With the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies, the demand for tools to use them is increasing. Crypto cards, which allow converting cryptocurrencies into fiat money for everyday payments, have become an essential link between digital assets and the traditional financial system. However, with many options available on the market, choosing the right card can be challenging. In this article, we will review the best crypto cards, their features, advantages, and disadvantages to help you make the right choice.
What is a Crypto Card and How Does It Work?
A crypto card is a modern payment tool that allows you to use cryptocurrency for purchases and other everyday transactions, similar to traditional bank cards. However, unlike fiat money, cryptocurrencies are not recognized as official legal tender, and not all companies support them directly. To solve this issue, crypto cards automatically convert digital assets into fiat money at the moment of payment. The working principle of a crypto card is quite simple. The user funds their account on the card issuer’s platform using cryptocurrency. When making a purchase or paying for a service, the system deducts the required amount in cryptocurrency, converts it into fiat, and processes the transaction through the payment infrastructure, just like a regular bank transfer.
However, the implementation of this process may vary depending on the issuer. For example, some services offer a built-in converter, while others require users to manually convert cryptocurrency into fiat to maintain their card balance. Thus, the key element of a crypto card is its issuer. The issuer determines important parameters such as fee structures, supported currencies, service coverage, and the mechanism for converting digital assets. These factors directly impact the convenience and functionality of the card, making the choice of the right product a crucial step for users.
Types of Crypto Cards
Crypto cards are a modern financial tool that allows users to pay for goods and services using digital assets. These cards are divided into three main types: debit, credit, and prepaid. Each type has its own features, advantages, and limitations.
Debit Crypto Cards
Credit Crypto Cards
Prepaid Crypto Cards
| Feature | Debit Crypto Cards | Credit Crypto Cards | Prepaid Crypto Cards |
| Main Function | Paying for goods and services with cryptocurrency | Loans backed by cryptocurrency, making purchases | Paying for goods and services with a prepaid balance |
| Verification Requirement | Required (ID verification) | Required (ID verification) | Minimal or none |
| Funding Method | Cryptocurrency | Cryptocurrency (as collateral) | Cryptocurrency or fiat (depends on the card) |
| Fiat Conversion | Automatic at the time of payment | Automatic at the time of payment | May be unavailable or require manual conversion |
| Fees | Maintenance, conversion, transactions | Maintenance, credit, conversion | Funding, transactions, maintenance |
| Bonuses & Cashback | Rarely | Frequently (cashback, crypto rewards) | Rarely |
| Geographic Availability | Depends on the issuer | Depends on the issuer | Limited (often crypto payments only) |
| Advantages | Convenient for everyday payments | Ability to get loans and bonuses | Anonymity, easy issuance |
| Disadvantages | Maintenance fees | Collateral requirement, high fees | Limited functionality, no fiat support |
Top 10 Crypto Cards for Payments
The most favorable conditions for using cryptocurrency cards are found in the European Economic Area (EEA) and the United States. As a result, most issuers release cards for these regions, with fewer available for both simultaneously. The primary providers of crypto cards are cryptocurrency exchanges, which already have well-established mechanisms for storing user assets and converting digital currencies into fiat money. Additionally, specialized services offering payment infrastructure for cryptocurrency transactions are also present in the market. These cards allow users to seamlessly integrate digital assets into their daily lives, using them for payments for goods and services. However, when choosing the right card, it’s essential to consider factors such as fees, supported currencies, geographic availability, and additional features like cashback or rewards. In the next section, we will review the top 10 crypto cards that stand out for their reliability, convenience, and extensive payment capabilities.
1. Bybit Card
- Platform: Bybit
- Payment System: Mastercard
- Supported Fiat Currencies: USD
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT, USDC, and TON
Key Features:
- Linked to a Bybit account, providing instant access to funds.
- Supports six cryptocurrencies, including TON, making it one of the few cards with this option.
- Automatic conversion of cryptocurrency to USD at the time of payment.
- Compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay for seamless contactless payments.
- Cash withdrawals at ATMs that support Mastercard.
- Built-in security system, including two-factor authentication and transaction monitoring.
