N26: That's why I decided against the mobile bank
A COLUMN of Kevin Özgun 
on March 31, 2019, 10:00 pm | 2 comments | Note: Column - More
Even before N26 could be used with Apple Pay, I had a current account with N26. But why I finally decided against N26, I'll clarify in this column.
The hype around Apple Pay was insanely huge. Since some German banks had not dared to take the step to mobile payment by smartphone, the N26 from Berlin was brought into the spotlight. When it was finally possible to pay on the iPhone with Apple Pay in Germany in mid-December 2018, more and more people were holding their iPhones at the card terminals at the cash registers.
The first few months up until February really felt like the future. No more annoying wallets to pull out of your pants or counting coins - just hold your smartphone to the terminal, unlock it and the amount is debited from your N26 account. But anyone who lives in Germany knows the big problems of digitalization all too well. Contactless payments or credit card payments are not accepted everywhere.
Personal reasons against the N26 account
The N26 banking app is modern - no question about it. Everything is constantly being improved and everything is clearly laid out. And the maximum of 3 or 5 free cash withdrawals with the MasterCard were totally okay, there is nothing against it if you have in mind that you will be betting more on a life without cash in the future.
Those who live in the city may have fewer problems in kiosks or supermarkets. But those who live in the country will – in my experience – be less happy with the N26. The biggest problem I had, however, was in bakeries. There is almost nowhere in Germany where you can pay at a bakery with a card, let alone with your smartphone.
I actually used the N26 as my main account and repeatedly came up against the limits of what was possible at pharmacies, restaurants or even at Deutsche Bahn. You shop and suddenly come across a lack of credit card acceptance. Unfortunately, the N26 does not offer a giro card function with its Maestro card, which is, however, offered in many more rural shops.
My personal conclusion
This was a key reason for me to close the account at N26 as I have no way to go anywhere proto pay without hesitation. If all companies accept MasterCard in the future, I would even be willing to create an account with the digital bank again. Until then, however, I have to put my trust in another bank, as they are currently better equipped. This is especially noticeable for me in everyday life.
Good contribution, but I can't quite agree with you. I have been an N26 user from the very beginning and I am absolutely thrilled!
BECAUSE: I ALWAYS pay with my N26 Card, no matter where I am, whether it's the bakery around the corner (mobile EC card machine WITHOUT credit card acceptance) or the magazine in the kiosk (EDEKA store).
Because the card is linked to a current account (which you can see in the picture above. It shimmers on the top right
On the edge of the card, the IBAN number and the BIC code through) I was able to pay with the card anytime and anywhere until now (knocks on wood).
Should I be wrong then I ask for your indulgence 🙂
Kind regards, Patrick Schüller
Hey, thanks for your comment.
Unfortunately, I have had the experience every day that the companies mentioned above tell me "We only support Girocard or EC". Credit cards such as Maestro or Mastercard are often not supported because of the high percentage rates. Especially in the countryside, I regularly encountered a lack of acceptance. And I commute between the village and the city every day. Even in big cities, this has happened to me.