DKB review 2026
How good is DKB really?
BaFin-regulated 88/100 points
kosten.org editorial team
Last updated: 2026-02-01
88/100
Points
Based on published terms and features
Deutsche Kreditbank (DKB) has for decades been one of the most important addresses for free current accounts in Germany. With more than 5.5 million customers, it is the country's second-largest direct bank. In our review, we examine how the Berlin-based bank is faring after its major app overhaul and the changes to its schedule of prices and services.
Highlights of our DKB review
- DKB scores an outstanding 88/100 points in our rating – a top all-rounder for active customers.
- Unconditionally free account management for everyone under 28 or from €700 in monthly deposits.
- Pay and withdraw cash free of charge worldwide (active status) – ideal for travellers.
- One of the best broker offers on the market, with low-cost ETF savings plans.
Table of contents
1 Account management
21/25
Points
The DKB current account relies on a two-tier model: anyone with at least €700 in monthly deposits, or under 28, benefits from "active status" (Aktivstatus). This makes the account unconditionally free. Without this status, €4.50 a month is charged. The overdraft (Dispositionskredit) is fairly priced at 9.75% p.a. and is well below the market average of many branch-based banks.
The account is opened entirely digitally and takes just a few minutes. Despite the monthly fee for non-active customers, the account remains one of the most attractive offers for use as a main account thanks to its high quality and fair overdraft rates.
Points: 21/25
2 Cards
13/15
Points
As standard, DKB customers receive a free Visa debit card linked directly to the current account. Anyone who also wants the classic Girocard pays €0.99 a month. A "genuine" Visa credit card with monthly billing is optionally available for €2.49.
The card offering is solid, even if no longer completely free as in earlier years. The choice between debit, credit and Girocard does, however, provide the right solution for every type of user.
Points: 13/15
3 Cash withdrawals
18/20
Points
DKB active customers can withdraw cash free of charge worldwide at almost all ATMs displaying the Visa logo (minimum amount €50). This is a massive advantage for travellers and people who do not want to be tied to ATM networks.
One weak point remains paying in cash: this is only free at DKB's own sparsely distributed ATMs, or possible with fees via retail partners. Anyone who often has to pay in cash will find better terms at branch-based banks or (in part) at ING, which is also a direct bank.
Points: 18/20
4 Payments
7/8
Points
With the Visa debit card, payments in the eurozone are free for all customers. Active customers also benefit from the waiver of the foreign transaction fee on payments in foreign currencies worldwide. Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported natively and work flawlessly.
Through the integration of the most modern payment standards, DKB is technically absolutely up to date. The 2.2% fee for non-active customers outside the eurozone, however, prevents full marks.
Points: 7/8
5 Interest & saving
6/7
Points
DKB offers an attractive instant-access savings account that often takes top places in comparisons. Particularly for existing customers, the interest rates are usually very fair compared with other large banks. There is no interest on the current account itself, however.
The offering is complemented by the excellent DKB Broker custody account, which impresses with low-cost ETF savings plans (flat-rate model). The overall system of banking and investment is one of the best on the market.
Points: 6/7
6 Banking app & features
8/10
Points
The new DKB app has massively improved the banking experience. It is fast, modern in design and offers features such as real-time push notifications and simple card management.
Still, compared with neobanks such as C24, it lacks some professional features, such as genuine sub-accounts with their own IBAN or top-level automatic categorisation of spending. Instant transfers are available but are not free as standard on every account plan.
Points: 8/10
7 Customer service
8/8
Points
DKB's customer service can be reached by telephone and email. There can be waiting times at peak periods, but the staff are competent and helpful. A digital assistant helps with standard questions beforehand.
Compared with pure neobanks, DKB has the advantage that in an emergency you can reach a real person by phone, which is essential especially for credit card or account blocks.
Points: 8/8
8 Security & extras
7/7
Points
In terms of security, DKB is beyond reproach. As a subsidiary of BayernLB, it is covered by German deposit protection (Einlagensicherung) and by the deposit protection fund of the Association of German Public Sector Banks. Deposits are therefore protected far beyond the statutory level.
DKB also regularly offers attractive switching bonuses or sustainable loan options, which round off the overall package.
Points: 7/7
Pros & cons at a glance
Pros
- Free current account for active customers & under-28s
- Free cash withdrawals & payments worldwide (active status)
- Excellent broker offering with low-cost ETF savings plans
- Maximum security through German deposit protection (Einlagensicherung)
- Modern, fast banking app
- Sustainable corporate orientation
Cons
- €4.50 a month without active status
- Girocard costs an extra €0.99 a month
- Genuine credit card only for an extra charge (€2.49)
- Paying in cash is cumbersome
Conclusion: DKB review
88/100
Very good (1.6)
With 88 out of 100 points, DKB confirms its leading position in the German market. It is the ideal bank for anyone looking for a reputable direct bank with excellent terms for travel and investing. Anyone who reaches the minimum monthly deposit of €700 gets one of the best banking packages in Germany.
What is your experience with DKB? Feel free to share it with other readers.
Read DKB experiences