Advantages:
- Wide selection of supported cryptocurrencies, including popular stablecoins.
- Instant transfers from the Bybit wallet to the card.
- Compatibility with payment services (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
- High reliability and support from a major exchange.
2. BingX Card
- Platform: BingX
- Payment System: Mastercard
- Supported Fiat Currencies: EUR
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, SOL
Key Features:
- Supports Solana (SOL) — one of the few crypto cards available for this coin.
- Automatic conversion to EUR for seamless payments in Europe.
- Availability in Taiwan, a rare feature among crypto cards.
- Direct fund management through the BingX exchange.
- Supports online and offline payments worldwide.
Advantages:
- Solana (SOL) support — a great option for users of the Solana ecosystem.
- Flexible fund management through the BingX platform.
- Lower conversion fees compared to traditional bank cards.
3. MEXC Card
- Platform: MEXC
- Payment System: Mastercard
- Supported Fiat Currencies: EUR
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT, USDC, and TON
- Available Regions: EEA, United Kingdom
Key Features:
- Support for popular cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, minimizing volatility risks during payments.
- Mastercard integration ensures global coverage and high security.
- Convenient for residents of the EEA and the United Kingdom.
Advantages:
- Spend cryptocurrencies in daily life without needing prior conversion through an exchange.
- Broad crypto asset support, including BTC, ETH, and stablecoins.
- High level of security backed by Mastercard.
4. Trustee Card
- Platform: Trustee
- Payment System: Mastercard
- Supported Fiat Currencies: EUR
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT
Key Features:
- Cryptocurrency-to-EUR conversion without the need for prior exchange.
- Support for USDT, allowing users to store funds without volatility risks.
- Integration with Trustee Wallet for easy management via a mobile app.
- Cash withdrawals at ATMs.
- Supports both online and offline payments, including POS terminals.
Advantages:
- Easy to use due to integration with Trustee Wallet.
- Operates in euros, making it convenient for European users.
- USDT support minimizes market volatility risks.
- Relatively low fees compared to competitors.
5. KuCard
- Platform: KuCoin
- Payment System: VISA
- Supported Fiat Currencies: EUR
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: KCS, USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, XRP
- Available Regions: EEA, United Kingdom
Key Features:
- Support for KCS tokens, benefiting KuCoin ecosystem users.
- Wide range of supported cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, and stablecoins.
- VISA integration, offering global acceptance and high security.
Advantages:
- Convenient for KuCoin users, especially KCS token holders.
- Ability to spend cryptocurrencies in daily life.
- High security standards provided by VISA.
6. Bitget Card
- Platform: Bitget
- Payment System: VISA
- Supported Fiat Currencies: USD
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: USDT
- Available Regions: EEA, United Kingdom
Key Features:
- USDT-focused payment system ensures price stability.
- USD as the primary fiat currency makes international payments seamless.
- VISA integration provides global acceptance and strong security.
Advantages:
- Convenient USDT spending for daily transactions.
- USD support makes it ideal for global payments.
- High security standards provided by VISA.
7. Crypto.Com Card
- Platform:com
- Payment System: Visa
- Supported Fiat Currencies: EUR
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, USDT, and more
- Available Regions: EEA, United Kingdom
Key Features:
- Extensive cryptocurrency support, including BTC, ETH, and USDT
- Visa integration for global usability and top-tier security
- Crypto cashback (CRO rewards) for purchases
Advantages:
- Easy spending of cryptocurrencies for daily transactions
- Earn cashback in CRO on every purchase
- Strong security backed by Visa
8. Volet Card
Key Features:
- Support for multiple fiat currencies (USD, EUR).
- Wide cryptocurrency support, including BTC, ETH, XRP, and USDT.
- Option to choose between Visa and Mastercard.
Advantages:
- Flexibility in selecting a fiat currency (USD or EUR).
- Broad cryptocurrency support.
- Convenience for residents of EEA and the United Kingdom.
9. Gate Card
Key Features:
- Support for major cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, USDT).
- Integration with Visa ensures global acceptance.
- Convenient for international transactions.
