Wise vs Revolut 2025: Comparison
Compare Wise and Revolut to find the best financial service. For cross-border payments, travel cards, and multi-currency banking in 2025.
Introduction
The fintech revolution has transformed international payments. Wise and Revolut lead this change. Both platforms serve millions of users worldwide. They offer transparent pricing and real-time currency exchange. Traditional banking pain points are eliminated. However, these platforms take different approaches.
Wise built its reputation on transparency. It offers mid-market exchange rates. Fees are clear and upfront. This makes it ideal for cost-conscious users. The platform focuses on international payments. It excels in multi-currency accounts. Freelancers and expatriates prefer Wise. Businesses dealing with multiple currencies benefit most.
Revolut takes a broader approach. It positions itself as a digital bank. The platform combines payments with a range of services. You get cryptocurrency trading and stock investments. Insurance products are included. Premium banking features are available. The app-centric design appeals to many users. However, pricing can be more complex.
Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This comparison examines both platforms thoroughly. We cover fees, features, and support. You'll learn which service best fits your needs.
The analysis includes pricing structures and supported currencies across all regions. Transfer speeds and user experience are evaluated comprehensively. This helps you make the best choice for 2025 and beyond.
We examine account types, verification processes, customer support channels, mobile app functionality, security measures, regulatory compliance, and geographical availability.
Business account features, API integration capabilities, card offerings, ATM withdrawal limits, spending controls, budgeting tools, and savings features are covered.
Investment options, cryptocurrency support, insurance products, premium tier benefits, referral programs, and partnership networks are analysed.
Transaction limits, processing times, refund policies, dispute resolution procedures, privacy protections, and data security standards are reviewed.
Two-factor authentication methods, biometric login options, account recovery processes, notification systems, statement generation, and tax reporting tools are evaluated for a comprehensive platform comparison analysis today globally across international markets worldwide.
Platform Overview
What is Wise?
Wise is a London-based fintech company. It was founded in 2011 as TransferWise. The mission was to revolutionise international money transfers. The platform offers transparent pricing. You get real interbank exchange rates. Cross-border payments are cost-effective.
Core features include:
- Multi-currency accounts with local bank details
- International transfers at real exchange rates
- Debit cards for worldwide spending
- Business account solutions
- API access for business customers
What is Revolut?
Revolut is a UK-based digital bank. It launched in 2015. The platform offers comprehensive financial services. You get banking, investments, and crypto trading. The company has expanded internationally. It holds regulatory licences in many countries.
Main features include:
- Full digital banking with advanced features
- Cryptocurrency trading and wallet
- Stock and commodity investments
- Premium and metal card tiers
- Budgeting and analytics tools
Market Position and Competition
Both platforms lead the fintech revolution. They challenge traditional banks with digital-first approaches. Wise focuses on transparent international transfers. It serves over 16 million customers worldwide. The platform eliminates hidden fees. You always get real exchange rates.
Revolut positions itself as a financial super-app. It goes beyond basic banking. The platform includes crypto trading and stock investments. Premium lifestyle services are available. Over 30 million customers use Revolut globally. The ecosystem addresses multiple financial needs. This appeals to tech-savvy consumers.
The competitive landscape reflects fintech trends. Traditional boundaries between services are blurring. Both companies secured significant funding. They hold regulatory approvals in many countries. This enables service expansion. Geographic reach continues to grow. Pricing remains competitive against established banks.
Quick Comparison
Which platform suits you best? Let's compare the key differences. This table shows what each platform offers. Use it to make your decision:
Want to save time? Check this quick comparison first. It highlights the main differences. You'll see which platform matches your needs:
| Feature | Wise | Revolut |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2011 | 2015 |
| Main focus | International transfers | Full digital banking |
| Currencies | 50+ currencies | 30+ currencies |
| Transfer fees | 0.35-2% | 0.5-1.5% |
| Exchange rates | Real mid-market rates | Markup applied |
| Monthly fee | Free | Free to £25.99 |
| Crypto trading | No | Yes (80+ coins) |
| Stock trading | No | Yes (commission-free) |
| Business accounts | Yes (advanced) | Yes (basic) |
| Card options | 1 type | 4 types (Standard to Metal) |
As you can see, Wise focuses on transfers. Revolut offers more services. Your choice depends on your needs. Do you want simple transfers? Or do you need a full banking app? Think about what matters most to you.
