 2026)3.70%–3.75% AER (from £500)
Business account£0 Business Bank Account£0 if £6,000+ daily, else £8
Planned changeTransfer to Coventry Building Society (1 January 2027, subject to court approval)None noted

Figures as of 4 October 2026, taken from each provider’s own website; Co-operative Bank fixed savings rate re-checked on 19 October 2026. Rates and fees can change.

Who each suits

  • Co-op Bank: ethical-minded savers and travellers
  • Metro Bank: people who want in-store help and businesses keeping £6,000+

Who should skip it

These are general points to weigh up, not advice. You may want to look elsewhere if:

  • You need certainty about who’ll run your account next year — check Co-op’s transfer plans

Full explanation

For savers, Co-op’s rates were higher across the board on 4 October 2026. For face-to-face help, Metro’s stores are the draw.

The catch

Co-op’s switching offer is a prize draw, not a guaranteed payment.

Check each bank’s current terms.

These go straight to each provider’s own website. They aren’t referral links and we don’t earn from them.

FAQs

Which is better abroad?

The Co-operative Bank advertises 0% currency conversion; Metro charges 2.99%.

Is the Co-operative Bank closing?

No — it’s proposing to transfer its business to Coventry Building Society, subject to court approval.

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Written by Steven — Editor, The Finance Lowdown

Fact checked by Angela — Editorial Reviewer

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