Skip to main content

Equity Bank vs ABSA Bank - Complete Bank Comparison 2025

Compare Equity Bank and ABSA Bank side-by-side. Interest rates, fees, branch network, digital services, and customer reviews. Find out which bank is right for you.

Last verified: January 2026
Data from official bank websitesHow we verify data →

At a Glance

Best Rate
Equity Bank Kenya
Lowest Fees
ABSA Bank Kenya
Fastest Approval
Equity Bank Kenya
Overall Winner
Equity Bank Kenya
Feature
Equity Personal Loan
Equity Bank Kenya
ABSA Personal Loan
ABSA Bank Kenya
Interest Rate
13% - 16% p.a.
14% - 16.5% p.a.
Loan Amount Range
KES 50,000 - KES 5,000,000
KES 50,000 - KES 10,000,000
Repayment Period
6 - 60 months
12 - 72 months
Fees
Processing: 2%
Processing: 2.5%%
Key Features
  • Quick approval within 48 hours
  • Flexible repayment up to 5 years
  • No collateral for loans up to KES 500k
  • Competitive interest rates
  • Top-up facility available
  • Loan amounts up to KES 10 million
  • Flexible repayment up to 6 years
  • Competitive interest rates from 14%
  • Quick approval within 48 hours
  • Salary advance up to 3x net salary
View Details & ApplyView Details & Apply

Equity Personal Loan

Pros

  • +Quick approval within 48 hours
  • +Flexible repayment up to 5 years
  • +No collateral for loans up to KES 500k
  • +Competitive interest rates

ABSA Personal Loan

Pros

  • +Loan amounts up to KES 10 million
  • +Flexible repayment up to 6 years
  • +Competitive interest rates from 14%
  • +Quick approval within 48 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Equity Bank or ABSA Bank?

Both Equity Bank and ABSA Bank are reputable CBK-licensed banks in Kenya. Equity Bank has 190 branches while ABSA Bank has 80 branches. Equity Bank was established in 1984 and ABSA Bank in 1916. The best choice depends on your specific needs, location, and the type of financial product you're looking for.

What are the main differences between Equity Bank and ABSA Bank?

Equity Bank is headquartered in Nairobi and offers 190+ branches nationwide, Strong digital banking. ABSA Bank is headquartered in Nairobi and is known for Over 100 years of banking experience, Strong international banking network. They differ in their product offerings, interest rates, fees, and branch networks.

Which bank has better interest rates: Equity Bank or ABSA Bank?

Interest rates vary by product type. For personal loans, rates typically range from 13-18% p.a. at both banks. Equity Bank may offer lower rates for salary-backed loans, while ABSA Bank might have better rates for secured loans. Always compare specific products on PesaMarket for current rates.

Can I have accounts at both Equity Bank and ABSA Bank?

Yes, you can have accounts at both Equity Bank and ABSA Bank. Many Kenyans maintain multiple bank accounts to take advantage of different products and services. Both banks offer mobile banking integration with M-Pesa for easy transfers.

Which bank has better mobile banking: Equity Bank or ABSA Bank?

Both banks have robust mobile banking apps. Equity Bank offers Equity Mobile with M-Pesa integration, while ABSA Bank provides Absa Banking App services. Check app store ratings and features that matter most to you.

Ready to Apply?

Compare more financial products and find the best rates for your needs. PesaMarket helps thousands of Kenyans find the right financial products every month.

Need help? Chat with us