Purpose First, this study examines the relationship between characteristics of smartphone banking and trust of smartphone banking. Second, this study investigates the impact of perceived benefit on the trust and usage intention of smartphone banking. Finally, this study considers moderating effect of service quality in the relationships between perceived benefit and trust and usage intention of smartphone-based mobile banking. Design/methodology/approach This research uses the survey method to test its hypotheses, the survey population is smartphone baking users. A software tool called AMOS 17.0 used to analyze the research model. Findings The results showed that characteristics of smartphone banking channel like compatibility, timeliness, and mobility had a positive effect on the trust of smartphone banking. The device familiarity showed a significant positive impact on trust of smartphone banking. While the service quality moderated the relationship between trust and usage intention of smartphone banking, moderating effect of service quality in the relationship between perceived benefit and its usage intention was not significant. The results of this study could provide a theoretical framework to explain customers’ decision of smartphone banking and practical implications for banking venders.