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Wise Card vs BigPay 2024 : Travel Card in Malaysia (Part 2)

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7 months agoon
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Samuel TingWelcome back to our detailed comparison of the Wise and BigPay cards, the two leading options for Malaysians managing international transactions. In Wise Card vs BigPay Card 2024 Part 1, we explored the backgrounds, key features, user experiences, security measures, and customer support offered by both Wise and BigPay. We highlighted how Wise excels with its extensive multi-currency support and transparent fee structure, while BigPay offers significant advantages for frequent AirAsia travelers with its integration into the airline’s rewards program and straightforward fees.
In this second part of our review, we will delve deeper into the specific benefits of international transactions offered by Wise Malaysia and BigPay Malaysia. We’ll examine real-world use cases, testimonials from users, and provide a comprehensive analysis of the transaction costs and benefits each card offers for international spending. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of which card provides the best value for Malaysians in 2024 based on their unique needs and usage patterns.
Stay tuned as we uncover more insights and make a final verdict on the best card for managing international transactions efficiently and cost-effectively.
Special Features and Benefits: Wise Card Malaysia vs BigPay Card Malaysia
When choosing a digital banking solution, it’s important to look beyond basic features and consider the unique benefits each card offers. Both Wise and BigPay have special features that cater to different user needs, enhancing their overall utility for international transactions.
What We Like About Wise Card in Malaysia
Multi-Currency Account: One of the standout features of Wise is its multi-currency account, which allows users to hold and manage over 50 different currencies. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who frequently travel or conduct business internationally. With the ability to switch between currencies easily, users can avoid multiple conversion fees and manage their finances more efficiently.
Real-Time Exchange Rates: Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is the fairest rate available. This transparency ensures that users get the best possible deal on currency conversions without hidden markups. The real-time exchange rates allow for instant and accurate currency exchanges, which is ideal for those who need to make quick transactions across different currencies.
Low Conversion Fees: Wise offers some of the lowest conversion fees in the market, starting as low as 0.41%. This makes it an economical option for users who frequently need to convert large amounts of money. The low fees combined with transparent pricing help users save significantly on international transactions.
Virtual Cards: Another notable feature of Wise is the ability to create multiple virtual cards. These cards are useful for online transactions, subscriptions, and situations where additional security is desired. If a virtual card is compromised, it can be easily replaced without affecting the main account.
Fast International Transfers: Wise is known for its fast and reliable international money transfers. Transfers to over 70 countries are often instant or completed within 24 hours, making it a convenient option for those who need to send money abroad quickly and efficiently.
What We Like About BigPay Card Malaysia
Integration with AirAsia BIG Points: BigPay offers a unique advantage for frequent travelers with its integration into AirAsia’s BIG Points program. Users earn BIG Points on every transaction made with the BigPay card, which can be redeemed for AirAsia flights and other rewards. This feature adds significant value for those who frequently fly with AirAsia, effectively turning everyday spending into travel rewards.
Straightforward Fee Structure: BigPay prides itself on a transparent and easy-to-understand fee structure. Users are charged a flat 1% fee on international transactions, and currency conversion is handled at competitive Visa/Mastercard rates. This simplicity helps users better manage their finances without worrying about hidden fees or complicated pricing structures.
Budgeting Tools: The BigPay app includes robust budgeting tools that help users track and manage their expenses. Detailed spending analytics provide insights into where money is being spent, allowing users to make informed decisions and maintain better control over their finances. These tools are particularly useful for budgeting and financial planning.
Real-Time Notifications: Users receive instant notifications for every transaction made with the BigPay card. This feature not only helps with tracking spending but also provides an additional layer of security by allowing users to quickly identify any unauthorized transactions.
Global ATM Access: BigPay provides convenient access to cash withdrawals at ATMs worldwide. While the fees are higher for international withdrawals (RM10 or 2% of the amount), the global accessibility is a significant benefit for travelers who need cash on the go.
Real-World Use Cases and Testimonials: Wise vs BigPay
Understanding how Wise and BigPay perform in real-world scenarios provides valuable insights into their practical benefits. Below, we highlight different use cases and share testimonials from users who have utilized these services for their international transactions.
Wiser Card Malaysia
One frequent user of Wise Malaysia is a freelance graphic designer who travels often between Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia. They need a reliable way to manage multiple currencies and pay for services in different countries. With Wise, they can hold and manage over 50 currencies, avoiding frequent conversion fees. This feature allows them to switch easily between MYR, SGD, and AUD as needed, making their financial management seamless. Using the mid-market exchange rate, the designer gets fair and transparent rates without hidden markups, saving significant money over time. The low conversion fees, starting at just 0.41%, make Wise an economical solution for their frequent transactions. As the designer puts it, “I travel a lot for work and need to pay freelancers in different countries. Wise has been a game-changer for me. The multi-currency account and low fees mean I can manage my finances efficiently without losing money on unnecessary charges”.
