Wise vs MAE - Full comparison [2024]

If you need ways to spend easily locally and overseas, and want to be able to manage your money entirely from your phone, you may have heard of digital wallet and card services from Wise and MAE by Maybank2U.

If you’re not sure which is best for you, this guide covers all you need to know, including a look at card services, the types of account available, international transfers and more. We’ll also look at a comparison of Wise vs MAE fees and features side by side, so you can see if either works for you.

• Wise Vs MAE: side by side

• Key points: Using MAE vs Wise in Malaysia

• The important bits: Wise card or MAE card?

• Wise card Vs MAE card

• Wise Vs MAE fees

• Wise Vs MAE exchange rates compared

Summary: Wise offers online and in-app multi-currency accounts with cards which you can use to hold, send, spend, receive and exchange a broad selection of currencies. You can also make Wise international payments which use the mid-market rate with low fees. MAE by Maybank2U is a digital wallet and card which you can open using the Maybank2U app, with easy ways to pay bills, shop, and even order online groceries.

Wise Vs MAE: side by side

Let’s kick off with a side by side comparison of Wise vs MAE by Maybank2U so you can get a feel for what services each provider has, and how they measure up.

Key points: Using MAE vs Wise in Malaysia

• Wise offers service digitally - online and in-app - only, while MAE has these channels, and Maybank branch locations for face to face service

• Wise multi-currency accounts can hold 40+ currencies, while MAE supports MYR only. Wise also offers local account details to receive payments from others in 9 currencies - a service MAE doesn’t have

• Both providers have debit cards available, which can be used globally

• If you’re spending a currency you don’t hold abroad, Wise uses the mid market exchange rate and charges their conversion fee which starts at 0.43%, while MAE uses the Maybank exchange rate which is likely to include a markup

• Wise payments can be faster than MAE. MAE remittances must be arranged via the full Maybank2u online banking service

• Wise uses the mid-market rate to convert currencies, while MAE uses the Maybank rate which may include a markup

• Both providers are properly regulated - MAE is also has Shariah compliant

The important bits: Wise card or MAE card?

To summarise:

• Rates: Wise uses the mid-market rate, whereas MAE may add a margin to calculate the exchange rate available

• Fees: Free to spend MYR with MAE, and free to spend currencies you hold with Wise - Wise charges from 0.43% if you need currency conversion for card spending, while MAE converts with the Maybank rate which is likely to include a markup

• Speed: Wise transfers may arrive instantly, and 90% arrive in 24 hours, while MAE transfers via Maybank2u can take 3 days

• Service: Both providers have online and in-app service, MAE also operates through Maybank branches throughout Malaysia

• Safetly: Both providers are fully regulated and licensed

• Reviews: Wise has an Excellent rating on Trustpilot from 192,000+ reviews, Maybank2u is not active on the platform

Summary: While Wise and MAE have some similarities, in that they both offer digital wallets and payment cards, there are also significant differences. Wise has an international focus with multi-currency account options and ways to get paid conveniently from overseas. MAE is more based on holding MYR, and although you can spend easily with your card overseas you can’t get paid by others in foreign currencies. Instead, MAE has handy local features like ways to order food and groceries from local suppliers via the MAE app.

This guide should help you weigh up the pros and cons of each, so you can decide if Wise vs MAE by Maybank2U suits your specific needs more.

The verdict: Wise or MAE card?

Both Wise and MAE by Maybank2U offer interesting features for customers in Malaysia. They overlap in terms of having digital account services you can operate in-app, and linked payment cards. However, there are big differences in the 2 options, as well.

• MAE is offered as part of the Maybank online banking Maybank2u service, and as such customers can access the full suite of Maybank services - although for some things you may need to upgrade to a full Maybank account rather than the MAE digital wallet. This does mean you can get extra services like loans and credit, as well as international payments.

• However, MAE doesn’t let you hold foreign currencies, and as such it’s not optimised for international use in the same way that Wise is. If you want to hold, send, spend, receive and exchange a broad selection of currencies in your account, for travel or shopping online with overseas retailers, Wise may appeal.

Compare both providers based on the services you need and the type of transaction you’ll make often to decide which suits you best.

About Wise and MAE

Wise review: Wise was founded in 2011 with a focus on cross border transfers, and has subsequently grown to include multi-currency account services, debit cards and business products. Today, Wise has over 16 million customers globally. All Wise services are delivered online and in app, with transparent fees and low overall costs.

