Lauren V. Macaraeg – Management Library

August 1, 2022March 29, 2023

Surfshark Review: King of Secure VPNs

Surfshark review: A black laptop screen using surfshark vpn to connect to the internet

Surfshark safeguards your online privacy through first-rate VPN services. Like the shark is the king of the ocean, it’s the king of secure VPNs because it combines advanced security, abundant servers, agile speeds, and affordable pricing.

In this Surfshark review, let’s dive into the pricing, features, pros, cons, and competitors of one of the most secure VPNs in the industry. Discover if Surfshark is the perfect match for you as a small business owner or freelancer.

Our Verdict

Surfshark

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Surfshark Review

In the ocean of VPN providers, Surfshark is a top-notch choice for entrepreneurs and professionals who plan to use a virtual private network (VPN). First of all, it has a rich set of security features, including CleanWeb, MultiHop, Kill Switch, IP change, private DNS, two-factor authentication, AES-256-GCM encryption, and a no-logs policy.

Plus, it has a respectably wide server network that’s composed of over 3,200 servers in 95 countries. It’s in the process of upgrading its 1Gbps VPN servers to 10Gbps on a global scale. Finally, the 2-year and 1-year plans have economical rates at $2.49 and $3.99 per month respectively.

While Surfshark is a first-rate VPN company, it has a few limitations too. For example, it doesn’t offer any free plans, unlike some VPN providers. Aside from this, the monthly plan has a much higher rate at $12.95 per month compared to the annual and 2-year packages. Lastly, third-party audits are done occasionally, but not every year which means less transparency.

Solid security suite
3,200+ servers
Network speed upgrade
Cost-effective long-term rates

Lacks free plan
Relatively higher monthly pricing
Occasional audits, not annual

Surfshark at a Glance

Surfshark is a VPN provider that strives for innovations in the cybersecurity industry. Its goal is to make digital security accessible to everyone. Established in 2018, it’s currently based in the Netherlands. It’s already gaining recognition as a VPN company through awards, such as the “Best Value VPN 2019” and “Mobile VPN Solution of the Year 2020.”

Surfshark shines among VPN providers because it offers you terrific value for your money. If you subscribe to a budget-friendly VPN plan, you can benefit from an impressive range of features, including superior security, Bypasser, NoBorders, server network, a speedy connection, wide device compatibility, unlimited devices, external audits, payment options, and good customer service.

Pricing: Starts at $2.49/month

Who Surfshark Is Best For

Surfshark is ideal for small business owners and independent contractors who are looking for a great deal on secure VPN services. After all, you only need to pay low monthly rates if you sign up for the 2-year or 1-year packages. Even more importantly, this VPN provider is generous when it comes to providing attractive VPN features along with its plans, which we’ll discuss in this Surfshark review.

Pricing

Surfshark presents three types of plans for VPN users. Check out the chart below to learn more about these packages:

Price

$2.49/month

$3.99/month

$12.95/month

Security

Security suite + free antivirus

Security suite

Bypasser

NoBorders

Server Network

3,200+

Connection Speed

1 Gbps – 10 Gbps

Device Compatibility

Browser + Desktop + Mobile

Maximum Devices

Unlimited

Third-Party Audits

Payment Options

Credit/debit card + Third-party payment platforms + Cryptocurrency

Customer Support

24/7 live chat & email support

To sum things up, there are three kinds of Surfshark packages:

24 Months: $2.49/month
12 Months: $3.99/month
1 Month: $12.95/month

Screenshot of Surfshark pricing plan — *Source: Surfshark*

The main difference between the packages is the rates since the long-term plans are significantly cheaper than the short-term plan.

Overall, these plans are almost the same when it comes to features, although the 2-year plan includes a free antivirus as a bonus.

Surfshark Features

Surfshark has a strong set of features that you can take advantage of. In this Surfshark features overview, we’ll talk about security, Bypasser, NoBorders, server network, connection speed, device compatibility, maximum devices, third-party audits, payment options, and customer support.

Security

Surfshark has one of the most comprehensive security suites among VPN providers. To begin with, it keeps your sensitive data private through industry-grade AES-256-GCM encryption. lt ensures that only you can access your account through two-factor authentication.

Aside from the basics, it showcases advanced security features to level up your online safety. CleanWeb efficiently blocks malware and ads before they load, while preventing phishing attempts that could expose your accounts. MultiHop allows you to route your internet traffic through two servers located in two different countries to improve browsing security.

In addition to this, each server has a private DNS to safeguard your identity. Leak protection is available as well if you use the IPv4 stack. Also, Kill Switch serves as a safety net just in case your VPN connection suddenly drops.

Last but not least, it enforces a strict no-logs policy. After all, it’s based in the Netherlands, which is the ideal headquarters for a VPN company. In this country, there’s no data retention law that requires it to log your activity.

Bypasser

Bypasser is the VPN split tunneling feature of Surfshark. It gives you the choice to let some of your internet traffic go through the VPN server while allowing certain apps and programs to bypass it. This function can come in handy if you want to continue encrypting your classified data while speeding up your internet connection for general browsing. Just be aware that you will use your own IP address for the apps which bypass the VPN.

NoBorders

The NoBorders mode of Surfshark makes it possible for you to access global content. No matter where you are located, it gives you the opportunity to freely use the internet without any geographical limitations. It lists down all the servers that work well under local network restrictions. While you can set the NoBorders mode to automatic activation, you may also opt to turn it on and off manually.

Server Network

At present, Surfshark boasts a fairly expansive network made up of more than 3,200 servers. These servers are located in 95 countries in various regions all over the world, including the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa.

The network is well-defended by security protocols, such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec, and IKEv2. The 100% RAM-only servers are continuously enhanced by software updates and periodic wiping.

Connection Speed

The Surfshark network is currently being upgraded for faster connection speeds. To start with, there is already a minimum of a single 1 Gbps port on each server. On top of that, new 10 Gbps ports are being added each day to the network. Surfshark explains that these new ports are designed to transfer large amounts of data faster. Plus, the addition of brand-new servers means that you have more server resources to share with other VPN users for a more stable connection.

Device Compatibility

You can use Surfshark with a broad range of devices. For instance, it’s compatible with popular browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. All you need to do is download a VPN proxy extension to benefit from an encrypted proxy. Plus, you can use it with most computers and smartphones. After all, it supports common desktop and mobile operating systems, such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Maximum Devices

Surfshark grants you the privilege of using VPN services on unlimited devices. You can connect all your laptops and phones at the same time if you sign up for a VPN plan. This is a cost-effective advantage because you don’t need to pay extra anymore just to use a VPN connection with additional gadgets.

Third-Party Audits

Just last May 2021, Surfshark underwent its most recent third-party audit by Cure53. After inspecting the server infrastructure, the German cybersecurity firm verified that the network has solid defaults. Also, it confirmed that the constructs were skillfully configured. While the auditor found a few small issues, Surfshark made a prompt effort to remedy these issues.

Back in November 2018, the VPN provider went through its very first external audit by Cure53. During this initial audit, the firm validated that the browser extensions of Surfshark have generally good security with only two minor issues. Although it would have been better if Surfshark requested an annual audit, it’s still noteworthy that it achieved overall positive feedback from the completed audits.

Payment Options

No matter which package you select, there are different methods you can use to pay for your Surfshark plan subscription. The payment options include credit card, debit card, cryptocurrency, and third-party payment processing platforms like Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and PayPal. Just head to the Surfshark website to make your online payment via your preferred method.

Customer Support

Surfshark provides 24/7 customer service to all VPN users. You may contact the support team through live chat or email if you need technical assistance. Also, you can submit a ticket request via the official website. While round-the-clock service is a good perk, it would have been more helpful if Surfshark offered phone support as well since it’s sometimes easier to speak directly with an agent.

Alternatives to Surfshark

Surfshark is a viable option if you need a highly secure VPN for business purposes. Nevertheless, you can also look at other alternatives if you are focusing on other aspects of VPN services.

CyberGhost

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CyberGhost Review

CyberGhost is a VPN provider based in Romania that’s counted as one of the best VPNs for PCs. It’s ideal for VPN users who need an extremely wide server network. After all, it has even more servers than Surfshark with over 8,000 servers in 91 countries. Unlike Surfshark, CyberGhost publishes regular transparency reports and develops crypto-technology.

However, Surfshark has an edge over CyberGhost in other ways. For example, its 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps speed range is faster than the underwhelming 6 Mbps to 1 Gbps estimated speed of CyberGhost. Plus, Surfshark has completed third-party audits, which CyberGhost totally lacks. While both have respectable security suites, Surfshark has more advanced features than CyberGhost.

8,000+ servers
Transparency reports
Crypto-technology development

Slow estimated speeds
Zero third-party audits
Fewer security features than Surfshark

Pricing:

2 Years: $3.25/month
1 Year: $4.29/month
1 Month: $12.99/month

ProtonVPN

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ProtonVPN is a VPN service located in Switzerland that originated from ProtonMail. As one of the best free VPNs, it’s suitable for VPN users who don’t have the budget for paid plans. In contrast to Surfshark, it offers a free monthly plan which we discussed in our ProtonVPN review.

Aside from this, it operates Secure Core servers which are capable of defending itself against network attacks. Plus, ProtonVPN matches the speed of Surfshark at 10 Gbps. Just be aware that you need to upgrade to a paid plan to enjoy the special servers and maximum speed.

Still, Surfshark has certain advantages over ProtonVPN. One of these is a bigger server network since ProtonVPN only has 1,772 servers in 63 countries. Another one is a greater number of security features compared to ProtonVPN. Last but not least, its recent third-party audit has wider coverage than the independent audit of ProtonVPN, which only evaluated the no-logs policy.

Free plan available
Secure Core servers
10 Gbps maximum speed

Fewer servers than Surfshark
Fewer security features
No-logs policy audit only

Pricing:

ProtonVPN Free: $0/month
ProtonVPN Plus:
- 2 Years: $4.99/month
- 1 Year: $5.99/month
- 1 Month: $9.99/month

Windscribe

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Windscribe Review

Windscribe is a VPN provider that’s headquartered in Canada. It’s appropriate for VPN users who want to customize their VPN plans according to their preferences. As we explained in our review, it offers a Build A Plan option which Surfshark lacks. This interesting package helps you save money by letting you pay only for the server locations you actively use.

In addition to this, Windscribe doesn’t cap your bandwidth so you can freely make data transfers. Also, it has a convenient Auto Pilot feature that automatically picks the optimal server location on your behalf.

Nevertheless, Surfshark is better than Windscribe in other aspects. For instance, its security protection is miles ahead of the basic security features of Windscribe. Next, the server network is swifter than Windscribe, which only has an estimated speed of 1 Gbps for uplinks for both free and paid servers. Finally, Surfshark underwent independent audits, while Windscribe hasn’t completed any third-party audits at all.

Customizable plan
Unlimited bandwidth
Auto Pilot function

Simple security only
Slower speed than Surfshark
No external audits

Pricing:

Build A Plan: $1/location/month
Pro Plans:
- 1 Year: $4.08/month
- 1 Month: $9/month

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Surfshark Review

Surfshark levels up the security of your online activities through VPN features. Find out the answers to some basic questions so you can boost your knowledge on Surfshark and VPN.

What Is Surfshark?

Surfshark is a VPN provider that offers VPN services for business and personal use. It’s one of the best VPNs for mobile phones, computers, and browsers because of its dynamic security features. Founded in 2018, it gained the Seal of Approval from AV-Test in 2019. Plus, it’s been a member of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Access Now, and Internet Society since 2020. Also, Surfshark conducted a 2021 study on internet affordability.

What Are the Benefits of Surfshark?

Surfshark has some vital advantages over other VPN providers. One of the most important benefits is the incredible value for money it presents to VPN users. After all, it achieves a remarkable balance of advanced functionality and affordability. Another major advantage is superior security standards. It boasts one of the most complete security suites in the VPN industry. Finally, one more crucial benefit is the ongoing upgrade of its server network for speedy connections.

What Is a VPN?

VPN stands for “Virtual Private Network.” A VPN service keeps your internet connection safe and private by encrypting your data. Plus, it changes your IP address to shield your real identity and location. A VPN network is composed of multiple servers where your online traffic is routed. At present, the global VPN market has an astounding value of $44.6 billion this 2022. On top of this, it’s projected to grow up to $75.59 billion by 2027.

What Does a VPN Service Protect Me From?

A VPN service defends you from various types of online dangers. First, it protects you from cyber crimes like identity theft and financial fraud. Next, it prevents your devices from being harmed by malware and malicious websites. Finally, it helps you avoid phishing scams that could cause you to reveal classified information to an untrustworthy person or company.

Bottom Line on Surfshark Review

In a sea of VPN providers, Surfshark leads the pack because of its top-rated VPN services. It deserves the title of king of secure VPNs because it fuses together powerful security, many servers, quick speed, and budget-friendly pricing. We hope our Surfshark review has enlightened you if this VPN service is the best option for you as a small business owner or freelancer.

July 29, 2022November 23, 2022

7 Most Secure VPNs of 2023

Woman's phone and PC connected to one of the most secure VPNs

The most secure VPNs protect you from privacy issues and cybercrime when you connect to the internet. It’s no wonder that virtual private network (VPN) usage in the U.S. shot up from 26% in 2019 to 69% in 2021.

Let’s compare the seven safest VPNs in the industry based on pricing, security, and features in this guide. Discover which VPN provider is ideal for you as a small business owner or freelancer.

Most Secure VPNs

Surfshark: Best Overall Secure VPN
NordVPN: Best for Safe Cloud Storage
CyberGhost: Best for Most Servers
ProtonVPN: Best for Speed
ExpressVPN: Best for Unlimited Bandwidth
Windscribe: Best for Flexibility
TunnelBear: Best for Affordability

Surfshark

Starts at $2.49/month

AES-256-GCM encryption + Change IP + Private DNS + Leak protection + CleanWeb + MultiHop + Security protocols + Bypasser + No logs

3,200+

1 Gbps – 10 Gbps

Yes

NordVPN

Starts at $3.29/month

Encrypted cloud storage + AES 256-bit encryption + Threat Protection + IP masking + Multi-factor authentication + No logs

5,569

No speed or bandwidth limits

Yes

CyberGhost

Starts at $3.25/month

AES 256-bit encryption + IP masking + Private browser + No logs

8,000+

6 Mbps – 1 Gbps

Yes

ProtonVPN

Starts at free

AES-256 encryption + Secure Core servers + NetShield + VPN Accelerator + No logs

1,772

Up to 10 Gbps

Yes

ExpressVPN

Starts at $8.32/month

AES-256 encryption + Threat Manager + VPN split tunneling + IP masking + TrustedServer + No logs

Undisclosed

Yes

Windscribe

Starts at $1/location/month

AES-256 encryption + R.O.B.E.R.T. + Leak protection + No logs

Undisclosed

1 Gbps for uplinks

TunnelBear

Starts at free/500 MB

AES 256-bit encryption + GhostBear + IP tracking prevention + Global content access + Bypass censorship + No logs

Undisclosed

Yes

Surfshark: Best Overall Secure VPN

Starts at $2.49/month

★★★★★

4.75

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Surfshark Review

Surfshark ranks first among the most secure VPNs in our list because it merges together advanced security, snappy speed, many servers, and budget-friendly pricing. Founded in 2018, this Netherland-based VPN provider makes high-quality digital security accessible to everyone.

Pricing

Surfshark only charges you as low as $2.49 per month if you select the 2-year plan. Take note that the rate will rise to $12.95 per month if you choose to be billed monthly instead. Although it doesn’t have a free plan like TunnelBear or Windscribe, it has the cheapest rates among the VPN providers with paid plans.

Security

As discussed in our Surfshark review, it has the widest range of security features in the bunch. First, it safeguards your privacy through industry-standard AES-256-GCM encryption. Next, it doesn’t monitor your surfing through activity logs. Also, it changes your IP address to hide your real identity.

Plus, the private DNS and leak protection reduce the risk of compromising your data, while CleanWeb helps you avoid ads, phishing, trackers, and malware. MultiHop adds an extra layer of security by directing your web traffic through two different servers.

Aside from this, you can take your pick from security protocols like IKEv2/IPsec and OpenVPN. Finally, the Bypasser function lets you designate which apps and websites are allowed to bypass the VPN.

Servers

After CyberGhost and NordVPN, Surfshark has the third largest network with over 3,200 servers across 95 countries. To make things better, each server has its own private DNS. Through its innovative Nexus technology, your traffic is routed along the entire network instead of a lone VPN tunnel for better safety and performance.

Speed

Tied with ProtonVPN, Surfshark showcases the fastest estimated connection speeds in the group. Each of its servers has at least one port with 1 Gbps speeds. On top of this, the latest 10 Gbps ports are being added on a daily basis.

Audits

Surfshark first completed an independent audit back in November 2018 by Cure53, a German cybersecurity firm. This initial audit confirmed that the browser extensions have robust security with only two small issues.

The latest audit in May 2021 extended to the server infrastructure of this VPN provider. This time around, Cure53 commended the good defaults of the server network and skilled configuration of the constructs. Only a few minor issues were spotted during the audit, which were promptly fixed by Surfshark.

While the aspects of VPN services that were checked are limited, it’s still reassuring that Surfshark gained generally positive results from third-party audits.

Why we chose it: We award Surfshark as the best overall secure VPN because it gives you exceptional value for your money in terms of security, speed, servers, and rates. That’s why it also deserves to be counted as one of the best VPNs for PCs.

Strong security suite
Above-average connection speeds
3,200+ servers in 95 countries
Economical rates of paid plans

No free plan

Limited coverage of audits

Pricing:

2 Years: $2.49/month
1 Year: $3.99/month
1 Month: $12.95/month

NordVPN: Best for Safe Cloud Storage

Starts at $3.29/month

★★★★★

4.5

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NordVPN Review

NordVPN is the close runner-up in our roundup of the safest VPNs. Aside from its attractive offerings, it grants you a generous 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage where you can keep your sensitive data. Established in 2012, this VPN provider currently operates from its headquarters in Panama.

Pricing

NordVPN has the second steepest rates among its competitors, right after ExpressVPN. Nevertheless, the price range of the 2-year plans are still reasonable at $3.29 to $5.29 per month. Admittedly, you do need to reach deeper into your pocket if you prefer to pay monthly, with rates from $11.99 to $13.99 per month.

Security

Although NordVPN encountered a third-party breach in 2018, it bounced back by taking several steps to boost its security. At present, it has a rich set of security features, almost comparable to Surfshark.

In addition to cloud storage with encryption, it comes with AES 256-bit encryption which is designed for shielding classified information. Plus, the built-in Threat Protection blocks malware, trackers, ads, and malicious websites. It masks your IP address to maintain the privacy of your internet browsing.

Also, multi-factor authentication ensures that only you can access your account. Last but not least, NordVPN is one of the most secure non-logging VPNs in the market. After all, it’s not required to store logs because Panama doesn’t have a mandatory data retention law

Speed

NordVPN doesn’t place any caps on your connection speed or bandwidth, unlike most of its peers except ExpressVPN. However, your actual speed will be determined by various factors, such as your internet speed, VPN protocol, and server proximity. NordVPN explains that it’s normal to expect a slightly slower connection when your traffic is routed through an encrypted VPN tunnel.

Servers

NordVPN has the second biggest server network in the bunch, only next to CyberGhost. It currently has 5,566 servers in 60 countries all around the globe. These servers are compatible with NordLynx, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPSec protocols.

Audits

NordVPN ordered its first independent assurance engagement to check its no-log policy in late 2018. After evaluating the VPN service, auditing firm PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Switzerland verified the authenticity of its no-log claim.

In May 2020, NordVPN requested an expanded third-party audit involving its central server infrastructure. The Double VPN, obfuscated, and P2P servers were inspected by the auditors. Once again, PricewaterhouseCoopers confirmed that the VPN provider uses the right configurations and keeps its no-log promise.

Finally, NordVPN underwent an advanced application security audit by VerSprite, a global cybersecurity consulting firm, in June 2021. Thankfully, VerSprite didn’t find any critical vulnerabilities during its evaluation.

Why we chose it: We picked NordVPN as the best for safe cloud storage among the most secure VPNs because it gives you a reliable digital space where you can keep your private information. It’s not surprising that it’s also considered one of the best VPNs for mobile phones in terms of security.

1 TB encrypted cloud storage
Solid security features
5,566 servers in 60 countries
No speed or bandwidth limits

Slightly pricey rates
Third-party breach in 2018

Pricing:

2 Years: $3.29-$5.29/month
1 Year: $4.99-$6.99/month
1 Month: $11.99-$13.99/month

CyberGhost: Best for Most Servers

Starts at $3.25/month

★★★★★

4.25

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CyberGhost Review

CyberGhost has an edge over its competitors because it has the highest number of servers among the safest VPNs in this review. It currently shows off more than 8,000 servers in 91 countries. This means that you have more servers to choose from, as well as more computing resources to share with other VPN users.

Founded in 2011 in Germany, the headquarters of this VPN provider is now located in Bucharest, Romania. At present, it shields the privacy of more than 38 million users across the globe. It’s a pioneer in the VPN industry when it comes to publishing transparent reports and developing crypto-technology.

Pricing

While it doesn’t present free plans like ProtonVPN, Windscribe, and TunnelBear, CyberGhost has the second lowest rates for paid plans next to Surfshark. You only need to pay $3.25 per month if you sign up for a 2-year plan. While the difference isn’t that big for the 1-year plan at $3.99 per month, the monthly rate will jump to $12.95 if you opt to pay every month instead.

Security

CyberGhost has good security features, although admittedly not as comprehensive as Surfshark and NordVPN. It keeps your data private through military-grade AES 256-bit encryption. Also, it gives you the chance to surf anonymously by hiding your IP address and providing a private browser. It sticks to a no-logs policy while operating under Romanian law, which doesn’t require the retention of data.

If you’re willing to pay extra, you can also access the NoSpy servers which are operated independently by CyberGhost for greater security and performance. The add-on price is $4.99 per month for annual billing.

Speed

The estimated connection speed of CyberGhost is the slowest among the VPN providers that disclose this information. You can expect around 6 Mbps if you have a regular internet connection, although you may potentially reach up to 1 Gbps under ideal circumstances.

Servers

CyberGhost leads the pack when it comes to the expansiveness of its server network. As we explained in our CyberGhost review, it currently counts over 8,000 VPN servers all over the world. That’s almost 2,500 more servers than second-ranked NordVPN. These bountiful servers support OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and iKEv2 network protocols.

Audits

The last time CyberGhost went through a third-party inspection was in March 2012. Back then, it passed the audit and verification by QSCert on the Information Safety Management System (ISMS). However, at the time of writing, CyberGhost hasn’t undergone any recent audits to prove its claims in the privacy policy and transparency reports.

Why we chose it: We selected CyberGhost as the best for most servers since it grants you access to an incredibly broad server network.

Leading number of servers
Respectable security features
Transparency reports

Slowest estimated speed
Extra charge for NoSpy server access
No recent third-party audit

Pricing:

2 Years: $3.25/month
1 Year: $4.29/month
1 Month: $12.99/month

ProtonVPN: Best for Speed

Starts at free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

ProtonVPN is way ahead of the other most secure VPNs in terms of estimated speed for paid plans. Its server network is capable of generating up to a whopping 10 Gbps connection. Thanks to its cutting-edge VPN Accelerator technology, it exponentially boosts the speed and stability of the VPN service.

Established in 2014, it’s presently based in Geneva, Switzerland. It originally started with the creation of Proton Mail, which eventually led to the development of ProtonVPN. Today, this open-source VPN service focuses on online security for millions of global users.

Pricing

ProtonVPN is one of the three VPN providers that offer a free plan, along with TunnelBear and Windscribe. That’s why it’s counted as one of the best free VPNs in the market. If you prioritize server speed, you may consider subscribing to paid plans that range from $4.99 to $9.99 per month, which we expounded on in our ProtonVPN review.

Security

ProtonVPN has an adequate amount of security features, although not on the same level as Surfshark or NordVPN. It guards your network traffic through AES-256 encryption, while it blocks ads, malware, and trackers through the DNS filter NetShield.

This VPN provider operates its own Secure Core servers which have the ability to defend itself against network attacks. Lastly, it enforces its no logs policy under Swiss law, which doesn’t require it to save user connection logs.

