Remitly vs Wise Philippines 2026

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Remitly	Wise
Fees	Higher for express delivery	Low, transparent fees
Payment to Philippines	Instant to most banks, GCash	1-2 days, BDO, BPI, UnionBank
Ease of Use	User-friendly app	Simple, streamlined interface
Best for	Fast transfers, emergencies	Cost-effective regular payments

When to Choose Remitly

Choosing Remitly can be ideal in several scenarios based on my experience as a freelancer dealing with international clients: - **Urgent Money Needs**: If you need funds quickly, Remitly's express service can deliver money instantly to your GCash or bank account. I remember a time when an emergency required me to access funds immediately, and Remitly came through. - **Family Support**: For those who frequently send money to family back home, Remitly's reliable delivery times are a lifesaver. My sister once needed tuition money urgently, and Remitly ensured she got it without delay. - **Simple Transfers**: If you prefer a straightforward process without worrying too much about fluctuating fees, Remitly's fixed fee structure can be reassuring. - **Occasional Use**: For those who don't need to transfer money regularly, the convenience of Remitly outweighs the slightly higher fees. In my 6 years of freelancing and countless transfers, Remitly has been my go-to for quick, stress-free transactions.

When to Choose Wise

There are distinct scenarios where Wise shines: - **Frequent Transfers**: If you regularly receive payments from international clients, Wise's low fees can save you a significant amount. During one of my busiest months, I saved over $300 just by using Wise for all my transactions. - **Cost-Effective Payments**: Wise provides the mid-market exchange rate without markup, which means more pesos for every dollar. This has been crucial for me as I strive to maximize my earnings. - **Transparent Fees**: Wise's transparency in fees is perfect for freelancers who need to predict their earnings accurately. I always appreciate knowing the exact amount I'll receive, without hidden charges. - **Currency Conversions**: If you're dealing with multiple currencies, Wise offers a seamless experience. I once handled payments in euros, dollars, and pounds all in one month, and Wise made the process hassle-free. For these reasons, Wise remains a valuable tool in my freelancing toolkit.

Detailed Comparison

Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)

In my experience, Wise offers significantly lower fees than Remitly, especially for larger amounts. Remitly charges a fee for express delivery, which can add up over time. Wise, on the other hand, charges a small, transparent fee that doesn't change based on speed, making it more predictable. In the Philippines, every peso counts. Wise’s low fees mean more funds remain in your pocket. For example, sending $500 through Wise can cost around $5, while Remitly might charge $15 for express service.

Payment Methods (GCash, Maya, Bank Transfer)

Remitly supports a range of payment methods, including instant transfers to GCash, BDO, and BPI. This is a huge advantage if you or your family rely on mobile wallets for daily expenses. I've often used Remitly to top up my GCash account quickly during busy periods. Wise primarily supports bank transfers, which means you'll need a bank account like those with UnionBank or BPI. This is less flexible but works well for transfers into savings accounts.

User Experience

Both platforms offer user-friendly interfaces. Remitly’s app is intuitive and easy to navigate, perfect for those who prioritize convenience. Wise, while slightly more complex due to its range of features, offers a streamlined experience for managing multiple currencies. I found Wise's app especially useful when tracking my past transfers and managing my multi-currency account. Remitly’s straightforward approach, however, is great for quick, no-fuss transactions.

Client Quality

While both platforms are reliable, Wise’s client base includes more freelancers and professionals. This has occasionally led to networking opportunities, as fellow Wise users often reach out for collaboration. Remitly is more oriented towards personal use, making it perfect for remittances rather than business transactions. In my experience, this distinction has influenced my choice depending on the purpose of the transfer.

For Beginners vs Experienced

For beginners, Remitly offers a simple, straightforward service. Its easy setup and clear instructions make it accessible to those new to online transfers. I recommended Remitly to my cousin when she started freelancing, and she found it hassle-free. Experienced freelancers, however, may appreciate Wise’s advanced features. The ability to hold multiple currencies and the detailed fee breakdowns are invaluable for managing international projects.

My Personal Experience

In my 6 years of freelancing, I've used both Remitly and Wise extensively. One memorable experience was during a project with a European client. The client preferred paying in euros, and Wise's ability to handle currency conversion at the mid-market rate helped me avoid unnecessary losses. I received Php 15,000 more than I would have with a traditional bank transfer. Conversely, an emergency at home required me to send funds quickly to my family in Manila. Remitly's express transfer to GCash was a lifesaver, ensuring the money was available within minutes. These experiences taught me the importance of choosing the right tool for the right situation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Exchange Rates**: Always check the rates offered. Wise typically provides better rates than Remitly, which can significantly affect your earnings. - **Not Considering Speed vs. Cost**: Decide if speed or cost is more important for your situation. Remitly is faster, but Wise is more economical. - **Overlooking Hidden Fees**: Ensure you understand all fees involved. Remitly's fees can be higher for express services, while Wise is upfront about costs. - **Not Exploring Payment Options**: Choose the payment method best suited for your needs. GCash is great for quick access, while bank transfers through Wise are better for savings.

Final Verdict

After evaluating both services, my recommendation is to use Wise for regular, cost-effective international payments and Remitly for urgent, fast transfers. Each platform has its strengths, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances. For more detailed guidance on choosing the right platform, check out our more guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, Remitly or Wise?

Wise generally offers lower fees than Remitly, especially for higher amounts. Remitly's express service can be more costly.

How fast are transfers with Remitly and Wise?

Remitly's express transfers can be instant, while Wise usually takes 1-2 days for bank transfers to the Philippines.

Can I use GCash with Wise?

Wise primarily supports bank transfers, so you'll need a bank account. Remitly, however, supports GCash transfers.

Are there hidden fees with these services?

Wise is transparent with its fees, whereas Remitly's express services can incur higher fees that may not be immediately clear.

Which service is better for beginners?

Remitly is simpler and more user-friendly for beginners, while Wise offers more advanced features suited for experienced users.

Can I hold multiple currencies with these services?

Wise allows you to hold and manage multiple currencies in your account, which is not a feature offered by Remitly.