N26 Instant Savings vs Scalable Capital Cash
Two savings accounts for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
Scalable Capital Cash is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Interest rate: 2.60% vs 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal)
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Interest rate | 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal) | 2.60% (better) |
| Minimum deposit | None | None |
| Access to your money | Instant | Instant |
| Maximum deposit | No limit (better) | €50,000 |
| Deposit guarantee | Up to €100,000 (DE scheme) (better) | Depends |
| Rate check | Verified 29 October 2026 | Verified 29 October 2026 |
Bold marks the better value in a row. Figures are checked daily against provider sources; each product page shows when its figures were last confirmed.
N26 Instant Savings
What we like
- Excellent mobile app
- German bank with EU guarantee
- Easy account opening
- Round-up savings features
What to consider
- Low free tier rate (0.30%)
- Best rate (2.00%) requires paid plan
- Trade Republic beats it on rates
- Customer service issues reported
Scalable Capital Cash
What we like
- 2.00% on cash balances
- German-regulated platform
- EU deposit guarantee
- Also offers ETF and stock investing
What to consider
- Maximum €50,000 for interest
- Primarily an investment platform
- German bank (not Dutch)
- Rate may follow ECB changes
Questions
Is N26 Instant Savings or Scalable Capital Cash better for expats in the Netherlands?
Scalable Capital Cash comes out ahead for most expats. Interest rate: 2.60% vs 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal)
Which has the higher interest rate, N26 Instant Savings or Scalable Capital Cash?
Scalable Capital Cash pays more — 2.60% versus 0.30% (up to 1.50% with N26 Metal).
Are N26 Instant Savings and Scalable Capital Cash covered by a deposit guarantee?
N26 Instant Savings: Up to €100,000 per person per bank, under the German deposit guarantee scheme (EdB). Scalable Capital Cash: Covered only in some cases (German deposit guarantee scheme (EdB), and partner banks under their own schemes). Only for money held as deposits: without the PRIME+ plan Scalable can hold the cash in money market funds instead, which no deposit guarantee covers.