Last updated on July 13th, 2025
When it comes to the best ways to send money abroad, the last thing you want is to get hit with hidden fees or poor exchange rates. This year, the two major platforms that dominate the scene are XE Money Transfer and Wise.
But which one gives you the best value for your money?
Below, we compare XE vs Wise side-by-side to help you decide the best way to send money abroad — with real-world examples, detailed pros and cons, and most importantly, clear insights into where you can save the most on fees and get the best exchange rates.
No matter the reason, whether you’re sending money for personal reasons, business payments, or supporting family overseas, this comparison will give you all the information you need to make an informed choice and keep more money in your pocket.
🔥 Quick Verdict
🎯 Want the short answer?
💸 XE is the best way to send money abroad – offering low fees, great rates, and global reach.
📊 XE vs Wise: Feature Comparison
| Feature | XE | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Lowest ✅ | Low–Medium |
| Exchange Rates | Excellent ✅ | Mid-market |
| Speed | Fast ✅ | Fast |
| Countries Supported | 130+ ✅ | ~70 |
| Best For | Personal & Business ✅ | Small transfers |
🥇 Why XE Is the Best Way to Send Money Abroad
XE Money Transfer is a trusted name with over 25 years in the currency exchange industry. Unlike traditional banks, XE offers low-cost transfers, bank-beating exchange rates, and no hidden charges. The old days of getting ripped off to send money abroad are gone.
✅ Key Benefits:
- Send money to 130+ countries
- Supports 60+ currencies
- Bank-level security
- Track your transfer in real time
- Ideal for expats, freelancers, and businesses
🟦 What About Wise?
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a solid option for transparent pricing and mid-market exchange rates, especially for small personal transfers.
🔍 Wise Pros:
- Transparent fee breakdown
- Mid-market exchange rate
- Good for one-off or small transfers
❌ Wise Cons:
- Fees scale with amount sent (not great for larger transfers)
- Not as widely available as XE
💵 Real Transfer Example
Sending $1,000 from the US to Thailand:
| Metric | XE | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Fee | $0 – $2.00 ✅ | ~$5–10 |
| Exchange Rate (example) | 35.05 | 34.85 |
| Money Received (THB) | ~35,050 ✅ | ~34,850 |
| Difference | ✔ More money with XE | Less received |
💡 Conclusion: You’ll get more money to your recipient with XE almost every time.
📲 How to Use XE (Step-by-Step)
- Go to https://pierreblake.com/xe
- Create your free account
- Select the country & amount
- Enter your recipient’s details
- Pay via bank transfer or card
- Track your transfer in real time
📅 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Platform
Choosing the best way to send money abroad comes down to trust, cost, and convenience. After comparing both XE and Wise, it’s clear that XE stands out as the top option for most users. Whether you’re transferring funds to family overseas, paying international contractors, or supporting business operations abroad, XE delivers excellent value with its competitive rates and minimal fees.
Wise certainly holds its own, especially for smaller, one-time transfers where transparency is essential. Its mid-market rate is appealing, and the platform is user-friendly. However, for consistent use and a broader range of currencies and countries, XE’s global reach, reliability, and low cost structure make it a better long-term solution for frequent transfers.
Ultimately, if your priority is saving money, reaching more countries, and ensuring a smooth transfer process, XE is the smarter choice. Don’t just take our word for it—experience it for yourself and see the difference in both your wallet and your recipient’s account.
