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Equity Bank vs Standard Chartered - Complete Bank Comparison 2025

Compare Equity Bank and Standard Chartered 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
Equity Bank
Fastest Approval
Equity Bank Kenya
Overall Winner
Equity Bank Kenya
Feature
Equity Personal Loan
Equity Bank Kenya
Equity Gold Visa Credit Card
Equity Bank
Interest Rate
13% - 16% p.a.
1.5% p.a.
Loan Amount Range
KES 50,000 - KES 5,000,000
N/A
Repayment Period
6 - 60 months
N/A
Fees
Processing: 2%
Annual: KES 4500
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
  • Worldwide acceptance on Visa network
  • Free travel insurance up to USD 50,000
  • Airport lounge access (4 visits per year)
  • Interest-free period up to 50 days on purchases
  • 24/7 concierge service
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

Equity Gold Visa Credit Card

Pros

  • +Worldwide acceptance on Visa network
  • +Free travel insurance up to USD 50,000
  • +Airport lounge access (4 visits per year)
  • +Interest-free period up to 50 days on purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Equity Bank or Standard Chartered?

Both Equity Bank and Standard Chartered are reputable CBK-licensed banks in Kenya. Equity Bank has 190 branches while Standard Chartered has undefined branches. Equity Bank was established in 1984 and Standard Chartered in 1911. 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 Standard Chartered?

Equity Bank is headquartered in Nairobi and offers 190+ branches nationwide, Strong digital banking. Standard Chartered is headquartered in Nairobi and is known for competitive rates. They differ in their product offerings, interest rates, fees, and branch networks.

Which bank has better interest rates: Equity Bank or Standard Chartered?

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 Standard Chartered 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 Standard Chartered?

Yes, you can have accounts at both Equity Bank and Standard Chartered. 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 Standard Chartered?

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

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