Crypto cards are rapidly becoming a popular tool in the digital finance world. These cards function like traditional debit or credit cards, allowing you to spend your cryptocurrency directly. Instead of manually converting your crypto to fiat currency, crypto cards handle the conversion for you at the point of sale. This convenience is driving their widespread adoption.
The global crypto credit card market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% between 2024 and 2031, according to Proficient Matket Insights. For instance, the number of crypto card users has risen by 150% in the past year alone, reflecting their growing popularity. The ease of spending crypto directly, combined with attractive rewards and low fees, makes these cards appealing to a broader audience.
Choosing the right Crypto Cards is crucial. Different cards offer varying features, fees, and rewards. Your choice should align with your specific needs and spending habits. Whether you seek high cash back rewards, low fees, or extensive cryptocurrency support, selecting the right Crypto Cards can enhance your crypto spending experience. For example, some Crypto Cards offer up to 8% cashback on purchases, while others might have no annual fees but charge higher transaction fees.
What Are Crypto Cards?
Crypto cards are financial tools that bridge the gap between digital and traditional currencies. There are two main types: debit cards and credit cards.
- Crypto Debit Cards: These Crypto Cards let you spend the cryptocurrency in your account directly. When you make a purchase, the card instantly converts your crypto into the local currency. For example, if you have Bitcoin and buy a coffee, your Bitcoin is converted to dollars (or your local currency) at the point of sale.
- Crypto Credit Cards: These work like regular Crypto Cards but allow you to earn cryptocurrency rewards on your purchases. Instead of traditional points or miles, you get rewarded in Crypto Cards, like Bitcoin or Ethereum. You pay your credit card bill with fiat currency, but your rewards accumulate in crypto. This feature can be particularly appealing if you want to grow your crypto holdings while making routine purchases.
Using a Crypto Cards is simple. Load your card with cryptocurrency from your wallet. When you make a purchase, the card provider converts your crypto to fiat currency based on the current exchange rate. Many cards also offer rewards such as cashback in crypto, a great way to earn while you spend. For example, the KuCoin KuCard provides up to 3% cashback on purchases.
Crypto cards are convenient and make spending your digital assets as easy as using traditional money. Whether buying groceries, booking a trip, or dining out, crypto cards offer a seamless way to use your digital currency in everyday transactions.
Why Are Crypto Cards Gaining Traction?
Let’s take a look at some the reasons behind the popularity and rising adoption of crypto cards worldwide: Convenience: Crypto cards allow you to spend your digital assets directly at the point of sale. There’s no need to manually convert your Crypto Cards to fiat currency beforehand. For example, when you use a KuCard, it instantly converts your USDT holdings to local currency when you make a purchase.
- Rewards: Many crypto cards offer attractive rewards. You can earn cashback in cryptocurrency, which might increase in value over time. If the value of the crypto you receive as rewards increases, your effective cashback rate can be even higher.
- Low Fees: Crypto cards often come with lower fees than traditional cards. Many offer zero foreign exchange fees, no annual fees, and free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit. For instance, the Wirex card provides free ATM withdrawals up to $250 per month.
- Security: Crypto cards incorporate advanced security measures such as 256-bit encryption and 24/7 fraud monitoring. This ensures your digital assets are protected. You can also freeze or unfreeze your card instantly if you detect any suspicious activity.
- Flexibility: Most crypto cards support multiple cryptocurrencies. This allows you to hold, exchange, and spend a variety of digital assets. For example, the Coinbase Card supports seven popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum.
- Global Acceptance: Many crypto cards are partnered with Visa or Mastercard, so they are accepted at millions of locations worldwide. This makes them a practical option for international travel and everyday use.
