Verdict
RRSO at both banks sits mid-market — Pekao 11–14% in 2026, Santander 10–13%. Santander wins marginally for a full-profile client, but the gap is within 0.5 pp. A client with an active current account at either bank usually shaves 0.5–0.7 pp off the standard.
Specials: Pekao is the primary operator of government housing subsidies (Safe Loan 2%, Mieszkanie na Start) — for a qualifying client Pekao almost always wins. Santander wins on car loans via Santander Consumer Bank (a separate subsidiary in the group).
Process: Pekao is faster in the PeoPay app (up to 20 000 PLN decision in 30 minutes). Santander requires a phone call for above 30 000 PLN. Branch network: Pekao 640, Santander around 400 — both mostly in bigger cities.
Terms compared
| Product | Bank Pekao SA | Santander Bank Polska |
|---|---|---|
| RRSO 2026 | 11–14% | ✓ 10–13% |
| Government schemes | ✓ primary operator | smaller scale |
| Car loan | standard offer | ✓ Santander Consumer (leader) |
| Online decision up to 30 000 PLN | ✓ 30 minutes | 30–60 minutes |
| Branch network | ✓ 640 | ~400 |
Fits for
Bank Pekao SA
- Clients qualifying for government housing subsidies
- Karta Dużej Rodziny holders — subsidised terms
- Existing Pekao account clients
Santander Bank Polska
- Anyone planning a car loan — Santander Consumer leads
- Multi-product clients with an active Santander account
- People valuing the Spanish group and international presence
Frequently asked questions
Santander is marginally cheaper (10–13% vs 11–14% at Pekao). For an active Santander account client the gap is 0.5 pp.
Pekao. The bank is the primary operator of Safe Loan 2%, Mieszkanie na Start and other housing schemes.
Two separate subsidiaries of the Santander Group. Bank Polska runs full retail banking. Consumer Bank focuses on instalment and car loans, with RRSO often below standard bank pricing.