Speed

ProtonVPN has the swiftest estimated connection speeds in the group, which can go up to a maximum of 10 Gbps. Nevertheless, you should be aware that you can only experience this phenomenal speed if you subscribe to a paid plan. If you opt for the free plan, you can only expect medium speed, which is enough for basic users but probably not for power users.

Servers

At the time of this writing, ProtonVPN operates a total of 1,772 servers in 63 different countries. While it doesn’t have as many servers as CyberGhost, NordVPN, or Surfshark, at least it has over 1,000 servers unlike TunnelBear and ExpressVPN.

The company operates 96 Secure Core servers that it fully owns and operates. Nevertheless, only ProtonVPN Plus users can connect to these superior VPN servers. The network supports P2P file sharing protocols like BitTorrent..

Audits

Just last April 2022, ProtonVPN announced that it completed a third-party audit on its no-logs policy. After evaluating the infrastructure and server-side operations, Securitum verified that the VPN provider doesn’t keep any activity or metadata logs. Plus, the European security auditing firm didn’t pinpoint any major security issues during the audit. In addition to this, ProtonVPN also went through regular audits by independent security experts in the past.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge ProtonVPN as the best for speed because you can benefit from first-rate, high-speed connections if you get a paid package.

10 Gbps maximum speed
Free plan available
Very recent third-party audit

Medium speed for free plan
2-year plan rates are relatively high
Secure Core servers for paying users only

Pricing:

ProtonVPN Free: $0/month
ProtonVPN Plus:
- 2 Years: $4.99/month
- 1 Year: $5.99/month
- 1 Month: $9.99/month

ExpressVPN: Unlimited Bandwidth

Starts at $8.32/month

★★★★★

4.0

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ExpressVPN Review

ExpressVPN is the most generous among the safest VPNs when it comes to bandwidth allotment. It doesn’t cap your online traffic at all so you can download as much content as you like without worrying about excess usage fees. Founded in 2009, it’s presently based in the British Virgin Islands. It now caters to around 3 million active subscribers in 180 countries and counting.

Pricing

ExpressVPN definitely has the overall most expensive pricing of the lot. The annual package will set you back $8.32 per month, the half-year package $9.99 each month, and the monthly billing $12.95 every month.

Security

While it doesn’t match Surfshark or NordVPN, ExpressVPN has a decent suite of security features. It satisfies basic security standards with AES-256-bit encryption, while the Threat Manager tool blocks trackers and malicious users. Aside from masking your IP address, the VPN split tunneling routes your traffic efficiently.

Thanks to the TrustedServer technology, none of your data will be written on hard drives. There’s a private DNS on every server as well to bump up the security. Finally, this VPN provider doesn’t keep any connection or activity logs.

Speed

ExpressVPN doesn’t give an estimate of the Mbps or Gbps like most of its peers, but it assures users that the next-generation Lightway protocol is designed for quick connection speeds. Plus, the unlimited bandwidth ensures that you can enjoy as much data transfers as you like.

Servers

According to its official website, ExpressVPN has thousands of servers, but it doesn’t disclose the exact number. At least, it shares that the servers are placed in 160 locations in 94 countries. Also, it explains that the TrustedServer network provides extra security via private DNS.

Audits

ExpressVPN went through a recent independent audit by F-Secure last November to December 2021. The third-party cybersecurity firm validated the security of the Windows app by confirming it didn’t find significant issues. Back in 2019, ExpressVPN also benefited from positive results from security audits by PricewaterhouseCoopers and Cure53.

Why we chose it: We recognize ExpressVPN as the best for unlimited bandwidth because it allows you to make as many data transfers as you need.

No bandwidth caps
Satisfactory security features
Speedy Lightway protocol

Most expensive pricing
Server number info unavailable
No numeric speed estimate

Pricing:

1 Year: $8.32/month
6 Months: $9.99/month
1 Month: $12.95/month

Windscribe: Best for Flexibility

Starts at $1/location/month

★★★★★

3.75

Visit

Windscribe Review

Windscribe stands out for being the only VPN provider in this roundup to offer a Build A Plan option. This pay-as-you-go service helps you save money by charging you only for the server locations you actually use. Established in 2016, it’s based at present in Toronto, Canada. It enables users to access geographically restricted content while protecting them from surveillance, marketers, and cybercriminals.

Pricing

Windscribe has the most versatile pricing in the group, thanks to the one-of-a-kind Build A Plan arrangement. At $1 per location each month, it has the second most budget-friendly rate, next to ProtonVPN and TunnelBear. If you prefer a flat rate, you can pick the yearly plan which goes for $4.08 per month or the monthly plan which charges $9.00 every month.

Security

Windscribe may have simple security features compared to most of its competitors, but it’s got the basics covered. Like most VPNs, it uses an AES-256 cipher to encrypt your data for private browsing. Plus, R.O.B.E.R.T. gives you the choice to block certain IPs and domains. This configurable DNS-based tool keeps you safe from ads, malware, trackers, and specific content as well.

Also, it doesn’t record logs to identify you via IP address and timestamp. On top of this, you can activate more security functions through the desktop app and browser extensions, including firewalls and WebRTC Slayer for leak protection.

Speed

Windscribe has an average speed of 1 Gbps for uplinks for both free and paid servers. However, the actual speed will depend on how many people are connected to each server. In addition to this, you can get from 10 GB up to unlimited bandwidth for Build A Plan, while data bandwidth is unlimited for paid plans.

Servers

Windscribe doesn’t disclose the exact number of its servers. Nevertheless, it does share that the network spans 110 cities located in 63 countries. If you install the browser extension, you can take advantage of the Auto Pilot feature which automatically selects the optimal location for you.

Audits

During the time of this writing, Windscribe hasn’t completed any external audits of its VPN services. This means its privacy claims haven’t ever been confirmed by independent firms at all. Disappointingly, it’s the only VPN provider in the list that never went through a recent or past third-party audit.

Why we chose it: We pick Windscribe as the best for flexibility because you can customize its Build A Plan based on your budget and location.

Build A Plan adjustable rates
Simple yet sufficient security
10 GB to unlimited bandwidth

Not the fastest connection speed
Server number info unavailable
Zero third-party audits

Pricing:

Build A Plan: $1/location/month
Pro Plans:
- 1 Year: $4.08/month
- 1 Month: $9/month

TunnelBear: Best for Affordability

Starts at free/500 MB

★★★★★

3.5

Visit

TunnelBear is one of the most affordable alternatives among the most secure VPNs in this guide. After all, it grants you 500 MB per month if you sign up for the free plan. Your data allocation renews automatically every month, although you can’t carry over leftover data from the previous month. Founded in 2011, its headquarters are situated in Toronto, Canada. It’s a user-friendly VPN for casual users because of its freebies and simple apps.

Pricing

TunnelBear is one of the three VPN providers here that present a free plan, along with ProtonVPN and Windscribe. If you need more advanced VPN services, you can pay for the unlimited plan which begins at $3.33 per month or the Teams plan which is priced at $5.75 per user each month. As you can see, even the paid plans have pretty cost-effective rates.

Security

TunnelBear probably has the most basic security features among its peers. Still, the GhostBear feature helps you avoid VPN blocking. Plus, it gives you essential protection through AES 256-bit encryption for essential privacy, while preventing intrusive IP tracking. Also, it doesn’t log your online activity. Lastly, it allows you to access global content and bypass local censorship.

Speed

TunnelBear claims it has lightning-fast speeds on its server network. However, it doesn’t share what the actual speed is in terms of Mbps or Gbps. It’s up to you if you want to take the company’s word for it.

Servers

TunnelBear doesn’t disclose information about the exact number of its servers. The official website only mentions that there are more than 40 server locations in 48 countries. At least, it placed servers in some underrepresented geographical areas, not just in the usual popular server spots.

Audits

TunnelBear finished a fairly recent annual independent security audit last October 2020. It’s the VPN provider’s fourth audit since it first went through the inspection in 2016. The results showed that Cure53 spotted two low, two medium, and a single high-risk vulnerability. Nevertheless, the auditor commended TunnelBear for its ongoing efforts to reduce security issues.

Why we chose it: We give a nod to TunnelBear as the best for affordability because it’s a practical option if you want to try a VPN service for the first time or if you can’t afford a paid plan.

Free 500MB per month
Easy-to-use apps
Annual security audits

Simple security only
Estimated speed unavailable
Server number info unavailable
One high-risk vulnerability found in recent audit

Pricing:

Free: $0/500 MB
Unlimited: Starts at $3.33/month
Teams: $5.75/user/month

Methodology for the Most Secure VPNs

We considered security and other relevant factors while choosing the most secure VPNs. In short, we ranked the safest VPNs based on which providers clearly stand out in these areas:

Pricing: We checked if each VPN provider offers both free plans and paid packages. Plus, we listed how much the monthly rates of the paid plans are in terms of 2-year, annual, biannual, or monthly billing.
Security: We evaluated the basic or advanced security suite that’s included with every VPN service. Some examples of security features we discussed are VPN routing, encryption standards, IP masking, ad blocking, and no-logs policies. Read more on what a VPN protects you from here.
Servers: We examined how many servers each VPN provider currently has in its network. Also, we explained if it has any special features like network protocols, private DNS, and auto location selection.
Speed: We took note of the estimated speed of the VPN connection, at least if the numeric information is disclosed by the provider. Keep in mind that the actual speed might not always be the same as real-life speed since it’s based on different factors. In addition to this, we indicated the amount of bandwidth allotment if the data is available.
Audits: We reported if the VPN provider underwent independent audits by third-party security auditing firms, such as Cure53, PricewaterhouseCoopers, or VerSprite. Aside from pinpointing which aspect of the VPN service was scrutinized, we summarized what the results of these inspections are.

Take note that the information in this comparative review is based on current data as of the time of this writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Most Secure VPNs

The most secure VPNs keep your data and devices safe while you browse through the internet. That’s why the global VPN market has grown to a staggering $44.6 billion this 2022. Learn the answers to these frequently asked questions if you’re on the lookout for the safest VPNs.

What Makes Some VPNs More Secure Than Others?

The most secure VPNs offer users both first-rate server routing and security features. These VPN providers allow you to safely route your internet traffic and downloads through a choice of servers located around the world. Ideally, the law in these countries don’t require data from servers to be identified with users. Equally as important, the safest VPNs provide a broad range of high-quality security features to protect your online privacy.

What Are the Most Essential VPN Security Features?

All security features are useful, but some are absolutely essential when connecting to the internet through a VPN. One vital feature is end-to-end data encryption, with most providers in the industry offering at least AES 256-bit encryption. Another necessary function is IP masking, which hides your IP address so you can browse anonymously. One more crucial feature is the no-logs policy, where the provider guarantees not to record logs of your online activity.

Why Are External Audits for VPN Providers Important?

A VPN provider can make a lot of claims about the security of various aspects of its VPN services. However, these claims can only be verified through external audits by third-party organizations. Independent auditing firms like PricewaterhouseCoopers, Cure53, or VerSprite aren’t biased in favor of any particular VPN company. That’s why they can provide objective feedback on the real-world implementation of security best practices by VPN companies.

How Can I Start Using a VPN Service?

First, look for a VPN provider with applications that are compatible with your computers, devices, and operating systems. Next, sign up for a VPN plan with the features and billing arrangements you prefer. Afterwards, download the VPN app or program, then log in to begin safeguarding the privacy of your location, downloads, and web traffic. Finally, choose from the nearest available servers for optimal security and performance.

How Do I Choose the Most Secure VPN?

The best way to choose a secure VPN is to consider all the information about top providers and square this data with your own unique requirements. Pick the VPN service which excels in the aspect you prioritize the most, whether it be overall security, cloud storage, server options, connection speed, bandwidth allotment, flexible customization, or low-cost pricing. You can try a risk-free monthly subscription first to determine whether it works well for you or not.

Bottom Line on the Most Secure VPNs

We hope our comparison review helped you pick the best VPN provider which matches your business needs and budget. All seven industry-leading safest VPNs in this guide offer secure and reliable connections for your small business network and devices. Nevertheless, we especially recommend Surfshark as our top pick among the most secure VPNs because it combines superior security, quick speed, abundant servers, and affordable rates.

July 22, 2022February 15, 2023

7 Best Credit Union Business Accounts of 2023

A credit union business account building

A credit union business account is a friendly alternative to opening a business bank account. It could work for you if you’re looking for the right hub for your business finances to push your venture to the next level.

Similar to banks, credit unions are financial institutions that offer online business checking accounts, savings accounts, loans, and credit cards. However, the advantages of credit unions over traditional banks include personalized customer service, lower loan interest rates, lower fees, and higher APY on savings and checking accounts.

Check out the best credit unions for business banking accounts in 2023 to find the right one for your small business:

Alliant Credit Union – Best Overall
Consumers Credit Union – Best for Checking APY
Digital Federal Credit Union – Best for Savings APY
America First Credit Union – Best for Checking Options
Blue Federal Credit Union – Best for Easy Branch Access
Pentagon Federal Credit Union – Best for Credit Card Rewards
Navy Federal Credit Union – Best for Small Business Loans

Alliant Credit Union

$0/month

0.25%-2.80%

Alliant employment, local proximity, or FC2S membership

Online + ATMs

Android & iOS

Unlimited credit card cashback

Consumers Credit Union

$0/month

0.03%-4.09%

$5 membership fee

Illinois branches + ATMs

Android & iOS

High Interest Checking account

Digital Federal Credit Union

$0/month

0.16%-6.17%

Employment w/ DCU partners, local proximity, or family affiliation

Massachusetts & New Hampshire branches + ATMs

Android & iOS

Primary Savings account

America First Credit Union

$0-$6/month

0.05%-1.10%

Located in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, or Idaho

Utah, Idaho, Arizona & Nevada branches + ATMs

Android & iOS

Multiple checking account options

Blue Federal Credit Union

$0/month

0%-5%

Donation, family affiliation, or work location in Wyoming or Colorado

Colorado & Wyoming full-service branches + Shared branches + ATMs

Android & iOS

In-person banking

PenFed Credit Union

$0-$10/month

0.05%-2.85%

U.S. citizenship or permanent residence

Branches in 15 states + ATMs

Android & iOS

Credit card incentives

Navy Federal Credit Union

Starts at $0/month

0%-3.15%

Military affiliation

Washington, D.C. & international branches + ATMs

Android & iOS

Various loan offers

Alliant Credit Union: Best Overall

Pricing: $0/month

★★★★★

4.5

Visit

Alliant Credit Union Review

Alliant Credit Union is the leading contender in our roundup because it ticks all the boxes for free bank accounts, flexible membership qualifications, reliable online banking technology, and unlimited cashback.

Screenshot of Alliant online banking page — *Source: Alliant*

It provides a full range of financial products and services, with different personal and business banking alternatives you can select from. Plus, you can open up to 19 different supplemental accounts for various goals if you become a member.

Pricing

Alliant offers you free bank accounts, just like most of the credit unions in this list. You don’t need to pay monthly service fees if you open a High-Rate Checking account. Also, there’s no monthly fees for the High-Rate Savings account if you choose to receive eStatements, although you must pay a $1 monthly fee if you prefer paper statements.

APY

These are the annual percentage yield (APY) rates for Alliant banking solutions:

High-Rate Checking Account: 0.25% APY
High-Rate Savings Account: 0.75% APY
Certificates: 2.80% APY
Custodial Account: 0.75% APY

It has the third highest APY among savings accounts, next to Digital Federal Credit Union and Consumers Credit Union. Yet along with Blue Federal Credit Union, it has the third lowest APY among checking accounts, although it’s a little higher than America First Credit Union and Digital Federal Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

You can join Alliant if you work for the institution’s businesses, organizations, or partners within the U.S. You may also qualify for membership if you live or work close to the union’s headquarters in Illinois.

However, the easiest way to join is to seek Foster Care to Success (FC2S) membership for only $5. Alliant will even settle this one-time fee on your behalf. Thanks to the FC2S option, a lot of people beyond the Alliant community have the opportunity to become a credit union member.

Alliant has one of the easiest eligibility requirements among the credit unions in our guide, on par with Consumers Credit Union and PenFed Credit Union. It’s not like America First Credit Union, Digital Federal Credit Union, or Navy Federal Credit Union which are only open to certain people based on employment, location, or affiliation.

Locations

Alliant is completely based online, which makes it the only credit union in this guide without any physical branches. Instead, you can access banking products and financial tools over the internet. Nevertheless, it has a broad network of over 80,000 fee-free ATMs. Plus, you can use ATMs outside the union’s network to make deposits and receive up to $20 refunds.

Online Banking

Because Alliant is an online credit union, it offers one of the most useful mobile banking apps for Android and iOS. You can settle your payments via bill pay, monitor your account balances, and even deposit checks through the app.

Special Feature

You have the chance to earn unlimited cashback simply by using the Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card. You can receive up to 2.5% cashback on your first $10,000 worth of qualifying purchases.

Why we chose it: We bestowed the title of best overall credit union of 2023 to Alliant Credit Union because it’s a remarkable all-purpose banking platform. It provides free banking solutions, various application methods, practical mobile app features, and cashback rewards.

No monthly service fees
Low membership barrier
Superior online banking
Credit card cashback

$1 monthly fee for paper statements
No brick-and-mortar branches
Relatively low checking APY

Pricing: $0/month

Consumers Credit Union: Best for Checking APY

Pricing: $0/month

★★★★★

4.25

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Consumers Credit Union Review

Consumers Credit Union (CCU) trumps other credit unions in this review because of its impressive checking APY. If you open a Free Rewards Checking account, you have the opportunity to earn as high as 4.09% APY on balances up to $10,000.

Consumers Credit Union home page screenshot — *Source: Consumers*

Founded in 1930, CCU is currently based in the state of Illinois. Aside from its checking account, the financial institution also offers other financial products, including savings accounts, business banking accounts, business lines of credit, credit cards, money market certificates, and loans.

Pricing

The CCU checking and savings accounts are both free, which is similar to the majority of the credit unions in this list. While there is a zero minimum balance for the checking account, you do need to maintain at least $5 in your savings account balance.

APY

Here are the APY rates for CCU banking solutions:

Free Rewards Checking Account: 0.10%-4.09% APY
Savings Account: 0.03%-0.25% APY
Money Market Account: 0.05%-0.25% APY
Certificates: 0.35%-2.30% APY

CCU has the highest APY for checking accounts among all the credit unions in this roundup. Take note that you need to qualify for the highest checking tier to benefit from the top interest rate. Along with Navy Federal Credit Union, it has the second lowest savings APY, only higher than Blue Federal Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

CCU has one of the simplest eligibility criteria in this guide, equal to Alliant Credit Union and PenFed Credit Union. All you need to do is spend a $5 membership fee to join CCU.

Locations

Although CCU is based in Illinois, it accepts customers from all over the nation. It has over 5,000 shared credit union branches spread out in the state, plus a nationwide chain of over 30,000 ATMs that are part of the CO-OP network.

Online Banking

CCU has a mobile app that’s compatible with Android and iOS devices. While the slightly outdated app doesn’t allow check deposits, you can at least conduct basic business functions like bill pay and fund transfers.

Special Feature

The standout feature of CCU is its High Interest Checking account. It comes with unlimited check writing and early direct deposit. Also, you can link your debit card so you can make payments via Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Consumer Credit Union as the best for checking APY because of its exceptional APY rates for the checking account.

Top-notch checking APY
No monthly fee or minimum balance for checking
$5 membership fee requirement only

Maximum checking APY for highest tier only
Fairly low savings APY
No mobile app check deposits

Pricing: $0/month

Digital Federal Credit Union: Best for Savings APY

Pricing: $0/month

★★★★★

4.0

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Digital Federal Credit Union Review

Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) beats its competitors when it comes to APY rates for savings accounts. It’s possible for you to earn as much as 6.17% APY if you open a Primary Savings account.

Screenshot of Digital Federal Credit Union free checking account page — *Source: DCU*

Aside from savings solutions, DCU also offers a wide range of financial tools, such as checking accounts, credit cards, loans, and business lines of credit. It also stands out for its equity crowdfunding feature, which equips members to raise capital for investment in local businesses within the community.

Pricing

Both the checking and savings accounts of DCU don’t charge monthly maintenance fees, same as most of the credit unions in the list. There’s no minimum opening balance for the checking account as well, although you need to deposit at least $5 to open a savings account.

APY

See below for the APY rates of DCU banking solutions:

Checking Account: Up to 0.20% APY
Savings Account: 0.16%-6.17% APY
Money Market Account: Starts at 0.20% APY
Retirement Accounts: Starts at 0.20% APY

DCU has the highest APY for savings accounts among the credit unions in this roundup. Keep in mind that this maximum rate only applies to balances up to $1,000. Nevertheless, it has the second lowest APY for checking accounts, only higher than America First Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

You are qualified to join DCU if you work for any of the union’s partner companies or organizations. Also, you are eligible to apply if you worship or attend school in DCU eligible communities. Alternatively, you can earn membership if you have a relative who is currently a DCU member.

Because of its geographical and social restrictions, DCU has strict application requirements compared to Alliant Credit Union and PenFed Credit Union, which are open to more potential members.

Locations

DCU is based in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Plus, it has 23 branches located in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Also, members have access to more than 80,000 surcharge-free ATMs through the CO-OP network.

Online Banking

DCU offers a digital banking platform via mobile phones or desktops with innovative financial tools for members. The mobile app is available for both iOS and Android smartphones.

Special Feature

The notable feature of DCU is the Primary Savings Account. It helps you grow your funds over time through its generous APY and dividend rates. Plus, the online calculator lets you compute how much you can save through estimated monthly deposits.

Why we chose it: We recognize Digital Federal Credit Union as the best for savings APY because of its phenomenal interest rates for savings accounts.

First-rate savings APY
Equity crowdfunding
Zero monthly maintenance fees

Minimum deposit requirement for savings accounts
Maximum APY applicable up to $1,000 only
Restrictive membership eligibility

Pricing: $0/month

America First Credit Union: Best for Checking Options

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

★★★★★

4.0

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America First Credit Union Review

America First Credit Union gives you the freedom to choose between different types of checking accounts. You can take your pick from Premium Checking, Classic Checking, Regular Checking, Money Market Checking, and HSA Money Market Checking.

America First Credit Union home page screenshot — *Source: America First*

This financial institution meets the banking needs of businesses and individuals through various banking products and services. Aside from checking accounts, it also presents savings programs, investment accounts, and low-rate loans. On top of this, it provides business registration services, which makes it possible for you to open a bank account with EIN only.

Pricing

Most of the America First checking accounts are free, with the exception of Premium Checking where you need to pay $6/month. Along with PenFed Credit Union and Navy Federal Credit Union, it’s one of the few credit unions in this review that charges a monthly fee for bank accounts. On the bright side, the savings account is free as long as you maintain a minimum balance of $1.

APY

Take a look at the APY rates for America First banking solutions:

Checking Accounts: 0.05% APY
Savings Accounts: 0.05%-0.50% APY
Money Market Savings Accounts: 0.05-0.15% APY
Certificates: 0.25% to 1.10% APY

America First has the lowest checking account APY among the credit unions in this guide. At least it ranks somewhere in the middle when it comes to its savings accounts APY.

Membership Requirements

Unfortunately, not everyone qualifies to join America First Credit Union, in contrast to PenFed Credit Union and Alliant Credit Union which have more lenient requirements. You must work, live, volunteer, or worship in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, or Idaho to become a member. Aside from this, you may be eligible for membership if you have a relative or spouse who is a member of America First.

Locations

America First has 128 full-service branches in Utah, Idaho, Arizona, and Nevada. It also has a network of over 5,600 shared branches and more than 60,000 ATMs via CO-OP‘s shared network.

Online Banking

America First has you covered if you like the convenience of mobile and online banking features. You can deposit checks, transfer funds, and schedule bill payments through the digital banking portal. The Android and iOS mobile apps also provide live update alerts and account balance information.

Special Feature

The standout feature of America First is the multiple types of checking accounts. It ranges from simple checking to advanced money market checking so you can select the one that perfectly fits your banking purpose.

Why we chose it: We commend America First Credit Union as the best for checking options because it has a wide array of checking accounts to meet different checking needs.