Fees and Pricing
How much will you pay? Let's break down the costs. Understanding fees helps you save money:
Wise Pricing Structure
Wise keeps pricing simple. You always know what you'll pay. No hidden surprises:
- Account setup: Free to open and maintain
- Transfer fees: 0.35-2% depending on currency and payment method
- Debit card: Free virtual card, £7 for physical card
- ATM withdrawals: Free up to £200 per month, then 1.75%
- Currency conversion: 0.35-2% (same as transfer fees)
- Incoming transfers: Free for most currency pairs
Revolut Pricing Structure
Revolut offers tiered pricing. More features cost more. Choose what fits your budget:
Standard Plan (Free):
- Account setup: No charge
- Transfers: Free up to £1,000 per month, then 0.5%
- Debit card: Free
- ATM withdrawals: Free up to £200 per month, then 2%
- Weekend exchange rates: 0.5-1% markup
Premium Plan (£6.99/month):
Is Premium worth it? You get unlimited transfers. ATM limits increase. Weekend markups disappear:
- Unlimited free transfers
- Higher ATM limit up to £400 per month
- No weekend exchange markup
- Travel insurance included
Metal Plan (£12.99/month):
The Metal plan offers premium perks. You get a metal card. Cashback rewards are included:
- All Premium benefits
- Higher ATM limit up to £600 per month
- Metal card with cashback
- Priority customer support
Features Comparison
What features do you really need? Let's compare what each platform offers. This helps you choose wisely:
Wise Features
Wise focuses on core banking essentials. The features are straightforward. You get what you need without complexity. Perfect if you value simplicity:
- Multi-currency account: Hold balances in 50+ currencies with real-time conversion
- Local bank details: Get account numbers for 10+ countries including US, UK, and EU
- Real exchange rates: Always use mid-market rates without hidden markups
- Transparent fees: See exact costs upfront with no surprise charges
- Business tools: Batch payments, API access, and mass payouts for enterprises
- Mobile app: iOS and Android support with biometric authentication
- Direct debits: Set up recurring payments globally with automated scheduling
- Borderless account: Receive payments like a local in multiple countries
- Speed: Most transfers complete within 24 hours or instantly
- Regulation: Licensed in 40+ jurisdictions with full transparency
- Verification: Streamlined KYC process with document scanning
- Tracking: Real-time updates with detailed progress information
Best for: Freelancers, expats, and businesses. You save money on every transfer. The platform is simple to use.
Revolut Features
Revolut offers a comprehensive financial ecosystem. You get many services in one app. This appeals to users wanting everything in one place. Great if you like convenience:
- Full banking: Current account with UK sort code and IBAN numbers
- Cryptocurrency: Buy, sell, and store 80+ cryptos including Bitcoin and Ethereum
- Stock trading: Commission-free share dealing with fractional ownership
- Budgeting tools: Spending analytics and categories with automated tracking
- Savings vaults: Round-ups and goal setting with automated investments
- Travel perks: Insurance and eSIM data with global roaming
- Junior accounts: Banking for children with parental oversight
- Open Banking: Connect external accounts with PSD2 compliance
- Cashback: Deals with major retailers and restaurants
- Subscription tracking: Automated detection of recurring payments
- Virtual cards: Disposable payment methods for online security
- Wealth management: Robo-advisor services with portfolio optimisation
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want it all. You get banking, investing, and crypto in one app. Perfect for managing everything together.
Debit Cards
Wise Card
- Network: Mastercard
- Cost: £7 one-time fee
- Acceptance: Works in 170+ countries
- Exchange rates: Real interbank rates with minimal fees
- ATM withdrawals: Free up to £200 per month
- Design: Minimalist green card design
- Contactless: Enabled, plus mobile wallet support
The Wise card is simple and effective. You get what you need. No fancy features. Just reliable spending abroad.
