If you’re choosing between Wise and Revolut, fees are probably your biggest concern.
Both fintech companies promise low-cost international spending and transfers — but their pricing models are very different. One focuses on transparency. The other blends banking features with subscription perks.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how their fees compare in 2026.
1. Exchange Rates: The Real Cost Difference
Wise: Mid-Market Rate + Transparent Fee
Wise uses the real mid-market exchange rate (the rate you see on Google).
Instead of marking up the rate, it charges a separate, clearly displayed fee — typically between 0.35% and 0.7%, depending on the currency.
You see the exact fee before confirming the transaction.
What this means:
You always know what you’re paying.
Revolut: Near-Interbank Rate (With Conditions)
Revolut uses a near-interbank exchange rate and offers:
- Free weekday currency exchange (within your plan’s limit)
- 1% markup on weekends
- Monthly FX limits on the free plan (e.g., €1,000 equivalent)
After exceeding the monthly allowance, additional exchanges incur a fee.
What this means:
It can be very cheap — but only if you stay within limits and avoid weekends.
2. International Transfers
Wise
Fees typically include:
- A small fixed fee
- A percentage-based fee
For example, sending €1,000 internationally might cost between €4 and €8, depending on the currency route.
Wise is often cheaper for:
- Larger transfers
- Regular overseas payments
- Sending money outside Europe
Revolut
Revolut offers:
- Some free transfers depending on your plan
- Possible SWIFT fees for certain currencies
- Limits on free international payments
Revolut works well for occasional smaller transfers, but costs can increase once limits are exceeded.
3. ATM Withdrawals
Wise
- 2 free withdrawals per month (up to ~€200 total)
- After that: ~€0.50 + 1.75%
Revolut (Standard Plan)
- 5 free withdrawals per month (up to ~€200)
- Then 2% fee
Higher-tier Revolut plans increase the withdrawal allowance.
4. Card Payments Abroad
Both are excellent for travel compared to traditional banks.
- Wise: Small conversion fee applied transparently.
- Revolut: No weekday FX fee within limits, but weekend markup applies.
If you travel mostly during weekdays and don’t exceed limits, Revolut can be cheaper for everyday spending.
5. Monthly Fees
Wise
- No subscription plans
- No monthly fee
- Pay only when you use it
Revolut
- Standard plan: Free
- Paid plans: Plus, Premium, Metal (monthly fee)
- Includes perks like insurance, airport lounge access, and higher limits
If you want an all-in-one banking app with extras, Revolut’s paid tiers may justify the cost.
So Which Is Cheaper?
Choose Wise If:
- You send large international transfers
- You want full transparency
- You don’t want subscription fees
- You care about always getting the real exchange rate
Choose Revolut If:
- You travel frequently
- You exchange smaller amounts
- You stay within monthly FX limits
- You avoid weekend currency exchanges
- You want banking features beyond transfers
Final Verdict
There’s no universal winner.
- Wise is usually cheaper for international money transfers and large currency conversions.
- Revolut can be cheaper for travel spending — if you stay within plan limits.
For many people, the smartest move isn’t choosing one — it’s using both.