Advantages:
- Easy use of cryptocurrencies for everyday expenses.
- USD support makes it ideal for international payments.
- High security thanks to Visa.
10. Whitebird
Key Features:
- Support for multiple fiat currencies (BYN, USD, EUR, RUB).
- Wide availability (EEA, UK, CIS, Russia).
- Support for major cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, USDT).
Advantages:
- Flexibility in choosing fiat currency.
- Broad accessibility, including CIS and Russia.
- Convenient crypto spending for everyday purchases.
What to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Card
The market offers a wide variety of crypto cards with different features from various companies. To make the right choice, it is important to consider several key factors:
| What to Consider | Why It Matters |
| Issuer Reliability | The reputation and regulatory status of the issuing company play a crucial role. Check if the company has been involved in incidents such as hacks or withdrawal issues. It is also worth reviewing user feedback on service quality and card reliability. |
| Conversion Method | Crypto-to-fiat conversion can be automatic with each transaction or manual. While automatic conversion is convenient, it’s important to know whether the issuer uses its own or a partner exchange, as this can impact the speed and profitability of conversions. |
| Fees | Crypto card fees may include conversion charges, payment infrastructure provider fees, and card maintenance costs. Pay attention to hidden fees embedded in exchange rates. Also, check for fixed charges like issuance or annual service fees. |
| Payment Infrastructure Provider | Most crypto cards are issued in partnership with Visa or Mastercard, with some also supporting UnionPay and other providers. The provider choice affects card availability, as certain companies only accept specific payment systems. |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | Not all crypto cards support a wide range of digital assets. Ensure the issuer accepts the cryptocurrencies you plan to use. If a currency is unsupported, you may need to convert it in advance, leading to additional time and costs. |
By considering these criteria, you can choose a cryptocurrency card that best suits your needs, offering convenience, reliability, and favorable usage conditions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Crypto Cards
Advantages:
Fast Issuance
The registration and issuance process for crypto cards is often remote, with minimal verification requirements.
Support for Payment Systems
Crypto cards are issued in partnership with major payment systems like Visa and Mastercard, ensuring worldwide acceptance.
Cash Withdrawals
Many crypto cards allow cash withdrawals at ATMs, expanding the usability of cryptocurrencies.
Integration with Apple Pay/Google Pay
Crypto cards can be added to popular payment systems for contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay), enhancing convenience.
Additional Services
Additional Services Some crypto cards offer extra features such as credit lines, cashback, bonuses, and rewards, making them more attractive to users.
Easy and Convenient Payments
Easy and Convenient Payments Crypto cards allow users to utilize digital assets for everyday payments, making cryptocurrency more practical and accessible.
Disadvantages
Price Volatility
Cryptocurrencies are known for their instability, which can lead to a loss of asset value in a short time.
Fees
Fees Using crypto cards often comes with additional costs, such as conversion fees, card maintenance fees, or cash withdrawal charges.
Limited Cryptocurrency Support
Limited Cryptocurrency Support Not all crypto cards support a wide range of digital assets, requiring prior conversion and additional expenses.
Regulatory Risks Cryptocurrencies
Regulatory Risks Cryptocurrencies and related products may face strict regulations or bans in certain countries, limiting their usability.
Dependence on the Issuer
Dependence on the Issuer The reliability and functionality of a crypto card depend directly on the issuing company. In case of bankruptcy or issues with the issuer, users may lose access to their funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to convert cryptocurrency to fiat before using a crypto card?
Are there any fees associated with using a crypto card?
Can I use my crypto card abroad?
Are transactions with crypto cards secure?
Can I earn rewards with a crypto card?
Are there tax implications when spending cryptocurrency with a crypto card?
How do I choose the best crypto card for me?
Can I hold multiple cryptocurrencies on a crypto card?
What happens if I lose my crypto card?
Conclusion
Crypto cards are a convenient tool for integrating cryptocurrencies into daily life. They offer automatic conversion, reward programs, and a high level of security. However, it is essential to consider fees, tax implications, and usage restrictions. Carefully review the issuer’s terms to choose the card that best suits your needs.