Rich checking options
Business registration services
Feature-packed digital banking portal

Lowest checking APY
$6 fee for Premium Checking
Membership limited to a few states

Pricing: $0-$6/month

Blue Federal Credit Union: Best for Easy Branch Access

Pricing: $0/month

★★★★★

4.0

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Blue Federal Credit Union Review

Blue Federal Credit Union excels when it comes to availability of in-person banking. On top of 18 full-service branches, you can also visit thousands of CO-OP shared branches to perform banking transactions.

Screenshot of Blue Federal Credit Union solutions page — *Source: Blue Federal*

This credit union showcases business and personal financial products, including loans and credit cards. You can even earn points through the membership reward program, which you can use to waive fees or earn loan discounts.

Pricing

Blue offers free business checking and savings accounts, like most of the credit unions in this review. While there’s no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance for basic checking and savings, the higher tiers of business checking do require certain daily balance amounts.

APY

These are the APY rates for Blue banking solutions:

Business Checking Accounts: 0%-0.25% APY
Business Savings Account: 0.05% APY
Savings Accounts: 0.15%-5% APY
Business Tiered Money Market Accounts: 0.05%-0.25% APY

It has the second highest savings APY in the bunch, only next to Digital Federal Credit Union. Along with Alliant Credit Union though, it has the third lowest APY among checking accounts, but it’s higher than America First Credit Union and Digital Federal Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

Blue Federal Credit Union has versatile eligibility requirements, which is the opposite of Navy Federal Credit Union and America First Credit Union. First, you are qualified to join if you have a relative with a Blue membership. You are also eligible to apply if you work in Wyoming or Colorado. The third and most straightforward way to become a member is to donate $5 to the Blue Foundation.

Locations

There are over 5,000 CO-OP shared branches where you can receive in-person Blue financial services, unlike most of its peers which only have branches in certain states. Plus, the credit union has over 30,000 fee-free ATMs through the CO-OP network. However, you have to visit one of the 18 full-service branches in Colorado or Wyoming if you wish to open a bank account.

Online Banking

You can access your Blue account through the convenient mobile app available for iOS and Android. You can also send money, pay bills, and check your loan status through the online banking portal.

Special Feature

The standout feature of Blue is the wide availability of in-person banking. This could come in handy for you if you prefer to perform banking transactions in a brick-and-mortar branch assisted by staff whom you can directly interact with in real life.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Blue Federal as the best for easy bank access because it brings face-to-face banking within reach of many people in the U.S.

5,000+ shared branches
High savings APY
Flexible membership requirements

Minimum balance for high-tier checking accounts
Relatively low checking APY
Account opening unavailable in shared branches

Pricing: $0/month

Pentagon Federal Credit Union: Best for Credit Card Rewards

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

★★★★★

3.75

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Pentagon Federal Credit Union Review

Pentagon Federal Credit Union, also known as PenFed, has an edge over its competitors when it comes to credit card incentives. You have the chance to earn big rewards if you use the PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card to pay for everyday purchases.

Screenshot of Pentagon Federal Credit Union online savings account page — *Source: PenFed*

This credit union was established in 1935. At present, it offers a full suite of financial services, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, money market certificates, and CDs. It also provides different kinds of loans, including mortgages and auto loans.

Pricing

There is a $10 monthly service charge for most of the checking accounts of PenFed, except the free checking one. Along with America First Credit Union and Navy Federal Credit Union, it’s one of the few institutions in our list that charges maintenance fees for bank accounts.

Still, you can waive this fee if you have a monthly direct deposit or daily balance worth $500 or more. At least you don’t have to pay a monthly fee if you open a savings account, although you need to deposit and maintain a balance of at least $5.

APY

Check out the APY rates of PenFed below:

Access America Checking Account: 0.15%-0.35% APY
Savings Accounts: 0.05%-0.75% APY
Money Market Savings Account: 0.15% APY
Money Market Certificates: 2.85% APY

Its checking APY falls somewhere in the middle of the group. Nevertheless, it has the second highest savings APY alongside Alliant Credit Union, next to Digital Federal Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

At first, PenFed membership was limited to those who served in the federal government or military. Today, anyone who is a U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident can join PenFed and benefit from its financial products.

That’s why it’s now more inclusive than America First Credit Union, Digital Federal Credit Union, or Navy Federal Credit Union. Take note that you have to be at least 18 years old to apply as a PenFed member.

Locations

PenFed has 48 full-service branches spread across 15 states. Members can conduct banking transactions at over 85,000 fee-free ATMs through CO-OP and Allpoint ATM networks.

Online Banking

PenFed allows you to access your account and perform a range of banking tasks from your smartphone or tablet. It has an intuitive app available for iOS and Android which lets you make check deposits, access bill pay tools, locate nearby ATMs, and instantly transfer funds between PenFed accounts.

Special Feature

The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature Card grants you the opportunity to gain bountiful rewards. By powering up your company cars, you could earn up to 5x points per dollar spent on gas at pump and EV charging stations. Plus, you will get 3x points when you shop at supermarkets, dine in restaurants, and pay tech bills.

Why we chose it: We recognize PenFed as the best for credit card rewards because it generously grants points for common business and personal purchases.

Credit card incentives
High savings APY
Open to U.S. citizens & permanent residents

$10 monthly fee for most checking accounts
Mediocre checking APY
Steep requirements to waive checking fees

Pricing: $0-$10/month

Navy Federal Credit Union: Best for Small Business Loans

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

★★★★★

3.5

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Navy Federal Credit Union Review

Navy Federal Credit Union sets itself apart from other credit unions because of its small business financial solutions. If you’re an eligible member, you can expand your venture and build your inventory with the help of business-friendly loans.

Navy Federal Credit Union home page preview — *Source: Navy Federal*

This full-service financial institution was founded in 1933. It offers checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and loans. You can even open as many savings accounts as you like. However, while it’s considered as the largest credit union in the U.S., its strict membership requirements lock out most people from eligibility.

Pricing

Most of the Navy Federal checking accounts are free, except for the Flagship Checking account which has a monthly service fee of an unspecified amount. Similar to America First Credit Union and Blue Federal Credit Union, it’s one of the few institutions in this review which involves a monthly fee for bank accounts. Still, there’s no monthly service fee for the Navy Federal savings account, although you need to deposit at least $5 to open an account.

APY

Take a peek at the APY rates of Navy Federal banking solutions:

Checking Accounts: 0.01%-0.45% APY
Savings Accounts: 0.25% APY
Money Market Savings Account: 0%-0.45% APY
Jumbo Money Market Savings Account: 0.25%-0.50% APY
Certificates: 0.40% to 3.15% APY

It has the second highest checking APY compared to its peers, only next to Consumers Credit Union. Yet alongside Consumers Credit Union, it has the second lowest savings APY, only higher than Blue Federal Credit Union.

Membership Requirements

Military affiliation is a non-negotiable requirement for membership with the Navy Federal Credit Union. The main requirement to join the credit union is active duty with any department of the U.S. armed forces. Also, you may qualify for membership if you’re a military retiree, veteran, or an immediate family member of an eligible member.

Its membership criteria is very restrictive, in contrast to Alliant Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, and PenFed Credit Union. If you’re interested in a checking account but aren’t eligible for Navy Federal Membership, you may check out other checking accounts like the one we discussed in our Bluevine review.

Locations

Finding a Navy Federal full-service branch shouldn’t be a problem because the credit union has 350 offices spread across Washington, D.C. and abroad. Members can also access their funds through over 30,000 ATMs in the CO-OP network.

Online Banking

Navy Federal digital banking allows you to manage your account anytime, anywhere. Through the mobile app for Android and iOS, members have full access to financial tools that enable them to transfer funds and view account activities.

Special Feature

Navy Federal provides a suite of small business financing solutions at low-interest rates and a flexible repayment plan of up to 60 months. This makes it convenient for entrepreneurs to address short-term cash flow issues and make urgent commercial equipment purchases.

Why we chose it: We commend Navy Federal Credit Union as the best for small business loans because it provides funds to help entrepreneurs start a new business or grow their existing one.

Cost-effective business loan options
High checking APY
National & international branches

Very limited membership eligibility
Flagship Checking monthly fee
Low savings APY

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Methodology for the Best Credit Unions for Business Banking Accounts

We analyzed the offerings of different credit unions, plus rates and fees, to pick out credit unions that soar high in various categories. Here are the main features we considered:

Pricing: First, we researched if the checking and savings accounts offered by the credit unions are free or not. In case there are maintenance fees, we confirmed how much you need to pay each month.
APY: Next, we checked how much APY you can potentially earn with the checking and savings accounts. Since the rates may vary per category, we gave an overview of the APY ranges for each banking solution.
Membership Requirements: We evaluated the eligibility requirements for all the credit unions. Also, we assessed if the membership criteria of each institution is welcoming or restrictive.
Locations: We examined if there are available physical branches or not, as well as where these spots are located. In addition to this, we indicated if members have access to ATM networks or not.
Online Banking: We took a look at the mobile app and/or digital banking portal of every credit union. Plus, we explained which banking transactions you can perform online.
Special Feature: Last but not least, we highlighted what the standout feature is for each credit union, as well as what makes it unique.

Note: The pricing and APY rates in this guide are based on available information in June 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Credit Union Business Accounts

Is a Credit Union Business Account Better Than a Traditional Bank Account?

Yes. A credit union business account typically offers more favorable terms and higher APY rates compared to a conventional bank account, which can be beneficial for owners of small businesses and startup companies. These member-centric financial institutions usually provide attractive features, including a business line of credit and low-interest rates on loans. If your traditional bank lacks these options, you should consider switching to a business account with a credit union.

Which Is the Best Type of Credit Union Bank Account For Small Businesses?

In general, it’s best to opt for a business checking account if you want to open a credit union account for your small business. It’s designed to help entrepreneurs like you separate your business and personal finances. Moreover, the account has numerous features which can help you manage your cash flow and track your expenses. Just be aware that some online banks may be better than credit unions in terms of third-party integrations, such as the business account we discussed in our Novo review.

What Are the Perks of Opening a Credit Union Checking Account?

The checking accounts provided by credit unions usually have far more benefits than most checking accounts offered by traditional banks. For instance, you can receive more personalized services if you become a credit union member. Plus, you can expect lower fees to open and maintain an account. Finally, you can look forward to higher interest rates on your funds.

Final Thoughts on the Best Credit Union Business Accounts

The number of businesses and individuals joining credit unions has been steadily rising over the past few years. In 2020, credit unions in the United States boasted 126.6 million members, which is a significant leap from the 98.4 million members it had back in 2013. Today, these financial institutions have less stringent eligibility requirements. Plus, members enjoy lower fees and higher APY rates, as well as the power to influence the organization.

Now that you’ve read our comparative guide to the best credit union business accounts, we hope you’re confident enough to pick the credit union business account which will best meet the needs of your small business.

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

July 14, 2022January 11, 2023

5 Best Mortgage Lenders of 2023

Best mortgage lenders' approved application form on a desk

The best mortgage lenders empower you to buy or maintain your own house through home loans. That’s why mortgages are one of the main sources of debt in the U.S., with a national value of $17.6 trillion as of October 2021.

There’s no need to wait until you save enough money to purchase a house if you get a loan from the right bank or financial institution. Get ready to compare the best mortgage lenders of 2023 so you can pick the one which meets your unique needs as a borrower.

Best Mortgage Lenders of 2023

Bank of America – Best Overall
Ally – Best for Fast Processing
PNC – Best for Closing Grants
Chase – Best for Payment Flexibility
Rocket Mortgage – Best for Low Credit Scores

By far, the most important factors for choosing the best mortgage lender include minimum down payment and interest rate. The lower the minimum percentage, the better, but you also want to consider what your interest rate will be, so you don’t give more money to a bank than to your assets. There are plenty of other things to consider, and you can see how we ranked these lenders in our full explanation of our methodology below.

Bank of America

Starts at 3%

30-Year Fixed: 5%
15-Year Fixed: 4.125%
5/6 ARM Variable: 4.25%

30-Year Fixed: 5.195%
15-Year Fixed: 4.472%
5/6 ARM Variable: 3.949%

Online or in-person

PayPlan or MortgagePay

Home loan assistance

Ally

Starts at 3%

30-Year Fixed: 5.125%
15-Year Fixed: 4.375%
5/6 ARM Variable: 4.875%

30-Year Fixed: 5.14%
15-Year Fixed: 4.390%
5/6 ARM Variable: 4.290%

Online

Automatic, paperless, or one-time monthly payment

3-minute pre-approval

PNC

Starts at 3%

Variable

Online or in-person

Online banking, automated, phone, mail, or in-branch payment

Closing grant

Chase

Starts at 3%

Variable

Online or in-person

Automatic, online, cash, check, money order, phone, or bank transfer payment

Educational incentive

Rocket Mortgage

Starts at 3%

30-Year Fixed: 5.75%
15-Year Fixed: 5.125%

30-Year Fixed: 6.021%
15-Year Fixed: 5.59%

Online

One-time online, autopay, or mail payment

Supports down payment assistance programs

Bank of America: Best Overall

Minimum Down Payment: Starts at 3%

4.5

★★★★★

Visit

Bank of America Review

Bank of America is our number one choice in this roundup of mortgage lenders. It has the highest ranking because it packs together cost-effective rates, transparent data, accessible mortgage plans, and face-to-face services. Of course, we discussed in our Bank of America review that it’s also a solid all-around business bank.

To start with, its mortgage interest rates and APR are the most budget-friendly among all the lenders in the list, based on June 2022 rates. You can take your pick between fixed and variable loans, as well as the length of your repayment schedule. Plus, the current rate list is readily available on the official website so you don’t need to make complex computations anymore.

Also, it presents the Affordable Loan Solution for first-time home buyers of one-unit properties, which allows you to benefit from lower down payments. Finally, Bank of America has physical locations as a traditional bank. You can schedule an appointment if you need personalized assistance related to your mortgage.

Bank of America mortgage page preview — *Source: Bank of America*

While Bank of America is an impressive mortgage lender, it does have certain limitations. For instance, you need to prequalify first before you can apply for a mortgage and estimate your loan amount. The stringent criteria for prequalification include income information, credit check, and bank account data.

In addition to this, the payment options are sparse compared to its competitors. On top of this, you need an existing checking or savings account to take advantage of the PayPlan and MortgagePay methods.

To sum things up, Bank of America is one of the top mortgage lenders because it comes with a lot of perks.

Why we chose it: We salute Bank of America as the best overall mortgage lender in this comparative review. After all, it beats its competitors in terms of cost-effective rates, information disclosure, and in-person service.

Competitive rates
Straightforward rate listing
Affordable Loan Solution mortgage
Brick-and-mortar branches

Strict prequalification requirements
Few payment methods
Bank of America account required for PayPlan or MortgagePay

Pricing: 3% or higher minimum down payment

Minimum Down Payment

Bank of America only requires first-time home buyers to pay a 3% down payment, which is similar to all the mortgage lenders in the list. Just be aware that the minimum down payment can rise to 5% for mortgages in high-cost areas.

Interest Rate

It offers the lowest interest rates among its competitors in this guide which openly advertise their rates. As of June 2022, the 30-year fixed interest is 5%, the 5-year fixed is 4.125%, and the 5/6 ARM variable is 4.25%.

APR

Again, Bank of America has the overall lowest APR compared to other lenders whose rates are publicly available, as of June 2022. While the 30-year fixed APR is slightly higher than Ally’s at 5.195%, the 15-year fixed and 5/6 ARM variable APR are lower at 4.472% and 3.949% respectively.

Home Buying

Like the rest of its peers, it gives you the chance to purchase a home through the Bank of America Digital Mortgage Experience. However, you need to meet the prequalification requirements first.

Refinancing

It presents you with refinancing opportunities, similar to other mortgage lenders. It grants you as many refinance options as PNC. You can select from fixed-rate, adjustable rate, FHA, VA, and cash-out refinance loans.

Application Process

You can choose from online or in-person application procedures. It’s more versatile than Rocket Mortgage, which only lets you apply over the internet.

Payment Methods

It enables you to make mortgage payments via auto-debit PayPlan or one-time MortgagePay. These two payment options are meager compared to the various payment methods of Chase.

Special Feature

Bank of America’s special feature is the home loan assistance for borrowers who find it hard to make loan payments. There are solutions for those who want to save their home, as well those who are willing to let it go to settle their debts.

Ally: Best for Fast Processing

Minimum Down Payment: Starts at 3%

4.25

★★★★★

Visit

Ally has an edge over the other mortgage lenders in the bunch because of its simple application process. After all, you can gain pre-approval in as short as three minutes only. Plus, it helps you close deals up to 10 days quicker compared to the mortgage industry average.

To make things even better, it won’t charge you any lender fees, such as processing, underwriting, processing, or application fees. In addition to this, it’s the runner-up next to Bank of America in terms of affordable APR and interest rates.

Last but not least, it’s more welcoming to borrowers with different financial backgrounds, compared to conventional banks with high standards. It does its best to provide solutions for people who are hesitant to apply for a mortgage because of limited funds or difficult situations.

Ally mortgage page preview — *Source: Ally*

Nevertheless, Ally has some drawbacks as well. An obvious one is that there aren’t any physical branches you can visit because it’s a digital financial services company, not a traditional bank. Also, it only offers regular loans, but not VA or FHA loans, which might be restricting for some borrowers. Aside from this, there are only a few methods you can utilize to make mortgage payments.

Overall, Ally is a cutting-edge lender whose modern solutions make it convenient for potential home buyers to get a mortgage.

Why we chose it: We award Ally as the best for fast processing among mortgage lenders because it simplifies the way you apply for a home loan.

Speedy application procedure
No lender fees
Reasonable rates
Less strict requirements for borrowers

No physical locations
Basic loans only
Limited payment methods

Pricing: 3% or higher minimum down payment

Minimum Down Payment

Ally provides down payment options as low as 3%. This rate is the same as the rest of the mortgage lenders in the list.

Interest Rate

Next to Bank of America, Ally has the second lowest interest rates compared to its competitors who publicly display their rates too. As of June 2022, the 30-year fixed rate is 5.125%, the 15-year fixed is 4.375%, while the 5/6 ARM variable is 4.875%.

APR

Once more, it generally has the second lowest APR among the other lenders with openly available rates, as of June 2022. While the 30-year fixed APR is 5.14% slightly lower than Bank of America’s, the 15-year fixed and 5/6 ARM variable APR are a little higher at 4.390% and 4.290%.

Home Buying

Similar to its peers, Ally assists first-time home buyers through the HomeReady mortgage program. In contrast to Bank of America which has strict prequalification requirements, it’s ready to help borrowers with limited down payment resources or challenging circumstances.

Refinancing

It offers refinancing options like the rest of the lenders in this guide. However, you can only apply for basic loans, but not FHA or VA loans, which are available from the rest of its competitors.

Application Process

Ally has the quickest application process out of all the mortgage lenders in the group. The procedure is completely online, in comparison to Chase and Bank of America which both have a face-to-face option.

Payment Methods

There are slightly more ways to pay than Bank of America, but less ways than Chase. You can make automatic, paperless, or one-time monthly payments for your mortgage.

Special Feature

Ally’s special feature is the 3-minute pre-approval process. It streamlines the mortgage application steps so you can save time and effort.

PNC: Best for Closing Grants

Minimum Down Payment: Starts at 3%

4.0

★★★★★

Visit

PNC sets itself apart from the other mortgage lenders in the bunch by minimizing your closing costs. Its closing grant can supply you with a hefty amount of $5,000 towards closing fees. Of course, you do need to qualify for the grant first by meeting income requirements or living in certain communities.

Plus, it gives you a wide selection of loan types to choose from, including fixed rate, adjustable rate, VA, FHA, and jumbo loans. On top of this, PNC has physical branches where you can drop by if you need face-to-face services regarding mortgage matters.

PNC mortgage page preview — *Source: PNC*

However, PNC isn’t exempt from disadvantages. To begin with, you must provide your loan amount and ZIP code first before you can view the APR and interest rates. Finally, you must meet certain standards when you apply for a mortgage by presenting your employment credentials and your income amount.

To make a long story short, PNC can be an attractive option to borrowers who wish to reduce or get rid of closing costs when purchasing a home.

Why we chose it: We recognize PNC as the best for closing grants among mortgage lenders because it makes it more affordable for you to close home deals through financial assistance.

Closing grants
Various loan options
Brick-and-mortar locations

No direct list of APR & interest rates
Employment verification required
Income assessment

Pricing: 3% or higher minimum down payment

Minimum Down Payment

PNC gives you the chance to buy a house with down payments as low as 3%. This minimum percentage is comparable to the other mortgage lenders in this guide.

Interest Rate

The interest rates may change based on your loan amount and ZIP code. There is no readily available list of rates, unlike Bank of America, Ally, and Rocket Mortgage.

APR

Once more, the APR depends on your location and loan value. It doesn’t directly display its APR data, in contrast to Ally, Rocket Mortgage, and Bank of America.

Home Buying

PNC guides you through your home buying journey, similar to all its competitors. You can take advantage of tools and resources when you apply for a PNC Mortgage.

Refinancing

Like the rest of the lenders, it presents you with refinance opportunities. It gives you as many refinance alternatives as Bank of America, thanks to its adjustable rate, fixed rate, jumbo, FHA, and VA loans.

Application Process

You can pick your preferred mortgage application method, whether it be online or in-person. In contrast to Rocket Mortgage and Ally, PNC has physical locations you can visit.

Payment Methods

Next to Chase, it has the second most payment avenues available to borrowers. You can make mortgage payments through online banking, automated, phone, mail, or in-branch methods.

Special Feature

PNC’s special feature is the closing grant. It’s possible for you to receive a $5,000 grant towards closing expenses if you’re a qualified borrower.

Chase: Best for Payment Flexibility

Minimum Down Payment: Starts at 3%

4.0

★★★★★

Visit

Chase trumps the rest of the mortgage lenders in this roundup when it comes to rich payment options. After all, it has a variety of payment methods you can select from. These include automatic, online, bank transfer, phone, cash, check, and money order.

Also, it motivates you to complete the Chase DreaMaker Mortgage educational course by rewarding you with $500. Aside from this, you can drop by brick-and-mortar branches if you prefer to apply for a mortgage in person. That’s because it’s a traditional bank with physical locations, as mentioned in our Chase Bank review.

Chase mortgage page preview — *Source: Chase*

Still, Chase admittedly has some weaknesses as a mortgage lender. For example, you need to input your ZIP code first before you can browse through the local APR and interest rates. Next, you must be prepared to pay closing costs before you assume ownership of the new house. Lastly, it recommends a good credit score and low debt-to-income ratio for borrowers who want to prequalify for mortgages.

In general, Chase is a conventional bank that gives you freedom to make mortgage payments via your favorite method.

Why we chose it: We commend Chase as the best for payment flexibility because there’s a lot of payment alternatives you can take your pick from.

Multiple payment methods
Educational incentives
Physical branches

No list of APR & interest rates
Closing fees
Strict prequalification requirements

Pricing: 3% or higher minimum down payment

Minimum Down Payment

Chase makes home ownership accessible through down payments as low as 3%. This rate is similar to the rest of the mortgage lenders in the list.

Interest Rate

Its interest rates are variable. You need to enter your ZIP code to see the local rates, in contrast to Bank of America, Ally, and Rocket Mortgage that openly display the data.

APR

Again, the APR is variable. You must provide your ZIP code first to view the APR, unlike Ally, Rocket Mortgage, and Bank of America which publicly lists the information.

Home Buying

Chase enables you to buy your own home, along with the rest of its peers. You can select between Chase DreaMaker Mortgage and Standard Agency Mortgage for low down payments.

Refinancing

It provides you with refinancing plans, just like all its competitors in this review. It features more refinance options than Ally, yet less than Bank of America, with its alternative, FHA, and VA loans.

Application Process

You can apply online or in person for a mortgage. It has brick-and-mortar buildings you can head to, unlike Ally and Rocket Mortgage.

Payment Methods

By far, it has the most payment methods among all the lenders in the list. While most have two or three payment options, Chase beats them all by showcasing seven methods: online, automatic, bank transfer, phone, check, money order, and cash.

Special Feature

Chase’s special feature is its educational incentives. You can potentially earn $500 once you complete a course under the Chase DreaMaker Mortgage program.