MAE: MAE by Maybank2U is Maybank Malaysia’s digital wallet and card service. You can open a MAE account if you’re already a Maybank customer, or you can apply without upgrading to a full Maybank account if you’d prefer. MAE offers a payment card, ways to make transfers and pay bills, budgeting and saving tools and access to a broad suite of Maybank services via Maybank2u.

How do they work?

Wise and MAE by Maybank2U are a bit different in how they work - but there are similarities in how you get started. With both providers you can sign up in-app - and with MAE if you’ve already got a standard Maybank account you can simply add the MAE digital wallet as an extra connected service, too.

How Wise works: Wise is an independent financial technology company, while MAE is a digital wallet offered via a bank. This does mean that some of the services offered are different, and the processes that run in the background can vary too.

For example, with Wise money transfers, if you send a payment overseas, it’ll be processed through the Wise payment network which can result in low overall fees and a fast - or even instant - delivery time.

How MAE works: On the flipside, because MAE is offered through a bank with a full Malaysian banking licence, the range of services you can get is bigger compared to Wise. You’ll be able to access home loans and credit for example, which aren’t an option with Wise.

MAE transfers may be offered via Maybank, which usually means they’re processed through SWIFT which can attract higher fees and take 3 to 5 days.

Safety

Wise and MAE are both regulated by Bank Negara Malaysia in Malaysia. Wise is also licensed and overseen by other regulatory bodies in the countries and regions in which it operates, like the FCA in the UK, and ASIC in Australia.

Wise card Vs MAE card

One of the key features of both Wise and MAE by Maybank2U are the linked debit cards you can use for local and international payments and withdrawals. Here’s a quick side by side feature comparison.

Wise vs MAE card: Where can you use them?

You can use your Wise card in 150+ countries. You can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, including MYR, AUD and SGD. Wise cards are issued on either Visa or Mastercard networks, to give great global coverage.

MAE cards are issued on the Visa network and can be used globally anywhere you see the Visa logo.

How to use Wise card overseas

The Wise debit card is linked to your Wise multi-currency account, making it easy and convenient to spend when you’re traveling. Here’s how to use it when you’re abroad:

Top up: Before traveling, top up your Wise account by opening the Wise app on the website, choosing the currency you want to add money to and the amount you’d like to add. You can pay using different methods, like bank transfer or card.

Spending: Use your Wise card to make purchases abroad just like you would at home. All transactions are debited from your Wise account for hassle-free spending.

Monitor and manage your finances: Keep track of your spending with real-time transaction notifications in the Wise app. It also lets you freeze and unfreeze your card for added security.

ATM withdrawals: Withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide just like you would with any other card. Simply insert your card and enter your pin. The first two withdrawals under 1,000 MYR are free, after which a fee of 5 MYR per withdrawal applies, plus 1.75% of the withdrawn amount.

Learn more: How to get use a Wise card

How to use MAE card overseas

The MAE card is designed to enhance your spending experience, especially when traveling. Here’s how to make the most of your MAE card when you’re overseas:

Top up: Set up the Auto Top Up function once, and your MAE card will automatically top up whenever it hits the balance limit, ensuring you always have funds available while traveling.

Spending: Use your MAE card at any merchant worldwide that accepts Visa and enjoy competitive exchange rates for overseas shopping or making online purchases in foreign currencies.

Monitor and manage your finances: The MAE app automatically tracks and categorizes your spending whenever you use your MAE card, giving you insights into your financial habits and helping you budget.

ATM withdrawals: You can make unlimited ATM withdrawals from any Maybank ATM nationwide for easy access to your funds when you need them.

Pros and cons

Wise Vs MAE fees

There are a few service fees you’ll want to know about if you’re considering either Wise or MAE. And while both offer pretty good value with many free to use services, there are some costs involved which it’s important to understand.

Let’s look at the key costs for Wise vs MAE - you’ll also want to review the providers’ own fee schedules before you pick one.

Fees correct at time of writing - 23rd February 2024

Wise card vs MAE card fees compared

Choosing between accounts and cards will often come down to fees as well as features and benefits. The Wise card charges a 13.7 MYR order fee but has free transactions in currencies you hold and a conversion fee starting from 0.42% for others. The MAE card has an 8 MYR fee for successful applications but uses Maybank’s exchange rates for international spending, which may include a fee.

Fees correct at time of writing - 23rd February 2024

Wise Vs MAE exchange rates compared

Here's an overview of both providers' exchange rates, and how you can find their rates:

Wise exchange rate

The currency exchange rate used by Wise is the mid-market rate. That’s the one you’ll usually find on Google or using a currency conversion tool. Wise uses mid-market exchange rate for currency conversion, whether it is spending with your Wise card in a currency that you don't hold or sending an international money transfer.

