As global cryptocurrency infrastructure continues to mature, users are increasingly demanding real-world usability for their on-chain assets. The question of how to effectively use crypto holdings in everyday life remains a key concern for many.
Crypto payment cards, often referred to as "U Cards," have emerged as a solution to bridge this gap—offering both practical utility and reshaping how we think about wallets, PayFi, and payment networks. These cards enable users to directly link to mobile payment applications or borrow stablecoins against Bitcoin holdings to navigate market conditions flexibly.
Today's crypto payment cards vary from exchange-backed options emphasizing stability and cashback rewards to wallet or protocol-based alternatives focusing on native on-chain assets and composability. This evolving sector now represents a functional and increasingly sophisticated entry point into crypto finance.
To help users navigate this rapidly developing landscape, we've analyzed ten leading crypto payment cards—Bybit, Bitget, SafePal, Morph, Infini, Coinbase, Nexo, MetaMask, 1inch, and RedotPay—based on application requirements, supported assets, fee structures, rewards mechanisms, and on-chain interoperability.
Understanding Crypto Payment Cards
Crypto payment cards function similarly to traditional debit or credit cards but are funded with digital assets. When making a purchase, the crypto is converted into fiat currency in real-time, allowing seamless spending at merchants that may not directly accept cryptocurrency.
These cards typically operate through partnerships with established payment networks such as Visa or Mastercard, ensuring wide acceptance globally. Most providers offer both virtual and physical card options, with virtual cards being instantly available for online purchases and mobile wallet integration.
The primary appeal lies in their ability to provide liquidity without requiring users to manually convert crypto to fiat through exchanges—a process that can be time-consuming and incur additional fees. Moreover, many cards offer attractive rewards programs, including cashback paid in cryptocurrency, further enhancing their utility.
👉 Explore leading crypto card options
Bybit Card: Accessibility and Wide Compatibility
The Bybit Card stands out for its accessibility and support for multiple regions. Users can choose between two primary options:
- Australia-based virtual cards do not require proof of address, with approval typically taking 5–7 business days. The default currency is USD.
- European Economic Area (EEA) cards require proof of address (e.g., utility bills or bank statements) and use EUR as the default currency.
The card is managed via the Bybit app and can be linked to Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other digital wallets. It is accepted anywhere Mastercard is supported. Note that recent user reports indicate that the Australian version may not reliably support Alipay or WeChat Pay, whereas the EEA version currently works with these platforms.
Fee Structure:
- Transaction fees range between 0.9% and 3%, depending on the region, currency, and merchant.
- Additional fees may apply for currency conversion (e.g., when spending in JPY with a USD-denominated card).
- A promotional 10% cashback offer is currently available for new users.
Bitget Card: High Net Worth User Focus
Bitget’s virtual debit card emphasizes direct USDT spending and no annual fees. It supports both UnionPay and Mastercard networks, catering to different regional needs.
The card is issued by DCS (DeCard), a regulated Singapore-based institution largely acquired by Bitget. While direct applications through DeCard require Singaporean identification, applying via Bitget is more feasible—though currently restricted to VIP users with account balances of at least 30,000 USDT.
The card integrates with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. Note that Bitget offers multiple card variants: a USD-based Visa card and a SGD-based Mastercard/UnionPay card.
Fee Structure:
- Transaction fees also range from 0.9% to 3%, influenced by currency and location.
- Alipay and WeChat may charge additional fees for transactions exceeding ¥300.
- Future BGB token cashback rewards are planned.
SafePal Card: Integrated Banking Solution
The SafePal Card requires a more involved application process. Users must first ensure regional availability (including mainland China), deposit ETH on Arbitrum to mint an identity NFT, and complete KYC and address verification. This grants access to a Fiat24 bank account and a linked Mastercard debit card.
The card supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay, with settlements in EUR, USD, CHF, or CNY.
Fee Structure:
- Comprehensive fees range from 1% to 3%.
- Withdrawals incur a 1% fee, but spending in the card’s base currencies has no extra cost.
- The associated bank account enables international transfers to traditional and digital banks (e.g., Wise, Revolut).
This offering is ideal for users seeking a full banking relationship with integrated crypto spending.
Morph Card: Premium Benefits and High Stakes
The Morph Black Card is positioned as a premium product, offering potential eligibility for future token airdrops and high-yield earning opportunities (up to 30% APY). The physical card is made of 22g black metal and waives the typical $300 annual fee.
Key Features:
- Low transaction fees (as low as 0.3%).
- High daily limits (up to $1 million).
- Comes with a Singapore-based USD bank account.
- Offers travel and lifestyle benefits, including hotel bookings and concierge services.
The card is likely based on DCS’s Imperium World Elite Mastercard. Morph has also recently introduced a Platinum SBT card, costing 0.3 ETH to mint, which includes a one-year trial of Black Card benefits.