Another typical user scenario involves a Malaysian expatriate living in the UK who needs to send money back home regularly. Wise provides fast and reliable international transfers, often completing transactions within 24 hours. The expatriate benefits from Wise’s low and transparent fees, saving money compared to traditional bank transfers. Additionally, the user-friendly Wise app allows them to track transfers and manage their account easily from anywhere. They shared, “Sending money back home has never been easier. With Wise, I can send funds quickly and at a fraction of the cost of traditional banks. The app is easy to use, and the transparency in fees is fantastic”.
BigPay Card Malaysia
A frequent AirAsia traveler regularly flying with the airline finds BigPay Malaysia highly beneficial. This traveler wants to maximize their travel rewards while managing their spending efficiently. With BigPay, they earn AirAsia BIG Points on every transaction made with the card, which can be redeemed for flights and other rewards. The straightforward fee structure allows them to manage their finances without worrying about hidden costs, while the BigPay app’s budgeting tools help them keep track of their spending and stay within their budget. “BigPay has been perfect for my travel needs. I earn BIG Points on all my purchases, which I can use for AirAsia flights. The app’s budgeting tools are a great help in managing my expenses,” they shared. Learn more from Halal Travel Guide.
According to studies from Money Smart Malaysia regarding overseas student from Malaysia studying in Australia also finds BigPay useful. This student needs an efficient way to manage their finances and make payments in AUD. BigPay’s competitive Visa/Mastercard exchange rates and the straightforward 1% fee on international transactions help them manage their expenses without incurring high costs. They can also withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide, despite the higher fees for international withdrawals, which provides them with essential global access to funds. The student mentioned according to Exiap Malaysia, “BigPay has made managing my finances abroad much easier. The competitive exchange rates and the ability to earn AirAsia BIG Points on my purchases are fantastic benefits”.
Which Card is Best for Malaysians?
Choosing between the Wise Card and the BigPay Card depends largely on your specific financial needs and travel habits. Both cards offer distinct advantages and cater to different user profiles, making them valuable tools for managing international transactions. Here’s a comprehensive comparison based on their features, user experiences, and practical benefits.
Criteria | Wise Card | BigPay Card |
Multi-Currency Support | Hold and manage over 50 currencies. Ideal for frequent travelers and international business. | Limited to MYR. Suitable for domestic use and basic international transactions. |
Exchange Rates | Mid-market exchange rate ensures transparency and fairness with no hidden markups. | Visa/Mastercard exchange rate + 1% fee. Competitive but slightly higher than Wise. |
Conversion Fees | Starts at 0.41%. Very economical for frequent conversions. | 1% fee on international spend. Simple and straightforward fee structure. |
Global Acceptance | Accepted in over 170 countries. | Accepted wherever Visa/Mastercard is accepted. |
International Transfers | Fast and reliable transfers to over 70 countries, often within 24 hours. | Not specified, focuses more on card transactions than transfers. |
ATM Withdrawals | 2 free withdrawals per month up to RM1,000, then RM5 + 1.75% per withdrawal. | RM6 for local, RM10 or 2% for international withdrawals. |
Special Features | Virtual cards, real-time exchange rates, transparent pricing. | Integration with AirAsia BIG Points, budgeting tools, real-time notifications. |
Customer Support | Responsive in-app chat, email, and phone support. | 24/7 in-app chat, email, and phone support. |
Ideal Users | Frequent travelers, expatriates, and international business people needing multi-currency management and low fees. | Frequent AirAsia travelers, students abroad, and users preferring simple fee structures and rewards. |
Conclusion
In summary, both the Wise and BigPay cards offer substantial benefits for Malaysians looking to manage international transactions efficiently. The choice between the two depends on individual needs and preferences.
Wise stands out for its comprehensive multi-currency support, low and transparent fees, and fast international transfers. It’s an excellent choice for frequent travelers, expatriates, and those who need to conduct business internationally. The ability to hold and manage over 50 currencies, coupled with real-time exchange rates and low conversion fees, makes Wise a versatile and cost-effective option for managing global finances.
On the other hand, BigPay excels with its integration into AirAsia’s BIG Points program, straightforward fee structure, and user-friendly budgeting tools. It’s particularly beneficial for frequent AirAsia travelers, students studying abroad, and users who prefer simplicity and rewards for their everyday spending. The ability to earn BIG Points on all transactions and the robust app features for tracking and managing expenses add significant value.
Ultimately, the best card for you will depend on your specific financial habits and travel requirements. For those who frequently travel across borders and need to manage multiple currencies, Wise is the ideal choice. For AirAsia loyalists and those seeking straightforward financial management with rewards, BigPay offers excellent benefits.
Both cards provide unique advantages, and either can significantly enhance your international transaction experience. To make an informed decision, consider your travel frequency, spending habits, and the specific features that will best meet your financial needs. For more detailed information and user reviews, visit the official websites of Wise Malaysia and BigPay Malaysia.

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