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When it comes to international money transfers, Remitly and Revolut are two popular options that many users consider. However, choosing the right service can depend on several factors like fees, transfer speeds, and ease of use. 

In this blog, we'll compare these two platforms to help you decide which might be the better choice for your needs in 2024. Additionally, we'll explore other alternatives like Vance that could offer the features or advantages you're looking for.

What is Remitly and How Does it Work?

Remitly is a digital service that lets you send money internationally through its website and mobile app. This platform offers various delivery options, including bank deposits, cash pickups, and mobile money. Users can send money via the Remitly app or website, and the service supports transfers to over 100 countries.

Pros and Cons of Remitly


PROS CONS
It offers instant transfers to many destinations.
Its fees can vary significantly depending on the destination and amount.
It gives you multiple options, including bank deposits, cash pickups, and mobile money. They often include a margin, making their exchange rate less competitive.
It is a user-friendly, easy-to-use app and website. It supports over 170 countries but fewer than some competitors.
24/7 support is available through phone, email, and chat. Customers sometimes experience delays when they make transactions.
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What is Revolut and How Does It Work?

Revolut is a financial technology platform that offers a wide range of services, including currency exchange, international transfers, cryptocurrency trading, and budgeting tools. It allows users to hold and manage money in multiple currencies, make instant global transfers, and access financial tools through a mobile app. Revolut offers various account plans, from a free Standard account to higher-tier Premium and Metal plans, with additional perks like insurance and travel benefits.

Pros and Cons of Revolut 


PROS CONS
Revolut supports over 30 currencies, allowing users to hold, exchange, and spend globally without high conversion fees​.
Free ATM withdrawals are limited, with fees applied after hitting a set withdrawal cap.
Offers free currency exchanges on weekdays within account limits, making it cost-effective. Revolut adds a 1% markup on currency exchanges during weekends.
Offers budgeting tools, cryptocurrency trading, and travel benefits such as insurance and discounted lounge access with Premium/Metal plans. The fee structure can be confusing, especially with different account tiers, withdrawal limits, and additional fees for certain services.
Offers strong security features like two-factor authentication and disposable virtual cards. Some users report difficulties with Revolut’s customer support, particularly with delays in resolving more complex issues.
Higher-tier accounts (Premium/Metal) offer valuable travel perks, including travel insurance and cashback on certain bookings. The free Standard plan offers fewer benefits, with more limited global transfer options and lower ATM withdrawal limits.
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It is important to note that these pros and cons can vary depending on your location and specific needs.

What is Vance, and How Does it Work?

Vance is a financial platform that simplifies international transfers. It is designed with the users in mind. It is user-friendly, with a strong focus on providing competitive exchange rates, low fees, and a secure, seamless experience for users who need to handle finances internationally.

Remitly vs. Revolut - Key Features

When choosing a money transfer service, understanding the key features can help you make an informed decision. Here are some key features of Remitly and Revolut:


 Remitly Revolut
Global Remittance Focus: Remitly specialises in international remittances, allowing users to send money to over 170 countries.
Multi-Currency Accounts: Revolut provides multi-currency accounts, allowing users to hold and manage funds in over 30 currencies.
Low Transfer Fees: Known for its low, competitive transfer fees, especially for developing countries. All-in-One Financial App: Offers a range of financial services, including cryptocurrency trading, stock investments, budgeting tools, and savings options.
Flexible Delivery Options: Allows recipients to receive funds through a variety of methods, including cash pickup at agent locations or direct bank deposits​. Budgeting and Analytics: Includes built-in budgeting tools and analytics, helping users track spending and manage their finances.
Send Now, Pay Later: Offers features like send now, pay later, allowing users to initiate transfers with partial payments upfront​. Subscription Tiers: Offers multiple subscription plans (Standard, Plus, Premium, Metal), with higher-tier plans offering added perks like travel insurance, cashback, and lounge access.
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Vance combines the best of Remitly and Revolut, offering unmatched speed, ease, and value. It also provides the fastest transfers, real-time exchange rates, and 24/7 multilingual support. 

Remitly vs. Revolut - Exchange Rates and Transfer Fees

Remitly offers competitive transfer fees but applies a fixed margin to its exchange rates, which can lead to higher costs than other services. This means that while the upfront fees seem low, you pay more in the exchange rate margin.

Revolut offers competitive exchange rates, especially on weekdays, but applies a 1% markup on currency exchanges on weekends, making transfers more expensive. Revolut does not charge fees for currency exchanges within certain limits on its free plan but imposes additional fees for higher amounts based on the user’s plan (Standard, Plus, Premium, or Metal). Users may incur an extra 0.5% to 1% fee for transfers and spending beyond the plan's allowance, making it less cost-effective. 

Vance offers competitive transfer fees and transparent exchange rates, ensuring you know exactly what you're paying upfront. While the exchange rates have a fixed margin, Vance's overall cost structure is designed to offer value and reliability.