Top Crypto Cards of 2024
| Card | Cashback | Rewards Program | Supported Currencies | Fees | Availability |
| KuCard Crypto Visa Card | Up to 3% | Cashback program with special bonuses | USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, XRP, KCS, EUR | Issuance: €9.99; Annual: €10; Withdrawal: €2/2% | EEA residents |
| Crypto.com Visa Card | 1-5% (varies by tier) | CRO tokens; rebates on subscriptions | Varies | No monthly/annual; ATM withdrawal, top-up | 200+ countries |
| BitPay Crypto Debit Card | Periodic offers | Periodic cashback offers through partners | BTC, BCH, ETH, XRP, stablecoins | Issuance: $10; ATM: $2.50; Conversion: 3% | U.S. residents only |
| Wirex Visa Card | Up to 8% Cryptoback™ in WXT | Cryptoback™ rewards in WXT | 12 fiat, 130+ cryptocurrencies | Crypto conversion: 1%; ATM withdrawal fee | Varies by country |
| Monolith DeFi Debit Card | N/A (1% fee contributes to TKN rewards) | TKN Community Chest | GBP, EUR | Top-up: 1% (free with TKN/DAI); Spending: 1.75% | UK, Europe |
| Venmo Credit Card | 1-3% | Personalized cash-back rewards | USD | No annual/foreign transaction fees; APR varies | N/A |
| Retik DeFi Crypto Debit Card | 1% Cashback | N/A | N/A | Low transaction fees | Global |
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best crypto cards in the global market you could consider. Take a look at their features, offers, fees, and eligibility details:
KuCard Crypto Visa Card
KuCard is KuCoin’s innovative Visa debit card that merges digital assets with traditional banking and is integrated with Apple Pay. Accepted at millions of locations worldwide, it allows you to spend your cryptocurrency seamlessly, whether you’re shopping online, making in-store purchases, or withdrawing cash at ATMs. The KuCard automatically converts your Crypto Cards into local currency at the point of sale, ensuring you get the best possible exchange rate. By offering a seamless bridge between digital assets and traditional banking, KuCard aims to accelerate the mass adoption of cryptocurrency payments.
KuCard is currently available to residents of the European Economic Area (EEA). To be eligible, you need a registered KuCoin account and must pass identity verification using a supported EEA-issued ID card. You can start using a virtual KuCard immediately after your application is approved, while a physical card can be ordered and activated upon receipt.
KuCard Features
- Global Acceptance: KuCard is accepted wherever Visa is recognized. This makes it a versatile option for both local and international transactions.
- Instant Conversion: It simplifies the process of converting and spending cryptocurrency. Your digital assets are converted into fiat currency instantly at the point of sale.
- Integration with Apple Pay and Google Pay: You can link your KuCard to Apple Pay and Google Pay for added convenience and security. This allows for contactless payments using your smartphone, enhancing the security of your transactions.
- Security: KuCard prioritizes the safety of your digital assets with advanced security features. It includes real-time notifications and detailed transaction records to help you manage your spending and ensure the security of your assets.
- Rewards Program: KuCard offers a cashback program, allowing you to earn cryptocurrency on every purchase. Users can enjoy unlimited cashback and special bonuses during promotional periods, such as Black Friday.
- Support for Multiple Cryptocurrencies: KuCard currently supports six different cryptocurrencies – USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, XRP, and KCS, as well as one fiat currency, EUR. It plans to expand to a wider range of cryptocurrencies in the future. You have the flexibility to choose which cryptocurrency to use for your purchases. Additionally, you can also add all supported currencies as deductible assets, or remove the ones you no longer wish to use. However, you must maintain at least one cryptocurrency or fiat currency as your spending asset. KuCard also lets you adjust the order of priority for payments between crypto and fiat.
Cashback Offers
Users receive up to 3% cashback on all purchases made with crypto during specific promotional periods, depending on your KuCoin account’s VIP level. This is particularly beneficial for regular spending, helping you earn rewards effortlessly using your card for everyday transactions.
Fees
- Issuance Fee: €9.99 for new cards.
- Annual Maintenance Fee: €10. KuCard annual fee will be waived if annual transactions exceed €500.
- Euro Transactions: No transaction fees within the Eurozone.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2% for transactions outside Europe.
- Cash Withdrawal Fee: €2 for withdrawals in euros within Europe; 2% of the withdrawal amount in foreign currencies outside Europe.
- Express Delivery Fee: €30 for express shipping.
Crypto.com Visa Card
The Crypto.com Visa Card offers a seamless way to spend your cryptocurrency while enjoying a range of benefits and rewards. It is accepted in over 200 countries, making it highly versatile for both local and international transactions. You can use it for online shopping, in-store purchases, and ATM withdrawals. The card automatically converts your cryptocurrency into fiat currency at the point of sale, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free spending experience.
