Wise vs. Revolut: Which to Choose?

According to the recent JPMorgan Report, in 2025, the initiation of cross-border payments from the US increased to 87%. As global transactions become faster and more accessible, the demand for reliable transfer services continues to grow. With countless options available on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the details and tell the difference. Wise and Revolut stand out as two of the most popular choices, but which one is better? In this article, we’ll compare their features, pricing, exchange rates, and transfer speeds.

Account Features and Cards

When comparing Revolut versus Wise, let’s start with their core account features first. Although they might seem similar at first glance, Revolut offers additional financial tools for its customers, while Wise primarily focuses on providing affordable international transfers.

What Does the Wise Account Offer?

As an international payment service, Wise is designed to make sending, receiving, and spending money abroad simple and transparent. That’s why the service mainly focuses on cross-border transfers.

International Money Transfers

Wise’s core function is to enable quick, low-cost and the most convenient way to send and manage money internationally. You can send funds to over 160 countries in 40+ currencies with no hidden charges. The platform always applies the mid-market exchange rate and shows all fees upfront.

Multi-Currency Account

Recently, the service introduced a new feature that allows users to hold balances in over 40 different currencies within a single account. You can easily manage the funds online or via the mobile app. This feature is especially convenient if you frequently send or receive money in specific currencies. It saves you from visiting physical exchange offices or banks to exchange currency, where extra fees are typically charged.

Wise Card

Customers can also order a digital or physical Wise card. Opening an account is free, but ordering a physical card in the US incurs a $9 fee. There are no ongoing subscription fees afterward.

You can use the card to spend and withdraw cash in over 150 countries. It automatically converts your funds using the currency with the lowest conversion fee available. If you already hold that currency in your account, there’s no additional fee for using it abroad.

Jars

If you want to have an emergency fund or save money for bills or a big purchase, this Wise feature is incredibly helpful. Wise Jars function like digital piggy banks inside your main multi-currency account. You can organize your savings by goal, helping you manage finances more mindfully and efficiently.

What Does the Revolut Account Offer?

Now, let’s compare Revolut vs. Wise accounts. In addition to sending and receiving money, Revolut provides a range of advanced features that expand its functionality.

International Money Transfers

Revolut's core feature is its International Money Transfer service, which allows you to send funds worldwide at competitive exchange rates. It supports over 160+ countries.

Revolut-to-Revolut transfers are always free, as are standard domestic transfers within the US and euro transfers within SEPA countries. However, SWIFT transfers come with variable fees depending on the currency and destination.

Revolut Cards

When comparing the Wise Card vs. the Revolut card, the latter one provides multiple plan options with different perks and flexibility.

• The Standard card is free to issue and maintain, offering essential features.
• The Premium card costs $9.99, offers customization, and includes benefits like medical insurance and reduced SWIFT transfer fees.
• The Metal plan, priced at $16.99 per month, builds on all Standard and Premium features, adding more exclusive perks.

Besides physical cards, Revolut also offers a Multi-Use Virtual Card that is compatible with Apple Pay or Google Pay, and a Disposable Virtual Card that automatically changes its details after every transaction for enhanced security.

Investment and Trading

In addition to sending and receiving money, Revolut allows users to trade stocks, buy and sell cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and even trade commodities.

Other Features

While transferring money remains its main function, Revolut also provides several additional tools on top of that:

• Hold and exchange multiple currencies in one account.
• Set up joint accounts to share a balance with friends or family.
• Create dedicated “vaults” to save toward specific goals.

Pricing and Exchange Rates

When comparing Wise and Revolut, each platform structures its pricing differently based on the method of transfer, exchange rates, and account type.

Wise vs. Revolut Fees

Here’s a detailed breakdown the most important fees:

Wise and Revolut Exchange Rates

The Wise vs. Revolut exchange rate is based on different approaches, and this affects the total price for a customer. Wise consistently applies the real mid-market rate and transparent transfer fees. Revolut, on the other hand, relies on a subscription-based pricing model with variable fees depending on your plan and transfer timing. If you send funds on weekends or after business hours, you’ll be charged a 1% markup.

Which Service Offers Faster Money Transfers?

Now, let’s compare Wise and Revolut in terms of transfer speed. For Wise, the transfer and payment method you select directly affects how quickly your funds are delivered.

If you choose to pay with a debit or credit card, transfers are usually completed within minutes, although you’ll pay a slightly higher fee. Bank transfers are typically slower but more affordable. The fastest and most cost-effective option is using your Wise balance, as the money is already within the system.

When sending funds, Wise displays estimated delivery times based on your chosen payment method. Most transfers arrive within 24 hours. If you're paying via bank wire or transferring to a less-developed payment system, it can take 1–2 business days.

The transfer speed of Revolut varies depending on the destination and transfer type. Transfers between Revolut users are almost instant, arriving within seconds. Transfers within the USA in local currency can take up to two business days. GBP and EUR transfers are usually completed within a few hours up to three business days. International (SWIFT) transfers are the slowest and may take up to two to business days.

Keep in mind that transfers made via Revolut on weekends or holidays may experience delays. For example, a transfer initiated on Friday might not reach the recipient's account until Monday of the following week.

Pros and Cons

So, is Wise or Revolut better? Each service has unique strengths and limitations that may be decisive depending on your needs.

Wise

Pros

• Low and Transparent Fees: All fees are clearly shown upfront and calculated as a small percentage of the transfer amount, making them predictable.
• Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise always uses the real mid-market rate with no hidden markups, so it's a fairer approach than traditional banks.
• Global Reach: You can hold and exchange over 40 different currencies and spend with a linked debit card in more than 160 countries.

Cons

• Limited Functions: Wise focuses on transfers and multi-currency management but lacks the extra features Revolut does.
• Restricted Availability: Revolut supports transfers to slightly more countries than Wise.
• Fewer Card Perks: Compared to Revolut, Wise cards provide fewer benefits or premium rewards.

Revolut

Pros

• Broader Global Presence: Revolut supports transfers in 30+ currencies to more than 150 countries.
• Extended Functionality: Beyond transfers, Revolut allows you to build an investing portfolio, set up joint accounts, and keep multi-currency wallets in one account.
• Fee-Free Transfers (within limits): Many transfers are free until you exceed the monthly cap.
• Premium Account Benefits: Paid plans include extras like medical insurance, airport lounge access, and discounted international transfers.

Cons

• Costly Upgrades: Premium subscriptions start at $9.99 per month.
• Exchange Rate Surcharges: A 1% markup applies on transactions made on weekends or outside business hours.
• Higher Fees for Large Transfers: Once you exceed free transfer limits, Revolut can become more expensive than Wise.

Wise vs. Revolut: Which is Right for You?

Both platforms excel at global money management, but they cater to different user goals. Wise stands out for its transparent fees, real mid-market exchange rates, and straightforward user experience. It’s ideal for frequent international transfers and cost-conscious users. Revolut, on the other hand, serves those seeking a multi-purpose financial app with advanced financial tools, including investing, budgeting, and premium perks.