Rocket Mortgage: Best for Low Credit Scores

Minimum Down Payment: Starts at 3%

3.5

★★★★★

Visit

Rocket Mortgage is the most viable option for borrowers with a less-than-ideal credit standing among the mortgage lenders in this guide. It gives you the chance to get your home loan approved even if your credit score is as low as 580, at least if you meet certain eligibility criteria. It even encourages you to improve your credit score through the Fresh Start program.

Plus, it’s open to third-party down payment assistance programs. It accepts loans or grants from other organizations to make it easier for you to fund your home down payment. Lastly, you can call Home Loan Experts who can answer your questions about mortgages.

Rocket Mortgage page preview — *Source: Rocket Mortgage*

However, Rocket Mortgage has its disadvantages too. To begin with, it has comparatively steep APR and interest rates next to its competitors. Also, while it presents different types of fixed-rate loans, there are no variable loan alternatives.

In addition to this, while it supports down payment assistance from other organizations, it doesn’t have an in-house down payment assistance program of its own. Lastly, there are no physical locations where you can request for in-person services. That’s because it’s not a conventional bank, but an online mortgage lender.

To wrap things up, Rocket Mortgage offers hope to potential home buyers who might not typically qualify for mortgages with traditional banks.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Rocket Mortgage as the best for low credit scores because you don’t need a spotless record to qualify as a borrower.

Low credit score requirements
Third-party down payment assistance support
Home Loan Experts available

Relatively high rates
No variable interest options
No in-house down payment assistance
No brick-and-mortar branches

Pricing: 3% or higher minimum down payment

Minimum Down Payment

Rocket Mortgage only requires you to pay a minimum of down payment of 3% or higher. This percentage is comparable to all the other mortgage lenders in this list.

Interest Rate

It has the highest interest rates compared to Bank of America and Ally, which also openly exhibit their rate information. As of June 2022, the 30-year fixed rate is 5.75% and the 15-year fixed is 5.125%.

APR

It also has the highest APR among its peers, particularly Ally and Bank of America which publicly share rate data too. The 30-Year fixed APR is 6.021% and the 15-year fixed APR is 5.59%, as of June 2022.

Home Buying

Rocket Mortgage helps you purchase a new home, just like all its competitors. You can maximize the mortgage tools or request for advice from Home Loan Experts.

Refinancing

It presents you with refinance solutions, similar to all the lenders in this review. With its fixed-rate, VA, FHA loans, it gives you more refinancing options than Ally, but less than Bank of America.

Application Process

The application process is purely online. It’s not like Bank of America, Chase, or PNC which also grant you the alternative of in-person application.

Payment Methods

It offers a little more methods to pay your mortgage than Bank of America, yet less methods than Chase. It allows you to make mortgage payments via one-time online, autopay, or mail.

Special Feature

Rocket Mortgage’s special feature is its acceptance of third-party down payment assistance programs. It supports certain grants and loans from other financial institutions. However, it doesn’t have its own in-house down payment assistance program.

Methodology for the Best Mortgage Lenders of 2023

We took vital factors into account as we compared the best mortgage lenders of 2023. Check out some of the criteria we considered while comparing the lenders to each other:

Minimum Down Payment: To begin with, we researched what minimum percentage of the purchase price you need to provide as down payment for your new home. Most mortgage lenders offer a down payment as low as 3% for eligible borrowers.
Interest Rate: We examined how much interest you need to pay every year on your mortgage. Take note that the interest rates in this guide reflect the available information on June 2022.
APR: We evaluated the annual percentage rate (APR) or total borrowing cost you will incur with your home loan. Again, the APR data comes from June 2022 statistics.
Home Buying: We confirmed if each lender provides you with home loans so you can buy a new house. All the banks and financial institutions in this list provide mortgage options.
Refinancing: We checked if every lender presents you with refinancing solutions. Again, all the banks and organizations in this guide grant refinancing loans.
Application Process: We explained whether you can apply for a mortgage online or in-person. In general, traditional banks provide both application options, while online lenders only let you apply over the internet.
Payment Methods: We took note of the available ways you can make mortgage payments to each lender. Some examples of common payment methods are automatic, one-time payment, online, mail, and cash.
Special Feature: We assessed the unique offers which the lenders showcase to attract borrowers. Most special features are related to financial incentives, although some are connected to the application process.

We understand that each borrower has different requirements when it comes to selecting a mortgage lender. That’s why we covered various criteria to help you search for a lender that satisfies your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best Mortgage Lenders

The best mortgage lenders open the door to home buying and refinancing opportunities. Discover the answers to common questions about mortgages and lenders.

What Is a Mortgage?

A mortgage is a type of loan that enables you to purchase or keep a home or land. Your real estate property serves as collateral for the loan. As a borrower, you will be required to pay back the loan to your mortgage lender over a certain period of time. These regular payments typically consist of the principal amount plus interest. Take note that the location of your house will also affect the total amount of your mortgage so it makes sense to find the best states for real estate.

What Is a Mortgage Lender?

A mortgage lender is a bank or financial organization that offers home loans. Each lender establishes its own loan terms, interest rates, APR, and repayment schedules for mortgages. Plus, every institution evaluates the eligibility of potential borrowers like you based on relevant factors like credit standing and income. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is the U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring that mortgage lenders treat borrowers fairly.

Should I Get a Mortgage or a Small Business Loan?

It depends on what your goal is. If your goal is to buy a house, you should get a mortgage. A home loan grants you the chance to become a homeowner even if you have limited resources. However, if your goal is to establish a business, you ought to apply for a small business loan instead. The best small business loans provide the funds you need to start a new business or expand your existing one.

Bottom Line on the Best Mortgage Lenders of 2023

Mortgage lenders make it possible for you to own a house whether you’re flush with cash or not. We give a nod of approval to all the best mortgage lenders of 2023 in our comparative review. Nevertheless, we especially recommend Bank of America to future home loan borrowers like you, thanks to its competitive rates, clear information, economical mortgage solutions, and in-person options.

July 10, 2022November 23, 2022

6 Alternatives to GoDaddy 2023

A laptop showing a WordPress backend page - Alternatives to GoDaddy

Worthy alternatives to GoDaddy let small business owners explore other web host service options. Our GoDaddy review explains that it’s a popular hosting solution because of its online selling tools and social media connections. It even ranked as the top registrar of 2018, credited with 24% of domain registrations worldwide.

Nevertheless, there are other web providers you can choose from if you prioritize other aspects of site hosting. Check out how these alternatives to GoDaddy stack up against each other. Learn which web hosting service is the best match for you based on what type of user you are.

Best Alternatives to GoDaddy 2023

Bluehost – Best Overall
Namecheap – Best for Budget-Conscious Users
HostGator – Best for Support-Oriented Users
WP Engine – Best for WordPress Users
Zyro – Best for Marketing Savvy Users
Wix – Best for First-Time Users

Bluehost

Starts at $2.95 on 1^st year, renews at $9.99/month

1 to unlimited websites

1 free domain

Shared, VPS or dedicated server

Unmetered

10 GB to 120 GB SSD storage

WordPress website builder or cPanel

24/7 phone & chat support

Namecheap

Starts at $1.88/month on 1^st year, renews at $3.88/month

3 to unlimited websites

1 free domain

Shared, VPS or dedicated server

Unmetered

20 GB to 50 GB or unmetered SSD storage

Namecheap website builder + WordPress + cPanel

24/7 chat support & ticket submission

HostGator

Starts at $2.75/month on 1^st year, renews at $10.95/month

1 to unlimited websites

1 free domain

Shared, VPS or dedicated server

Unmetered

HostGator website builder + WordPress + cPanel

24/7/365 phone, chat & Twitter support

WP Engine

Starts at $20/month on 1^st year, renews at $25/month

1 to 30+ websites

None

Dedicated server

50 GB/month

10 GB to 50+ GB storage

WordPress workflow tools

24/7 chat support + 24/7 phone support for high-tier plans

Zyro

Starts at $2.90/month, renews at $8.99/month

1 website

1 free domain

Cloudflare content delivery network servers

Unmetered

Zyro website builder + Marketing integration tools

24/7 chat support

Wix

Starts at $4.50/month

1 website

1 free domain for high-tier plans

Global content delivery network (CDN) servers

1 GB to unmetered

500 MB to 35 GB storage

Wix website builder

24/7 chat & callback support

Bluehost: Best Overall

Pricing: Starts at $2.95 on 1st year, renews at $9.99/month

4.5

★★★★★

Visit

Bluehost Review

Bluehost is our top pick among all the alternatives to GoDaddy in this roundup because it’s a well-rounded web host service. After all, it combines together versatile plans, server options, platform compatibility, and great customer service.

As our Bluehost review emphasizes, there are many plans you can take your pick from. As a result, it’s easy to find the right one which fits your budget and needs. Plus, you can select the server type which works for you, such as shared, VPS, or dedicated servers.

In addition to this, you have the flexibility to choose a website builder based on the platform you’re comfortable with. To top things off, you can call or chat with the support team anytime you need technical assistance.

To be realistic, Bluehost isn’t perfect. For instance, the pricing can be confusing because it’s not obvious that the displayed plan rates are only good for the first year, unless you read the fine print. Also, you need to allot your storage carefully because it’s not unmetered. While the shared plans are affordable, be prepared to reach deep into your pockets if you subscribe to a dedicated hosting plan.

At the end of the day, Bluehost gives you better bang for your buck as a web host provider compared to most of its competitors.

Why we chose it: We award Bluehost as the best overall GoDaddy alternative because it provides great value for your money. No matter what type of user you are, it’s capable of meeting your business website needs because it’s an all-around web host service.

Variety of available plans
Different server types
Website platform options
Round-the-clock phone & chat assistance

Pricing not straightforward
Limited storage
Dedicated plans are costly

Pricing:

Shared Hosting: Starts at $2.95 on 1st year, renews at $9.99/month
VPS Hosting: Starts at $18.99 on 1st year, renews at $29.99/month
Dedicated Hosting: Starts at $79.99 on 1st year, renews at $119.99/month

Pricing

Bluehost has reasonable rates that are fairly comparable to the rest of the web hosting services in this list. It’s less costly than WP Engine, although it’s a little pricier than Namecheap.

Website Hosting

It can host from a single website up to unlimited sites, based on your plan. It’s more flexible than Wix and Zyro which can only host one website per plan.

Domain Name

Bluehost provides one free domain for a single year. It has a similar offer as most of the providers in the list, except for WP Engine which lacks it.

Server Type

Along with Namecheap and HostGator, it presents you with more server options than the other web hosts in this guide. You can choose from shared, VPS or dedicated server hosting.

Bandwidth

You can enjoy unmetered bandwidth for most plans so you can upload and download content as much as you like. Unlike WP Engine and Wix, it doesn’t cap your data transfers.

Storage

Depending on your plan, you will get 10 GB up to 120 GB SSD storage. It’s limited compared to the unmetered storage of HostGator and Zyro, but the speedy SSD storage encourages fast hosting service performance.

Website Tools

The Shared plans include a WordPress website builder, while the VPS and Dedicated plans come with cPanel tools. On par with Namecheap and HostGator, it’s one of the few providers in this list that supports both WordPress and cPanel..

Customer Support

Bluehost is always ready to help users like you via 24/7 phone and chat support. Next to HostGator, it has the second most customer service options among the web hosts in this roundup.

Namecheap: Best for Budget-Conscious Users

Pricing: Starts at $1.88/month on 1st year, renews at $3.88/month

4.25

★★★★★

Visit

Namecheap Review

Namecheap is the most cost-effective out of all the alternatives to GoDaddy in this guide. You can save money because you only need to pay economical rates, not just during your first year but even after you renew your plan. Even more importantly, it gives you more than your money’s worth.

You can get hosting for three websites, not just one, even if you pick the low-tier plan. If you upgrade to the high-tier packages, you can manage as many websites as you like. No matter which plan you sign up for, you’ll get a full suite of web tools, such as the Namecheap site builder, WordPress, and CPanel features.

Nevertheless, Namecheap has certain limitations too. The main one is that it doesn’t provide phone support, which can hamper your work productivity whenever you have technical issues. In addition to this, two of the plans have a limited storage allotment. Lastly, you must pay $2 per month to maintain a dedicated IP address.

Overall, Namecheap offers great deals as a web hosting service because it packs a fair amount of features for the bargain-basement price.

Why we chose it: We commend Namecheap as the best for budget-conscious users among GoDaddy alternatives because you can probably afford it even if you have limited resources as a small business owner or freelancer.

Most budget-friendly web host service
Basic plan hosts 3 websites
Multiple website builder tools

No phone support
Limited storage for 2 plan types
Dedicated IP monthly fee

Pricing:

Stellar: Starts at $1.88/month on 1st year, renews at $3.88/month
Stellar Plus: Starts at $2.98/month on 1st year, renews at $5.88/month
Stellar Business: Starts at $4.98/month on 1st year, renews at $9.88/month

Pricing

Namecheap is aptly named because it’s hands-down the cheapest web host service in the bunch. Both the introductory and regular prices are low-cost, unlike Bluehost, HostGator, and Zyro that start with a bargain price then more than double it after the first year.

Website Hosting

Depending on your plan, it allows you to host from three websites up to unlimited sites. It supports the most number of websites for the basic plan, since the rest of the providers only let you host one website for low-tier packages.

Domain Name

Namecheap gives you a single free domain for one year. It makes the same offer as most of the hosting services in the list, aside from WP Engine.

Server Type

Just like Bluehost and HostGator, it presents you with more server options compared to the other web hosts in this guide. You may select from shared, VPS, or dedicated server hosting.

Bandwidth

All the plans grant you unmetered bandwidth. In contrast to Wix and WP Engine, it doesn’t limit your data transfers over the internet.

Storage

You can take advantage of 20 GB, 50 GB or unmetered SSD storage, based on which plan you subscribe to. Along with Bluehost, it’s one of the two providers who showcase fast SSD storage.

Website Tools

All the plans equip you with a Namecheap website builder, as well as WordPress and cPanel tools. Like Bluehost and HostGator, it’s one of the web services in our list which has more than a single type of site builder available.

Customer Support

Namecheap comes with 24/7 chat support and ticket submission. However, Bluehost and HostGator both trump it in this crucial category since it lacks the phone support they provide.

HostGator: Best for Support-Oriented Users

Pricing: Starts at $2.75/month on 1st year, renews at $10.95/month

4.0

★★★★★

Visit

HostGator Review

HostGator excels among alternatives to GoDaddy when it comes to comprehensive support. It offers the most types of customer service options compared to its competitors. All users can contact the support team via phone, chat, and Twitter anytime, any day, including holidays. You can depend on technical assistance whenever you encounter hosting issues to minimize workflow interruptions.

In addition to this, it gives you the advantage of unmetered bandwidth and storage, no matter which shared plan you subscribe to. You don’t have to worry about excess usage fees, as long as you stick to the normal operations of a small business website.

Nevertheless, HostGator has its own limitations too. For example, you will be considered as exceeding the reasonable use condition if you use 25% or more of the system resources beyond 90 seconds. Also, you won’t get any free domains if you go for the lower-tier plans. Finally, the pricing isn’t straightforward because the website dominantly displays the introductory prices for plans, while making it difficult to find the regular rates.

To sum things up, although its fair use terms are vague, HostGator is a reliable hosting provider when it comes to customer service. That’s why it’s counted as one of the best web hosting sites of 2023.

Why we chose it: We recognize HostGator as the best for support-oriented users among GoDaddy alternatives because it gives you access to round-the-clock customer support via several convenient contact methods.

Strong customer service
Unlimited bandwidth
Unmetered storage

Reasonable use clause
Dedicated IP only available for high-tier plan
Confusing pricing

Pricing:

Hatchling Plan: Starts at $2.75/month on 1st year, renews at $10.95/month
Baby Plan: Starts at $3.50/month on 1st year, renews at $11.95/month
Business Plan: Starts at $5.25/month on 1st year, renews at $16.95/month

Pricing

HostGator is more accessible in terms of pricing than WP Engine, although it’s not a low-cost hosting service like Namecheap and Wix. Otherwise, the rates are comparable to the majority of the web hosting services in our list.

Website Hosting

Its hosting services range from one website up to unlimited sites, depending on your plan. It’s similar to most of its peers, but better than Zyro and Wix which are stuck at one website per plan.

Domain Name

HostGator provides you with one free domain. In this aspect, it’s the same as all its competitors, with the exception of WP Engine.

Server Type

Similar to Bluehost and Namecheap, it gives you more server options than the rest of the web hosts in this guide. You may take your pick from shared, VPS, or dedicated server hosting.

Bandwidth

It offers unmetered bandwidth for all shared hosting plans. In contrast to Wix and WP Engine, it doesn’t limit the amount of data you transfer online.

Storage

You have the benefit of unmetered disk space with all shared hosting packages, within reasonable use of a small business website. Along with Zyro, it’s one of the two hosting providers in the list that grants you unmetered storage.

Website Tools

All plans come with a free HostGator website builder. Plus, it comes with WordPress and cPanel tools, similar to Bluehost and Namecheap.

Customer Support

HostGator has the widest range of customer service avenues among all the web hosts in this guide. All plans generously include 24/7/365 phone, chat, and Twitter support.

WP Engine: Best for WordPress Users

4.0

★★★★★

Visit

WP Engine Review

WP Engine is the leading expert in WordPress in this roundup of alternatives to GoDaddy – it has a sharp focus on WordPress. It actively boosts the search engine ranking, site conversion, and general performance of your websites and blogs built on this platform.

Also, it boasts powerful web development tools, such as automatic WordPress plus PHP updates, workflow features, customizable themes, and one-click backup. You can even create WooCommerce stores or dynamic headless WordPress sites if you sign up for the high-tier plans. Last but not least, you can expect snappy performance because it hosts websites on dedicated servers.

However, WP Engine has some weaknesses as well. For example, you won’t get any free domains no matter which plan you select. Next, it charges the most expensive rates out of all the providers in this list. Finally, the WP Engine doesn’t share the pricing information on the corporate plan, as well as other missing details.

In general, WP Engine stands out among web host services because of its WordPress prowess, but you must be prepared to shell out major bucks to subscribe to any of the packages.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge WP Engine as the best for WordPress users among GoDaddy alternatives because it’s especially designed to optimize the speed and structure of WordPress business websites and blogs.

WordPress specialization
Feature-packed web development tools
Dedicated servers

No free domains
Premium rates
Sparse info on corporate plan

Pricing:

Managed WordPress: Starts at $20/month on 1st year, renews at $25/month
eCommerce Solutions: Starts at $50/month on 1st year, renews at $62.50/month
Advanced Solutions: Contact WP Engine to get quote

Pricing

WP Engine has the most intimidating pricing out of all the web host services in this list. Even its low-tier plans cost more than most of the high-tier plans of its competitors. Still, the steep rates may be justified by its powerful WordPress features and dedicated servers.

Website Hosting

It permits you to host from one site up to more than 30 websites, depending on which plan you select. It gives you more leeway than Zyro and Wix which only host a single site per plan.

Domain Name

WP Engine is the only hosting provider among the bunch that doesn’t offer any free domains. Actually, it doesn’t even offer domains for sale. Instead, you need to buy a domain from another provider, which can be inconvenient if you only want to deal with one company.

Server Type

Again, it’s the sole web host in this list that hosts websites exclusively on dedicated servers. You can look forward to efficient operations because you can enjoy dedicated resources for your websites.

Bandwidth

It allots you 50 GB worth of bandwidth every month. Along with Wix, it’s one of the two hosting services which cap your bandwidth.

Storage

Based on your plan, you will receive a local storage of 10 GB up to over 50 GB. Next to Wix, it grants you the least amount of storage among web host providers, which is disappointing given its premium pricing.

Website Tools

WP Engine has the strongest set of WordPress tools among its peers. Bluehost and Namecheap also have WordPress features, although not as specialized as WP Engine.

Customer Support

All plans come with 24/7 chat support. Still, only the high-tier plans offer phone support, unlike Bluehost and HostGator which include it for all tiers.

Zyro: Best for Marketing Savvy Users

Pricing: Starts at $2.90/month, renews at $8.99/month

3.75

★★★★★

Visit

Zyro has an edge over other alternatives to GoDaddy when it comes to marketing. Powered by Hostinger, it has the ability to integrate with third-party marketing solutions, including Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, Facebook Pixel, and visitor remarketing. The insights you gain from these programs will enable you to make strategic marketing plans.

On top of this, all the plans equally grant you unlimited bandwidth so that more visitors can access your website. You’ll also get unmetered storage so you can upload as much content as you wish, whether it be text, media, or files.

Still, Zyro has some drawbacks as well. A crucial one is the skimpy customer service, which only allows you to connect with the support team through chat support. Next, it only hosts one website for every plan, no matter which package you sign up for. Last but not least, you need to share the Cloudflare content delivery network servers with other users, although there are many global servers to go around.

In short, Zyro isn’t perfect, but its marketing expertise can help you effectively promote the products and services of your business.

Why we chose it: We commend Zyro as the best for marketing savvy users among GoDaddy alternatives because you can use it in tandem with popular marketing solutions.

Marketing tool integrations
Unmetered bandwidth
Unlimited storage

Limited customer support
Single website hosting per plan
Shared hosting only

Pricing:

Website: Starts at $2.90/month, renews at $8.99/month
Business: Starts at $4.90/month, renews at $11.49/month
Online Store: Starts at $8.90/month, renews at $15.90/month
Advanced Store: Starts at $15.90/month, renews at $25.90/month

Pricing

Zyro’s rates are comparable to most of the web host services in this guide. Similar to Bluehost and HostGator, it has a low initial price which suddenly shoots up once you renew your plan.

Website Hosting

It’s only capable of hosting one website per plan, just like Wix. It’s not like the rest of the hosting providers which offer multiple website hosting for the high-tier plans.

Domain Name

It grants you a single free domain. It’s the same as the offers from other web host companies in this list, not counting WP Engine.

Server Type

Zyro’s servers are organized into a Cloudflare content delivery network. It has similarities with shared hosting because users share over 250 locations all around the globe, in contrast to the dedicated servers of WP Engine.

Bandwidth

All plans come with unlimited bandwidth. It doesn’t cap your data transfers, which is the same case for most of the hosting providers in this guide, except WP Engine and Wix.

Storage

All packages are inclusive of unlimited storage. Along with HostGator, it’s one of the two web hosts that doesn’t have any storage caps for all plans.

Website Tools

The Zyro website builder equips you to create business sites. Plus, it’s the only hosting provider in this list with a major focus on marketing, thanks to integrations with third-party marketing tools.

Customer Support

Zyro has the most limited customer service channels among the web host services in this comparative review. It only comes with chat support, unlike Bluehost, WP Engine, and HostGator which also offer phone support. Even Namecheap and Wix provide more service flexibility than Zyro via additional ticket submission and callback options.

Wix: Best for First-Time Users

Pricing: Starts at $4.50/month

3.5

★★★★★

Visit

Wix is a practical choice for beginners who are searching for simpler alternatives to GoDaddy. First of all, it doesn’t confuse you with complex pricing arrangements because there’s a flat rate for each plan.

Of course, Wix is well-known for its user-friendly website builder. This editor has a drag-and-drop interface that’s a breeze to navigate even if you don’t have previous experience with website creation. To top things off, you can request the support team to give you a callback if you prefer to speak directly with an agent, instead of using the chat feature.

Wix website template sample and coding snippets

However, Wix has several disadvantages as well. The most glaring one is that you have to put up with Wix ads on your website if you sign up for the cheapest plan. Also, each plan only provides you hosting services for one website.

Aside from this, you get relatively meager storage so you need to limit the data, media, files, and documents you upload. Lastly, you will only receive a free domain if you subscribe to one of the high-tier packages, not the low-tier ones.

Overall, Wix might not satisfy power users, but it’s more than enough for basic users.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Wix as the best for first-timer users because the proprietary website builder is easy to use even for startup entrepreneurs and independent contractors with little to zero technical skills.

