IBPS PO vs SBI PO – Which is Better? Complete Comparison
Banking exams are among the most popular competitive exams in India. Aspirants often face confusion between IBPS PO vs SBI PO. Both are prestigious jobs, but choosing the right one depends on salary, career growth, work pressure, and personal goals.
In this article, we provide a detailed comparison of IBPS PO vs SBI PO to help you decide which is better for your future.
What is IBPS PO?
IBPS PO (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection – Probationary Officer) recruits officers for multiple public sector banks such as PNB, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, and others.
What is SBI PO?
SBI PO (State Bank of India – Probationary Officer) is a direct recruitment for India’s largest public sector bank, State Bank of India, offering excellent career growth and prestige.
IBPS PO vs SBI PO – Quick Comparison Table
| Criteria | IBPS PO | SBI PO |
|---|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | IBPS | State Bank of India |
| Salary (Approx.) | ₹52,000 – ₹55,000 | ₹65,000 – ₹70,000 |
| Exam Difficulty | Moderate | High |
| Career Growth | Good | Excellent |
| Work Pressure | Moderate | High |
| Posting | Across multiple banks | Anywhere in India |
Salary Comparison: IBPS PO vs SBI PO
When it comes to salary, SBI PO clearly has an edge. SBI offers higher basic pay, better DA, and more allowances compared to IBPS PO.
Career Growth & Promotions
SBI PO enjoys faster promotions and better exposure. Officers can reach top management positions such as AGM, DGM, and CGM faster than IBPS PO counterparts.
Work-Life Balance
IBPS PO generally offers better work-life balance depending on the bank and location. SBI PO officers often face higher pressure due to large customer base and business targets.
Exam Difficulty Level
SBI PO exam is considered tougher due to:
- High-level reasoning questions
- Group exercises & interview weightage
- Higher competition
IBPS PO vs SBI PO – Which Should You Choose?
- Choose SBI PO if you want higher salary, power, and long-term leadership roles
- Choose IBPS PO if you prefer stability, work-life balance, and moderate pressure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better IBPS PO or SBI PO?
SBI PO is better in terms of salary and career growth, while IBPS PO is better for work-life balance.
Is SBI PO exam tougher than IBPS PO?
Yes, SBI PO is slightly tougher due to higher competition and exam pattern.
Can I prepare for both IBPS PO and SBI PO together?
Yes, the syllabus is similar, so combined preparation is possible.
Which job is more stressful?
SBI PO is generally more stressful compared to IBPS PO.
Final Verdict
There is no universal answer to IBPS PO vs SBI PO – Which is Better? It depends on your career goals, pressure-handling ability, and lifestyle preferences.
Both jobs offer respect, stability, and financial security. Choose wisely and prepare smartly. 💡
Apart from banking exams, many aspirants also prepare for SSC examinations. If you are targeting government jobs through SSC, check out our detailed guide on SSC CGL Preparation Strategy 2026 to build a strong and effective study plan.