Remitly vs Airwallex — Pricing, Fees & B2B Features Compared (2026)
Remitly is a consumer-focused remittance service — fast and cheap for personal transfers under $1,000, but with no multi-currency accounts, no API, and no business features. Airwallex is built for businesses, offering multi-currency accounts in 20+ currencies, corporate cards, and API-first infrastructure. For B2B cross-border payments, Airwallex wins on features and flexibility. Remitly wins on simplicity for small, personal transfers. Here's the full breakdown.
Remitly suits remittances and small business; Airwallex suits B2B and API-led use cases.
Before we show you a single number, know this: we are regulated, audited, and transparent. Our pricing is published. Our client funds are segregated. These aren't marketing claims — they're regulatory requirements we meet daily.
These aren't marketing claims — they're regulatory requirements we meet daily.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Remitly | Airwallex | Unicorn Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currencies | Multiple | 60+ | 35+ |
| FX / Fees | Check provider for current pricing | 0.5–1.0% above mid-market (check provider for current pricing) | Up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks |
| Monthly fee | Free and paid tiers | $0 (Explore) / paid tiers available | No monthly fee |
| Settlement | Minutes to days depending on corridor | Same-day for most corridors | Same-Day |
| Local accounts | Limited | 20+ currencies | with a local US bank account |
| Regulation | FinCEN, FCA, and others | ASIC, FCA, MAS licensed | FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered |
| Best for | Remittances and small business payouts | Tech-savvy businesses needing API and multi-currency infrastructure | B2B import/export, £1M++ annually |
Verdict
Remitly suits remittances and small business; Airwallex suits B2B and API-led use cases.
Frequently asked questions
Which is best for businesses processing £1M+ in annual FX?
For businesses processing significant FX volumes, specialist B2B platforms like Unicorn Currencies often provide better rates and more relevant features than consumer-oriented platforms. Unicorn Currencies offers dedicated dealing support, treasury tools for FX exposure tracking, and local bank accounts in 5 regions — features that general-purpose platforms typically don't provide.
Which platform is best for businesses processing £1M+ in annual FX?
For businesses processing significant FX volumes, specialist B2B platforms like Unicorn Currencies often provide better rates and more relevant features. Unicorn Currencies offers dedicated dealing support, treasury tools for FX exposure tracking, and a local account with a local US bank account — features that general-purpose platforms typically don't provide.
Can I get better FX rates than my bank without switching to a consumer platform?
Yes. Specialist B2B FX providers like Unicorn Currencies offer institutional-grade rates — typically up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks — while providing the compliance, security, and dedicated support that banks offer. Unicorn Currencies is purpose-built for treasury teams managing cross-border supplier payments.
Looking for a B2B alternative to both?
Unicorn Currencies is purpose-built for importers and exporters. Get a local account with a local US bank account, same-day settlement in 35+ currencies, and rates up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks.
FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered.