Bitcoin debit cards are one of the most convenient ways to spend cryptocurrency for both online and offline purchases. Quite a few companies offer bitcoin debit card services, although there are always vast differences between the service provided. We have taken a look at how CryptoPay, Bitwala, and Wirex compare to one another.
3. CryptoPay
A lot of people may not be aware of how CryptoPay offers bitcoin debit cards, even though the company has done so for quite some time. The company issues both physical and virtual debit cards to its users all over the world at a low commission rate. Moreover, anyone who is content with lower limits is not required to complete ID verification by any means.
The price per card ranges between US$15 and GBP 15, depending on which currency it is denominated in. Worldwide delivery is free, although express delivery can be purchased for a US$75 fee. Foreign currency conversions are subject to a 3% cost, and there is a 1% loading fee as well. Unfortunately, this is yet another bitcoin debit one cannot obtain in the US.
2. Wirex
Formerly known as E-Coin, the Wirex bitcoin debit card is well worth checking out. Even though the company has had a few small hiccups ever since rebranding to Wirex, their customers seem to enjoy the service provided. Wirex provides three types of bitcoin debit cards, denominated in USD, EUR, or GBP. Delivery of the physical card costs either US$17 or US$50 – depending on tracking requirements – whereas the issuance of a virtual card incurs a one-time US$3 fee.
Users can obtain a Wirex card without verifying their identity, although they will be met with a US$2,500 limit until they complete the verification procedure. Wirex also issues SMS messages regarding the card on a monthly basis, which invokes a US$1 fee. Foreign transactions are, similar to the Xapo card, subject to a 3% surcharge. The company prides itself on offering worldwide delivery of their card, although the United States is conspicuously absent from the list.
1. Bitwala
Cryptocurrency enthusiasts are all too familiar with the Bitwala name, although not necessarily because the company issues bitcoin debit cards. Both physical and virtual cards are available, although users need to get verified before hey can place an order. It is interesting to note Bitwala’s cards can be funded with either bitcoin or the supported altcoins, which is a nice touch.
It is impossible to issue a bitcoin debit card without fees, though. Virtual cards cost 2 EUR, whereas issuance and delivery of a physical card costs 8 EUR. There is a 0.5% top-up fee per transaction and a 1 EUR monthly maintenance fee. The same 3% rate for firing exchange purchases is maintained by the company as well. Sadly, this card is not available to US citizens either, even though 20 different fiat currencies are actively supported.
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