Barclays vs NatWest: which is better? Comparison 2026
By our public methodology Barclays scores 93 out of 100 and NatWest scores 85. Below: the factors and facts where they differ, each fact with its source.
Score breakdown
| Barclays | NatWest | |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | 100 | 80 |
| Digital services | 86 | 86 |
| Products | 100 | 100 |
| Transparency | 83 | 83 |
Pros and cons
Barclays
- Wide range of products for private customers
- Long track record as a licensed bank
- Member of a deposit protection scheme
- Holds its own current rating from a recognised agency
NatWest
- Wide range of products for private customers
- Long track record as a licensed bank
- Member of a deposit protection scheme
- Publishes annual reports
Facts side by side
| Fact | Barclays | NatWest |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed since | 1690 home.barclays | 1970 natwestgroup.com |
| Deposit protection | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| Agency rating | Yes home.barclays | Not verified |
| Annual reports online | Yes home.barclays | Yes natwestgroup.com |
| Mobile app | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| Open an account online | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| Instant payments | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| 24/7 support | No barclays.co.uk | No natwest.com |
| Retail lines offered (of 6) | 6 barclays.co.uk | 6 natwest.com |
| Tariffs online | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| Deposit rates online | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |
| Complaints procedure published | Yes barclays.co.uk | Yes natwest.com |