The Crypto.com Visa Card integrates advanced security features, including multi-factor authentication and real-time transaction notifications. It also supports Apple Pay and Google Pay, allowing for secure and convenient contactless payments using your smartphone.
Rewards and Cashback
Crypto Cards One of the standout features of the Crypto.com Visa Card is its generous cashback program. The cashback rates vary depending on the card tier, with the top-tier Obsidian card offering up to 5% cashback in CRO tokens. Other tiers include:
- Icy White / Rose Gold: Up to 3% cashback
- Royal Indigo / Jade Green: Up to 2% cashback
- Ruby Steel: Up to 1% cashback
- Midnight Blue: 1% cashback
These cashback rewards are credited in CRO tokens, Crypto.com’s native cryptocurrency.
Additional Perks
Depending on your Crypto Cards tier, you can enjoy various perks, such as rebates on subscription services like Netflix and Spotify, access to airport lounges, and even rebates on X Premium subscriptions. Higher-tier cards also come in premium metal designs, adding a touch of luxury to your spending.
Fees and Requirements
The Crypto.com Visa Card has no monthly or annual fees, which makes it a cost-effective choice for crypto enthusiasts. However, there are certain fees to be aware of, such as:
- ATM Withdrawal Fees: Free up to a limit, then 2% per transaction.
- Credit/Debit Card Top-Up Fees: 1%.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: May apply depending on the region.
To unlock the full benefits, especially the higher cashback rates, you must stake a significant amount of CRO tokens. This requirement varies by card tier and can be a substantial commitment for some users.
BitPay Crypto Debit Card
The BitPay Crypto Debit Card is versatile and widely accepted, offering numerous benefits for Crypto Cards enthusiasts. It is issued by Mastercard, making it usable at over 100 million merchants worldwide. You can use it for in-store purchases, online shopping, and ATM withdrawals. This card instantly converts your cryptocurrency into fiat currency, facilitating seamless transactions without the hassle of manual conversions.
The BitPay card includes robust security measures such as an EMV chip and contactless payment capabilities. The card can be managed through the BitPay app, where you can reload funds, view transaction history, and control card settings. This ensures both convenience and security for your transactions.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
The BitPay card supports a range of popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ether (ETH), XRP, and several stablecoins like USDC, GUSD, PAX, and BUSD. This broad support ensures you can use various digital assets for your daily expenses.
Rewards and Benefits
While the BitPay card doesn’t offer a fixed rewards program, it does provide periodic cashback offers through partnerships with retailers. This flexibility allows users to earn Crypto Cards rewards on their purchases, although the specifics can change frequently.
Fees and Limits
The BitPay card comes with a transparent fee structure:
- Issuance Fee: $10 for both new and replacement cards.
- ATM Withdrawal Fee: $2.50 per transaction.
- Currency Conversion Fee: 3% for transactions outside the U.S.
- Inactivity Fee: $5 per month after 90 days of inactivity.
Despite these fees, the BitPay card offers high limits, including a daily ATM withdrawal limit of $6,000 and a maximum card balance of $25,000. These limits are particularly attractive for users looking to conduct high-value transactions.
Note: Currently, the BitPay card is available only to U.S. residents. This limitation means that non-U.S. users must look for alternative crypto debit cards. However, the card’s global usability through the Mastercard network makes it a strong choice for U.S.-based crypto users.
Wirex Visa Card
The Wirex Visa Card is a versatile tool for managing both cryptocurrency and traditional fiat currencies. It is accepted at over 61 million locations worldwide, wherever Visa is accepted. This includes in-store purchases, online transactions, and ATM withdrawals, providing comprehensive coverage for your spending needs. It supports 12 fiat currencies and over 130 cryptocurrencies, making it easy to manage and spend various assets.
The Wirex app and web platform are designed to be user-friendly, making it easy to manage your account, view transaction history, and control your card settings. The app supports various features, including instant notifications, two-factor authentication, and the ability to freeze your card instantly if needed.
Crypto Rewards
One of the standout features of the Wirex Visa Card is its Cryptoback™ rewards program. You can earn up to 8% back in WXT, Wirex’s native cryptocurrency, on all purchases made with the card. These rewards are instantly deposited into your Wirex account, allowing you to accumulate crypto as you spend.
