Methodology for savings accounts

Finder’s banking experts assess savings accounts across five key categories to help you objectively evaluate a savings account’s overall perks and suitability for your unique needs.

The five categories we measure are:

• Perks
• Fees
• Banking access
• Customer experience
• Minimum requirements

Data collection

We collect data manually through online research and from providers directly. For many of the savings accounts we review, our banking experts perform hands-on testing.

Category weightings

We weigh each metric based on factors we believe are most important to customers looking for a good savings account. Accounts earn a score in each category and then an overall score based on the weightings detailed on this page.

• Perks: 40%
• Fees: 20%
• Banking access: 15%
• Customer experience: 15%
• Minimum requirements: 10%

Scoring and rating

Accounts are evaluated on the five key categories outlined on this page. These categories are broken down into 16 different data points. Some of these data points are features that Finder’s experts consider perks to the main features. Accounts that offer any of these perks are rewarded with additional points.

We rate accounts using a system of one to five stars, incremented in tenths of a star, with 5 stars being the best possible score.

★★★★★ 5/5 — Excellent

★★★★★ 4/5 — Good

★★★★★ 3/5 — Average

★★★★★ 2/5 — Subpar

★★★★★ 1/5 — Poor

Data points

Data points are weighed differently, depending on their importance. The 16 data points we took a look at when comparing savings accounts included the following.

No single savings account will be the best choice for everyone, so thoroughly compare your options before picking an account.