Revolut Cards
Which Revolut card should you get? Let's compare your options:
Standard Card (Free):
Perfect for beginners. You get basic features at no cost:
- Mastercard or Visa network
- Free virtual and physical cards
- Weekend exchange markup applies
- Basic spending controls
Premium Card (£6.99/month):
Worth it if you travel often. You save on exchange markups:
- Custom card designs available
- No weekend exchange markup
- Travel insurance included
- Priority customer service
Metal Card (£12.99/month):
The premium option for frequent travellers. You get exclusive perks:
- 18-gram stainless steel card with premium feel
- 1% cashback in Europe, 0.1% globally
- Airport lounge access through LoungeKey
- Dedicated concierge service
- Enhanced spending limits
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Custom engraving options. For personalised card appearance
- Priority customer support. With dedicated phone line access
International Transfers
How fast will your money arrive? What will it cost? Let's compare transfer speeds and fees. This helps you plan better:
Wise International Transfers
Wise focuses on speed and transparency. You always know what you'll pay. Your recipient gets the full amount:
- Speed: Usually within 24 hours, some instant
- Fees: 0.35-2% depending on currency pair
- Exchange rates: Always real mid-market rates
- Transparency: See exact fees and arrival time upfront
- Tracking: Real-time transfer tracking
- Limits: Up to £1 million per transfer
- Recipients: Bank accounts and mobile wallets
Pro tip: Use Wise for large transfers. The real exchange rate saves you money. A £10,000 transfer can save you £100-200 compared to banks.
Revolut International Transfers
Revolut offers instant transfers between users. Bank transfers take longer. Free limits depend on your plan:
- Speed: Usually instant to 1 business day
- Fees: Free up to limits, then 0.5%
- Exchange rates: Markup applied, especially on weekends
- Limits: Vary by plan (£1,000-£25,000 per month)
- Funding: Bank transfer or card payment
- Recipients: Other Revolut users or bank accounts
- Instant transfers: Between Revolut users
Pro tip: Send money to other Revolut users instantly. It's free and arrives in seconds. Perfect for splitting bills with friends.
Security and Regulation
Is your money safe? Both platforms take security seriously. Let's see how they protect you:
Wise Security
Wise is fully regulated and licensed. Your funds are protected. Multiple security layers keep you safe:
- Regulation: FCA regulated in UK, licensed in 40+ countries
- Fund protection: Client funds segregated in tier-1 banks
- Insurance: Up to £85,000 FSCS protection for UK customers
- Security features: 2FA, biometric login, card controls
- Compliance: AML and KYC procedures with risk assessment
- Transparency: Regular reports published quarterly
- Encryption: Banking-grade encryption for all data
- Fraud monitoring: Real-time transaction monitoring
- Verification: Multi-step identity verification
- Limits: Configurable spending and transfer limits
- Infrastructure: ISO 27001 certified data centres
- Incident Management: 24/7 operations centre monitoring
Revolut Protection Infrastructure
- Banking Authorization: Full banking license in Lithuania
- Deposit Safeguarding: Up to €100,000 deposit guarantee
- UK Authorization: FCA authorized for e-money services
- Protection Capabilities: 2FA, biometrics, instant notifications
- Card Management: Freeze/unfreeze, spending boundaries
- Fraud Prevention: Real-time transaction surveillance
- Data Safeguarding: GDPR compliant data handling
- Risk Management: Advanced risk assessment algorithms
Compliance and Regulatory Oversight
Both platforms operate under stringent regulatory supervision, ensuring customer safeguarding and financial stability. Wise maintains authorisations across numerous jurisdictions, demonstrating a commitment to regulatory compliance in international remittance operations. Their transparent approach to regulatory reporting builds customer confidence and trust.
Revolut holds comprehensive banking authorisations, providing customers with traditional banking protections while delivering modern digital services. Their regulatory framework encompasses both traditional banking oversight and fintech innovation guidelines, ensuring a balanced approach to customer safeguarding and service innovation.
Risk Assessment and Management
Wise employs sophisticated risk management for international transfers. Their systems monitor transaction patterns. Anomalies are detected quickly. Fraudulent activities are prevented. Processing speeds remain efficient. Customer verification balances security with user experience.
Revolut uses advanced risk assessment algorithms. These cover diverse financial services. You get protection for banking and investments. The approach encompasses traditional banking risks. Modern fintech challenges are addressed. This includes digital asset trading and crypto management.
