Compare Two Savings Accounts Beyond the Headline Rate

The rate on the comparison site looked good and the smaller print turned out to matter. This compares two savings accounts on the things that change the actual return: the rate structure, access restrictions, the catch in the small print, and FSCS cover. Then it tells you which to use and why.

Compare {ACCOUNT_1} and {ACCOUNT_2} for someone planning to save {SAVINGS_AMOUNT} over {SAVINGS_PERIOD}.

For each account:
1. The actual interest earned on {SAVINGS_AMOUNT} over {SAVINGS_PERIOD}, including whether the rate is fixed or variable and when it may change
2. Withdrawal restrictions: when you can access the money and what penalties or notice periods apply
3. FSCS protection status
4. Any catch: minimum deposit, bonus rate that drops after a period, or platform risk

End with: which account to choose if capital accessibility matters, and which if return maximisation is the priority.