Revolut Virtual Card Alternative:
Virtual cards are redefining the way people spend money and manage their finances. They allow people to make transactions on the go without worrying about carrying a physical card, offering more security and maximum convenience.
Revolut virtual cards are popular among consumers for their accessibility and different account options, but alternatives are available.
Discover five great alternatives to Revolut virtual cards and what makes each account stand out.
What are Revolut virtual cards?
Revolut virtual cards are debit cards that exist within the app. They’re similar to physical cards but with one key difference: Revolut accounts are completely digital. Account holders can choose between two virtual card accounts:
- Multi-Use: A digital debit card that you can use multiple times. You can connect different accounts to the card, including Google Pay and Apple Pay , making in-store transactions.
- Disposable: Opting for a Revolut disposable card gives you absolute security. Use the card once, dispose of it, and a new account will be generated.
Revolut virtual cards offer an extra layer of security for contactless payments and online shopping. Let’s take a look at their pros and cons.
Revolut cards pros:
Security
Virtual cards are less vulnerable to theft. You can also freeze the card if you notice any suspicious activity. Accounts also use two-factor authentication and tokenization, securing your purchases and making it harder for people to access your personal information.
Convenience
Use the card for subscriptions, online purchases and make in-store transactions by connecting it to Google Pay or Apple Pay. When you sign up for an account, you can use the card instantly instead of waiting for it to arrive in the post.
Flexibility
Disposable Revolut cards change their details after every transaction, enhancing security. You can also opt for a multi-use account when managing subscriptions and add up to four multi-use cards monthly. The app is easy to use to set spending limits and manage your finances.
Accessibility
Revolut virtual cards are compatible with international merchants that accept Visa and Mastercard payments. The app supports a range of currencies, so travellers can spend internationally.
Revolut card cons:
Accessibility concerns
You’ll need the Revolut app to manage and access your virtual cards, which can cause some issues—especially if you lose the phone or experience technical issues. Travelling internationally can pose problems, as the app only works with internet access.
Limits
Revolut accounts have limits, including a maximum of four multi-use cards monthly and one single-use card per user. If you make a lot of transactions, exploring an account with higher limits might be better, as you’ll have more flexibility.
Customer support
Some users have reported challenges with Revolut’s customer support, especially when dealing with urgent issues. Resolution times may vary, which can be frustrating in critical situations.
5 Revolut Account alternatives
So, let’s check out the alternatives. The following virtual cards offer unique benefits; your choice depends on which features and spending limits you’d prefer.
Let’s explore five fantastic solutions.
1: Monzo
Monzo is a UK-based digital bank with a top reputation due to its user-focused app and financial products. Account holders can add virtual cards, enjoying security and anonymity. Monzo also offers free international payments up to a certain limit, making the virtual cards ideal for travellers.
You must be a registered Monzo Plus member to access virtual cards, which are more of an add-on to accounts than stand-alone products.
Monzo virtual card pros:
Security
Create a Monzo virtual card without using your account information and enjoy more security. The cards exist digitally; you can instantly cancel them and generate a new card. Transactions also have two-step verification measures.
Flexibility
If you’re a frequent traveller, Monzo offers multiple virtual cards. Users can access nine cards each month and have five live cards at any given time. The yearly limit is set to 100 cards. They integrate with digital wallets, enabling you to make contactless payments.
Money management tools
Where Monzo excels is its money management tools, which let users assign their cards to different pots, create virtual piggy banks and track each transaction in the app. You can track your spending habits and understand where you waste money.
User-friendly
Monzo’s interface is intuitive, making it easy for customers to use. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use app features, and live chat support is available on demand.
Monzo virtual card cons:
Monzo Plus requirement
Monzo virtual cards are only available with a Monzo Plus account, which comes with a monthly fee. While the fee unlocks other features, it might not be worthwhile for everyone, so it’s important to consider whether you’re willing to pay.
Limitations
You can’t use Monzo virtual cards for ATM cash withdrawals; they’re only available for mobile wallets and online transactions. You’ll also be unable to access your account if you lose your phone or it runs out of battery.
2: Getsby
Getsby is one of the most popular virtual card providers in Europe. The cards are available for anyone over 18 and don’t require a credit check. Users can choose between the Virtual Green Card , a multi-use card that lasts three years, or the single-load disposable Black Card .
Getsby establishes itself as a virtual card provider, meaning you won’t need an existing account.
Getsby virtual card pros:
Security
Getsby cards have a range of security features, including two-factor authentication, encryption and tokenization. They also use Mastercard 3D Secure 2.0 , which prevents fraudulent transactions.
If your account is compromised, you can freeze the card immediately, and Getsby will refund your balance to a new card.
Convenience
Order up to five Getsby Black cards daily or 25 monthly with spending limits of €10,000 monthly. Setting up an account is easy, with no need for credit checks, as the cards are similar to mobile top-ups. Link the cards to your Google Pay and Apple Pay accounts to make contactless transactions.
Low international transaction fees
Foreign transaction fees can add up, but you can use Getsby cards at any merchant that offers Mastercard transactions. With a 2% fee on most transactions, using these for international transfers and payments can save money.
Responsibility
Choosing a Getsby Green Card means you’re actively contributing to the environment. Spend €100, and the company will plant a tree. Users also have the opportunity to become carbon neutral, making the Green Card an excellent way to spend responsibly.
