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Wise vs Xe

Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Money Transfers - 2024 Edition
6
min read
September 26, 2024
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When it comes to sending money abroad, choosing the right service can make all the difference. With 2024 bringing more options than ever, finding the perfect fit for your international transfers can feel overwhelming. Wise and Xe are two of the most popular platforms, each offering unique benefits. But which one truly meets your needs? 

In this blog, we’ll compare Wise and Xe, diving into their features, fees, and user experiences to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also introduce you to Vance, a better alternative that might best suit your needs. 

What is Wise and How Does It Work?

Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, is a platform for sending money internationally. It uses a peer-to-peer system to match users sending money in opposite directions, which helps to reduce costs. This platform generally offers competitive exchange rates and low fees, making it a common choice for individuals and businesses.

Pros and Cons of Wise

PROS

CONS

Wise offers transparent and generally lower rates than many competitors. 

Transfers can take longer compared to some instant services.

It uses mid-market exchange rates with no hidden margins.

Some users have reported difficulty getting help from Wise's customer support team.

It allows users to hold and manage money in different currencies.

Wise doesn't support all currencies, so check if your currency is available before using the app.

Wise has an intuitive and clean interface, which helps their user experience.

Wise only offers bank-to-bank transfers, so recipients can't pick up cash.

What is Xe and How Does It Work?

Xe is a well-known platform specialising in international money transfers and currency conversion services. Established over 25 years ago, Xe allows users to send money to over 170 countries with competitive exchange rates and minimal fees. The platform is recognised for its transparency, providing real-time exchange rates and clear transfer costs before you confirm a transaction.  

Pros and Cons of Xe

PROS

CONS

Xe offers competitive rates, especially for major currency pairs, making it more affordable than traditional banks​.

Xe applies a small margin on exchange rates, which can make it harder to see the true cost of your transfer​. 

Transfers over a certain amount (e.g., $500 USD) often come with no fees​. 

A small fee is charged for transfers below a specific threshold (e.g., £250 GBP in the UK)​. 

In many cases, Xe can transfer money within minutes, depending on the payment method and destination.

Transfers funded by bank transfers may take 1-4 days, depending on the currency and destination​.

Xe supports money transfers to over 170 countries, providing extensive coverage globally.

While Xe supports various payment methods, options like cash pickup are only available in select destinations.

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.

Wise vs. Xe - 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 Wise and Xe: 

PROS

CONS

Xe offers competitive rates, especially for major currency pairs, making it more affordable than traditional banks​.

Xe applies a small margin on exchange rates, which can make it harder to see the true cost of your transfer​. 

Transfers over a certain amount (e.g., $500 USD) often come with no fees​. 

A small fee is charged for transfers below a specific threshold (e.g., £250 GBP in the UK)​. 

In many cases, Xe can transfer money within minutes, depending on the payment method and destination.

Transfers funded by bank transfers may take 1-4 days, depending on the currency and destination​.

Xe supports money transfers to over 170 countries, providing extensive coverage globally.

While Xe supports various payment methods, options like cash pickup are only available in select destinations.

Vance combines the best of Wise and Xe, offering unmatched speed, ease, and value. It also provides the fastest transfers, real-time exchange rates, and 24/7 multilingual support. 

Wise vs. Xe - Exchange Rates and Transfer Fees

Wise stands out for its transparent pricing model with no hidden margins. This means that you always get the most accurate and up-to-date exchange rate when transferring money. Wise charges a low, upfront transfer fee, typically a small percentage of the transfer amount, depending on the currencies involved. 

Xe, on the other hand, offers competitive exchange rates, but it applies a small margin on the rate provided to users, which is common among many transfer services. While Xe doesn’t charge a fee for large transfers (usually above USD 500 or equivalent), smaller transfers may incur a fee depending on the country and payment method. 

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. 

Wise vs. Xe - User Experience

Wise is widely praised for its intuitive and clean interface, which makes it easy for users to navigate and complete transactions. The platform is designed with simplicity in mind, allowing users to send money internationally without unnecessary complications. Wise's mobile app and desktop site are highly rated for their ease of use, offering clear instructions and straightforward processes from start to finish.