Straightforward, reasonable pricing
Intuitive drag-and-drop editor
Callback option

Wix ads displayed for basic plan
Single website hosting only
Low storage
Free domain unavailable with basic plans

Pricing:

Connect Domain: $4.50/month
Combo: $8.50/month
Unlimited: $12.50/month
VIP: $24.50/month

Pricing

Wix has the clearest pricing among the web host providers in the bunch, thanks to its flat rate. In terms of regular rates, it has the second most affordable basic plan, next to Namecheap.

Website Hosting

Take note that it only hosts one website per plan. Along with Zyro, it hosts the least number of websites compared to its competitors.

Domain Name

It does provide a free domain but only for high-tier plans, unlike most of its peers that include it for all plans. It’s still better than WP Engine, which lacks free domains for all plans.

Server Type

Wix servers are organized into a global content delivery network (CDN). It’s practically like shared hosting because all users share secure servers located all over the world, unlike the dedicated hosting of WP Engine.

Bandwidth

Unmetered bandwidth isn’t available for all Wix plans, unlike most of its peers. The low-tier plans are cramped by a 1 GB to 2 GB bandwidth limit, but the upper-tier plans do have unlimited bandwidth. At least, there’s an unmetered option, in contrast to the universally capped bandwidth of WP Engine.

Storage

You will only get a measly 500 MB to 35 GB storage, depending on your plan. Wix offers the least amount of storage among the providers in this list.

Website Tools

Wix has a proprietary website builder which makes it easy to create business sites. It’s not as advanced as the feature-packed tools of Bluehost, Namecheap, or WP Engine, but it’s more than enough for newbies.

Customer Support

Its customer service comes in the forms of chat and callback support. To clarify, it doesn’t allow you to directly call the support team like HostGator and Bluehost. Still, you can expect a callback with Wix, unlike most of the competitors which only provide chat support.

Methodology for the Best Alternatives to GoDaddy

We examined several criteria as we selected the best GoDaddy alternatives. Check out some of the vital factors we assessed while ranking the web host services:

Pricing: We compared the rates of the plans offered by the hosting providers. Keep in mind that the introductory prices are usually not the same as the regular rates.
Website Hosting: We checked how many websites can be hosted per plan. The number of websites typically range from one to unlimited.
Domain Name: We confirmed if the hosting plans come with a free domain name or website address. While most providers include it as a freebie, it’s not automatically the case with some.
Server Type: We explored how many server options each hosting company gives you. Some let you choose from among shared, VPS, or dedicated servers, while others only use one type of server to host websites.
Bandwidth: We evaluated whether the hosting provider grants you unmetered bandwidth or not. In case there are bandwidth caps, we indicated what exactly the limitations are.
Storage: We assessed how much storage the web host gives you for all or some plans. Certain plans grant you unlimited storage, while others allot you a set amount of disk space.
Website Tools: We examined what kinds of web development tools the hosting provider equips you with. Plus, we evaluated if these solutions are compatible with popular platforms like WordPress or cPanel.
Customer Support: We checked out which types of customer service is provided by the web host, whether it be phone, chat, or callback support. We also took the availability of the support team into consideration, whether it be round-the-clock or not.

Take note that the information in this guide reflects the available data during the time of this writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Alternatives to GoDaddy

Alternatives to GoDaddy serve as interesting options to the prominent web host. Find out the answers to basic questions about GoDaddy alternatives and web hosting.

What Are the Benefits of Alternatives to GoDaddy?

There are several advantages to selecting one of the GoDaddy alternatives. First, these hosting companies can help you to build business websites through built-in or third-party development tools. Plus, most of them will give you a free domain for your site. On top of this, these providers will host your websites on shared, VPS, or dedicated servers so that internet users can access them.

How Can I Pick the Right GoDaddy Alternative for Me?

All alternatives to GoDaddy have their own strengths and weaknesses. Nevertheless, you can pinpoint the suitable web host service for you by considering your own needs and budget as a small business owner or freelancer.

Select the hosting provider which showcases the specific features you need, whether it be fast performance, unlimited bandwidth, server resources, or platform specialization. Also, choose the web host which offers plans you can afford.

What Is Web Hosting?

Web hosting is an online service which makes it possible for you to create and publish a website. Hosting providers store your site on servers so that internet users can visit it. The global revenue of the web hosting industry is projected to have an annual growth rate of 12.68% from 2022 to 2027, with an expected market volume of $144.40 billion by 2027.

Bottom Line on Alternatives to GoDaddy

Solid alternatives to GoDaddy empower you to try other web host services that fit your needs better. We recommend all the GoDaddy alternatives in our guide because each one is remarkable in its own right. Still, Bluehost is our number one choice because this all-purpose web host fuses together plan flexibility, server variety, platform support, and strong customer service.

July 7, 2022November 23, 2022

8 Best NFT Wallets of 2023

8 Best NFT Wallets of 2022 - NFT illustration

An NFT wallet lets you securely store, buy, sell, and swap non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and cryptocurrencies. The best NFT wallet charges low gas or trading fees and lets you trade or bid on NFTs–not just collect and store them. Our top picks for best NFT wallets include Enjin, AlphaWallet, and MetaMask.

Best NFT Wallets of 2023

Enjin – Best Overall
AlphaWallet – Best for NFT Transactions
MetaMask – Best for All-Purpose Use
Coinbase Wallet – Best for Wallet Compatibility
Math Wallet – Best for Blockchain Support
ZenGo – Best for Customer Service
Exodus – Best for Ease of Use
Trust Wallet – Best for Crypto Flexibility

Enjin

Free

Trading fees

Store, buy, sell, trade, collect & create NFTs

ETH NFTs

Yes

NFT crypto wallet

Mobile app

Yes

20 million

Ticket submission + Contact form + Help center

AlphaWallet

Free

Gas fees

Store, sell, transfer, bid for & mint NFTs

ETH NFTs

Yes

Web3 wallet

Mobile app + APK

Yes

Not specified

Contact form

MetaMask

Free

Transaction fees

Store & trade NFTs

ETH & ETH-based tokens

Yes

Crypto wallet

Desktop browser + Mobile app

Yes

30 million

Help center + Community channels

Coinbase Wallet

Free

Transaction fees

Store, buy, sell, trade & collect NFTs

ETH & ETH-based tokens

Yes

Crypto wallet

Desktop browser + Mobile app

Yes

Not specified

Email / Contact form + Help center

Math Wallet

Free

Cloud wallet fees

Store, send & receive NFTs

ETH, BSC & DEGO NFTs

Yes

Web3 wallet

Desktop browser + Mobile app + Hardware

Yes

1.2 million

Customer service system

ZenGo

Free

Networking, processing, spread & conversion fees

Store, buy, transfer & mint NFTs

ETH NFTs

Yes

Crypto wallet

Mobile app

Yes

500,000

24/7 support specialist

Exodus

Free

Network or miner fees

Store, send & receive NFTs

ETH & SOL NFTs

Yes

Crypto wallet

Desktop browser extension only for NFTs

Yes

Not specified

Email + Facebook + Twitter

Trust Wallet

Free

Network fees

Deposit & buy NFTs only

ETH & BNB / BSC NFTs

Yes

Crypto wallet

Mobile app + APK

Yes

25 million

Ticket submission

Enjin: Best Overall

Free

★★★★★

4.5

Visit

Enjin is our top pick in this roundup of best NFT wallets because it blends together NFT trading opportunities, rare NFT collections, and NFT project tools. It specializes in NFTs, unlike many crypto wallets that only have NFT features as secondary add-ons.

First of all, the Enjin Marketplace is a venue where you can trade digital artwork, branded crypto-collectibles, digital fashion, and gaming items. It gives you the chance to buy, sell, and swap Ethereum (ETH) NFTs with around 20 million users. So far, 3.2 million digital objects have already been traded in the marketplace.

Enjin wallet app displays NFT gallery, while user transaction snapshots surround the smartphone — *Source: Enjin*

Next, it helps you find rare NFTs which you can add to your growing collection. It guides you in searching for pioneering blockchain projects that showcase unique digital assets.

Finally, it equips you to bring your NFT ideas to life through a tech stack. You can create NFT projects related to art, music, gaming, and sports. Also, you may mint tokens like collectibles and custom coins via a visual interface that doesn’t require coding.

While Enjin is a winner in more ways than one, there’s some room for improvement. For example, you can only install the mobile app in your smartphones so you can’t monitor your NFTs on your desktop.

Aside from this, it’s not easy to estimate the trade fees because it can be determined either per transaction or per item. Last but not least, customer support is only available during working days so you can expect delayed answers if you ask questions on weekends.

All in all, Enjin leads the pack because of its versatile set of NFT features.

Enjin Overview

Price

The Enjin mobile app is free to download from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, just like all the other NFT wallets with mobile apps in the list. Afterwards, you can install the free app in your Android or iOS smartphone.

Fees

You must pay fees when you perform transactions via Enjin, similar to the rest of the NFT wallets in this roundup. There are two main types of trading fees you can pay when you use Enjin. The first one is per transfer, which involves a flat fee per transaction. The second one is per item, which entails a fee for every item that’s transferred.

NFT Management

Enjin has the widest range of NFT management functions out of all the wallets in the list, with AlphaWallet coming a close second. It allows you to store, buy, sell, trade, collect, and create NFTs using a single wallet.

NFT Compatibility

At present, Enjin only supports the storage and transactions of ETH NFTs like most out of the wallets in this roundup. The only exceptions are Math Wallet, Exodus, and ZenGo which are compatible with other NFT blockchains, in addition to ETH. That’s alright because NFTs in the ETH blockchain are one of the most popular types of NFTs in the market.

Cryptocurrency Management

Aside from NFTs, you can use Enjin to keep and trade different types of cryptocurrencies, which is also the case as all its competitors. These include ETH, Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), and hundreds of other cryptocurrencies.

Wallet Type

Enjin is the only product in the lineup that identifies itself as both an NFT wallet and crypto wallet. In contrast, the rest of the wallets classify themselves exclusively as a crypto wallet or Web3 wallet.

App Support

Enjin is currently available as a mobile app only, similar to Alpha Wallet, ZenGo, and Trust Wallet. There aren’t any desktop versions, which MetaMask, Coinbase, MathWallet, and Exodus have.

Earning Potential

It’s possible for you to generate income via Enjin, which is also the case with most of the NFT wallets. You can earn revenue by receiving a percentage of Enjin Marketplace transactions and peer-to-peer trade.

Users

At present, there are 20 million users of Enjin and counting whom you can potentially swap NFTs and cryptocurrencies with. Among the NFT wallets featured in this guide, it has the third highest number of users, next to MetaMask and Trust Wallet.

Customer Service

Enjin support comes in the forms of ticket submission, contact form, and help center. Take note that customer service is only available during weekdays, not weekends. During working days, you can expect a reply to your ticket submission within 12 hours.

Its customer service is limited compared to Math Wallet and ZenGo, which gives you the chance to talk to live agents. Still, the three types of support are better than what most of the other wallets offer, with only one or two forms of basic support.

Why we chose it: We crown Enjin as the best overall NFT wallet because it successfully covers all aspects of NFT trading, collection, and creation. It’s the perfect choice for you if NFT management is your number one priority.

Rich NFT features
NFT rare finds
NFT project tools

No desktop app
Changeable pricing scheme
Weekday support only

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Trading Fee: Designated per transfer or per item

AlphaWallet: Best for NFT Transactions

Free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

AlphaWallet has an edge over other NFT wallets because it equips you to perform different kinds of NFT transactions, almost as much as Enjin. For starters, it guides you to find the best NFTs to buy.

Aside from selling and transferring NFTs, you can also mint new NFTs and bid in auctions for existing ones to expand your collection. You can even use the NFT-related DApps in the built-in DApp browser.

AlphaWallet mobile app displays token collection categories. The smartphone is placed on the left, while a cartoon man holding a big NFT coin approaches it from the right — *Source: AlphaWallet*

Plus, it gives you the chance to earn profits through tokens that are based on the ETH blockchain, including NFTs, collectibles, and stablecoins. It motivates you to earn interest through lending. Also, it allows you to earn a percentage by providing liquidity to other users.

Last but not least, it keeps your non-custodial wallet safe via the Secure Enclave feature. It claims to be the first ever ETH wallet to use this advanced technology. It offers a hardware-grade level of security to shield your NFTs and cryptocurrency coins from cyber crime.

However, AlphaWallet has some limitations as well. For instance, it’s hard to determine the gas fees because the pricing isn’t straightforward. Aside from this, there’s no desktop software so you have no choice but to use the mobile app. Finally, the support is very basic because you can only send queries via the contact form.

To sum things up, AlphaWallet makes it possible for you to complete several kinds of NFT transactions, which is why it earns the second highest spot in the list.

AlphaWallet Overview

Price

You can download the free AlphaWallet mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, similar to all the NFT wallets with mobile apps in the list.

Fees

You need to pay gas fees when you use AlphaWallet, just like all NFT wallets in this roundup. It checks optimal gas prices for your NFT and cryptocurrency transactions, as well as permitting you to set your own prices.

NFT Management

AlphaWallet has more NFT management features than most of the wallets in the list, nearly as much as Enjin. It enables you to store, sell, transfer, bid for, and mint NFTs.

NFT Compatibility

It lets you access NFTs on the ETH network, similar to the majority of the wallets in the roundup. Plus, you can use NFT-related DApps via the built-in DApp browser.

Cryptocurrency Management

Like all its competitors, it works with various cryptocurrencies, such as ETH and Tether (USDT). You can use it to store, send, and earn digital assets.

Wallet Type

AlphaWallet is officially marketed as an open-source Web3 wallet, similar to Math Wallet. The other alternatives are categorized as crypto wallets.

App Support

It’s available as a mobile app for iOS and Android smartphones, just like Enjin, ZenGo, and Trust Wallet. Alternatively, you may directly download the Android APK from the AlphaWallet website.

Earning Potential

You can earn income by using AlphaWallet, just like all of the other wallets. All you need to do is perform DeFi transactions on ETH tokens and assets.

Users

At present, the AlphaWallet website doesn’t contain information on the number of wallet users.

Customer Service

The only way to reach out to AlphaWallet is via the contact form. It’s currently the only type of support that exists for this wallet. This level of support is barebones compared to ZenGo and Math Wallet’s personalized service.

Why we chose it: We award AlphaWallet as the best for NFT transactions among NFT wallets because it lets you maneuver your NFTs in various ways. It’s a viable alternative for you if you’re planning to maximize the potential of NFTs.

Diverse NFT transaction types
DeFi earning avenues
Secure Enclave

Confusing gas fee computation
No desktop app
Contact form support only

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Gas Fee: Network fee based on ETH network transactions

MetaMask: Best for All-Purpose Use

Free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

MetaMask is a noteworthy multipurpose NFT wallet because of its well-rounded features.

First, it protects your tokens through a key vault and secure login. It keeps your passwords, private keys, and secret recovery phrase in an encrypted format in the local drive of your device. As a result, it minimizes the risk of losing your digital assets as you buy, swap, or save tokens. Learn more about the risks (& pros) of investing in crypto here.

This crypto wallet is compatible with the ETH blockchain and all ETH-based tokens like ERC20 and 721. On top of this, it supports DeFi and Web3 Dapps.

Four smartphones in a row showing different menus of MetaMask wallet — *Source: MetaMask*

Plus, you can install it in iOS and Android smartphones, as well as desktop browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Brave. Finally, you can possibly earn interest on ETH and win prizes by storing money in MetaMask.

Nevertheless, MetaMask does have a few drawbacks. While the app is free to download and install, you will be charged a hefty service fee of 0.875% when you swap tokens with other users. It’s worth it though because you’ll have the opportunity to trade NFTs with around 30 million users.

Also, it skimps on customer service, which only comes in the barebones form of a help center and community channels. Lastly, it’s not compatible with BTC, which is one of the well-known cryptocurrencies in the market.

Overall, MetaMask is widely used as a safe wallet which you can use for a variety of reasons, including basic NFT management.

MetaMask Overview

Price

There are free desktop and mobile apps of MetaMask which you can download to your computer and smartphone, just like all the other NFT wallets with desktop and mobile apps in the list.

Fees

You’re required to pay a service fee every time you trade tokens with fellow users, similar to all the NFT wallets in this roundup. Nevertheless, MetaMask is the only wallet in this list with straightforward pricing of 0.875%, in contrast to the rest that have variable rates.

NFT Management

MetaMask can be used to store and trade NFTs. While it’s limited compared to Enjin and AlphaWallet, it’s still sufficient for basic NFT transactions.

NFT Compatibility

Like most wallets in the roundup, it supports all types of NFTs that are based on the ETH chain, such as ERC20 and 72.

Cryptocurrency Management

Similar to all its competitors, Metamask is compatible with a variety of cryptocurrencies, including ETH and BNB. It allows you to trade tokens and play crypto games.

Wallet Type

MetaMask is technically categorized as a crypto wallet like most of the other alternatives.

App Support

You have the option to install MetaMask in either desktop browsers or Android and iOS mobile phones, similar to Coinbase and MathWallet.

Earning Potential

It’s possible for you to earn crypto by using MetaMask, just like with other wallets. Just participate in open-source projects and create content.

Users

There are now approximately 30 million users of MetaMask whom you can potentially interact with. It has the highest number of users among all the NFT wallets here, followed by Trust Wallet and Enjin.

Customer Service

You’re pretty much on your own when it comes to MetaMask, in contrast to other wallets like Math Wallet, ZenGo, and Enjin that let you communicate with actual people. Instead, you must do self-research because MetaMask doesn’t have any phone, chat, or email support. You can only rely on the help center and community channels.

Why we chose it: We commend MetaMask as the best for all-purpose use among NFT wallets because you can install it in most devices for general use. It’s a good fit for you if you need a free multipurpose crypto wallet with some NFT features.

Useful, safe crypto wallet
Supports ETH & ETH-based tokens
Both desktop & mobile apps available

Fairly high transaction fee
Limited customer support
Not compatible with BTC

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Service Fee: 0.875%

Coinbase Wallet: Best for Wallet Compatibility

Free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

Coinbase Wallet is unique among NFT wallets because it’s part of a social marketplace. As a result, Coinbase NFTs are not just compatible with the native wallet, but also with MetaMask and other ETH-based crypto wallets. The communal nature of the system opens the door to interactions with users of other NFT wallets.

In addition to this, this non-custodial wallet has solid security features. To protect your privacy, it allows you to send and receive crypto via usernames instead of public wallet addresses. Also, both the cloud backup and recovery phrase keep your digital assets safe.

To make things even better, the decentralized wallet equips you to buy, sell, and trade NFTs. It showcases visually appealing collections of NFTs which you can explore, while helping you search for and connect with other NFT creators and collectors.

Coinbase Wallet app showing NFT bidding button for colorful sphere digital artwork — *Source: Coinbase*

On the downside, there are only comparatively few users of Coinbase. While the official website doesn’t display the number of users, third-party websites estimate that there are only over 1,000 Coinbase users at present.

Next, it’s challenging to guess the transaction fees since they fluctuate over time. Aside from this, you can only browse through the help center or send an email via contact form if you need technical assistance.

In general, Coinbase Wallet serves as a collective space where NFT creators and collectors can complete NFT transactions in one marketplace.

Coinbase Overview

Price

The Coinbase mobile app is free to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Also, there’s no charge to get the browser extensions. Both are complimentary like all the other NFT wallets with mobile apps and browser add-ons in the list.

Fees

You must pay network fees for outgoing transactions, which is also the case for the rest of the NFT wallets in this roundup. These include sending or trading crypto and using DeFi or DApps.

NFT Management

Coinbase has a fair number of NFT features, although not as much as Enjin and AlphaWallet. It makes it possible for you to store, buy, sell, trade, and collect NFTs.

NFT Compatibility

This wallet is only compatible with ETH-based tokens, which is the case for most wallets in the roundup.

Cryptocurrency Management

Just like all its competitors, it lets you buy and sell different types of crypto like BTC, ETH, Cardano (ADA), and Solana (SOL).

Wallet Type

Coinbase is classified as a crypto wallet, similar to the majority of the other alternatives.

App Support

Coinbase has both mobile and desktop options like MetaMask and Math Wallet. You can install the mobile app on your Android or iOS smartphone. Plus, you can add a browser extension to your desktop Chrome software.

Earning Potential

You have the opportunity to receive crypto through Coinbase, similar to the rest of the wallets. You just have to watch tutorials and complete quizzes on the website.

Users

Currently, there are only more than 1,000 users of Coinbase. In this roundup, it has the lowest number of users among the NFT wallets with user statistics. Still, you have the chance to trade with users of other crypto wallets through the social marketplace.

Customer Service

Customer support is only provided through the email contact form or help center. While customer service is not as strong as ZenGo or Math Wallet, at least it lets you reach out to the support team via messaging, unlike MetaMask.

Why we chose it: We recognize Coinbase Wallet as the best for wallet compatibility among NFT wallets because it’s open, not just to native wallet users, but to users of other crypto wallets as well. It’s a suitable option for you if you want to transact with more people beyond the Coinbase community.

Compatible with MetaMask and ETH-based wallets
Safeguards wallet privacy
Allows buying, selling, and trading of NFTs

Relatively small Coinbase user base
Fluctuating transaction fees
Minimal customer support

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Transaction Fee: Fees change over time

Math Wallet: Best for Blockchain Support

Free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

Math Wallet sets itself apart from other NFT wallets by supporting a surprisingly long list of blockchains, which means you can trade many cryptocurrency types.

Even more importantly, it enables you send and receive various types of NFT collectibles, such as BSC, ETH, and DEGO. The blog or video tutorial on the website can be useful if you’re interested in learning how to buy and flip NFTs.

Math Wallet mobile app exhibiting NFT collectibles menu — *Source: Math Wallet*

On top of this, it offers MATH rewards so you can earn profits in several ways. You can gain interest on deposits and reap returns via auto daily compounding. Plus, you can get 1%-20% MATH mining power if you invite friends to use the wallet through an exclusive referral link.

Nevertheless, Math Wallet has some weaknesses as well. To begin with, the user interface (UI) of the NFT collections is awkward compared to the slick galleries of other NFT wallets.

Also, the website is difficult to navigate because it’s not divided into logical sections like the landing pages of its competitors. Lastly, the cloud wallet fees can be intimidating to calculate because the amount depends on the blockchain and related factors.

Math Wallet might not make a dazzling first impression because of its clunky web and app interfaces. Still, it could impress you upon second glance once you realize how many blockchains it collaborates with.

Math Wallet Overview

Price

Math Wallet is free to download as a mobile app or browser extension, similar to all the NFT wallets in this list which offer mobile and desktop versions. In addition to this, you can also use it for free as a web wallet. While it works with Ledger and WOOKONG Bio, you do need to purchase the hardware separately.

Fees

You’re required to pay when you use Math Wallet for transactions, just like all the NFT wallets in this roundup. You have to pay cloud wallet fees which are computed according to the blockchain type, along with KYC, manual approval, and 2FA requirements.

NFT Management

Math Wallet has basic NFT features, in comparison to Enjin and AlphaWallet. Still, it’s enough for common transactions. It permits you to store, send, and receive NFTs to broaden your NFT collection.

NFT Compatibility

It has an edge over other wallets in the roundup which are exclusively limited to ETH NFTs. After all, it supports NFT collectible in various formats, including ETH, DEGO, Binance Smart Chain (BSC).

Cryptocurrency Management

Math Wallet works with many cryptocurrencies, similar to all its competitors. Some examples of public chains it supports are Binance Coin (BNB), BTC, SOL, TRON, Enumivo (ENU), Flow (FLOW), and Filecoin (FIL).

Wallet Type

Math Wallet classifies itself as a multichain Web3 wallet, similar to AlphaWallet. The rest of the alternatives fall under the category of crypto wallets.

App Support

Math Wallet has the widest app support among all the wallets, with not just one or two but four options. First, the Math Wallet mobile app works with iOS and Android smartphones. Second, the browser extension supports Chrome, Edge, and Brave. Third, it works as a cloud wallet. Fourth, the app is compatible with certain hardware devices.

Earning Potential

You can generate income through Math Wallet, which is the same case with all the wallets. Some venues for earning are MATH rewards, interests, and referrals.

Users

At present, Math Wallet has approximately 1.2 million users you can trade with. It has the distinction of the fourth highest number of users in the list, distantly following MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and Enjin.