Infini Card: Dual Options for Regional Use
Infini offers two virtual cards tailored to different spending needs:
- Meow Card (Mastercard): Optimized for CNY transactions, with a 0.8% transaction fee and 1–1.5% cross-currency fee.
- Rabbit Card (Visa): Designed for USD subscriptions (e.g., ChatGPT, AWS, Netflix, Amazon), with a 0.8% fee and a 1% + $0.50 charge for non-USD transactions.
Both cards support binding to Alipay and WeChat Pay. An upcoming physical Woof Card will support Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Coinbase Card: Zero-Fee Option for Eligible Users
The Coinbase Card is available to users in the U.S. and EEA with verified addresses. It does not support mainland China applicants.
Advantages:
- No fees for transactions, ATM withdrawals, or USDC conversions.
- Direct spending from USDC balances.
- Seamless fiat withdrawals to linked bank accounts.
- Occasional cashback promotions.
This card is widely regarded as one of the smoothest and most cost-effective options for eligible users.
Nexo Card: Credit-Like Functionality and Rewards
The Nexo Card is available to EEA and UK residents only. It operates as a true credit card, allowing users to spend before repaying.
Rewards Structure:
- Base cashback of 0.5% in NEXO or BTC.
- Higher tiers (up to 2% cashback) are available for users holding over $5,000 in assets, with rewards scaling based on NEXO token allocation.
Fee Structure:
- No annual or monthly fees.
- No fee for transactions in the card’s base currency (EUR/GBP).
- Currency conversion fees are 0.2% for EUR/CHF/GBP and 2% for others, with an extra 0.5% charge on weekend foreign transactions.
RedotPay Card: Straightforward Crypto Debit Card
RedotPay, based in Hong Kong, offers a Visa debit card that deducts crypto directly for payments. It is not available to mainland China residents.
Key Attributes:
- Integrates with Binance Pay for easy funding.
- No annual fee, but a $100 charge applies for physical cards.
- Total fees range from 1% to 3%, including a 1.2% foreign transaction fee, 2% ATM fee, and 1% transaction fee.
This card suits users seeking a lightweight, exchange-independent spending tool.
MetaMask Card: On-Chain Native Experience
The MetaMask Card (Mastercard) is gradually rolling out globally. It supports USDC, USDT, and wETH on the Linea network.
Usage and Fees:
- Connectable to Apple Pay and Google Pay.
- Only network gas fees (∼$0.02) apply for stablecoin transactions; wETH payments incur a 0.875% swap fee.
- All spending earns 1% USDC cashback.
This card is ideal for DeFi-savvy users already using MetaMask.
1inch Card: Borrow Against Crypto Holdings
The 1inch Card allows users to borrow stablecoins against BTC or ETH collateral, with loan terms of 6–24 months.
Mechanism:
- Borrow USDC, USDT, or EURT without selling crypto.
- Repay in stablecoins to reclaim collateral—potentially at a higher value.
- Loan-to-value ratios up to 60%.
Fee Structure:
- 2% spending fee.
- 1.75% conversion fee for crypto-to-fiat.
- 0.4–0.5% crypto withdrawal fee.
- 3.49% bank transfer fee.
- 2% crypto cashback on spending.
This card appeals to long-term holders seeking liquidity without asset sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a crypto payment card?
A crypto payment card allows users to spend cryptocurrency at everyday merchants by converting digital assets to fiat currency at the point of sale. These cards are typically linked to major payment networks like Visa or Mastercard for broad acceptance.
How do I apply for a crypto card?
Application processes vary by provider. Most require identity verification (KYC) and proof of address. Some cards have additional requirements, such as minimum asset balances or regional restrictions. Always check the specific eligibility criteria before applying.
Are crypto payment cards safe to use?
Yes, reputable crypto cards implement standard security measures including encryption, two-factor authentication, and fraud monitoring. However, users should still practice good security hygiene, such as safeguarding private keys and using strong passwords.
What are the typical fees associated with these cards?
Common fees include transaction fees (0.5%–3%), currency conversion fees (1%–2%), ATM withdrawal fees, and occasionally annual fees. Some cards, like Coinbase's, offer zero-fee structures for eligible users.
Can I use crypto payment cards worldwide?
Most cards are accepted globally wherever the supporting payment network (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) is honored. However, regional restrictions may apply based on the issuer's policies and local regulations.
Do these cards offer rewards or cashback?
Many crypto cards offer rewards programs, typically paying cashback in cryptocurrency. Rates vary but often range from 0.5% to 2% on purchases. Some cards offer higher rewards for users who maintain larger balances or hold native tokens.
Conclusion
The crypto payment card landscape offers diverse options tailored to different user needs—from simple spending solutions to sophisticated credit-borrowing mechanisms. When choosing a card, consider factors like supported assets, fee structures, regional availability, and additional benefits such as cashback or integrated banking services.
As regulatory frameworks evolve and technology advances, these products will likely become even more accessible and feature-rich, further blurring the lines between traditional and digital finance.