Xe also offers a user-friendly experience but focuses on providing extensive tools for those who need more than just a money transfer service. In addition to transferring money, Xe allows users to track currency fluctuations, set up rate alerts, and access historical exchange rate data. Xe’s platform is easy to use, with a clear design that helps users find the information they need quickly, whether using the website or mobile app​. 

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.

Wise vs. Xe - Customer Support Services

  • Wise excels in providing 24/7 support through various channels, making it accessible at any time, though response times may vary.
  • Xe offers phone support during business hours, which is beneficial for users who value direct, verbal communication, complemented by reliable email support and an informative FAQ section. 

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

Wise vs. Xe - Reliability and Security 

Wise is known for its transparency and strong security measures. The platform employs two-factor authentication (2FA), ensuring users have an extra layer of protection when accessing their accounts. Financial authorities regulate Wise in multiple countries, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, which adds a layer of trust and security for users.

Xe is equally committed to security and reliability. As a subsidiary of Euronet Worldwide, a leading provider of secure financial services, Xe adheres to stringent security standards. The platform uses enterprise-grade security measures and complies with international regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the Privacy Act in the US. 

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.

Wise vs. Xe - User Feedback 

Wise is favoured by users for its transparency and user-friendly interface, although there are some concerns about customer support response times.

Xe is praised for its competitive rates and extensive global coverage, with minor feedback pointing to occasional transfer delays.

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

Wise and Xe stand out as strong contenders in international money transfers, each with its own strengths. Wise is a great choice if you prioritise transparency and low fees, offering an intuitive platform that makes transfers straightforward and cost-effective. Xe, on the other hand, is ideal for users who value competitive exchange rates and the ability to transfer money to a wide range of countries, with the added benefit of robust financial tools. However, Vance is a better option as it combines both strengths and offers unique benefits that truly set it apart.

Sources

  • Wise Official Site: https://wise.com/
  • Xe Official Site: https://www.xe.com/
  • Xe Money Transfer Overview: https://www.transumo.com/xe-money-transfer-review/
  • Wise Customer Reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/wise.com
  • Xe Customer Reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.xe.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. How do Wise and Xe compare in terms of transfer speed and fees in 2024?

Wise typically offers transparent fees and uses the mid-market exchange rate, while Xe provides competitive rates with a small margin and no fees on larger transfers. Transfer speed for both can vary, with Wise often completing within hours, while Xe transfers might take 1-4 days, depending on the method and currency​. 

Q2. Which platform offers better exchange rates: Wise or Xe?

Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate without any added margin, generally offering the best possible rate. Xe offers competitive rates but applies a small margin, making Wise typically the better choice for exchange rates. 

Q3. What are the pros and cons of using Wise versus Xe for international transfers?

Wise Pros: Transparent fees, mid-market exchange rates, and user-friendly interface.

Wise Cons: Slower support response at peak times.

Xe Pros: Competitive rates, no fees on large transfers, and extensive global reach.

Xe Cons: Small exchange rate margin and potential transfer delays. 

Q4. How do Wise and Xe differ in their mobile app features?

Wise offers a clean, intuitive app focused on easy money transfers and managing multiple currencies. Xe’s app is similarly user-friendly but includes additional features like currency tracking and rate alerts​​. 

Q5. What types of currencies are supported by Wise and Xe in 2024?

Wise supports over 50 currencies for transfers. Xe supports transfers to over 170 countries, with a focus on major and frequently exchanged currencies​​. 

Q6. Are there any special features or services that make Wise or Xe stand out?

Wise offers multi-currency accounts and transparent pricing. Xe stands out with its rate alert feature and extensive currency data tools​​. 

Q7. How does customer support compare between Wise and Xe?

Wise offers 24/7 support via email and live chat, though response times may vary. Xe provides phone support during business hours, which is beneficial for users needing immediate assistance​​.

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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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