Customer Service

Along with ZenGo, Math Wallet has the best customer support among the NFT wallets in this list. The customer service system lets you talk with agents if you need technical assistance.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Math Wallet as the best for blockchain support because of the overwhelming number of blockchains it’s compatible with. It’s an appropriate selection for you if you need to transact using a variety of NFTs and cryptocurrencies.

Generous blockchain support
Send and receive DEGO, BSC & ETH NFTs
MATH rewards

Clunky NFT collection UI
Website tough to navigate
Varying cloud wallet fees

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Cloud Wallet Fee: Computed based on blockchain and connected factors

ZenGo: Best for Customer Service

Free

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

Source: ZenGo

ZenGo goes the extra mile by giving NFT wallet users like you 24/7 access to technical assistance via a support specialist.

It stands out among crypto and Web3 wallets which typically only come with sparse support options, such as contact forms and help centers. While these are helpful if you have basic questions, the personalized service of a live person is valuable when you have complex queries.

Plus, it taps into futuristic technology to safeguard your digital assets from phishing and hacking. There’s no need for you to create passwords because you can shield your account through facial biometrics, keyless encryption, and 3-factor recovery.

To top things off, Zengo provides a safe connection to Web3 via WalletConnect protocol. It lets you buy and transfer existing NFTs, as well as mint new ones. Also, it encourages you to participate in DeFi trades and lending, plus experience crypto gaming and DApps downloading.

Two smartphones show NFT menus on the left, plus a cartoon woman, dog, and man walks towards mountains on the right — *Source: ZenGo*

However, ZenGo does have some flaws. For instance, there’s no desktop version so you can only use the mobile app with your smartphone. In addition to this, you need to pay networking, processing, spread, and conversion fees to operators even if ZenGo itself doesn’t charge anything. Aside from this, tech newbies may find some of the advanced features intimidating.

Overall, ZenGo is worth taking a look at because of its superior customer service, given that most NFT wallets are stingy when it comes to technical support.

ZenGo Overview

Price

The ZenGo mobile app is free to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, which is also the case for the rest of the NFT wallets in the list with mobile apps.

Fees

While all the NFT wallets in this roundup require transaction fees, ZenGo has more types of operator fees compared to the rest. These include network fees, processing fees, spread, and local currency conversion fees.

NFT Management

ZenGo has a solid set of NFT features, although not in the same level as Enjin and AlphaWallet. It equips you to store, buy, transfer, and mint NFTs.

NFT Compatibility

It works solely with NFTs on the ETH blockchain, similar to the majority of wallets in the roundup.

Cryptocurrency Management

Like all its competitors, ZenGo supports several cryptocurrencies, such as BTC, ETH, USDT, DOGE, Tezos (XTZ), and Polygon (MATIC).

Wallet Type

ZenGo is considered as a crypto wallet, which is the case with most of the alternatives.

App Support

You can only install ZenGo on your Android or iOS phones and devices, similar to Enjin, AlphaWallet, and TrustWallet.

Earning Potential

You may start earning profits through ZenGo, just like the rest of the wallets. It functions similarly to a savings account which grants you interest, but without any lockups.

Users

There are presently around 500,000 ZenGo users you may deal with. It’s the fifth highest and second lowest when it comes to the number of users in this list, although it has exponentially more users than bottom-placer Coinbase.

Customer Service

ZenGo provides round-the-clock assistance through the services of support specialists. That’s why it has the best customer service out of all the NFT wallets in this guide, similar to Math Wallet.

Why we chose it: We award ZenGo as the best for customer service among NFT wallets because it provides round-the-clock support. It’s a practical solution for you if you’re more comfortable asking questions from people than independently researching answers in help centers.

24/7 support specialist access
Cutting-edge security features
Web3 connection

No desktop app
Multiple operator fees
Complex features potentially intimidating to first-timers

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Operator Fees: Amount depends on the operator and type of transaction

Exodus: Best for Ease of Use

Free

★★★★★

3.5

Visit

Exodus is ideal for beginners because this NFT wallet is easy to use and navigate. After all, the sleek yet simple UI is especially designed for novices. The NFT Gallery makes it a breeze to send, receive, and store ETH and SOL NFTs, thanks to colorful, basic tiles.

Two Exodus mobile app NFT gallery menus side by side — *Source: Exodus*

Plus, it’s a good place to start experimenting with crypto trading. The wallet is compatible with more than 180 cryptocurrencies. All you need is two taps to start exchanging crypto with other users.

Finally, it enables you to keep track of your crypto portfolio, such as daily changes, highest balances, plus best and worst assets. It even lets you monitor the latest trends in the cryptocurrency market.

Nevertheless, Exodus also has its drawbacks. A major flaw is that it only allows you to manage NFTs using the desktop browser extension. Since it does let you trade cryptos using mobile or hardware platforms, it would have been better if it also equipped you to perform NFT transactions while on the go.

Also, you must pay network fees and miner fees for most transactions, although the amount goes to operators and not to Exodus. Lastly, it can be cumbersome to message the support team. Instead of directly providing a contact form, the website directs you to external links like Facebook, Twitter, or your default email program. It’s miles away from the customer support of Math Wallet and ZenGo.

Exodus Overview

Price

You can download the Exodus browser extension for free on your desktop if you want to manage your NFTs, similar to all the NFT wallets in the list with browser add-ons.

Fees

You are required to pay network fees when you send, receive, or withdraw crypto using Exodus, just like all the NFT wallets in this roundup. On top of this, you must shell out for miner fees too.

NFT Management

Exodus doesn’t come close to Enjin and AlphaWallet in terms of NFT features, yet it’s sufficient for essential transactions. You can use it to store, send, and receive NFTs.

NFT Compatibility

It’s compatible with NFTs that are based on the ETH and SOL blockchains, in contrast to most wallets in the list that are only compatible with ETH NFTs.

Cryptocurrency Management

Exodus supports various cryptocurrencies, which is also the case with all its competitors. BTC, LTC, XRP, TRON, and Chainlink (LINK) are just some of the nearly 200 cryptos that are compatible with it.

Wallet Type

Exodus is known as a crypto wallet, just like the majority of the other alternatives.

App Support

Out of all the NFT wallets, Exodus is the only product that has a desktop version, but no mobile app. The browser extension can be added to Chrome and Brave.

Earning Potential

Like all the other wallets, there’s potential for you to generate income if you use Exodus. You may earn interest when you keep your digital assets in this wallet.

Users

The Exodus website doesn’t state how many users the wallet currently has.

Customer Service

You can send a message to the Exodus team via Facebook, Twitter, or your default email program.

Why we chose it: We recognize Exodus as the best for ease of use among NFT wallets because of its smooth, intuitive UI. It could be an acceptable alternative for you if it’s your first time to use a crypto wallet to handle your NFT portfolio.

Simple to use
Many compatible cryptocurrencies
Portfolio monitoring

No mobile NFT management
Charges by networks & miners
Inconvenient messaging support

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Operator Fees: Network fees + Miner fees

Trust Wallet: Best for Crypto Flexibility

Free

★★★★★

3.5

Visit

Trust Wallet stands out among NFT wallets because its flexible options let you handle multiple cryptocurrencies and NFTs with a single wallet.

After all, it supports a broad range of cryptocurrencies, which can come in handy if you regularly trade digital currencies. In addition to this, it supports NFTs on the ETH and BSC blockchains. It safely stores your crypto collectibles in the blockchain so that you can conveniently access it.

Smartphone featuring Trust Wallet mobile app displaying NFT collection — *Source: Trust Wallet*

Another important advantage of Trust Wallet is that you’re the only one who holds the key to your account since it’s a decentralized wallet. This means you have full control over your NFTs and cryptocurrency funds.

However, there are some disadvantages of using Trust Wallet. The most glaring one is that it doesn’t allow you to swap NFTs, although it does let you deposit and buy tokens. This could be a deal-breaker if you frequently trade NFTs.

Also, the network fees can be time-consuming to estimate since the amount is calculated per transaction. Finally, you can only rely on ticket submission if you need technical assistance.

To sum things up, Trust Wallet is a crypto wallet that’s generous in cryptocurrency options, but it’s hampered by a lack of NFT trading options.

Trust Wallet Overview

Price

The mobile app of Trust Wallet is downloadable for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, just like all the NFT wallets in the list with mobile versions. In addition to this, you may download the APK free of charge from the Trust Wallet website.

Fees

As with the rest of the NFT wallets in this roundup, you must pay network fees whenever you send cryptocurrency from one address to another address.

NFT Management

Trust Wallet has the least NFT handling capabilities out of all the NFT wallets in the list. It only enables you to deposit and purchase tokens, but not to trade NFTs.

NFT Compatibility

Trust Wallet is compatible with both ETH and BSC NFTs, which provides slightly more options compared to other wallets that only work with ETH-based tokens. It works with ERC721, ERC1155, BEP721, and BEP1155.

Cryptocurrency Management

Trust Wallet is compatible with multiple cryptos, similar to all its competitors. These include BTC, LTC, DOGE, BNB, Ripple (XRP), Dash (DASH), and Polkadot (DOT).

Wallet Type

Trust Wallet is technically classified as a crypto wallet, similar to the majority of the alternatives.

App Support

You can install Trust Wallet in your iOS and Android mobile phones and gadgets. It’s only available as a mobile app, which is the same case with Enjin, AlphaWallet, and ZenGo.

Earning Potential

Trust Wallet allows you to earn income, just like all the other wallets. You could benefit from interest rates up to 11% APR by staking your crypto.

Users

At present, there are approximately 25 million users of Trust Wallet. You can trade cryptos with them, but disappointingly not NFTs. Still, it has the second highest number of users out of all the wallets in this roundup, only next to MetaMask.

Customer Service

The sole support option offered by Trust Wallet is the ticket submission form on the website. It’s a far cry from the solid customer service of ZenGo and Math Wallet, but it’s better than MetaMask because at least you can directly ask a question from the support team.

Why we chose it: We acknowledge Trust Wallet as the best for crypto flexibility among NFT wallets because it’s compatible with a lot of cryptocurrencies and NFTs. This decentralized wallet could work for you if you often toggle between cryptocurrency trading and basic NFT management.

Wide variety of cryptocurrencies supported
Stores ETH & BNB NFTs
Decentralized wallet

No NFT swapping
Perplexing network fee pricing
Ticket submission support only

Pricing:

App Installation: Free
Network Fee: Computed per network transaction

Methodology for the Best NFT Wallet

We considered certain factors as we reviewed the best NFT wallets of 2023. These are some of the aspects that we examined:

Price: We checked if the wallet is free to download and install in your smartphone or computer.

Fees: We researched if you need to pay any network, gas, or trading fees to perform NFT or cryptocurrency transactions.

NFT Management: The most important factor we assessed is NFT management. We gave weight to whether each NFT wallet equips users like you to store, buy, sell, trade, collect, or create tokens.

NFT Compatibility: We researched which types of NFTs the wallet supports. Some examples of compatible NFTs are ETH, BSC, BNB, SOL, or DEGO.

Cryptocurrency Management: We evaluated if the wallet allows you to store and trade cryptocurrency. We also pinpointed which kinds of cryptocurrency blockchains it’s compatible with.

Wallet Type: We explored if the wallet is technically classified as an NFT, crypto, or Web3 wallet.

App Support: We explored if the wallet is available as a mobile app, desktop browser extension, APK, or hardware solution.

Earning Potential: We assessed if the platform gives you the chance to earn interest or profits on NFTs and cryptocurrencies.

Users: We determined how many users are currently using the NFT wallet, in case the numbers are available.

Customer Service: We took a look at what kinds of customer support is offered to wallet users at present.

Take note that we put greater emphasis on NFT management as we built the list of NFT wallets. As a result, our rankings of NFT wallets are based largely on NFT features more than overall functions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best NFT Wallets

The best NFT wallet makes it simple for you to save or swap tokens and collectibles. Find out the answers to basic questions about NFT wallets, especially if you plan to download and use one.

What Is an NFT Wallet?

An NFT wallet is a digital storage tool where you can keep NFTs. Mostly, these are crypto wallets or Web3 wallets which have the ability to hold NFTs, on top of cryptocurrency coins. Many NFT wallets allow you to perform basic transactions like depositing, selling, and trading tokens or advanced ones like bidding at auctions and minting new NFTs.

What Is an NFT?

NFT stands for non-fungible token. It’s connected to unique digital content which contains proof of ownership. Some examples of NFTs are virtual artwork, collectibles, music, and game items. There are approximately 280,000 NFT buyers and sellers as of August 2021.

How Can I Choose the Right NFT Wallet?

You can select the right NFT wallet by checking if it meets your NFT management needs. For instance, you should evaluate if it allows you to perform the transactions you plan to do, such as buying, selling, swapping, or creating. Aside from this, you must ensure that it’s compatible with the NFT types you’re collecting. Lastly, you should confirm if the app is available to download on your favorite device.

Bottom Line on the Best NFT Wallets of 2023

You need a superior NFT wallet so you can safely store and trade your NFTs and cryptocurrencies. At the end of the day, we recommend all the best NFT wallets of 2023 in our guide. Still, Enjin is our top choice because of its strong set of NFT features that enables you to manage your NFTs in many ways.

July 7, 2022February 24, 2023

NBKC Bank Account Review 2023: Build-Your-Own Business Checking Account

You can build your own NBKC bank account according to your evolving needs as a small business owner or freelancer. This scalable banking solution grows along with your business because of its budget-friendly pricing, customizable add-ons, and personalized services. Take a closer look at the rates, features, pros, cons, and competitors NBKC to discover if it’s a smart choice for you.

Our Verdict

NBKC Bank

Visit

NBKC is an interesting alternative for entrepreneurs like you who want to open a business account that you can tailor to your preferences. First, it’s easy on the pocket because it doesn’t charge you monthly or annual fees for basic banking services.

On top of the freebies, you can also subscribe to a variety of add-ons to expand the functionality of your NBKC bank account. Last but not least, NBKC prides itself on providing customer assistance with a personal touch.

Nevertheless, NBKC has some drawbacks too. To begin with, you won’t automatically get a credit card with your business account, although you will receive a debit card. Also, you won’t gain interest if you choose the checking account, yet you can expect a minimal APY if you select the savings account. Finally, you can contact the support team only from Mondays to Fridays, but not during weekends.

To sum things up, NBKC is a practical business account for you in case you value banking flexibility.

Cost-effective pricing
Many extra service options
In-person assistance available

No credit card
Zero APR for business checking account
Weekday support only

NBKC Bank Account at a Glance

NBKC is an online bank and mortgage lender that offers business and personal accounts. Its goal is to provide simple solutions to make banking accessible to everyone. Founded in 1999, it’s currently based in Kansas City, Missouri. Since 2017, it has gained recognition as the Kansas City Business Journal Best Place to Work.

NBKC has an edge over other banks when it comes to adaptability. Both business checking and savings accounts include built-in features like debit card, check deposits, online banking, Bill Pay, stop payments, incoming domestic wires, security, and customer service. Beyond this, you have the option of selecting additional services to level up your banking experience.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month or year

Who NBKC Bank Account Is Best For

The NBKC bank account is suitable bank for startup entrepreneurs and independent contractors who need a business account they can tweak based on their business development. It already comes with complimentary basic services to get you started on your banking journey. At the same time, you can boost your plan by signing up for extra features as your needs and budget grow over time.

Pricing

NBKC stands out among business bank accounts because of its unique pricing scheme. Unlike other banks that offer different tiers, it only presents you with a single type each of business checking account and business savings account. However, you can customize your account by selecting add-on services.

Take a peek at the chart to find out what’s included in every NBKC bank account:

Monthly/Annual Fees

Minimum Initial Balance

Minimum Maintaining Balance

Without APY: $0
With APY: $0.01

APY

None

0.05%

Debit Card

Free NBKC Business Debit MasterCard

Check Deposit

Free via in-branch or NBKC app

Online Banking

Free for Android & iOS

Bill Pay

Free

Stop Payments

Free in-branch or online

Incoming Domestic Wires

Free within the U.S.

Security

FDIC insurance, multi-factor authentication & customer identification program

Customer Service

Weekday support via phone, email, or in-person

Add-ons

Multiple paid extra services

In short, there is only one type each of NBKC business checking and savings accounts:
Business Checking ($0/month or year): This free business checking account makes it easy for you to issue check payments and perform other business transactions. Aside from having zero monthly or annual fees, there’s no minimum balance required to maintain your account.

If you are interested in opening a fee-free business account, here is a detailed BlueVine Review and Bank of America Review packed with information about the pros, cons, and alternatives to both fintech companies.

Screenshot of NBKC Business Checking account page — *Source: nbkc bank*

Business Money Market ($0/month or year): This free business savings account lets you safely store and grow your professional funds. Again, you won’t be charged any monthly or annual fees. While there’s technically no minimum maintaining balance, you need to have at least $0.01 in your account to receive APY.

Screenshot of NBKC Business Money Market account page — *Source: nbkc bank*

On top of the free services, you can take your pick from paid extra services, which we’ll talk about in the add-ons section.

NBKC Bank Account Features

NBKC business accounts include a free set of essential features, plus paid additional services. Let’s discuss the APY, debit card, check deposits, online banking, Bill Pay, stop payments, incoming domestic wires, security, customer service, and add-ons in this review.

APY

NBKC Business Money Market account APY rate & details — *Source: nbkc*

The annual percentage yield (APY) is the interest that you can earn by keeping money in your NBKC bank account. If you open a Business Money Market account, you have the chance to gain a 0.05% APY on your savings funds. You do need to maintain a balance of at least $0.01 to get interest, but this amount is very minimal. However, don’t expect to receive APY at all if you have a Business Checking account.

Debit Card

No matter which business account you choose, you will receive a free NBKC Business Debit MasterCard. This debit card can come in handy if you plan to buy business supplies and equipment in online shops or brick-and-mortar stores that accept MasterCard.

Take note that neither the business checking nor savings bank account will automatically provide you with a credit card. Still, you can apply for a business credit card separately with NBKC.

Check Deposit

You can deposit checks for free, whether you have a business checking or savings account. You can go to a physical branch of NBKC to personally drop off the check. If there aren’t any NBKC locations in your area, you can perform the check deposit online with the help of the NBKC app.

Online Banking

Aside from check deposits, you can conduct different online business banking transactions via the NBKC app. It’s easy to use the app to transfer funds or check your account balance anytime, anywhere.

You can download the NBKC app from the Google Play Store, which means it’s compatible with Android mobile phones and tablets. It’s also available from the Apple app store so you can install it on your iPhone, iPad, or iPad touch.

Bill Pay

NBKC makes it convenient for you to pay your bills in a central way. It allows you to take advantage of Bill Pay on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Plus, there’s no extra charge to use this online payment service when you have a NBKC business checking or savings account.

Stop Payments

You can make stop payments for free if you have a Business Money Market or Business Checking account. These requests make it possible for you to cancel check payments, as long as the checks haven’t been deposited, cleared, or encashed yet. NBKC gives you the chance to make stop payments online or by visiting a bank branch.

Incoming Domestic Wires

Both NBKC business checking and savings accounts permit you to accept incoming domestic wires for free. You can receive money that’s transferred from someone else’s bank account into your own business account, as long as the sender is located in the U.S.

However, you do need to pay a $5 fee every time you send domestic wires. Also, you will be charged $45 each time you send or receive international wires. This could potentially set you back major bucks if you often transfer money to other people or companies.

Security

NBKC is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). This U.S. government agency ensures the safety of the funds which you stored in the bank. That’s why you can rest assured that the deposits in your business checking or savings account are insured up to $250,000.

In addition to this, multi-factor authentication adds extra layers of security to safeguard your account. You will be asked to enter an access code whenever you login or perform high-risk banking transactions. Lastly, the customer identification program verifies the identity of each person who opens an account to minimize the risk of money laundering.

Customer Service

NBKC makes an effort to provide personalized services to all its clients. You can contact the support team through phone or email. Plus, it has an edge over online banks because it gives you the chance to request for banking assistance in person.

Nevertheless, general account support is only available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST Mondays to Fridays. This could possibly cause inconvenience if you encounter banking issues on weekends. Also, NBKC only has one main office and four brick-and-mortar branches in Missouri and Kansas.

While this is less than the widespread locations of big banks, it’s still better than most online banks which have zero physical locations. At least, you have the option of visiting physical branches if you need face-to-face support, in case you live in one of the two states.

Add-ons

In addition to the built-in features we discussed, there is a wide range of add-ons you can subscribe to if you have a NBKC business checking or savings account. Some examples of extra services are desktop deposits, ACH transactions, extended archives, and business security tools.

Check out the chart below to get an overview of the add-on rates:

Desktop Deposit

$15/month

$150/year

ACH Credits and Debits

$15/month

$150/year

Extended Archive

$15/month

$150/year

Business Fraud Tools

$5/month

$50/year

Alternatives to NBKC Bank Account

NBKC is a viable option for you if you value banking versatility. However, there are other alternatives you may consider if you prefer to focus on other aspects of banking.

Lili

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Lili Review

Lili is a financial technology company that provides business accounts via its partner bank, Choice Financial Group. It’s suitable for sole proprietors and independent contractors who need extra help in managing their business resources. It’s also considered as one of the best business accounts for LLCs. After all, it comes with a slew of financial management features, which NBKC lacks.

First, the tax optimizer tools make it easy for you to file your taxes and boost tax savings. Next, you can keep track of your expenses through the mobile app. Finally, you may create and edit invoices via the app so you can get paid for your products and services.

Still, NBKC is better than Lili in several ways. It actually has physical locations, in contrast to Lili which offers purely online services. Also, it gives you phone and in-person customer support, while you’re stuck with email support with Lili. Last but not least, the business accounts of NBKC are more adaptable than the Lili accounts, thanks to the add-on options.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Tax filing assistance
Built-in expense management
Invoice tool

No brick-and-mortar branches
Limited email support only
Not flexible like NBKC

Novo

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Novo Review

Novo is a financial tech company that offers business banking services with the help of its partner bank, Middlesex Federal Savings. It’s fitting for startup founders and freelance professionals who need a free business checking account that integrates with third-party platforms.

Unlike NBKC, Novo allows you to connect your bank account to PayPal, Stripe, and Square to increase your payment options. Plus, you will receive both virtual and physical debit cards, while NBKC only issues you a physical card. To top things off, you can send ACHs for free, in contrast to NBKC which charges for ACH transactions.

Nevertheless, NBKC is superior to Novo in other ways. For example, it grants you the option of a business savings account, which isn’t available with Novo. Aside from this, you can drop by NBKC brick-and-mortar branches in Kansas and Missouri, while it’s not possible to do so with Novo. Finally, NBKC allows you to apply for a credit card separately, unlike Novo which doesn’t have credit card offerings at all.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Third-party integrations
Virtual debit card
Free outgoing ACH

Savings account unavailable
Zero physical locations
No credit card

Kabbage

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Kabbage Review

Kabbage is a financial technology company powered by American Express that specializes in business funding. It’s appropriate for entrepreneurs who need a free checking account, plus loans which equip them to develop their business.

On one hand, Kabbage gives you the opportunity to apply for a line of credit, which NBKC doesn’t offer. In addition to this, you can earn a 1.10% APY by maintaining a business checking account, while NBKC only provides APY with the savings account.

On the other hand, NBKC does have certain advantages over Kabbage. One of these is the ability to perform banking transactions in person, although you can make cash deposits via ATM with Kabbage. Plus, you can take your pick between a checking or savings account with NBKC, while Kabbage only provides a checking account. On top of this, you have more leeway to tweak your NBKC business account through extra services, which isn’t the case with Kabbage.

What Kabbage and NBKC do have in common is that you don’t have to worry about monthly maintenance fees if you open a business checking account with either one.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Credit lines
1.10% APY for checking account
Zero monthly charges

No brick-and-mortar branches
No savings account
Less versatile than NBKC

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for NBKC Bank Account

NBKC may not be as well-known as big banks, but its flexibility makes it worth taking a closer look at. Learn the answers to basic questions about NBKC and business banking so you can be prepared to open a business bank account.

What Is NBKC?

NBKC is a bank that provides simple banking solutions through business and personal accounts. The business checking and saving accounts come with free features, but the functionality can be enhanced through additional paid services. It offers online banking services all over the country, but it also has physical branches in two states. Plus, it’s a certified member of the FDIC.

