Preface

This should be the introduction where the author talks about how great our world is right now and how we can have a bank account (almost) without even leaving our phone, and all that.

This review covers the free versions of both services.

What Both Services Have in Common

  • Ability to create an account from your phone.
  • The option to make deposits and earn better interest rates than at your own bank.
  • The ability to exchange currencies more favorably than at your bank.
  • A higher risk of losing money compared to your bank. Let’s be honest, it all looks a bit scarier, right?

Cards

Both services offer physical cards. These days, everyone who can offers this option. With both services, ordering a card is a one-time payment (as long as you order it), around five euros.

Currency Exchange

For those who travel a lot or regularly make online purchases in foreign currencies (like buying on Aliexpress.com is cheaper in dollars than in your own currency), this is a relevant topic. Especially if you’ve checked your bank’s currency conversion fees, which are usually 2-3%. It may not seem like much, but it adds up over time. Why pay if you don’t have to?

  • Wise - roughly 0.45%, depending on the specific currency. You can check current rates here.
  • Revolut - no fees up to 1000 USD per month, only on weekdays. 1% over 1000 USD and on weekends.

Depositing Money

Both services have a similar situation. It’s hard to specify exact numbers since they constantly change. It’s unlikely that a 0.1% annual difference will be enough to make you switch from one app to the other.

Cash Withdrawals

Revolut - roughly 200 euros per month without fees. After that - 2%. Wise - Same situation as with Revolut. The amounts and fees vary significantly depending on the currency. More details here .

Who Has More Perks?

Definitely Revolut. They offer investments in palladium and cashback (not in all regions). You can buy cryptocurrencies, book hotels, and with a more premium plan - get access to Lounges.

Main Advantages of Wise

  • Currency conversion. Even though their rates are higher than Revolut’s, there’s no monthly limit, and no higher fees on weekends.
  • The ability to keep your money in stocks. So, every time you make a payment, you’re essentially paying with stocks. It’s a bit controversial but interesting.

Main Advantages of Revolut

  • Additional investment opportunities. If investing scares you, Revolut provides a good chance to try it out with small amounts and without the complexities of opening a brokerage account.
  • Bank transfers without fees. With Wise, this service costs 0.44 euros. More details here .