Pros and Cons
Wise Pros
- Real interbank exchange rates
- Transparent, minimal fees
- Excellent for international transfers
- Multi-currency account with local details
- Strong reputation and trust
- No monthly fees
- Great business solutions
- Regulated in multiple countries
- Predictable pricing
- Proven track record
Wise Cons
- Limited banking features
- No crypto or investments
- Single card design
- No budgeting tools
- Physical card costs £7
- Limited customer service hours
- Fewer lifestyle perks
- No premium tiers
Revolut Pros
- Full digital banking with current account
- Crypto and stock trading in one app
- Advanced budgeting and analytics
- Multiple card tiers with perks
- Instant transfers between users
- Travel insurance and eSIM included
- Junior accounts for children
- Modern interface with regular updates
- Integrated investment and savings
- Comprehensive expense tracking
- Commodities trading available
- Open Banking integration
- Subscription management tools
- Virtual disposable cards
- Salary advance features
- Business expense management
Revolut Cons
- Exchange rate markups applied
- Weekend surcharges on conversions
- Monthly fees for premium features
- Complex pricing across tiers
- Customer service challenges reported
- Account freezing issues occur
- Higher costs for transfers
- Less transparent pricing
- Regulatory uncertainty in some areas
- No physical branches
- Crypto volatility exposure
- Investment risks present
Market Competition
Both platforms face strong competition. Wise competes with Western Union and MoneyGram. Digital efficiency provides advantages. Transparent pricing is a key differentiator. Revolut competes with traditional banks. Other neobanks are rivals too. Comprehensive service integration sets it apart. The modern user experience appeals to many.
Innovation and Future
Wise continues innovating in cross-border payments. New corridors are developed regularly. Transaction speeds improve constantly. Business solutions expand. Revolut pursues aggressive innovation. Digital asset integration advances. Investment platforms develop further. Premium banking amenities grow. The company positions itself at the forefront of digital banking.
Best For: Choose Wise or Revolut
Which platform matches your lifestyle? Let's look at real scenarios. This helps you decide:
Choose Wise If You:
Are you a freelancer working with international clients? Do you send money abroad regularly? Wise is perfect for you:
- Send money internationally every month
- Want the lowest possible transfer fees
- Need transparent, mid-market exchange rates
- Run a business with international payments
- Value simplicity over many features
- Need multi-currency accounts for global work
- Prefer predictable, upfront pricing
Real example: Sarah is a freelance designer. She works with clients in the US, UK, and EU. She receives payments in different currencies. Wise lets her hold all currencies in one account. She converts money at real rates. She saves hundreds of pounds yearly on fees.
Choose Revolut If You:
Do you want everything in one app? Are you interested in crypto and stocks? Revolut suits your needs:
- Want an all-in-one financial app
- Need cryptocurrency trading capabilities
- Prefer premium features like travel insurance
- Want advanced budgeting and analytics tools
- Need stock and commodity trading in one app
- Like having multiple card tiers to choose from
- Want instant transfers to other Revolut users
Real example: Tom is a tech professional. He travels frequently for work. He uses Revolut for everything. He trades crypto during lunch breaks. He invests in stocks through the app. The travel insurance saves him money. The budgeting tools help him track spending. One app handles all his financial needs.
Final Verdict
So, which should you choose? It depends on your priorities. Let's summarise:
Choose Wise If:
You prioritise saving money on transfers. Transparency matters to you. You want the best exchange rates:
- You want the lowest costs and real exchange rates
- International transfers are your main need
- You prefer transparent, predictable pricing
- You need multi-currency business features
- You favour simplicity over many features
- You don't need crypto or investment options
- You value proven reputation in transfers
- You need reliable business solutions
Select Revolut If:
- You want comprehensive digital banking infrastructure
- You're interested in digital asset and equity trading
- You need advanced budgeting and analytics tools
- You travel frequently and want premium perquisites
- You don't mind subscription costs for enhanced capabilities
- You want multiple card options and designs
- You prefer integrated investment and savings solutions
- You value modern fintech innovation over traditional methodologies
Market Position Assessment
Both platforms occupy distinct segments within the fintech ecosystem. Wise has established dominance in the international remittance corridor, leveraging transparent pricing methodology and authentic interbank currency valuations. Their approach emphasises simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for cross-border financial operations, making them the preferred choice for users prioritising international money transfers.