Remitly vs. Revolut - User Experience 

Remitly offers an intuitive interface that is simple and easy to navigate, receiving positive feedback from users who appreciate its straightforward design. Its platform is designed to make sending money quick and hassle-free, appealing to those who prioritise simplicity in their transactions.

Revolut provides a more feature-rich experience, going beyond just money transfers. Its app includes features like budgeting tools, cryptocurrency trading, stock investments, and even travel insurance for premium users. Revolut's interface is sleek and modern, designed for users who want to manage multiple financial aspects within one platform. However, the variety of features can make it slightly more complex to navigate for users who are solely focused on money transfers.

Vance’s easy-to-use interface combines simplicity with advanced features. It offers an effortless user experience and has earned exceptional feedback from users who appreciate its innovative design and functionality.

Remitly vs. Revolut - Customer Support Services

Here is how their customer support services compare: 

  • Remitly offers 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and live chat so you can get help whenever needed. It’s praised for its quick and helpful service.
  • Revolut provides tiered customer support, with faster service for Premium users but some delays and limitations for Standard plan users, especially when relying on in-app chat.

With 24/7 multilingual support across multiple channels, Vance ensures you always get the help you need right when needed.

Remitly vs. Revolut - Reliability & Security 

Remitly is known for its reliability and robust security measures, including encryption and regulatory compliance, to protect your transactions and data. It consistently ensures that money transfers are completed accurately and safely.

Revolut also prioritises security, offering end-to-end encryption and advanced fraud detection systems to safeguard user funds. Revolut is regulated by financial authorities, including the FCA and other global bodies, ensuring a high level of protection for users. Revolut offers disposable virtual cards for online payments, providing extra security. 

Another standout feature of Vance is its reliability and unmatched security. Utilising the latest technology, Vance offers superior protection for your transactions, ensuring peace of mind with every transfer.

Remitly vs. Revolut - User Feedback

Remitly is praised for its speed and ease of use. Many users like its customer service and simple platform. However, some users have concerns about exchange rates and fees.

Revolut appeals to users seeking a multi-functional financial platform, though feedback highlights occasional concerns with customer service, particularly for those on lower-tier plans. 

Vance is popular for its smooth and user-friendly design, which makes transactions easy. Users also appreciate its reliability, Google rate offering, competitive exchange rates, and lower fees. 

In Conclusion

Remitly and Revolut offer reliable services for international money transfers, but they cater to different needs. Remitly specialises in remittances, focusing on speed and accessibility, while Revolut is a digital banking platform with a broader range of financial services. The right choice for you will depend on your specific requirements, such as transfer frequency, destination, and additional features. Additionally, it’s worth considering platforms like Vance that might offer the transparency, speed, and user-friendly experience you’re looking for.

Sources

  • Remitly Official Site: https://www.remitly.com/
  • Revolut Official Site: https://www.revolut.com/
  • Revolut Pricing and Features: https://www.revolut.com/our-pricing-plans
  • Remitly Customer Reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/remitly.com
  • Revolut Customer Reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/revolut.com

Disclaimer 

This content is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as financial, legal, or professional advice from Vance or its affiliates. While we strive for accuracy, the information may change over time. Vance makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees, whether express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. The comparison is based on publicly available data and is intended to assist users in making informed decisions. It is not a substitute for professional advice or consultation with financial experts. Please review the terms of use and product availability for your region, or visit the service provider's website for the latest pricing and service information.

FAQs

Q1. What makes Remitly a better option compared to Revolut for certain types of transfers?

Remitly specialises in remittances and offers more currency options, making it ideal for users sending money to specific destinations.

Q2. How do users benefit from Revolut’s features that might not be available with Remitly?

Revolut provides a wider range of financial services, including cryptocurrency trading and multi-currency accounts, which Remitly does not offer.

Q3. In what scenarios might Remitly be preferable to Revolut for international money transfers?

Remitly is preferable for users who need fast, reliable transfers to countries or currencies that Revolut may not support.

Q4. What unexpected costs might arise when using Revolut for money transfers?

While Revolut offers some free transfers, users may encounter fees on larger transfers or when their free transfer limit is exceeded.

Q5. How does the user experience differ between sending money with Remitly versus Revolut?

Remitly focuses on simplicity and ease of use for remittances, while Revolut offers a more feature-rich app that includes various financial services.

Q6. What are some unique security aspects of Revolut that differ from Remitly’s approach?

Revolut uses 2FA and partners with banks for fund security, while Remitly is regulated by FinCEN and equivalent bodies, offering different layers of protection.

Q7. How do Remitly and Revolut handle large versus small transfer amounts?

Remitly may offer free transfers on larger amounts, while Revolut’s fees can vary based on the user’s plan and the size of the transfer.

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Aayush is a strategic growth marketer with over 6 years of experience working in the US and European markets for various financial services companies. He has a proven track record of success in helping businesses grow, increase revenue, and improve marketing strategies.

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