Logo

Multi currency cards and cryptocurrencies enabled: what are the differences?

Understand the differences between multi-currency cards and cryptocurrency cards. See how they work and which one is the most advantageous!
98

Understand multi currency cards and enabled cryptocurrencies

(Image: Disclousure/Reproduction of Google Images)

With the increase in international travel, purchases on foreign websites and the popularity of cryptocurrencies, many people have been looking for new ways to use money in a practical and safe way. This is where two types of cards that have been gaining prominence come in: multi-currency cards and cryptocurrency-enabled cards.

Both promise more freedom when it comes to paying, traveling or even investing. But despite seeming similar at first glance, they have different proposals and meet different needs. In this content, we explain what each one does, how they work and which one might be the most advantageous for you.

What is a multi-currency card?

A multi-currency card allows you to carry several foreign currencies in one place. That’s right: dollars, euros, pounds, reais… all together on the same card.

It is ideal for those who travel frequently or shop on international websites.

In practice, you choose which currency you want to carry on the card and use it according to your needs. This avoids surprises with the exchange rate of the day and helps you better control your expenses.

Advantages of the multi-currency card

  • More control: you decide when to convert the currency and already know how much you will spend;
  • Ideal for traveling: no more carrying cash around;
  • Avoids surprise fees: since you already carry the correct currency, you don’t have to pay conversion fees all the time;
  • More security: if you lose it, just block it and ask for another one.

And how does a cryptocurrency card work?

A cryptocurrency-enabled card is another style. It is linked to your digital wallet, where you store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptos.

When you make a purchase with it, the amount is automatically converted into traditional currency (such as reais or dollars) at the time of payment.

It is a practical way to use cryptocurrencies in your daily life, without having to sell them on an exchange first and transfer them to the bank.

Advantages of the crypto card

  • Direct use of crypto: you buy as if you were using a regular card;
  • Cashback in crypto: some options return part of the purchase amount in cryptocurrencies;
  • Easy internationalization: pay anywhere in the world;
  • Agility: integration with wallets and exchanges makes the process much easier.

Which one is more worthwhile?

It all depends on your profile. If you travel a lot, make international purchases or want to better control your spending in other currencies, the multi-currency card may be the best choice.

However, if you already use or invest in cryptocurrencies and want an easier way to spend your digital assets, the crypto card may make more sense.

And it’s worth knowing, there are already options on the market that combine both worlds, they allow you to load both traditional currencies and cryptocurrencies, and let you choose which balance you want to pay with.

So, What’s the Difference?

While both cards offer flexibility and tech-savvy solutions, their core functions are quite different. Here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureMulti-currency CardCrypto-enabled Card
Currencies usedFiat currencies (USD, EUR, etc.)Cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, etc.)
ConversionPreloaded by userReal-time at point of sale
Funding sourceReloaded with traditional moneyConnected to a crypto wallet
Ideal userTravelers, online shoppersCrypto investors and users
VolatilityLow (except for exchange rate fluctuations)High, due to crypto price swings
RegulationTraditional banks and financial institutionsCrypto exchanges and fintechs

Final considerations

Both multi-currency and cryptocurrency cards were created to make the relationship with money more practical, modern and flexible.

Each has its advantages, and the ideal choice will depend on your lifestyle, your needs and, of course, how familiar you are with the crypto universe.

Whether it’s to save money on travel or to make real use of your Bitcoin balance, the important thing is to understand how each option works before deciding.

After all, in an increasingly global and digital world, choosing the right card can make all the difference.