Mid-market exchange rate can be a helpful benchmark, because it’s the rate that banks and specialist providers get when they buy and sell currencies on the global markets. However, banks might often add a markup - which is an extra fee - onto the mid-market rate, to generate the exchange rates they offer retail customers.

MAE card exchange rate

MAE exchange rates may include a markup added to the mid-market rate. You can find their exchange rates published on the Maybank2u desktop site or in the MAE app.

Wise card vs MAE card overseas changes

When using the Wise card internationally, customers can enjoy the benefits of no foreign transaction fees, making spending in a foreign currency more cost-effective. Wise also uses the mid-market exchange rate and charges a small conversion fee of 0.42%, making the Wise card an attractive option for frequent travelers or those who make frequent purchases abroad.

On the other hand, when you use the MAE card abroad, fees may apply depending on the type of payment. Plus, the exchange rate for foreign transactions is determined by Maybank, Visa or Maybank’s payment partners, which is likely to include a markup on the mid-market rate. That’s why, while the MAE card offers convenient features, it’s not necessarily the best choice for making international payments.

Wise card vs MAE card ATM withdrawals

Both the Wise and MAE card can be used in ATMs worldwide for easy and convenient access to funds both at home and abroad.

With the MAE card, you can make unlimited ATM withdrawals from any Maybank ATM nationwide for easy access to your funds when you need them, making it convenient for local use. As the MAE card operates on the Visa network, you’ll also be able to use ATMs internationally, but the withdrawal fees will vary depending on the operator and location. Exchange rates may also include a markup from Maybank.

Wise customers can enjoy the convenience of free ATM withdrawals up to 1,000 MYR per month, with a fee of 5 MYR plus 1.75% on the amount withdrawn once you’ve hit your limit. Wise also uses the mid market rate, meaning that the exchange rate applied will typically be more favorable than standard bank rates.

Ease of use: Which is easier to use in Malaysia?

• Creating an account: Create your account online or in-app with both MAE and Wise

• Making a transfer: Wise typically allows local bank transfers and FPX payments, while MAE lets you top up your account by debit card, FPX and CDM

• Ways to send money: Send payments to your recipient’s bank account directly with both MAE and Wise

• Languages supported: MAE is focused in Malaysia and has services in English primarily, with support in Bahasa Melayu. Wise offers 14 languages, plus multi-lingual support services

• Minimum & maximum amounts: Wise and MAE both have sending limits which can vary by destination country, and based on your account type. Account holding limits also apply. MAE also has limits on the annual transaction you can make, of 60,000 MYR cumulatively

How to apply for Wise card

You can open a Wise account and order your card online or via the app with your phone. Here’s the process:

1. Log into your Wise account

2. Tap the ‘Cards’ tab

3. Tap the ‘Order Card’ option and add your chosen currency balance

4. If your account hasn’t fully been verified, you might be promoted to upload your ID and proof of address

5. Pay the one time 13.70 MYR card order fee

6. You’ll receive an email when your card is on the way and will arrive by post within 14 working days.

How to apply for MAE card

Applying for a MAE card is quick and easy and can be done directly via the MAE app. Simply:

1. Open your MAE app

2. Tap ‘Apply’

3. Go to ‘Cards’ and tap ‘MAE Card’

4. Enter your delivery details

5. Your card will be delivered straight to your doorstep

Wise card benefits

The Wise card offers a range of features that make it a compelling choice for those looking for a convenient and cost-effective solution. Benefits include:

• Use globally: Spend with the Wise card in over 150 countries for flexibility and convenience when it comes to spending globally.

• Multi-currency convenience: Receive, hold and send in over 40 currencies.

• Low conversion fees: Wise charges a low conversion fee from 0.42%.

• Free ATM withdrawals: Withdraw 1,000 MYR per month for free and then 1.75% for anything over 1,000 MYR plus 5 MYR per withdrawal.

• Transparent fees: Wise has low and transparent fees. There are no hidden charges and customers can always see fees upfront.

MAE card benefits

The MAE card by Maybank also offers various benefits that cater to wide range of financial needs:

• Automatic top ups: Perform a one-time set-up and your MAE card will automatically top up whenever it hits the balance limit.

• Use at home and abroad: The MAE card operates on the Visa network and is widely accepted globally, and can be used when traveling or making online purchases in a foreign currency.

• Track your spending: The MAE app will automatically track and categorize the spending on your MAE card for easier and clearer financial management.

