Neteller vs Wise
A side-by-side look at how these two wallets stack up — and which one wins for which job.
| Feature | Neteller | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 3.5 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Best for | Online deposits & international transfers | Cheap, transparent international transfers |
| Monthly fee | Free; USD 5/mo after 6 months without a login or transaction | Free (one-time card fee in some regions) |
| Exchange rate | Up to 3.99% (VIP from 1%) | Mid-market + transparent fee (often <0.5%) |
| Send / receive | 2.99% to send (min USD 0.50); receiving free | Low variable fee (~0.33%+) |
| Withdrawals | 1.75% to a bank account (min USD 3.50) | Free up to a monthly cap, then small fee |
| Card | Yes — Net+ prepaid Mastercard (EEA and UK) | Yes — physical & virtual debit Mastercard |
| Availability | Most countries (excl. US) | 160+ countries |
| Currencies | Multiple currency balances | 40+ currencies |
| Regulation | Central Bank of Ireland (Paysafe Payment Solutions Ltd) | FCA (UK), NBB (Belgium), FinCEN (US) |
| Founded | 1999 | 2011 |
Neteller
Neteller is Skrill's Paysafe sibling, used mainly to fund trading and online accounts, with a Knect rewards programme and a Net+ prepaid card for EEA and UK residents. Standard members pay up to 3.99% in FX fees (VIP members from 1%), 2.99% to send money and 1.75% (min USD 3.50) to withdraw to a bank, plus USD 5 a month after six months of inactivity. Well accepted, but not a cheap way to hold or move currencies.
Pros
- Sister product to Skrill, broad acceptance
- Knect loyalty programme earns points
- FX fee drops to as little as 1% for VIP members
Cons
- Net+ card limited to EEA and UK residents
- FX fee up to 3.99% for standard members
- USD 5/mo inactivity fee after 6 months
Wise
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is the benchmark for transparent, low-cost international transfers, using the real mid-market rate plus a small visible fee. Its multi-currency account holds 40+ currencies with local account details, making it ideal for freelancers and frequent travellers. It is an e-money provider rather than a full bank, so it lacks credit products and bank-style deposit insurance.
Pros
- Mid-market exchange rate with low transparent fees
- Hold and convert 40+ currencies
- Local account details in multiple currencies
Cons
- Not a full bank (no deposit insurance like a bank)
- ATM withdrawals free only up to a monthly cap
- No credit or overdraft features
The bottom line
Overall, Wise edges ahead with a score of 4.5 versus 3.5 — but the right choice depends on your priorities. Check both against your own country and use case before deciding.