Updated and fact-checked: 14 August 2026. App features, prices and availability can change by country and platform.
Quick verdict
Choose Wise when transparent international conversion and transfers are the main job; choose Revolut when you want a broader app with tiered plans, budgeting, cards and optional trading or travel extras. Neither is automatically cheapest for every route, amount or country.
What the app does in 2026
TransferWise changed its name to Wise in 2021, so the old title describes a brand that no longer exists. Wise generally uses the mid-market exchange rate and shows a variable service fee before confirmation. Revolut offers a free Standard tier and paid plans, with exchange allowances, fair-usage rules and benefits that vary by plan and market. Both provide cards and multi-currency functionality in supported countries.
Main features
- Wise: upfront transfer quotes and mid-market exchange-rate positioning
- Wise: balances in many currencies and local account details where eligible
- Revolut: free and paid account tiers with different allowances
- Revolut: budgeting, virtual cards and optional travel or investment features
- Both: mobile cards, international transfers and region-specific limits
Pricing and fees
Do not compare only the advertised exchange rate. Enter the same transfer in both apps immediately before sending and compare the recipient amount after every fee. Wise charges by currency route, amount and funding method. Revolut’s costs depend on country, plan, allowance, transfer type and sometimes timing. Card delivery and ATM charges also vary.
Limitations and risks
Features, safeguarding or deposit protection, local account details and complaint rights differ by legal entity and country. Neither service replaces checking recipient details or understanding chargebacks and transfer cancellation. Crypto or investment access in Revolut adds risk and is not a reason by itself to choose a payment account.
Who should use it?
Wise is usually the clearer shortlist for occasional international transfers. Revolut can provide more value to frequent users who will actually use the plan benefits. Compare a real transaction rather than relying on a generic global winner.
App-Tipps recommendation
Check the live price, permissions and account terms on your own device before subscribing or moving money. Start with the free tier or shortest commitment where one is available, and keep screenshots or receipts for paid transactions.
