ETH Savings Accounts Compared: How to Earn Interest on ETH Holdings in 2026?

Ethereum holders face a different set of choices than Bitcoin investors. ETH can generate yield in two fundamentally different ways: through staking or through interest-bearing savings accounts. In 2026, both models coexist, but they come with very different trade-offs in liquidity, predictability, and complexity.

This article compares leading ETH savings options — Clapp, Nexo, and Coinbase — focusing on how interest is earned, how accessible funds remain, and which approach fits different types of ETH holders.

How ETH Savings Accounts Work in 2026

ETH yield comes from two main sources. The first is staking, where ETH is locked (directly or indirectly) to help secure the Ethereum network and earn protocol rewards. Staking yields are variable and depend on network conditions.

The second is ETH savings or lending, where ETH is deposited into interest-bearing accounts and used in lending or liquidity strategies. These products resemble traditional savings accounts more closely and often prioritize liquidity and predictable interest. Choosing between them depends on whether you value flexibility or protocol-level participation.

Clapp Flexible Savings: Daily ETH Interest Without Lockups

Clapp approaches ETH yield as a savings product rather than a staking commitment. With Clapp Flexible Savings, ETH begins earning interest immediately after deposit, with daily accrual and no lock-ups.

Funds remain fully liquid. You have instant access, so you can withdraw, transfer, or convert ETH at any time without penalties or loss of accrued interest. The APY is clearly displayed in the app, without tiers, loyalty tokens, or conditional bonuses.

Clapp’s model suits ETH holders who want steady passive income while retaining the ability to react to market conditions. There is no requirement to delegate, stake, or manage validator exposure.

From an infrastructure standpoint, Clapp Finance operates as a registered VASP in the Czech Republic under EU AML standards, with assets secured via Fireblocks’ institutional-grade custody.

For users who treat ETH as a long-term asset but still want flexibility, this savings-first model removes much of the friction associated with staking.

Nexo: Higher ETH Yield Through Tiers and Lock-Ins

Nexo offers ETH interest through a more complex structure. Rates vary depending on loyalty tiers, which are determined by how much NEXO token a user holds, and whether ETH is placed into fixed-term lock-ups.

At the highest tiers and longest lock-ins, ETH yields can exceed those of flexible savings accounts. However, this comes at the cost of reduced liquidity and greater dependence on Nexo’s internal token economics.

Interest is credited monthly, and accessing top rates requires active management of account structure. For users comfortable with conditional rewards and reduced flexibility, Nexo can offer competitive returns.

This model appeals to yield-maximizers rather than users looking for simple, savings-style ETH income.

Coinbase: ETH Staking With Network-Based Rewards

Coinbase offers ETH yield primarily through staking, not savings. Users delegate ETH to Ethereum validators via Coinbase and earn rewards tied directly to network performance.

Staking yields fluctuate based on validator participation, protocol changes, and network load. While Coinbase has improved liquidity via wrapped staking derivatives, ETH is still not as freely accessible as in a savings account.

Coinbase’s strength lies in regulatory clarity and ease of use. Staking is straightforward and well-documented, making it suitable for users who want ETH exposure aligned closely with Ethereum’s protocol mechanics.

However, staking is fundamentally different from savings: rewards are variable, and liquidity constraints still apply.

ETH Savings Accounts Compared

Feature

Clapp Flexible Savings

Nexo

Coinbase (ETH Staking)

Yield Type

ETH interest (savings)

ETH interest (tiered)

ETH staking rewards

Interest Frequency

Daily

Monthly

Variable (protocol-based)

Liquidity

Instant, no lock-ups

Lock-ups for higher rates

Limited / derivative-based

Rate Structure

Fixed, transparent

Tiered, conditional

Network-dependent

Complexity

Very low

Medium–high

Low–medium

Custody Model

EU-regulated VASP; Fireblocks

Centralized custodial

Regulated US exchange

Best For

Flexible ETH income

Yield seekers

Long-term ETH stakers

Final Thoughts

ETH holders in 2026 have more choice than ever, but also more nuance to consider. Staking and savings serve different purposes, and neither is universally better.

Clapp’s Ethereum Flexible Savings stands out for users who want daily interest, instant access, and a clear savings-style experience without staking complexity. Nexo caters to users willing to optimize yield through conditions and lock-ups, while Coinbase remains the default choice for straightforward ETH staking.

The best option depends on whether you view ETH as a productive savings asset, a yield-optimized position, or a protocol-aligned investment.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.