Revolut vs Wise: Which Debit Card Is Right for You?

 Revolut vs Wise: Which Debit Card Is Right for You?

Choosing the right debit card can make a big difference—especially if you travel, send or receive money across borders, or use multiple currencies. Two powerful options are Revolut and Wise. Below is a detailed comparison of their debit cards: how they work, fees, pros & cons, and which kind of user each suits best.

What Are They?

Revolut: A fintech / neobank offering personal and business accounts. Its debit card is part of a larger ecosystem including currency exchange, savings, travel features, and more.

Wise (formerly TransferWise): Known for its multi‑currency account, transparent currency conversions, and lower fees for cross‑border transactions. Its debit (or currency) card is strongly focused on international usability and keeping costs low.

Key Features & Pricing

Here are side‑by‑side comparisons across important dimensions.

Feature Wise Debit Card Revolut Debit Card

Account Setup & Currency Flexibility You can hold, convert, and spend from balances in many currencies; the Wise card works globally and supports many currencies. Supports many currencies, with features like currency exchange, spending abroad, and sometimes bonus or “premium” plan benefits. The details often depend on your country and the plan you choose. 

Currency Conversion / Exchange Rates Wise uses the mid‑market rate, meaning you generally pay no hidden markup. Small conversion fee may apply depending on the currencies involved. Revolut uses mid‑market rate during weekdays and free exchanges up to certain limits; may impose small fees (or markups) during weekends or above usage thresholds, depending on the plan and country. 

Fees for ATM Withdrawals Wise offers some free withdrawals abroad up to a set limit (e.g. first £200) then low fees beyond that. Revolut’s free withdrawal limits depend on the account plan: standard, premium etc. Beyond the free limit, a percentage fee applies. 

Card Issuance / Delivery / Virtual Cards One‑time fee for physical card (e.g. ~£7 in the UK). Virtual card often free. First physical card may be free (though delivery may have a fee); replacement or additional virtual cards often come at a cost depending on plan. 

Top‑Up or “Add Money” Fees Often bank transfers are free; conversion or funding via non‑local cards may incur fees. Wise tends to be clear about these. Revolut may charge fees when topping up via card, especially credit cards or cards issued outside your country. These fees differ by country. 

Plan Tiers / Premium Features Wise is more “flat” in many markets — core functionality is available without premium fees. Additional features may be country‑specific. Revolut has multiple account tiers (Standard / Plus / Premium / Metal etc.), which unlock higher free limits, better perks (travel insurance, better ATM allowances, etc.), but with monthly or yearly fees. 

Pros & Cons

Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Wise: Strengths & Drawbacks

Strengths

Very transparent fees, especially for currency conversion — users can see costs ahead of time.

Excellent for people who spend in multiple currencies, travel frequently, or need international transfers.

Lower risk of surprise fees.

Drawbacks

Free ATM withdrawal limits can be modest; going beyond them incurs fees.

Some markets may have restrictions or fewer “premium” perks.

Physical card, shipping, or certain services may cost extra depending on your country.

Revolut: Strengths & Drawbacks

Strengths

Rich suite of features (FX, spending abroad, budgeting, rewards, etc.), especially with premium plans.

Higher “free” allowances for certain services (e.g. ATM withdrawals, currency exchange) under paid tiers.

Attractive if you want extra perks (insurance, lounge access, etc.).

Drawbacks

Fee structure is more complex; free allowances, markups, or fees depend heavily on plan, location, usage, or day of the week.

“Fair usage” caps: going beyond those can trigger fees.

Some top‑up or card delivery fees may apply even for basic users.

Use‑Case Scenarios: Which Card Suits Which User

Here are some typical user profiles and which card might fit them better.

You are … Wise Probably Best If … Revolut Probably Best If …

Frequent traveler / spends in many currencies You want clarity and low conversion costs; you often make purchases in different countries. Wise’s transparency and mid‑market rates shine here. If you travel often and want added perks (premium support, travel insurance, perks), Revolut may give more, but you’ll need a higher tier.

Casual user staying mostly in your home currency Wise still works well; you may not need many of the extras, but you benefit from good exchange fees when needed. Revolut’s free plan may suffice; you get additional features even at lower tiers.

Need for budgeting, investing, or extras Wise is solid for spending and transfers but less strong in perks beyond that. Revolut offers more feature variety: savings, investment, rewards, etc., especially on premium plans.

Minimizing hidden fees and surprises Wise likely to give less unexpected cost due to more straightforward pricing. Revolut can match or even beat costs in some situations—but only if your usage stays within the free allowances; otherwise, fees can creep up.