• Automatic currency conversion: Your MAE card will automatically do currency conversion calculations for you, meaning you can skip the hassle of calculating the conversion rates yourself.

• Convenient features: The card includes features for everyday life, like easy bill payments, budgeting and savings tools, and options for ordering food and groceries through the MAE app.

Supported currencies

Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, MAE supports MYR only.

Wise Vs MAE: Which is cheaper for international transfers? 

Wise and MAE work a bit differently when it comes to international transfers. MAE is part of Maybank and as such MAE transfers in most cases will be routed through Maybank’s Maybank2u online banking service. Fees for Maybank vary based on where you’re based and where you’re sending to. However, the best way to compare the costs of any international payment service is to take a look at how much your recipient is likely to get in the end with a few different providers.

Here are some Wise vs MAE (Maybank2u) money transfer examples for comparison:

Wise Vs MAE: Which is cheaper for international transfers? 

*Correct at time of writing: 19th March 2023

As you can see from this comparison, on our chosen payment routes, Wise came out on top each time. This is usually because Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate and its own payment network, which means you cut out the extra costs involved with routing a transfer through the SWIFT system. This allows Wise to keep costs to a minimum and pass these savings on to the customer.

Compare a few services before you arrange your overseas payment, to see which is best for your specific transfer.

Learn more about Wise fees.

Wise Vs MAE: Which is faster for international transfers?

50% of Wise transfers are instant, and 90% arrive in 24 hours. Maybank2u payments can take around 3 days to arrive, depending on the destination.

[How long does international transfer take](how long does international transfer take)? Delivery times for overseas transfers can vary pretty widely, depending on the payment route and the recipient bank’s own processes, Wise uses its own payment network which tends to speed things up a bit, while Maybank uses SWIFT which can take a few days.

Wise Vs MAE international transfer limits

Both Wise and MAE have limits on the amount of money you can send or receive, which can vary depending on the account type you hold.

Wise vs MAE: Payment methods

Both Wise and MAE provide the flexibility that comes with digital banking - this also includes payment methods.

Wise provides a wide range of options, including bank transfers and direct payments from your Wise account, as well as debit or credit cards and Google or Apple Pay for added convenience and security. For international transactions, SWIFT and SEPA transactions within the Eurozone are also available.

On the other hand, MAE, as an online payment feature e-wallet solution, focuses on seamless in-app payments with its Scan & Pay feature, letting you make quick mobile payments and top-ups via the app. Customers also have the option to top up their wallets via Maybank ATMs or Smart Recycler Machines (SRMs).

Wise vs MAE customer service

Having a positive experience with customer service can greatly impact your relationship with your provider. Wise and MAE both offer multiple channels to assist their customers when they have a query or need help.

You can find the answers to most of your questions via the Wise help center. For ongoing issues related to transfers or account management, Wise communicates via email to your registered email address, which often provides options to fix the problem yourself. If you have a more complicated issue and still need to talk to someone, you can contact Wise’s customer service, which is available 24/7 via phone or email.

MAE Card users have access to Maybank’s customer service options. For general inquiries or issues, customers can reach out via the Customer Care Hotline, available 24 hours a day, including local holidays, at 1-300 88 668 or +603-7844 3696 if you’re outside the country. For non-urgent queries, you can also send an email to [email protected], and if you suspect fraud, you can also call their dedicated fraud hotline at +603 5891 4744 or the National Scam Response Centre at 997, which operates every day from 8 am to 8 pm.

Conclusion: Comparing Wise and MAE

Wise and MAE both offer great ways to manage your money from your phone, with convenient linked debit cards you can use for payments and withdrawals. However, the focus of each provider is a little different.

Wise is a global financial technology company offering multi-currency holding accounts, ways to get paid like a local from 30+ countries, and mid-market exchange rates whenever you spend or send foreign currencies. The Wise card can be used in 150+ countries, and both personal and business services are available. Wise can be a good pick particularly if you’re a traveller or if you spend in foreign currencies online. It’s also handy if you need to get paid in foreign currencies as a freelancer or business owner, for example.

MAE on the other hand is offered through Maybank and has more of a domestic focus, with access to a great range of banking services such as loans and overdrafts. You can only hold MYR in MAE, but you can spend overseas at competitive rates with your MAE card, and send payments internationally via Maybank2u. If you prefer a face to face service, MAE may suit you as you can call into a Maybank branch if you need help - plus you’ve got all the options that come with a full bank at your disposal if you need them.

Whether MAE or Wise is best for you will depend on the types of transactions you need to make. Compare both to see which fits your needs best.