Should I Choose a NBKC Business Checking or Savings Account?

It depends on your purpose for opening a business bank account. If you frequently make check payments, you should select the NBKC Business Checking account which simplifies the way you deposit checks. In case you want to earn interest on your savings, you ought to pick the Business Money Market account so you can gain APY over time.

Why Is Business Banking Important?

Banking is an integral part of any business, given that 93% of companies and brands in the U.S. have their own bank accounts. Business banking is important because it helps you organize your finances by keeping your professional and personal funds separate. Plus, it makes it easy for you to make payments to your suppliers and billers. Lastly, it makes it possible for you to receive payments from your customers for the products or services of your business.

Bottom Line on NBKC Bank Account

NBKC gives you the freedom to customize your business banking account to match the growth of your business. It stands out among online banks because of its scalable add-ons, affordable pricing, and solid customer support.

Now that you’ve read this NBKC bank account review, it’s up to you to decide if it’s the ideal banking solution for you as a small business owner or freelancer. Don’t forget to visit also our detailed Chase Bank Review and US Bank Review that might be really helpful for choosing the right bank.

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

July 6, 2022February 24, 2023

5 Best Project Management Software for Consultants – Our Picks for 2023

Project management software for consultants empowers you to supervise client projects efficiently. Plus, it makes it simple for you to collaborate with team members and evaluate project results. Find out which best project management software for consulting firms is the right choice for you.

Best Project Management Software for Consultants

ClickUp: Best Overall
monday.com: Best for Customization
Hive: Best for Affordability
Accelo: Best for Consultation
Microsoft Project: Best for Ease of Use

ClickUp

$0- $19/member/month

Business management + Collaboration tools + Project monitoring

Minimalist, list-style UI

1,000+ apps

AES-256 encryption + AWS hosting + AICPA SOC 2 certification + GDPR compliance

24/7 real-time support via phone & chat + Webinars + Free coaching

monday.com

$0-$16/seat/month

Business management + Customizable project workflow templates + Dashboard reports

Visual UI w/ building blocks

50+ apps

ISO/IEC certifications + HIPAA + GDPR compliance

24/7 support via contact form

Hive

$0-$12/user/month

Project workflows + Task automation + Collaboration features + Proofing tools

Adaptable UI w/ multiple views

1,000+ apps w/ centralized dashboard + migration

Workspace security model + 256-bit encryption + Expiring links + ISO accreditation + VDP

Weekday support via email

Accelo

$24-$39/product/user/month

Business management + Project supervision + Billing tools + Financial reports

Visual UI w/ color-coding

24 apps

256-bit encryption + 2FA + Strong password + Automated account lockout

24/7 support via chat & email

Microsoft Project

$10-$55/user/month

Project mapping tool + Automated workflows + Report management

Flexible UI w/ multiple views

Microsoft apps

Azure-based platform + AES-256 encryption + TLS + IPsec + Encryption keys

Free basic support via chat + Paid support upgrades

ClickUp: Best Overall Project Management Software for Consultants

Starts at free

★★★★★

4.75

Visit

ClickUp Review

ClickUp is our top pick out of the best project management software for consultants in this roundup because it combines powerful features, minimalist UI, many integrations, and cost-effective pricing. This all-in-one project management suite equips you to capably oversee the business projects of your consulting firm’s clients.

Screenshot of Clickup Hompage — *Source: ClickUp*

Pricing

ClickUp lands right smack in the middle of the lot when it comes to pricing, although it’s worth paying for because of its first-rate features. It’s more affordable than Microsoft Project and Accelo, but it’s pricier than Hive and ClickUp. Yet along with Hive and monday.com, it’s one of the three solutions that offer a free plan for basic use.

The intermediate business plans range from $5 to $19 per user every month. Take note that the rates for the highest-tier corporate plan aren’t available on the website so you need to contact the sales team of ClickUp to request a quote.

Project Management

ClickUp has robust project management features which help you conceptualize your consultation strategies for your clients while enabling you to execute your plans through concrete actions.

First of all, it equips you to manage the different aspects of your consulting business, including sales, marketing, HR, finance, design, product, IT, and engineering. As we mentioned in our ClickUp review, you can adapt it to your preferred project method, whether it be Waterfall or Agile methodology.

Plus, the platform is designed to handle teams of all sizes, whether it be a solo professional or a big group with more than 1,000 members. It encourages you to collaborate with your team by letting you host live chats and make comments on action items. It also allows you to add visual widgets for all staff members, such as tasks, statuses, time tracking, sprints, embeds, and docs.

Finally, you can monitor the projects of your clients from start to end by toggling the customizable views. As a result, you may break down simple and complex projects into manageable tasks. You can keep track of the progress of each project through multi-step workflows and to-do checklists.

While the platform is generally simple to use, just be aware that it might take you more time to learn how to use the advanced features of ClickUp.

User Interface

ClickUp has a streamlined user interface (UI) that you can easily navigate. It lets you organize your departments and teams into distinct Spaces, while you can group the projects of each Space into folders. In addition to the task lists, you can assign colors to assignments so you can quickly identify which ones are in progress or completed.

Integrations

ClickUp has the widest integration capability among the contenders, along with Hive. It can integrate with over 1,000 tools to expand its usefulness. Aside from ClickUp Public API, some examples of the many native integrations are communications apps like Slack and Zoom, storage solutions like Google Drive and Dropbox, and virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Security

ClickUp has a fairly comprehensive end-to-end security suite to safeguard the privacy of users. Aside from Amazon Web Services (AWS) hosting, it defends your consulting firm from online dangers through AES-256 encryption, AICPA SOC 2 certification, and GDPR compliance.

Customer Support

ClickUp offers the strongest customer service in the batch. Thanks to the 24/7 real-time support, you can request technical assistance via phone and chat any time, any day, including holidays. In addition to this, you can attend webinars and avail of free coaching so you can bolster your ClickUp expertise.

Why we chose it: We award ClickUp as the overall best project management software for consulting firms because it fuses together useful features, a clean interface, generous integrations, and cost-effective rates.

Best value for money
Rich project management functionality
Easy-to-use UI
1,000+ integrations
Round-the-clock support

Learning curve for advanced features
Corporate pricing unavailable

Pricing:

Free Forever: Free
Unlimited: $5/user/month
Business: $12/user/month
Business Plus: $19/user/month
Enterprise: Contact ClickUp for pricing

*Rates for annual billing

monday.com: Best for Customization

Starts at free

★★★★★

4.65

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monday.com Review

monday.com has an edge over other top project management software for consultants because you can freely customize the tools. After all, you may personalize the workflow templates and dashboards based on the requirements of your client projects.

Screenshot of monday.com homepage — *Source: monday.com*

Pricing

monday.com is the second most affordable consulting management software in the bunch, next to Hive. It’s one of the three project management tools with a free plan for simple use. The mid-tier paid plans range from $8 to $16, while you need to reach out to monday.com to inquire about the pricing for its highest-tier plan.

Project Management

monday.com allows you to tweak the ready-made templates which help you oversee the sales, CRM, marketing, design, and software development aspects of your customer’s business. Plus, it minimizes your manual work through the automation of certain tasks. It also serves as a shared virtual workspace for your whole team. In addition to this, monday.com trains you to create workflow apps without the need for code.

Finally, the cloud-based work OS has adjustable dashboards that let you keep track of the different projects of your multiple clients. These panels provide data that could lead to new actionable insights and business strategies. According to our comparative monday.com review, users find it easy to understand the reports generated by the dashboards.

User Interface

monday.com’s sleek UI comes with building blocks that you can use to start or transform your clients’ projects in a visual way. Also, the drag-and-drop function allows you to move your data from table to table. Lastly, the color-coding options and tweakable tabs make it possible for you to arrange your tasks into categories.

Integrations

monday.com has a middling number of integrations with over 50 compatible apps. It has more integrations than Microsoft Project and Accelo, but much less than ClickUp and Hive. At least, you can perform basic office tasks through Google or Outlook calendar and Gmail or Outlook email. It even connects to some communication tools like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams and a few CRM platforms like Zendesk and Salesforce.

Security

monday.com keeps your client data protected through its privacy program. It prioritizes online safety by maintaining ISO/IEC certifications, HIPAA, and GDPR compliance. Also, it upholds transparency by sharing key policies with users.

Customer Support

monday.com offers 24/7 customer service, but you can only reach out to the support team by filling up a contact form. At least, you can track your customer support ticket through the official website. Nevertheless, it would have been better if it had phone support like ClickUp.

Why we chose it: We named monday.com as the best for customization among consulting management software because you can tailor the workflow templates and dashboards according to your needs.

Customizable project management tools
Handy UI building blocks
Relatively economical pricing

Limited integrations
Corporate rates unavailable
No phone support

Pricing:

Free: Free (Maximum of 5 seats)
Basic: $8/seat/month
Standard: $10/seat/month
Pro: $16/seat/month
Enterprise: Contact monday.com for pricing

*Rates for annual billing

Hive: Best for Affordability

Starts at free

★★★★★

4.5

Visit

Hive Review

Hive stands out for being the cheapest project management software for consultants in the pack. At the same time, it doesn’t skimp on features despite its inexpensive pricing. Created for users by users, it has a competitive edge because of its expansive third-party integrations.

Screenshot of Hive homepage — *Source: Hive*

Pricing

Hive is hands-down the most affordable project management app in the group. It’s one of the three solutions that offer a free basic plan, just like ClickUp and monday.com. Also, the mid-tier plan is budget-friendly at $12 per user each month. Take note that it doesn’t disclose the rates for its highest-tier plan so you need to contact the Hive team to get a quote.

Project Management

Hive enables you to supervise the various projects of your clients in a single location through portfolio management tools. The workflows let you keep track of the different stages of your projects for smoother operations. You can use these workflows for both simple and complicated approvals.

Plus, it updates you on pending tasks through its action list so your consulting firm team can promptly meet deadlines. It also automates your repetitive tasks via project and action templates so you can save time and effort.

In addition to this, you and your team may collaborate via native chat. When you meet online, you can list down your next steps as a team via Hive Notes for Meetings. Together, you can transform your meeting agenda into actionable plans. As you carry out your plans, you can monitor the work progress of your staff members through task tracking and timesheets.

Lastly, it improves the quality of your project outcomes by checking the accuracy of documents and videos you produce through proofing and annotation tools.

User Interface

Hive has a very adaptable UI. You can choose from different workflow views, including table, Gantt, status, team, label, and calendar. Also, you can switch from one view to another even while you’re in the middle of working on a project.

Integrations

Hive has the strongest integration capability among its peers, similar to ClickUp. You can integrate the software with more than 1,000 apps. You may link it to cloud storage services like Box, OneDrive, and Google Drive. Also, you could reach out to your team through communication platforms like Slack and Zoom. You can even connect it to CRM platforms like Salesforce and Jira.

As a bonus, you can even consolidate data from various apps into a centralized dashboard. Finally, you can import your tasks if you’re migrating from other project management programs like Trello and Asana.

Security

Hive defends your online privacy through different security protocols. These features include a workspace security model, 256-bit encryption, expiring links, ISO accreditation, and a Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP).

Customer Support

Hive’s customer service is limited compared to its competitors, just like Microsoft Project. It only provides customer support via email on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. This could be inconvenient if you suddenly encounter technical issues outside of working hours.

Why we chose it: We commend Hive as the best for affordability among consulting management software because it’s the most budget-friendly in terms of free and paid plans.

Low-cost pricing
Numerous integrations
Multiple workflow views
Migration capability

Weekday email support only
Corporate pricing not listed

Pricing:

Hive Solo: Free
Hive Teams: $12/user/month
Hive Enterprise: Contact Hive for pricing

*Rates for annual billing

Accelo: Best for Consultation

Starts at $24/product/user/month

★★★★★

4.0

Visit

Accelo Review

Accelo is the only project management software in this comparative review that’s specially designed for consultants. This platform was created to increase the productivity and profitability of your service business through billing and reporting tools for consulting firms.

Screenshot of Accelo homepage — *Source: Accelo*

Pricing

Along with Microsoft Project, Accelo has the most expensive rates in the group. Aside from lacking a free plan, it has the overall priciest rate for the low-tier plan at $24 per product per user every month. Also, it has the second costliest rate for the high-tier plan at $39 per product per user each month.

Project Management

Accelo assists you in managing several areas of your client’s business, whether you are providing consulting services to individual professionals or large companies. These aspects include projects, sales, billing, tickets, reports, and retainers.

This cloud-based platform lets you track project activities and resources within a centralized platform. The schedule dashboard informs you who is working when, while the task board allows you to supervise daily tasks and deadlines.

Aside from this, the billing tool makes it simple for you to allot your billable hours as a consultant on a daily or weekly basis. It eliminates the need for timesheets and punch clocks. As a result, it’s faster for you to compute and request payments from your clients. By updating you on customer feedback through tickets, you can pinpoint and resolve work issues as well.

Finally, it provides a visual report of business data and financial performance so you can evaluate how much profits your consulting projects are generating.

User Interface

Accelo has a visually-friendly UI that’s straightforward to navigate. It organizes general information into boxes and tabs, while it presents financial data through charts and graphs. Also, it makes use of color-coding to help you spot key items on each page.

Integrations

Although its integration game isn’t as strong as ClickUp and Hive, you can integrate Accelo with 24 apps. These include office programs like Microsoft and GSuite, productivity tools like Mailchimp and Intuit Quickbooks, plus customer relationship management (CRM) platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce.

Security

Accelo minimizes privacy issues through basic security features. These include 256-bit encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), strong password policies, and automated account lockout.

Customer Support

Accelo provides 24/7 customer service so you can contact the Client Success team day or night. However, it only offers chat and email support, unlike ClickUp which includes phone support.

Why we chose it: We recommend Accelo as the best for consultation because it’s built specifically for consulting firms, thanks to the convenient billing and reporting features for consultants.

Consultant-centric project management suite
Visual UI
Billing & reporting tools for consulting services

Costly rates
Relatively few integrations
No phone support

Pricing:

Plus: $24/product/user/month (Minimum of 5 users)
Premium: $39/product/user/month (Minimum of 5 users)

*Rates for annual billing

Microsoft Project: Best for Ease of Use

Starts at $10/user/month

★★★★★

3.75

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Microsoft Project Review

Microsoft Project is the project management software for consultants in this roundup that’s most suitable for beginners. Its project mapping features make it a breeze to use even if it’s your first time trying this tool for your consulting firm.

Screenshot of Microsoft Project homepage — *Source: Microsoft*

Pricing

Microsoft Project is one of the most expensive consulting management software in the group, along with Accelo. It has the priciest rate for the high-tier plan at $55 per user each month. Also, it has the second costliest rate for the low-tier plan at $10 per user each month.

Project Management

Microsoft Project equips you to manage your clients’ projects from beginning to end through the project management tools. As we explained in our comparative Microsoft Project review, you can create automated workflows that clearly show the steps of each process.

Plus, the auto-scheduling feature maps out a calendar by indicating the timeframes for your tasks. It even allows all the members of your consulting team to update tasks at the same time. Lastly, the business intelligence and report management feature keeps everyone on the same page about work matters.

Overall, it’s a simple project management tool to be used for small projects yet utilitarian enough to be used for large projects.

User Interface

Microsoft Project has a very flexible UI. You can view your portfolio in different styles, such as grid, board, Gantt, and Kanban. Depending on your preference, you can look at a project as a simple to-do list or a set of visual boxes with a drag-and-drop function. Also, you can develop master plans that consolidate project data into a single workspace for a bird’s eye overview.

Integrations

Microsoft Project seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Office apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. It particularly works well with Microsoft Teams to encourage collaborative efforts through online meetings, file sharing, and chat capabilities. However, it’s not as adept at third-party integrations compared to most of its peers, especially ClickUp and Hive.

Security

Microsoft Project is considered a secure platform because it’s built on the enterprise cloud Azure. Also, it shields your data through AES-256 encryption, Transport Layer Security (TLS), Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), and encryption keys.

Customer Support

Microsoft Project includes free technical support via chat. If you have the budget for it, you can pay for a support upgrade or a one-time phone support purchase. Since you have to shell out extra bucks for better assistance, the customer service isn’t on par with the other providers, similar to Hive.

Why we chose it: We recognize Microsoft Project as the best for ease of use among project management software for consulting firms because its project mapping tool and multiple portfolio views make it user-friendly. Just keep in mind that it might be too basic for some power users.

Simple to use
Project mapping feature
Native Microsoft app compatibility

Relatively basic functionality
Limited integrations
Paid support upgrade

Pricing:

Project Plan 1: $10 per user/month
Project Plan 3: $30 per user/month
Project Plan 5: $55 per user/month

*Rates for Cloud-based Solutions:

Methodology for Project Management Software for Consultants

We considered important factors as we chose the top project management software for consulting firms. Here are some of the aspects we examined:

Pricing: We checked how much the plans for each project management solution cost. Plus, we took note of whether the company offers a free plan or not.
Project Management: We evaluated which software features you can use to manage client projects using different methodologies. Also, we explained if the platform generates reports that let you evaluate project results.
User Interface: We described the style of the UI of each project management solution. In addition to this, we assess if the system is easy to navigate or not.
Integrations: We confirmed how many and what types of native or third-party apps can be integrated with each platform. Aside from this, we gave a few examples of which apps you can link with the program.
Security: We looked at how each project management software protects the online privacy of your company and clients. Plus, we mentioned which security features are included with the package.
Customer Support: We checked the availability of customer service from every company. Also, we listed down which channels you can use to contact the support team.

Take note that the information in this comparative review reflects the current data at the time of this writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Project Management Software for Consultants

The best project management software for consulting firms can motivate consultants like you to expertly supervise client projects. Discover the answers to common questions about consulting management software.

What Is Project Management Software for Consultants?

Project management software for consultants is a digital tool that equips you to manage the various aspects of your client’s projects. It typically includes features like dashboards, workflows, task management, time tracking, automation, and integrations. It can come in the form of an on-premises program or a cloud-based solution.

Why Is Project Management Software Important for Consulting Firms?

Project management software is essential for consulting firms because it helps you start and finish client projects in an organized way. It helps you work together with your consulting team as you tackle group duties and individual tasks. Plus, it makes it convenient for you to update your clients on project progress and results. It’s important for your consulting firm to remain competitive in the U.S. consulting services industry which was worth $132 billion in 2020.

How Can I Choose the Right Consulting Management Software?

You can pick the appropriate project management software for consultants based on your consulting firm’s budget and needs. Select the platform with the project management features that match the type and complexity of your client projects. Keep the plan rates in mind as well when considering consulting management solutions.

Bottom Line on the Best Project Management Software for Consultants

The best project management software for consulting firms can transform you into an excellent consultant. We recommend all the five platforms we reviewed in this roundup. Still, we’re especially impressed by ClickUp because it merges together effective project management features, intuitive UI, rich integrations, and great value for money. We hope our comparative review helped you choose the ideal consulting management software for you and your team.

July 5, 2022March 29, 2023

Lili Review 2023: All-Purpose Business Bank Account for Sole Proprietors

Lili is an all-purpose bank account that helps sole proprietors and freelancers manage their business finances, thanks to its tax optimizer tools, built-in expense tracking, and budget-friendly pricing. In this Lili review, we’ll take a closer look at its pricing, features, pros, cons, and competitors.

Our Verdict

Lili

Visit

Lili is a versatile banking solution for small business owners and independent contractors who plan to open a business account. First, it makes it easy for you to file taxes and increase tax savings. Next, it allows you to monitor your business expenses on the go through the mobile app. Finally, there’s a free business account available, while the paid account is also affordable.

To be realistic, Lili does have some shortcomings too. To begin with, you can only earn interest if you sign up for the paid account, but not the free version. Also, while Lili covers overdrafts up to $200 for the paid account, the same coverage isn’t available for the free version. Lastly, the customer service is only limited to email support on weekdays during business hours.

As we’ll discuss in this review on lili, it’s a low-cost account with practical features that can be helpful for beginners in business banking. Check out the summary of the benefits and drawbacks of Lili:

Tax optimization tools
Built-in expense management
Economical pricing

Zero APY for free account
Overdraft protection for paid account only
Skimpy customer support

Pricing: Starts at $0

Lili at a Glance

Lili is a financial technology company that offers business banking accounts through its partner Choice Financial Group. Its mission is to empower small business owners and freelancers to grow their business through banking services. Established in 2019 by Lilac Bar David, there are now over 100,000 users of the Lili app.

Lili is distinct from other bank accounts because it comes with extra tools for tax and business management. The features we’ll focus on in this review are mobile checking, ATM services, BalanceUp, APY, direct deposit, cash deposit, debit card, cashback rewards, expense tracking, tax optimizer tools, invoice tools, mobile app, security, and customer support.

Who Lili Is Best For

Lili is suitable for owners of sole proprietorships who need an affordable yet useful business banking account. After all, the free account doesn’t require you to pay any monthly fees, while the paid account only charges a minimal monthly fee.

Plus, it comes with handy business solutions like mobile checking, tax tools, and expense tracking which helps you manage your professional funds. In spite of its cheap price, Lili is more than enough as a bank for startup entrepreneurs or independent contractors who wish to jumpstart their business.

Pricing on Lili

Lili offers two types of business bank accounts for small business owners and freelancers. Compare the similarities and differences between the two accounts by exploring the chart below:

Price

$0/month

$4.99/month

Minimum Balance

Mobile Checking

ATM Services

Free at 38,000+ MoneyPass ATMs

BalanceUp

APY

None

Direct Deposit

Up to 2 days faster

Cash Deposit

Third-party retailers

Debit Card

Visa Business Debit Card

Premium Visa Business Debit Card

Cashback Rewards

Expense Tracking

Basic

Advanced

Tax Optimizer Tools

Invoice Tools

Mobile App

Android + iOS

Security

FDIC insurance + Encryption + Freezing/unfreezing

Customer Support

Weekday email support, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. EST

To sum things up, there are two kinds of Lili business bank accounts which you can select from:

Lili Standard (Free): The basic account doesn’t require you to pay any monthly fees or maintain a minimum balance.
Lili Pro ($4.99/month): The paid account charges a low monthly maintenance fee, but there’s no minimum balance requirement.

Lili Standard is a good deal for you if you’re on a tight budget. However, if you can afford the extra expense, it’s worth upgrading to Lili Pro because it comes with more major features for just a small amount each month.

Lili Bank Offers a Lot of Features

If you start a Lili bank account, you can benefit from essential banking services and tools. In this Lili business account review, let’s talk about mobile checking, ATM services, BalanceUp, APY, direct deposit, cash deposit, debit card, cashback rewards, expense tracking, tax optimizer tools, invoice tools, mobile app, security, and customer support.

Mobile Checking Lili Bank

Lili offers you a business checking account that’s particularly designed for sole proprietors and single-member Limited Liability Companies (LLCs). You can easily manage your account anytime, anywhere through the mobile banking app. Plus, you can perform mobile check deposit transactions even when you are on the go.

ATM Services Lili Bank

Lili makes it possible for you to withdraw your money for free from MoneyPass ATMs. At present, there are more than 38,000 no-fee ATM machines all over the U.S. You can find the closest ATM in your area with the assistance of the ATM locator in the mobile app.

Take note that you must pay a $2.50 fee if you withdraw cash from an ATM that’s not part of the MoneyPass network. Also, you will be charged a $5 fee if you make withdrawals outside of the country.

If you want to open a fee-free business account, here is a thorough BlueVine Review, Bank of America Review, and Kabbage Review with information on the pros, cons, and alternatives.

BalanceUp

Source: Lili

Lili provides overdraft protection via BalanceUp. Aside from not charging penalty fees, the company covers overdrafts up to $200 on purchases you make through your debit card. However, this feature is only available for Pro depositors, not Standard customers. If you open a Pro account, you’ll receive a notification that you can enroll in BalanceUp once you meet the eligibility requirements.

APY

Lili grants a 1% APY incentive for customers who open an emergency savings account. You can set up an automatic transfer of $1 or more daily. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to earn interest, as long as you maintain a minimum savings balance of $0.01. Nevertheless, this option is only open to Pro clients, not to Standard depositors. Keep in mind that the APY rate can change over time since it’s variable.

