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Ally vs. Alliant online banks
Explore account lineups, rates, fees and more from these two digital financial institutions.
Both Ally and Alliant operate entirely online, offering a range of banking products with competitive rates and low fees. Compare the two to find out which is best for your situation.
Pros and cons of Ally vs. Alliant
Ally
Pros
- Wider range of CD options. Ally has a wider selection of CD options and terms than Alliant.
- More intuitive website and app. Ally offers one of the best-rated digital platforms according to customers.
- Slightly lower fees. You’ll pay lower monthly fees and service charges with Ally.
Cons
- No branches. Ally operates entirely online, so you won’t be able to visit a branch.
- Lower interest on checking accounts. You won’t earn as much interest on your checking balance if you decide to bank with Ally.
- Fewer ATMs. Ally has 43,000 ATMs compared to Alliant’s 80,000.
- No debit card for savings accounts. You won’t receive a debit card to access your savings.
Alliant
Pros
- Two branch locations.Unlike Ally, Alliant has a couple of branch locations, so you can bank in person..
- More interest on checking accounts. You’ll earn more interest with Alliant checking accounts.
- More ATMs. Alliant has over 80,000 ATMs compared to Ally‘s 43,000.
- Savings accounts include debit cards. Alliant savings accounts come with debit cards that make it easier to access your money if needed.
Cons
- Membership required. To open an account with Alliant, you’ll first need to become a member.
- Fewer CD options. Alliant offers fewer CD terms and doesn’t offer a no-penalty CD like Ally.
- Slightly higher fees. Alliant has slightly higher service charges and monthly fees than Ally.
Ally vs. Alliant savings accounts
Both Ally and Alliant offer one traditional savings account, but Alliant takes this category for its slightly higher interest rates and lower fees.
Winner: Alliant
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Ally vs. Alliant checking accounts
Ally and Alliant both have interest-bearing checking accounts, but Alliant stands out for its higher interest rates and larger ATM network.
Winner: Alliant
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Ally vs. Alliant certificates of deposit
Both have multiple CD terms with competitive rates, but Ally has no minimum deposit requirements and has more CD options.
Winner: Ally
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Ally and Alliant’s other products
Both banks offer a selection of other financial products.
- Credit cards
- IRAs
- IRA CDs
- Home loans and refinancing
- Brokerage accounts
- Portfolio management
- Money market account
Ally
- Credit cards
- IRAs
- IRA CDs
- Home loans and refinancing
- Brokerage accounts
- Portfolio management
- Car, student and personal loans
- Auto, home and life insurance
- Kid and teen checking
Alliant
Ally and Alliant branches and ATMs
With most of their business being conducted online, customer service is important. Here’s how the two compare:
| Ally | Alliant | |
|---|---|---|
| Branches | 0 | 2 |
| ATMs | 43,000 | 80,000+ |
| Customer service |
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Ally and Alliant special features
Both institutions have a couple of features that make them stand out from their competitors:
| Ally |
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| Alliant |
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Winner: Tie
Bottom line
These online banks offer a wide range of personal banking products with competitive rates and almost no fees. Ally is the better choice for savings accounts and CDs, whereas Alliant might be better if you have a higher checking balance or prefer access to branches. Not sure either is right for you? Compare your options until you find the right fit.
Frequently asked questions
More resources on Finder
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Alliant Credit Union Free Teen Checking review
Featuring no monthly fees, see how Alliant Credit Union stacks up to other teen checking accounts.
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Alliant Kids Savings Account review
A kid-centered savings account with ATM access for children under age 12, but parents must be a member.
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