Revolut positions itself as a comprehensive digital banking alternative, offering extensive features including cryptocurrency trading, stock investments, premium travel benefits, and advanced financial management tools. This all-in-one approach appeals to users seeking a complete financial ecosystem within a single application, though it comes with higher costs for premium features and more complex pricing structures.
The choice between these platforms ultimately depends on your primary financial needs and usage patterns. Users focused primarily on international transfers and multi-currency management will find Wise's specialised approach more cost-effective and straightforward. Conversely, users seeking a comprehensive digital banking experience with investment options and premium features may prefer Revolut's integrated ecosystem despite higher subscription costs.
Many users successfully employ both platforms simultaneously, using Wise for international transfers and business payments whilst utilising Revolut for everyday spending, cryptocurrency trading, and investment activities. This dual-platform strategy maximises the strengths of each service whilst mitigating their respective limitations, providing comprehensive financial management capabilities across different use cases and requirements.
Conversely, Revolut represents a comprehensive digital banking evolution, integrating traditional banking infrastructure with modern investment opportunities. Their platform encompasses digital asset trading, equity investments, and sophisticated financial planning instruments, appealing to participants seeking consolidated financial management solutions.
Regulatory Landscape Considerations
Both institutions operate within stringent regulatory frameworks. Wise maintains authorisations across multiple jurisdictions to ensure compliance with international remittance regulations. Revolut holds banking licenses in various territories, providing deposit safeguarding and regulatory oversight for comprehensive banking operations.
Technology Infrastructure Assessment
Wise employs proprietary technology optimised for currency conversion and international remittances. Their infrastructure prioritises transaction speed, cost efficiency, and transparency. Revolut utilises advanced fintech architecture supporting diverse financial operations, from basic banking to complex investment activities.
Customer Demographics Analysis
Wise primarily serves individuals and businesses requiring frequent international transactions. Their participant base includes expatriates, international businesses, and freelancers working across borders. Revolut attracts tech-savvy consumers seeking comprehensive digital financial operations, including younger demographics interested in digital assets and modern banking solutions.
Future Development Trajectories
Wise continues expanding its multi-currency account capabilities and business solutions while maintaining focus on international remittances. Revolut pursues aggressive expansion in investment operations, digital asset offerings, and premium banking amenities, positioning themselves as comprehensive financial lifestyle platforms.
Detailed Cost Analysis for Different User Profiles
Frequent International Senders (10+ transfers monthly)
For users sending money internationally more than 10 times per month, Wise typically provides a superior value proposition. The transparent fee structure means costs remain predictable regardless of transfer frequency. Average monthly savings compared to traditional banks range from £50 to £ 200, depending on transfer amounts and currency pairs. Revolut's tiered pricing structure can become expensive for high-frequency users, particularly those on free plans who face weekend markup charges and monthly limits.
Occasional International Users (1-3 transfers monthly)
Users with infrequent international transfer needs may find both platforms suitable, with choice depending on additional service requirements. Wise excels purely for transfer efficiency, while Revolut provides comprehensive banking features that may justify slightly higher transfer costs. Revolut's premium plans often make economic sense for users requiring multiple financial services beyond simple remittances.
Business and Freelancer Considerations
Business users and freelancers face unique requirements that influence platform selection. Wise business accounts offer dedicated account managers, batch payments, and integration with accounting software such as Xero and QuickBooks. Revolut business solutions offer comprehensive expense management, team cards, and automated bookkeeping. Freelancers receiving international payments often prefer Wise for lower receiving fees, while businesses requiring comprehensive financial management may benefit from Revolut's integrated approach.
Investment and Wealth Management Integration
Revolut's investment platform integration represents a significant differentiator for users seeking consolidated financial management. Users can seamlessly transfer funds between currency accounts and investment portfolios, including stocks, ETFs, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This integration eliminates the need for multiple financial service providers and reduces friction in transferring between different asset classes. Wise focuses exclusively on currency services, requiring users to maintain separate investment accounts elsewhere.