Fee Structure
Wirex offers a transparent fee structure with several benefits:
- No Annual Fees: No annual or foreign exchange fees make it cost-effective for international travelers.
- Free ATM Withdrawals: You can enjoy fee-free ATM withdrawals up to a monthly limit of $200. Beyond this, a 2% fee applies.
- Crypto Conversion Fees: A 1% fee applies when converting cryptocurrency to fiat for spending, which is competitive but important to consider when calculating overall costs.
Additional Perks
- Virtual and Physical Cards: Wirex offers both virtual and physical cards. The virtual card is ideal for secure online shopping, while the physical card can be used for in-store purchases and ATM withdrawals.
- No Foreign Exchange Fees: You can spend multiple currencies without incurring foreign exchange fees, saving you up to 2% compared to other currency exchange services.
Limitations
- Geographic Restrictions: The availability of services and features can vary by country, which may impact the overall user experience depending on your location.
- Customer Support: Some users have reported issues with customer support responsiveness, which is an area for improvement.
- Hidden Fees: While the card has a transparent fee structure, a variable spread fee of around 1% on crypto conversions can reduce the card’s overall cost-effectiveness.
Monolith DeFi Debit Card
The Monolith DeFi Debit Crypto Cards stands out as a unique tool for crypto enthusiasts, bridging decentralized finance (DeFi) and traditional spending. The Monolith Visa Debit Card allows you to spend your Ethereum (ETH) and other ERC-20 tokens anywhere Visa is accepted, covering over 45 million locations worldwide. This includes in-store and online purchases, providing extensive usability for daily spending.
The Monolith card is linked to a non-custodial Ethereum wallet. This means you have complete control over your funds, which are not held by a third party. Only you can access your private keys, ensuring enhanced security and autonomy over your assets. The wallet supports various ERC-20 tokens, allowing for a wide range of cryptocurrency management.
The Monolith card is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Funds are safeguarded in a segregated account, protecting your assets from potential insolvency issues faced by the card issuer.
Fees and Costs
Monolith offers a transparent fee structure:
- Top-Up Fees: 1% fee when topping up with cryptocurrencies, but 0% if you use TKN (Monolith’s native token) or DAI.
- ATM Withdrawals: Free for the first two monthly withdrawals, then £0.75/€0.85 per withdrawal.
- Spending Fee: A 1.75% fee applies to all transactions, which is competitive compared to other crypto cards.
Supported Currencies and Regions
The card supports transactions in GBP and EUR, and it is available in the United Kingdom and most European countries. Users can spend in other currencies, but a conversion fee will apply. Unfortunately, the card is not available for users in the United States.
TKN Rewards and Community Chest
Monolith incentivizes the use of its native token, TKN. When you top up your card with tokens other than TKN, a 1% fee is charged and added to the Community Chest. TKN holders can claim their share from the Community Chest, adding an extra layer of benefits for active users of the Monolith ecosystem.
Venmo Credit Card
The Venmo Credit Card offers a blend of convenience and rewards tailored especially for frequent Venmo users. You can manage the Venmo Credit Card entirely through the Venmo app. This includes tracking your spending, making payments, and redeeming rewards. Cash-back rewards can be deposited into your Venmo account, used to pay your credit card bill, or even to purchase cryptocurrency directly within the app.
The Venmo Credit Card includes a QR code on the front, which friends can scan to send you payments directly through the Venmo app. This feature simplifies splitting bills or reimbursing shared expenses, enhancing the card’s utility for social activities.
Personalized Cash-Back Rewards
The Venmo Credit Card automatically adapts its rewards to your spending habits. Each month, you earn:
- 3% cash back on your top spending category.
- 2% cash back on your second-highest spending category.
- 1% cash back on all other purchases.
These categories include essentials like groceries, transportation, travel, entertainment, dining, and more, making it easy to maximize your rewards without manually tracking or activating categories.
No Annual Fee and Foreign Transaction Fees
One of the key benefits of the Venmo Credit Card is that it comes with no annual fee. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to earn rewards without incurring additional costs. Additionally, there are no foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel and purchases.
APR and Fees
The Venmo Credit Card offers a variable APR ranging from 15.24% to 24.24%, depending on your creditworthiness. While it doesn’t have a 0% introductory APR for purchases or balance transfers, the straightforward rewards structure and lack of annual fees compensate for this.
