ftrme vs Cleo
Cleo is the better pick if you want an AI that chats about your real transactions and you want access to small cash advances. ftrme never lends money or roasts you. It works without a bank login and focuses on one kind next step a day.
By Max, founder of ftrme · Updated | ftrme | Cleo | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $49 for the first year (founding beta price, refundable until your invite) | Free tier. Paid plans reported at about $5.99–$14.99/month. Optional express fees on advances |
| Needs your bank login? | No. Works in percentages, no bank login or payslip | Yes, links your bank account |
| How it works | Present Me / Future Me: see your split, see two futures, one small step a day | AI chat about your linked spending, with credit and cash advance features |
| Tone | No judgment, by design | Cheeky. Known for its “roast” mode |
| Status | Private beta, 50 founding seats | Established |
Competitor details last checked October 9, 2026. Cleo plans and advance limits from Cleo’s own listings and current third-party guides. Figures vary by plan and sign-up route. Prices change, so check their site before you buy.
When is Cleo the better pick?
If you want a fun AI that reads your transactions and you sometimes need a small advance before payday, Cleo offers that. Read the advance terms and fees carefully.
When is ftrme the better pick?
If “roasting” makes you feel worse, or you don’t want an app that also offers credit products, ftrme is built on a no-judgment rule and never sells you financial products.
Can you use both?
Yes, though their tones are very different.
We make ftrme, so we’re biased. We’ve tried to be fair. If something here is wrong or out of date, email hello@ftrme.com and we’ll fix it.
Quick answers
Is ftrme a Cleo alternative?
For some people. ftrme is for people who want to see where their money goes and take one small step a day without linking a bank or keeping a detailed budget. If you want an AI chat about your linked transactions, plus cash advances, Cleo is the better tool.
Does ftrme need my bank login?
No. ftrme works in percentages: out of every 100 you earn, how much goes where. No bank login, no payslip.