Popular Direct vs. Synchrony Bank
Compare rates, requirements, and features side-by-side to find the best option for you.
| Metric | Popular DirectPopular Direct Select Savings Jan 7, 2026 | Synchrony BankHigh Yield Savings Jan 7, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| APY | 3.90% | 3.65% |
Est. Earnings | $5,000+$195 $10,000+$390 $25,000+$975 | $5,000+$183 $10,000+$365 $25,000+$912 |
Min Deposit | $100 | $0 |
Snapshot view. Rates subject to change. | ||
| Features | FDIC InsuredLow Minimums | FDIC InsuredNo MinimumsGreat iOS AppGreat Android App |
Market Reality Check
Both of these banks offer rates below the current top tier. The best rates we track are currently above 4.21% APY.
Comparison Analysis
Comparing Popular Direct vs. Synchrony Bank
As of Popular Direct offers an APY of 3.90% for its Popular Direct Select Savings account, with a minimum balance of $0.01, compared to Synchrony Bank's 3.65% APY for its High Yield Savings account, with a minimum balance of $0.
Popular Direct pays $25 more than Synchrony Bank on a $10,000 balance after one year. Popular Direct pays $390, while Synchrony Bank pays $365 - an APY advantage for Popular Direct.
Why Popular Direct?
- ✓Higher potential APY (3.90% vs 3.65%) on all balances
Why Synchrony Bank?
- ✓Higher rated iOS app (4.8 vs 1.3)
- ✓Higher rated Android app (4.4 vs 1.3)
— Key Feature Differences —
Better Returns at $10,000
Popular DirectPopular Direct's Popular Direct Select Savings earns more on smaller deposits (approx. $390 vs $365/yr).
Better Returns at $25,000
Popular DirectPopular Direct's Popular Direct Select Savings pulls ahead with larger amounts (approx. $975 vs $912/yr).
Best for Simplicity
Popular DirectPopular Direct's Popular Direct Select Savings offers 3.90% APY with no bundling, direct deposit requirement or caps.
Best Mobile App Experience
Synchrony BankSynchrony Bank offers an iOS app rated 4.8 (vs. 1.3) and Android app rated 4.4 (vs. 1.3)
Shared Benefits
Over a 1-year period, Popular Direct's Popular Direct Select Savings pays $25 more interest on a $10,000 balance than Synchrony Bank's High Yield Savings.
*This calculation assumes current rates remain consistent for 1 year and does not include temporary bonuses.
Executive Summary as of
Popular Direct offers a competitive 3.90% APY on its Popular Direct Select Savings account, which is notably higher than Synchrony Bank's 3.65% APY on its High Yield Savings account. Both accounts are online-only, have no maintenance fees, and do not require direct deposit. Popular Direct's account stands out for its simplicity, with no bundling or deposit caps, making it ideal for users looking for straightforward savings options. In contrast, Synchrony Bank is recognized for its superior mobile app experience. Overall, Popular Direct is the winner based on the higher APY.
The analysis is based on current Banksparency database records
* This content is provided for informational purposes only; always verify details with the provider.
Non-sponsored link to official site
Non-sponsored link to official site
Top Market Contenders
Popular Direct vs. Synchrony Bank Savings Calculator
You earn $25 more with Popular Direct than Synchrony Bank on a $10,000 initial deposit for 1 year*.
*This calculation assumes that APYs remain unchanged for 1 year, and takes into account known promo rate periods, but does not factor in bonuses. You can see how often these banks have changed their rates in the Compare Savings Rates Over Time section below.
Popular Direct
Popular Direct Select Savings
Savings Breakdown
- Interest Earned+$390.00(3.8%)
- Total Contributions$0
- Initial Deposit$10,000
Projected Balance
$10,390.00
Synchrony Bank
High Yield Savings
Savings Breakdown
- Interest Earned+$365.00(3.5%)
- Total Contributions$0
- Initial Deposit$10,000
Projected Balance
$10,365.00
The Banksparency Savings Calculator provides estimated savings growth based on user input and our latest data.
| Feature | Popular Direct | Synchrony Bank |
|---|---|---|
| APY | 3.90% Verified: 1/7/2026 ↘︎ 0.15%90d Change | 3.65% Verified: 1/7/2026 ↘︎ 0.15%90d Change |
| Product Name | Popular Direct Select Savings | High Yield Savings |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 | $0 |
| Min. Balance for APY | $0.01 | $0 |
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Branch Access | None | None |
| Account Type | Online Only | Online Only |
| Direct Deposit Req. | None | None |
| Checking Bundle | No | No |
| Mobile Apps | iOS1.3 Android1.3 | iOS4.8 Android4.4 |
| Zelle® Support | Not Supported | Not Supported |
| BBB Rating | A+ | Not Rated |
| Next Steps | Visit SiteVerify at Popular Direct Non-sponsored link to official site | Visit SiteVerify at Synchrony Bank Non-sponsored link to official site |
📈 Compare Savings Rates Over Time
Historical Performance
| Metric | Popular Direct | Synchrony Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Direct Select Savings | High Yield Savings | |
Current APY | 3.90% | 3.65% |
Trend | Stable | Stable |
Velocity (bps/mo) | -2.6 | -3.5 |
Days Since Change | 23 | 50 |
11-Month High | 4.50% | 4.10% |
11-Month Low | 3.90% | 3.65% |
Adjustments / Mo | 0.77 | 0.26 |
Volatility Score | 0.030 | 0.035 |
How to read these metrics(Click to expand)
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High Rates (With Checking Bundle)
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