Which bank is better Bank of America or Capital One?
Capital One is the clear winner when it comes to checking and savings accounts, since they pay interest on both account types while charging no fees. They also require no minimum deposit to open an account and offer a fee-free ATM network with more than 70,000 locations.
If higher APYs on savings accounts and CDs are important to you, Capital One is likely the better fit for you. But if in-person banking is your jam and you live near a Bank of America branch (of which there are many more than Capital One locations), that might be your pick.
Capital One downsides
For one, its interest rates on savings accounts aren't the highest out there—especially when compared with the best high-yield rates offered by some fully online banks.
The bank largely stands out because of its long-standing reputation and the accessibility of its branch locations and ATMs in much of the country. However, Bank of America receives lower ratings for its savings accounts and CDs because most options have low annual percentage yields (APYs).
Pros. Capital One offers no-fee access to more than 70,000 ATMs. You'll earn competitive rates on savings and CD accounts. Checking and savings accounts feature no minimum balance requirements.
JPMorgan Chase, or Chase Bank, is the biggest bank in America with nearly $3.4 trillion in assets. It boasts a vast network of over 4,800 physical branches and more than 15,000 ATMs. With generous bonuses and promotions and a variety of products, Chase is a popular choice for consumers across the country.
- Capital One 360 Checking: Best online checking account.
- Chase Total Checking®: Best for a large branch network.
- Axos Bank Rewards Checking: Best for online account options.
- Discover® Bank: Best for doing all of your banking at one place.
- Synchrony Bank: Best high-yield savings account.
Your money is safe at Capital One
The FDIC insures balances up to $250,000 held in various types of consumer and business deposit accounts. Capital One customers don't need to purchase or apply for FDIC insurance—coverage up to the FDIC's limit is automatic whenever a deposit account is opened.
While Capital One has a long-term credit rating of A- from Fitch Ratings, its risk profile and asset quality are at a BBB+ level.
Cons. Bank of America's highest APY on its Advantage Savings account is much less than the national average for savings accounts. There are savings accounts at FDIC-insured online banks with higher yields that don't have a monthly service fee.
Why would anyone use Bank of America?
Bank of America has approximately 4,300 branch locations and 17,000 ATMs, so you'll always have access to your money. The minimums to open a checking account are relatively low, so it's fairly easy to switch banks. If you can qualify for their Preferred Rewards program, it's worth it.
Pros. Vast ATM network: Bank of America is one of the largest banks in the US. If you need cash, there are thousands of branch and ATM locations to visit. Digital payment options: Each account gets a chipped debit card, access to Zelle and a digital wallet.
Its fraud protections, lack of fees, and easy mobile access make it a smart choice for new banking customers. Capital One also offers a savings account for kids that parents can control. It earns a 0.30% APY* and is accessible via mobile app.
So, if you prefer higher savings rates and lower fees on your banking accounts, then Capital One might be your choice. However, if you want to keep all your money in one place, and like the option of in-person banking you might want to consider Chase.
Rank by Asset Size | Bank Name | Number of Branches |
---|---|---|
6. | PNC Bank | 2,400 |
7. | Goldman Sachs Bank | None |
8. | Truist Bank | 2,000 |
9. | Capital One | 300 branches and 50+ Capital One Cafes |
Bank | Forbes Advisor Rating | Learn More |
---|---|---|
Chase Bank | 5.0 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
Bank of America | 4.2 | |
Wells Fargo Bank | 4.0 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
Citi® | 4.0 |
Money coach and certified financial planner Ohan Kayikchyan says it can make sense for a household to maintain four accounts: one checking account for monthly recurring bills and another for variable expenses, plus one savings account for emergency funds and a second for other savings goals.
What bank operates in all 50 states? No bank currently operates a branch location in all 50 states, though several of the nation's largest institutions come close. Chase Bank, for one, has over 4,700 branch locations in 49 states and Washington D.C. Wells Fargo also offers around 4,600 branches in 36 states.
Bank | The Ascent's Rating | FDIC Insured? |
---|---|---|
Capital One | 4.50 | Yes |
American Express® National Bank | 4.50 | Yes |
Quontic | 4.50 | Yes |
Chase | 4.50 | Yes |
JP Morgan Private Bank
“J.P. Morgan Private Bank is the more elite program serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals,” Naghibi said. “It offers comprehensive services in savings, checking and retirement account management. But, more than anything, it gives clients access to their bank and team with a concierge feel.”
Who is the best bank to go with?
- Alliant Credit Union: Best credit union.
- Ally Bank: Best bank; best CDs.
- Charles Schwab Bank: Best for ATM access.
- Chase: Best for sign-up bonuses; best for branch access.
- Discover® Bank: Best online banking experience.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Large bank with 3,900 branches around the US Possible to waive monthly fees Free overdraft protection | Low interest rates on savings and CDs Monthly fees on accounts |
Maintain a $1,500 minimum daily balance. Have at least one eligible direct deposit of at least $250. Enroll in BofA's Preferred Rewards program.
each month You can avoid the Monthly Maintenance Fee when you meet ONE of the following requirements during each statement cycle: • Maintain a minimum daily balance of $500 or more in your account, OR • Ask us to link your account to your Bank of America Advantage Relationship Banking®, Bank of America Advantage® with ...
Four plaintiffs said Capital One sought to maximize profit by charging "fictional" rates when it converted foreign currency transactions into dollars. They said the McLean, Virginia-based bank ignored rules set by card processors Visa (V.N) , opens new tab and Mastercard (MA.
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