Regional Availability and Regulatory Compliance
European Union Operations
Both platforms operate under European financial regulations, providing deposit protection and regulatory oversight. Wise holds electronic money institution licenses across EU member states, ensuring compliance with PSD2 regulations and providing deposit protection up to €20,000 per customer. Revolut holds full banking licenses in several EU countries, offering deposit protection up to €100,000 and comprehensive banking services, including overdrafts and loans.
United States Market Presence
Wise operates in the United States through partnerships with Community Federal Savings Bank, providing FDIC insurance protection and compliance with US financial regulations. Revolut's US operations remain limited, with service offerings more restricted than on its European platform. US users seeking comprehensive neobank services may need to consider alternative providers or wait for expanded service availability.
Asia-Pacific Expansion
Both platforms continue expanding throughout Asia-Pacific markets, with varying degrees of service availability. Wise provides comprehensive transfer services to most APAC countries, with local receiving options in major markets like Australia, Singapore, and Japan. Revolut's APAC presence focuses on select markets, with full service availability in Australia and limited services in other regions. Users in emerging APAC markets may find Wise more accessible for international financial needs.
Bottom Line Assessment
Both platforms excel within their respective domains. Wise delivers unparalleled value for international remittances through transparent pricing and authentic exchange rates, making it optimal for frequent cross-border transactions. Revolut provides a comprehensive digital banking infrastructure with investment opportunities, making it ideal for users seeking consolidated financial management.
For pure international remittances and multi-currency requirements, Wise typically represents the superior choice. For comprehensive digital banking with investment capabilities, Revolut is a leader. Consider your primary financial objectives when selecting between these distinguished platforms.
Conclusion
The choice between Wise and Revolut depends on your needs. Wise excels at international money transfers. It offers transparent pricing and real exchange rates. This makes it ideal for frequent travellers and expatriates. Businesses with international operations benefit most.
Revolut positions itself as a complete financial ecosystem. You get banking and payment services. Investment opportunities are included. Cryptocurrency trading is available. Premium lifestyle features are offered. This all-in-one approach appeals to many users. You can consolidate multiple services into a single platform.
Both platforms challenge traditional banks successfully. They offer innovative digital-first solutions. Pricing structures are competitive. Their continued growth shows increasing demand. Modern fintech alternatives prioritise user experience. Cost transparency is a key focus.
For cost-effective international transfers, Wise is superior. Multi-currency banking is straightforward. However, Revolut offers broader services. You get investments and cryptocurrency trading. The platform provides greater versatility. Convenience is a major advantage.
Consider starting with Wise for international transfers. Managing multiple currencies is efficient. The platform is simple and focused. It's easy to understand and use. Choose Revolut for investment opportunities. You can explore alongside everyday banking. Be prepared for a more complex interface. Premium subscriptions unlock advanced features. Both platforms continue evolving with new capabilities.
Sources & References
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are the most common ones we hear:
- Which is better for international transfers: Wise or Revolut?
- Wise wins for international transfers. Why? Lower costs and better exchange rates. Wise charges fees of 0.35-2%. Revolut charges 0.5% for premium users and more for free users. You save more with Wise.
- Does Wise or Revolut offer better exchange rates?
- Wise offers better exchange rates. It uses the real interbank rate. Fees are transparent and upfront. Revolut adds a markup to exchange rates. This is especially true for free users and on weekends. Your money goes further with Wise.
- Which card is better for travel: Wise or Revolut?
- Both work well for travel. Wise gives you better currency conversion rates. You save money on every transaction. Revolut provides extra features. You get budgeting tools and crypto management. Choose based on your priorities. Need the best rates? Pick wisely. Want more features? Choose Revolut.
- Are Wise and Revolut safe to use?
- Both are regulated financial institutions. Wise is regulated by the FCA in the UK and other authorities globally. Revolut holds banking authorisations in multiple territories. Both options offer deposit safeguarding up to the applicable regulatory limits.
- Can I utilise both Wise and Revolut together?
- Yes, many participants combine both solutions. You might utilise Wise for international remittances and Revolut for daily banking and investments. This gives you the best of both platforms.
- Which has superior customer assistance?
- Both have room for improvement in customer assistance. Wise generally receives superior reviews for assistance quality, while Revolut offers 24/7 chat assistance for premium participants but has faced criticism for response times.