Direct Deposit on Lili Bank

Lili gives you the opportunity to receive your money quickly through direct deposit. It’s possible for you to get your paycheck deposits or client payments as early as two days in advance. All you need to do is set up direct deposit with your Lili account. Then, you’ll start receiving notifications as soon as the funds are transferred to your account. Thankfully, in this case, early direct deposit is available for both Standard and Pro accounts.

Cash Deposit on Lili Bank

Lili is a financial technology company, not a conventional bank. As a result, it doesn’t have any physical branches where you can drop by to deposit your paper bills. However, Lili has partnered with third-party retailers with over 90,000 locations in the U.S. where you can deposit cash to your Lili account, such as Walmart, RiteAid, and CVS.

Debit Card

You will get a Lili debit card whether you sign up for a Standard or Pro account. If you go for the free version, you’ll receive a Visa Business Debit Card. In case you select the Pro edition, you will gain a Premium Visa Business Debit Card. Either way, there’s no need to worry about transaction or service fees when you use the card for online or in-store payments. Still, there’s one major difference between the two types of cards, which we’ll talk about in the next section.

Cashback Rewards

Cashback notification from Lili superimposed above black Lili Pro Visa Business Debit Card — *Source: Lili*

The main advantage of the Premium Visa Business Debit Card over the regular Visa Business Debit Card is cashback. If you’re a Pro customer, you’ll have the chance to earn cashback rewards whenever you buy products or services from participating merchants.

As a result, you can save money on your business or personal purchases from Microsoft, TaxAct, Mailchimp, Chevron, and Autozone. Sadly, you won’t have the same incentives as a Standard depositor.

Expense Tracking

Smartphone with Lili app installed displaying Expense Management menu on the left, Freelancers Union recommendation seal on upper right, and black Lili Pro Visa Business Debit Card on lower right — *Source: Lili*

Lili is unique among business bank accounts because it makes it easy for you to manage your expenses. On one hand, the Standard account comes with a built-in expense tracking tool which lets you sort your expenses into categories in real-time. On the other hand, the Pro account includes an advanced expense tracking capability which helps you increase your tax deductions.

Tax Optimizer Tools

One of the most important strengths of Lili is that it boasts a rich set of tax optimizer tools which helps you meet IRS tax requirements for sole proprietors. First, the Tax Bucket makes it simple for you to set aside a portion of your income for your taxes. Plus, the Write-Off Tracker boosts your tax savings by dividing your transactions into business and personal categories.

Smartphone with Lili app installed displaying Tax Bucket menu — *Source: Lili*

In addition to this, the Receipt Scanner records and stores an image or PDF file of your receipts. To top things off, Lili can pre-fill your annual 1040 Schedule C form to save time before you send it to your accountant or file it with the IRS. Last but not least, it generates automated quarterly and annual expense reports so you can have an overview of your spending patterns.

Invoice Tools

Another advantage of Lili is the invoice tool set. It enables you to quickly create and edit unlimited invoices via the mobile app. Afterwards, you can send them to your clients to request for payments for your services or products. Aside from this, you can file and organize all the invoices you made to update your business records.

Mobile App

The Lili mobile banking app is free to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. You can install it in your Android or iOS smartphones and gadgets. Aside from the mobile checking deposits, you can also make contactless payments through your mobile phone. Also, the app sends you push notifications so you can be aware whenever cash goes in or out of your business account.

Security

Lili takes measures to safeguard your funds in different ways. First, your account will be insured up to $250,000 via Choice Financial Group, the partner bank of Lili. Next, it protects the privacy of your data through industry-grade security encryption. Lastly, you can directly freeze and unfreeze your card via the mobile app if necessary.

Customer Support

One of the obvious drawbacks of Lili is the limited customer service. It doesn’t offer any phone or chat support, which means you can’t communicate in real-time with live agents. Instead, it only allows you to email the support team on weekdays, from Mondays to Fridays, and only during business hours, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. EST.

Also, you can’t even send the message directly from the website since there’s no contact form. You must use your desktop or web email client to send an email. To make things a little better, there’s a help center where you can conduct self-research about basic information on Lili.

The Alternative Bank Sites to Lili Bank

Lili is an interesting choice if you need a multipurpose business account that won’t break the bank. Nevertheless, you can explore other alternatives if you have other banking needs that Lili doesn’t cover.

Kabbage

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Kabbage Review

Kabbage is a registered payment service provider that offers a free business checking account. It’s ideal for ambitious entrepreneurs who need loans to grow their venture. It presents flexible financing options for small businesses, which Lili doesn’t provide. Just keep in mind that you need to provide a personal guarantee when you apply for a loan.

Plus, Kabbage gives you the chance to earn 1.10% APY on balances up to $100,000 for the free account, unlike Lili which only gives interest for the paid account. Also, it allows you to accept payments via professional invoices, similar to Lili.

However, Lili is better than Kabbage when it comes to business management. After all, it comes with automated tools for tax filing and expense management, while Kabbage only provides how-to guides on these topics.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Loan offers
1.10% APY for free account
Invoice payment processing

Personal guarantee required for loans
Lack of tax optimization tools
No automatic expense management

Novo

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Novo Review

Novo is a financial technology company that provides a free business checking account. It’s fitting for small business owners who want to integrate their business account with other productivity solutions.

On one hand, it connects to bookkeeping software like Quickbooks and online payment platforms like Stripe, compared to Lili which has built-in financial management tools instead. In addition to this, Novo specializes in ACH and wire transfers, while Lili focuses more on regular banking transactions.

On the other hand, Lili has an edge because it lets you deposit cash through partner retailers, unlike Novo. Aside from this, it gives you the chance to open an emergency savings account, while Novo is purely a checking account. Still, both Novo and Lili are equal when it comes to a lack of loan offerings.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

Strong third-party integration
No monthly service fees
Free ACH transactions

No cash deposits
Can’t open savings account
No loans or credit lines

Oxygen

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Oxygen Review

Oxygen is a financial technology company that offers business and personal bank accounts. It’s suitable for enterprising entrepreneurs and freelancers who want to earn extra income through business banking.

All Oxygen business accounts grant you an APY and cashback rewards, while Lili only gives these benefits to users of the paid account. To top things off, Oxygen has daily phone and email support, in contrast to Lili that only includes weekday email assistance.

Nevertheless, Lili has an advantage over Oxygen because of its business management specialization. It has features like expense monitoring and tax savings, which Oxygen lacks. Also, the paid account of Lili is more cost-effective than the paid tiers of Oxygen.

Pricing: Starts at $0/month

APY for all tiers
Cashback rewards for all users
Daily phone & email support

No expense tracking tools
No automatic tax savings
Expensive rates for paid tiers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lili Bank

Lili enables small business owners and freelancers to manage the various aspects of their professional assets. Discover the answers to basic questions about Lili and sole proprietorship.

What Is Lili?

Lili is a business account that’s especially designed for sole proprietors and individual professionals. It’s also considered as one of the best business bank accounts for LLCs. It promotes the growth of small businesses by equipping users with handy financial management tools. Lili is a financial technology company that provides banking services via Choice Financial Group.

What Is a Sole Proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is a simple type of business structure. This unincorporated business is owned by a single individual so there’s no distinction between the business and the owner. On one hand, the owner is entitled to all the profits. On the other hand, the individual is exclusively responsible for the liabilities of the business as well. Here’s a list of the best bank accounts for sole proprietors.

Is Lili a Checking Account or a Savings Account?

Lili is mainly a business checking account. However, it does give you the option to open an emergency savings account. You can start one by setting up an automatic transfer of at least $1 every day. Plus, you can earn a 1% APY if you keep at least $0.01 balance in your business savings account. Take note that this option is available to users of the Lili Pro account, but not to Lili Standard customers.

Bottom Line on Lili Review

Lili is an all-in-one business bank account that works well for sole proprietors and independent contractors. It’s an accessible option for you if you’re looking for a combination of competitive pricing, tax savings assistance, and expense management. As we conclude our review on Lili bank, it’s time for you to come to a conclusion if Lili is the best banking solution for you.

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

June 24, 2022February 15, 2023

Oxygen Review 2023: Cost-Effective Champion of Business Bank Accounts

Oxygen’s business bank account motivates you to grow your financial assets as a small business owner or freelancer. This Oxygen review reveals why it’s a cost-effective banking option, thanks to the free tier, cashback incentives, and savings interest. We’ll also go over Oxygen pricing, features, pros, cons, and alternatives.

Our Verdict

Oxygen

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Oxygen is one of the best business bank accounts for startup entrepreneurs and independent contractors who wish to earn more money. You may not expect it from the fun, flashy design of the website, but it’s actually serious about equipping you to generate extra income through banking.

The most important advantage is that it offers a basic tier without annual fees or minimum deposits. Plus, you can get cashback rewards on purchases from approved merchants. Also, you have a chance to gain interest every year, no matter which tier you select.

However, Oxygen has its disadvantages too. For instance, the initial deposit and spending requirements for paid tiers can be intimidating if you’re on a tight budget. There’s also a cap to the amount of in-app ACH transfers you can pull from external accounts. Lastly, you must pay a costly transfer fee whenever you deposit cash to your Oxygen account via Green Dot.

Here’s a summary of the strengths and weaknesses which we’ll discuss in this Oxygen business account review:

Free business account available
Generous cashback rewards
APY for all tiers

High spending requirements for paid tiers
ACH limit for all account types
Expensive external cash deposit fees

Oxygen at a Glance

Oxygen is a financial technology company which provides banking services through Bancorp Bank. It offers business and personal accounts to keep your professional and individual assets distinct from each other. This innovative financial platform was founded by Hussein Ahmed in 2017. At present, the company is based in San Francisco, California.

Oxygen is a cut above the competition because it opens the door to multiple earning opportunities. We’ll delve into various features in this Oxygen review, including APY, cashback, ATM services, physical debit card, virtual debit card, deposit options, ACH transfers, savings goals, mobile banking, extra services, security certification, and customer support.

Pricing: Starts at $0 annual fee

Who Oxygen Is Best For

Oxygen works for freelancers and small business owners who want to boost their professional funds simply by performing banking transactions. After all, you will receive cashback if you buy items from certain sellers using your debit card. Plus, you can look forward to annual interest, whether you sign up for the free tier or the paid ones. You should consider Oxygen if you plan to open a business bank account that encourages you to earn profits in different ways.

Pricing

Oxygen offers four tiers of business bank accounts which you can choose from. This pricing chart gives you an overview of the differences between the tiers:

Annual Fee Price

$19.99

$49.99

$199.99

Initial Deposit

$1,500/month

$3,000/month

$6,000/month

Initial Spending

$500/month

$1,000/month

$2,000/month

Annual Deposit & Spending

12x cumulative/year

Savings APY

0.5%

Cashback

ATM Services

Free

Physical Debit Card

PVC foiled card

Embedded metal card

All-metal card

Mechanically engraved all-metal card

Virtual Debit Card

Unlimited

Deposit Options

Direct deposit + Green Dot cash deposit

ACH Transactions

Limit of $1,000/day + $10,000/month

Limit of $1,500/day + $15,000/month

Limit of $3,000/day + $30,000/month

Limit of $6,000/day + $60,000/month

Savings Goals

Unlimited

Mobile Banking

Android + iOS

Additional Services

Yes

Security

PCI DSS + 2FA

Customer Support

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST daily

To sum things up, there are four tiers of the Oxygen business bank account:

Oxygen Earth, Water, Air & Fire tier logos

Earth ($0): It’s absolutely free because you don’t need to pay any annual fees. Plus, there’s no minimum initial deposit, initial spending, or annual deposit and spending requirements.
Water ($19.99): It only comes with a small annual fee. Nevertheless, you must deposit a minimum of $1,500 and spend $500 during the first month after you open an account.
Air ($49.99): The annual fee is a little larger for this higher tier. Also, you should deposit at least $3,000 and spend $1,000 on your first month as a depositor.
Fire ($199.99): The highest tier requires you to pay a hefty sum for the annual fee. In addition to this, you need to deposit a minimum of $6,000 and spend $2,000 during the first month that you start an account with Oxygen.

Take note that there’s a 12x cumulative qualifying deposit and spending requirement per year for the three paid tiers, namely Water, Air, and Fire. However, Earth account users are exempt from this obligation.

Oxygen Features

Let’s explore the major features of the business account in this Oxygen review. We’ll evaluate the APY, cashback, ATM services, physical debit card, virtual debit card, deposit options, ACH transfers, savings goals, mobile banking, extra services, security certification, and customer support.

Savings APY

What’s remarkable about Oxygen is that it gives you the chance to earn interest regardless of the business account type you pick. All tiers provide an annual percentage yield (APY) on your savings, although the interest rate grows as the level goes higher.

The free Earth tier starts at 0.5% APY, while the yield of the paid Water, Air, and Fire tiers progressively increases from 1%, 2%, and 3% respectively. Just be aware that these amounts only apply to balances of $20,000 or less. While you can still gain interest for funds beyond $20,000, the percentage is lower for the excess amounts.

Cashback

Oxygen motivates you to spend money by promising attractive cashback rewards. If you buy products and services from approved merchants, you can claim up to 2%, 4%, 5%, or 6% cashback if you have an Earth, Water, Air, or Fire business account. Plus, you can get $1 worth of cashback whenever you order food or coffee from selected sellers.

On one hand, cashback is better than points since you can quickly benefit from the money that’s returned to your account. After all, there’s no need for you to collect points which you need to convert first before you can use them.

Smartphone with installed Oxygen mobile app displaying Cashback menu icon and other menu options

On the other hand, cashback privileges aren’t automatic. Instead, you must perform some manual steps first before you can start earning cashback. Make sure to click on the offer in the cashback menu of your Oxygen mobile app so you can load the terms to your card. Afterwards, you can monitor the value of your rewards in the same menu.

ATM Services

Oxygen formed a partnership with Allpoint Network so you can conveniently withdraw your money from nearby ATMs. You don’t have to worry about ATM fees since you can freely use any of the Allpoint ATMs within the U.S.

At present, there are more than 40,000 ATM machines which are commonly located in popular retail stores like Target, Walgreens, and Safeway. You can locate ATMs in your area by tapping on the ATM menu of the mobile app.

Just keep in mind that you need to shell out for international, out-of-network, or third-party fees whenever you conduct special transactions. Also, you can only withdraw a maximum of $500 per day and up to three times daily.

If you are interested in opening a business account with minimal ATM services, here is a detailed Axos Review, Lili Review and Novo Review packed with information about the pros, cons, and alternatives.

Physical Debit Card

You will get an Oxygen Visa Debit Card no matter which business account you pick. However, the material which the physical debit card is made of depends on your tier. On one hand, you will receive a basic but serviceable PVC foiled card if you open a free Earth account.

On the other hand, you can expect premium card materials to match the paid tiers. For example, the Water account comes with an embedded metal card, while the Air tier includes an all-metal card. Still, the Fire account trumps them all by showcasing an engraved all-metal card.

To be realistic, the material of your physical debit card won’t significantly affect its practical functions, except for marginal sturdiness. Nevertheless, it’s an aesthetic bonus that can add a touch of class to your professional image.

Virtual Debit Card

You may be wondering why you need virtual debit cards if you already have a physical one. The answer is: extra security. Oxygen lets you create single-use cards which allows you to make online purchases without needing to provide your physical debit card details. Plus, you can set a maximum spending cap per merchant so you can control your spending.

All tiers come with virtual debit cards, although the level will determine how many or how few cards you can generate. You’re restricted to three cards by the Earth account, while you’re capped at 15 cards by the Water tier. However, the sky’s the limit with the Air and Fire tiers since you can create an unlimited number of virtual debit cards.

Deposit Options

Early direct deposit is one of the benefits of Oxygen. The company typically posts direct deposits on the very day the transaction is performed. As a result, you can potentially receive your funds up to two days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

In contrast, making cash deposits via Oxygen isn’t as simple compared to old-fashioned depositing via traditional banks. Since it’s a financial technology company instead of a bank, there aren’t any physical branches you can visit to deposit your paper bills.

Thankfully, it offers a workaround solution to this dilemma. While you can’t make deposits via Allpoint ATMs, you can deposit cash via Green Dot, the third-party payment platform Oxygen has teamed up with. In this aspect, Oxygen one-ups other financial companies because some don’t have any cash deposit options at all.

ACH Transactions

Oxygen enables you to transfer funds via the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. To top things off, it won’t even charge you any ACH fees. Just be aware that there’s a limit to the amount you can pull from external accounts via ACH.

To begin with, the Earth tier restricts you to $1,000 per day and $10,000 per month. Next, the Water account limits you to $1,500 each day and $15,000 every month. Also, the Air tier permits you up to $3,000 per day and $30,000 per month. Finally, the Fire account allows you ACH transactions up to $6,000 every day and $60,000 each month.

Savings Goals

Oxygen is like your banking cheerleader that encourages you to save money for the sake of your business growth. The free Earth account permits you to set three savings goals, while the Water tier lets you aim for 10 goals. Both the Air and Fire accounts grant you freedom to pursue unlimited savings goals.

These savings goals involve interesting challenges you can participate in. For example, “Round Up Spare Change” automatically deposits small amounts to your savings account whenever you make eligible purchases using your debit card. In addition to this, “Save When You Get Money” enables you to save a set percentage or amount of your deposits that are worth $50 or more.

Mobile Banking

You can experience the perks of online banking while on the go via the Oxygen mobile app. Just download and install the free Oxygen app in your Android or iOS smartphone. In terms of first impressions, the user interface (UI) has a sleek, modern design that’s pleasing to the eye.

Oxygen mobile app download icons for Apple App Store & Google Play Store

Even more importantly, the mobile banking app equips you to perform banking transactions anytime, anywhere. Plus, it helps you keep track of your balance and earnings. Lastly, the large block-style icons make it easy for you to find the menus you wish to access.

Additional Services

Aside from its main features, Oxygen also provides other useful banking services. For instance, it simplifies the online payment process through Bill Pay. It allows you to send money to your friends as well.

To top things off, it’s got you covered when it comes to different types of insurance. It offers coverage for mobile phones and lost or delayed luggage. Also, it guarantees protection against auto rental collision and hotel theft.

Security

Security is integral to financial services because the safety of your business funds is at stake. The good news is that Oxygen safeguards the privacy of your business account by achieving Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) certification.

Plus, you can add an extra layer of defense against hackers by setting up two-factor authentication (2FA). It shields your account by requiring you to verify your credentials both by password and by phone.

Last but not least, Oxygen’s partner Bancorp Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), which protects your assets from potential losses.

Customer Support

Oxygen provides daily phone and email support to all business account users. This handy access to live agents is valuable because it’s easier to ask questions and request for technical assistance directly than via self-research help centers. Thankfully, you can call or message the customer support team every day of the week, except holidays. Take note that these service options are only available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.

Alternatives to Oxygen

Oxygen is the clear winner when it comes to cashback potential, as you can see from this Oxygen review. Still, you can check out alternatives that excel in other areas of business banking that may be more important to you before you open a business bank account.

Bluevine

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Bluevine Review

Bluevine is one of the best free business banking accounts that streamlines the way you make check payments. It doesn’t charge you monthly or overdraft fees, although it does ask for Bill Pay fees for credit card transactions. Also, it allows you to perform an unlimited number of banking transactions, but there are caps to the monthly deposit and withdrawal amounts.

Our Bluevine review explains that it’s ideal for owners of small businesses who need a free checking account to manage business funds. It specializes in economical checking solutions, compared to Oxygen which doesn’t provide checking services. Nevertheless, Oxygen offers more interesting ways to gain banking profits than Bluevine.

Pricing: Starts at $0 monthly fee

Free basic checking account
No overdraft or monthly charges
Unlimited transactions

Bill Pay fees
Deposit & withdrawal amount limits
Less creative income-generating solutions than Oxygen

Kabbage

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Kabbage Review

Kabbage is a business checking account that presents flexible funding options. It can provide you with a line of credit ranging from $2,000 to $250,000, as long as your application is approved through the quick process. Just be ready to generate a personal guarantee for each loan you take. While there’s no monthly maintenance charges, you must pay funding fees if you have an outstanding loan balance.

Kabbage is a useful bank for startup entrepreneurs or independent contractors who need credit services to expand their business. After all, it concentrates on credit services, in contrast to Oxygen which only offers debit card services. However, Oxygen has better customer support than Kabbage because it offers daily assistance, unlike the weekday-only customer service of Kabbage.

Pricing: Starts at $0 monthly fee

Credit line options
Fast approval process
Zero monthly maintenance fees

Funding loan fees
Personal guarantee requirements for loans
Limited weekday support

Chase for Business

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Chase for Business Review

Chase for Business is a business checking account that enables you to supervise your cashflow and payroll. It makes it simple for you to make deposits and receive incoming wires. You can make unlimited Chase ATM and debit card transactions, while you’re allotted a maximum of 20 teller and paper transactions. There’s a mobile app too, although it only works with selected devices.

Chase for Business is handy for small business owners or freelancers who prefer traditional banking services. That’s because it’s a conventional bank with physical branches, unlike Oxygen that’s a financial technology company. Still, Oxygen is more budget-friendly than Chase because the free tier has no monthly fees or minimum deposit amount.

Pricing: Starts at $15 monthly fee or $2,000 minimum daily balance

Basic checking solutions
Paper money transactions
Physical bank branches

Mobile app not universal
No free plan
High daily balance required to waive monthly fee

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Oxygen Review

Oxygen levels up the way you generate income through business banking. Before we wrap up our Oxygen business account review, let’s tackle common questions on Oxygen and learn the right answers.

What Is Oxygen?

Oxygen is a provider of business banking accounts for entrepreneurs and professionals. The four tiers of the business savings account are Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. The basic Earth account is free because it doesn’t require you to pay annual fees and deposit or maintain a minimum balance.

Is Oxygen a Bank?

No, Oxygen isn’t a traditional bank. Instead, it’s a financial technology company. Nevertheless, it does offer banking services through its partner Bancorp Bank. Although it doesn’t have any physical locations, it allows you to complete bank transactions through the mobile app and third-party affiliates like Allpoint Network and Green Dot. Plus, its banking services are more affordable than similar solutions provided by some conventional banks.

What Is a Business Bank Account?

A business account is a bank account that’s designed to store your professional assets. It’s a financial platform that you can use to conduct business transactions, such as sending payments to suppliers and receiving payments from customers. Plus, it enables you to increase your business funds over time through monetary and non-monetary incentives.

Do I Need to Open a Business Bank Account?

Yes. You must open a business bank account if you plan to start a small business. After all, it’s one of your essential responsibilities as an entrepreneur, along with other state and federal business registration requirements. Also, you need to separate your business assets from your personal savings so you can manage your finances properly.

Bottom Line on Oxygen Review

Oxygen empowers you to earn income by maximizing the potential of your business savings, as we learned in this Oxygen review. That’s why we dubbed it the cost-effective champion of business bank accounts.

To sum things up, Oxygen is a financially rewarding option for small business owners and freelancers because of the free account, APY, and cashback offers. We hope this Oxygen business account review helped you figure out if it’s the best match for you.

Best Business Bank Accounts by State

Below you will find an interactive U.S map that can help you locate and compare different banks and financial institutions that offer business accounts in your area.

Our Verdict

Surfshark at a Glance

Who Surfshark Is Best For

Pricing

Plans

24 Months

12 Months

1 Month

Surfshark Features

Security

Bypasser

NoBorders

Server Network

Connection Speed

Device Compatibility

Maximum Devices

Third-Party Audits

Payment Options

Customer Support

Alternatives to Surfshark

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Surfshark Review

Bottom Line on Surfshark Review

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Surfshark: Best Overall Secure VPN

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Speed

Audits

NordVPN: Best for Safe Cloud Storage

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

CyberGhost: Best for Most Servers

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

ProtonVPN: Best for Speed

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

ExpressVPN: Unlimited Bandwidth

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

Windscribe: Best for Flexibility

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

TunnelBear: Best for Affordability

Pricing

Security

Speed

Servers

Audits

Methodology for the Most Secure VPNs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Most Secure VPNs

Bottom Line on the Most Secure VPNs

Alliant Credit Union: Best Overall

Pricing

APY

Membership Requirements

Locations

Online Banking

Special Feature

Consumers Credit Union: Best for Checking APY

Pricing

APY

Membership Requirements

Locations