Getsby virtual card cons:
Limited ATM withdrawals
Unlike many virtual cards, Getsby does offer ATM withdrawals, but only with the Green Card. They come with a €2.00 fee but can be convenient if you need to access funds immediately. The Black Card doesn’t offer ATM withdrawals.
Compatibility
Getsby cards are compatible with all merchants that offer Mastercard transactions. Going abroad might mean you can’t use the cards if the vendor doesn’t accept Mastercard.
3: Skrill
Skrill is a global digital wallet provider offering various services, including virtual cards. Known for its versatility and global reach, Skrill could be an excellent alternative to Revolut if your main priority is making international transactions.
The virtual cards are available exclusively to consumers in the European Economic Area ( EEA ) and UK.
Skrill card benefits:
Global reach
Skrill is available in numerous countries, making it ideal for international users. You can easily send and receive money globally, making it a convenient option for expatriates and travellers. The virtual cards can hold multiple currencies and come with low fees.
Security
Skrill employs advanced security measures, including two-factor authentication and encryption, to safeguard your money. You can also set transaction limits and receive notifications for added security, enabling you to protect your account and freeze the card immediately.
Ease of use
Your first Skrill virtual card is free, giving you the perfect opportunity to try it out. Skrill’s app and website are ultra-user-friendly, with high spending limits for European users. It’s also versatile in its applications, allowing you to shop online, send payments, and gamble.
Skrill card cons:
Restrictions
Skrill virtual cards can save money on international payments, but they have some fees. Before signing up, checking the company’s fee structure can help you identify whether it suits your needs. If you want to access virtual cards, you’ll need to open a Skrill account.
Customer service
While Skrill’s website and app are user-friendly, the customer service team has average reviews. The main complaints include long wait times, unhelpful specialists, and frequent redirections to the FAQ pages instead of answering questions.
4: Wise
Wise is renowned for its low-cost international transfers and offers a virtual card that complements its robust financial services. Opening a Wise account gives you access to a virtual card that supports international transactions.
With access to 40 currencies, you can save on international transactions and connect the card to Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Wise virtual card pros:
Integration
Wise integrates with digital wallets and facilitates international transactions. The company sets itself apart by offering competitive exchange rates, making it ideal for frequent personal and business travellers. Most foreign transactions come with low or no fees.
Notifications
Manage your account with the intuitive app, which sends notifications when you make a transaction. This security feature can also highlight if someone’s accessed your account, enabling you to freeze the card immediately.
Transparency
Wise accounts have transparent fees for users, ensuring they know how much they’ll spend domestically and internationally. The fee structure is much cheaper than using a traditional current account.
Flexibility
Users can access up to three virtual cards at once. If you want one card for emergencies, another for travel, or a backup card, it’s easy to manage your money and access multiple cards simultaneously.
Wise virtual card cons:
You need a Wise bank account
You can only access Wise virtual cards if you have an account with the provider. If you have other bank accounts or savings accounts and don’t want to go through the process of opening a new one, other virtual card providers might be more convenient.
On the plus side, linking a virtual card to your current account could cover you under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
Geographic restrictions
Wise accounts are available in numerous countries, but there might be some restrictions. If you travel frequently, finding a card that lets you spend money abroad in multiple countries might be better.
5: Monese
Monese is a UK-based digital bank offering flexible banking solutions, including personal, joint, and multi-currency accounts. Opting for a Monese virtual debit card gives you access to secure payments and the option to transfer money from your digital account.
The company establishes itself with an inclusive approach and offers a range of user-friendly features.
Monese virtual card pros:
Accessibility
The company charges a low fee for obtaining a virtual card, and opening an account is easy. You can avoid credit checks, making Monese highly accessible. Students and expats can enjoy a seamless application process and begin spending immediately.
Flexibility
Spend money internationally with access to multiple currencies. Whether you travel regularly for business or personal reasons, the card offers security. Opting for a Classic Account gives you a free virtual card and just 0.5% fees on international transactions.
Money tracking
All transactions appear in the app when you use your Monese virtual card. You can track your spending habits and use budgeting tools to manage your money more effectively. It also helps you identify when someone accesses your card.
Manage subscriptions
Many people also use Monese cards to manage their subscriptions, as they’re easy to cancel, and you can avoid surprise charges.
Monese card cons:
Account limitations
If you want to access a virtual card, you’ll need to open a Monese account. Opting for a Classic Account gives you access to fee-free ATM withdrawals and virtual cards. The downside is that these accounts do come with monthly fees.
Limitations
You can’t use Monese cards for ATM withdrawals, and some countries might not accept them, so it’s important to check the limitations before opening an account.
Final thoughts on Revolut virtual card alternatives
While Revolut remains a popular choice for virtual cards, the alternatives we covered might better meet your needs. Monzo, Wise, and Monese each offer unique features and benefits— but they require a bank account.
On the other hand, Getsby specialises in providing virtual cards and doesn’t require an account. Choosing a Getsby Prepaid Card might be the best solution if you want a quick application process and flexibility.
Remember to consider which features matter most and decide based on those. Once you have a virtual card, you can look forward to stress-free spending without compromising security.
Order your Virtual Cards online
Apply for a digital prepaid card online and receive the activation code via email within 2 minutes.