Retik DeFi Crypto Debit Card
Retik Finance offers an AI-powered peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform. The Retik DeFi Debit Card is designed to be used globally. It can be used wherever Visa or Mastercard is accepted, making it a versatile option for international travel and local spending alike. This global reach is complemented by low transaction fees, enhancing the card’s practicality. The DeFi debit card is linked to a non-custodial wallet, meaning you have full control over your private keys and digital assets. This ensures that your funds are secure and only accessible by you.
Retik Finance has seen significant growth and interest, marked by a successful presale that raised over $32 million. This strong market performance underscores the potential and investor confidence in Retik’s offerings. The Retik Finance DeFi Debit Card stands out with its innovative features, seamless integration with the Retik ecosystem, and attractive cashback rewards. It offers a practical and secure way to use cryptocurrency for everyday transactions, making it a compelling choice for both crypto enthusiasts and new users.
How to Choose the Best Crypto Card for You
Choosing the best crypto card depends on several key factors. Here’s what you should consider:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Ensure the card supports the cryptocurrencies you hold. For example, the KuCard supports six cryptocurrencies and one fiat currency Check which cryptos you can spend directly from your wallet.
- Fees: Look at the fee structure. Some cards offer zero transaction fees but may have hidden conversion markups. For instance, KuCard has no monthly fees while the Wirex card has no issuance or monthly fees but charges a 1.5% fee on crypto-to-fiat transactions. Compare fees for transactions, ATM withdrawals, and card maintenance.
- Rewards: Evaluate the rewards program. Some cards offer high cashback in crypto. The Crypto.com Visa Card provides up to 8% cashback, but you must stake CRO tokens to get the highest rate. Consider if the rewards align with your spending habits and crypto holdings.
- Additional Perks: Look for extra benefits like travel perks, insurance, and discounts. For instance, higher-tier Crypto.com cards offer rebates on Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Prime subscriptions, along with airport lounge access.
- Geographical Availability: Ensure the card is available in your region and can be used globally. The KuCard is available in many countries, but check if it supports local currencies and merchants in your area.
Tips for Comparing Crypto Cards
- Match with Spending Habits: If you travel frequently, choose a card with low foreign exchange fees and travel perks. For everyday spending, look for high cashback rewards and low transaction fees.
- Assess Crypto Holdings: Choose a card that supports the cryptocurrencies you hold. A card like Coinbase, supporting many cryptos, might be ideal if you have a diverse portfolio.
- Check Staking Requirements: Check if staking is required for cards offering high rewards. Ensure you’re comfortable locking up the necessary amount to benefit from the rewards.
Cons of Using Crypto Cards
The following are some risks of crypto cards you must evaluate before selecting one:
- Market Volatility: The value of cryptocurrencies can fluctuate significantly. If the value of your crypto decreases after you convert it to fiat, you could end up with less purchasing power. This volatility can impact the actual rewards you earn from cashback programs.
- Tax Implications: Using crypto cards can trigger taxable events. Each time you convert crypto to fiat to make a purchase, it may be considered a sale of assets, which could be subject to capital gains tax. This adds a layer of complexity to managing your finances and tax reporting.
- Fees: While many crypto cards boast low fees, some have associated costs. These can include crypto liquidation fees, ATM withdrawal fees beyond certain limits, and monthly maintenance fees for higher-tier cards. It’s important to understand the fee structure of your chosen card to avoid unexpected charges.
- Security Risks: Despite advanced security features, the digital nature of cryptocurrencies makes them a target for cyber attacks. It’s crucial to ensure your card and associated accounts are secure and to use features like two-factor authentication to protect your assets.
- Regulatory Changes: The regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is still evolving. Changes in laws and regulations can impact the usability and legality of crypto cards in certain regions. This can affect your ability to use your card or the associated rewards program.
Closing Thoughts
Crypto cards offer a convenient way to spend your digital assets while earning rewards and enjoying additional perks. Consider factors like supported cryptocurrencies, fees, rewards, and geographical availability when choosing a crypto card. Tailor your choice to your spending habits and crypto holdings to maximize benefits. By carefully comparing your options, you can find a crypto card that enhances your financial flexibility and integrates seamlessly into your daily life. Additionally, understanding both the benefits and risks of crypto cards can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.
