Best Interest – In South Africa’s fast-evolving digital banking space, two names often dominate the conversation: TymeBank and Capitec. Both banks have built reputations on low fees, easy account access, and strong interest rates for savers. But when it comes to choosing the bank that gives you the best interest on your money in 2025, which one should you trust? In this in-depth comparison, we break down the latest interest rates, account features, pros and cons, and who each bank is best for. If you’re serious about earning more on your savings or planning your finances smartly, this article will help you make the right choice.
Overview of TymeBank and Capitec in 2025
Both banks aim to serve the unbanked and digitally-savvy population in South Africa. But their savings products and approach to interest earnings differ quite a bit.
TymeBank Highlights:
- 100% digital, branchless bank
- GoalSave account earns up to 11% interest
- No monthly fees
- Instant SmartShop onboarding at Pick n Pay or Boxer stores
Capitec Highlights:
- Hybrid model: digital + physical branches
- Global One savings earns 5.25% to 9.10% interest
- Offers loans, investments, insurance
- Charges small monthly fee (R7 in 2025)
Let’s now break it down category by category.
Interest Rates Comparison – TymeBank vs Capitec
Interest earnings are often the top priority for savers. In 2025, both banks offer tiered interest, but TymeBank leads with its high-end rates.
| Feature | TymeBank (GoalSave) | Capitec (Global One) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Interest Rate | 4.00% | 5.25% |
| After 30 Days | 7.00% | 6.50% |
| After 90 Days | 11.00% | 9.10% |
| Minimum Deposit | R0 | R1 |
| Access to Funds | 10-Day Notice | Immediate |
| Monthly Fees | R0 | R7 |
Account Flexibility & Features
Capitec and TymeBank differ in how they structure their savings products.
- TymeBank GoalSave:
- You can open up to 10 GoalSave accounts
- Each can have its own savings goal
- Interest increases the longer you don’t touch your money
- 10-day notice period for withdrawal
- Capitec Savings Pockets:
- Unlimited flexible savings pockets
- Instant transfer and withdrawal
- Interest applies daily and compounds monthly
Best for Daily Use + Savings?
Capitec wins here by offering both transactional banking and competitive savings in one simple package. TymeBank is more attractive if you purely want to save and forget.
Monthly Banking Costs in 2025
Fees can erode your interest if you’re not careful. Here’s how the two compare.
| Feature | TymeBank | Capitec |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Account Fee | R0 | R7 |
| Debit Card Withdrawal | R10 (ATM) | R8.50 |
| EFT Payments | Free | R1 per transaction |
| Card Swipes | Free | Free |
| Cash Deposit | R7 per R1000 | R1.50 per R100 |
Customer Experience & Digital Tools
In 2025, customer service and mobile banking tools are essential. Let’s compare:
- TymeBank:
- 100% app-based or kiosk support
- No physical branches
- WhatsApp support + live chat
- Easy Smart ID registration
- Capitec:
- App, call center, and in-branch help
- Chatbot + live agent support
- Offers full digital onboarding too
Pros and Cons of Each Bank in 2025
TymeBank Pros:
- Highest possible interest (up to 11%)
- Free account, no monthly fee
- Convenient setup at grocery stores
- Simple and clean app interface
TymeBank Cons:
- 10-day withdrawal delay from GoalSave
- No physical branches
- Limited extra banking services (e.g., loans, insurance)
Capitec Pros:
- Great balance of banking + saving
- Reliable customer support
- Full product suite: loans, funeral cover, investment
- Instant access to savings
Capitec Cons:
- Lower max interest than TymeBank
- Monthly fee applies
- Complex fee structure for some services
Who Should Choose TymeBank in 2025?
You should pick TymeBank if:
- Your main goal is to maximize interest on savings
- You’re okay with limited ATM use and digital-only banking
- You’re disciplined enough to lock money for 90 days
Who Should Choose Capitec in 2025?
Choose Capitec if:
- You need a one-stop shop for banking + loans
- You want easy, same-day access to savings
- You value customer service and physical branch options
In 2025, if you want the highest return on your savings, TymeBank is the clear winner—but only if you’re willing to delay your withdrawals for 90 days. For all-round banking with decent interest, Capitec remains the most user-friendly choice.
FAQs
Q1. Which bank gives the highest interest in 2025?
TymeBank offers up to 11% interest on its GoalSave account, the highest among South African banks.
Q2. Does Capitec pay interest daily or monthly?
Capitec calculates interest daily and pays it monthly on all savings pockets.
Q3. Can I withdraw my TymeBank GoalSave anytime?
No, there is a 10-day notice period before withdrawal is allowed.
Q4. Which bank is better for short-term savings?
Capitec is better for short-term savings since you can withdraw funds instantly.
Q5. Is there any monthly fee with TymeBank?
No, TymeBank does not charge a monthly account fee in 2025.
