Wise vs PayPal — Pricing, Fees & B2B Features Compared (2026)
PayPal's currency conversion fee for business accounts is 3–4% above mid-market, plus a cross-border surcharge of 0.5–2% depending on the destination. Wise charges 0.33–0.57% total, at the real mid-market rate. On a $10,000 international payment, PayPal costs approximately $350–$600 in fees; the same payment through Wise costs $33–$57. PayPal is stronger for receiving e-commerce payments with buyer protection. Wise is dramatically cheaper for sending money to international suppliers. Many businesses use PayPal for incoming and Wise for outgoing.
Wise typically offers better FX rates for transfers; PayPal dominates for e-commerce acceptance and buyer protection.
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 | Wise | PayPal | Unicorn Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currencies | 40+ | 25+ | 35+ |
| FX / Fees | Mid-market rate + 0.33–0.57% fee | Check provider for current FX rates and fees | Up to 70% cheaper vs traditional US banks |
| Monthly fee | $0 (one-time setup fee may apply) | Pay-per-transaction; no monthly fee for standard | No monthly fee |
| Settlement | 1–2 business days | Instant to PayPal balance; 1–3 days to bank | Same-Day |
| Local accounts | 9 currencies | Limited | with a local US bank account |
| Regulation | FCA authorised, FinCEN registered | Licensed globally | FINTRAC registered · Bank of Canada RPAA registered |
| Best for | Freelancers and SMEs wanting transparent mid-market rates | E-commerce and marketplaces with existing PayPal adoption | B2B import/export, £1M++ annually |
Verdict
Wise typically offers better FX rates for transfers; PayPal dominates for e-commerce acceptance and buyer protection.
Frequently asked questions
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 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.