Digital Wallet vs. Bank Account: What’s the Difference?

Just about everyone seems to be using a digital wallet today. In fact, almost 9 out of 10 people in the U.S. use some form of digital wallet according to a 2022 McKinsey’s consumer survey. 

But is a digital wallet considered a bank account? While some similarities exist, there are also some key differences. Here’s everything you need to know about a digital wallet vs. a bank account:

What is a digital wallet? 

A digital or mobile wallet is a financial application you can use online or via mobile devices to store payment information in the cloud. Digital wallet apps work with online purchases, money transfers, gift cards, and document storage.

With a digital wallet, there’s no need to carry cash or bank cards. You can simply open your digital wallet on a cellphone and tap to purchase items in seconds. 

A few examples of digital wallets include Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal. 

So, is a digital wallet a bank account?

Not exactly. Both offer quick and convenient ways to pay for things, but some subtle differences exist. 

Digital wallet apps are primarily used to store money and payment information, whereas banks allow you to manage more financial information across your accounts.

On the other hand, bank accounts and mobile banking apps allow you to do more with your money. You can often check account balances, pay bills, deposit checks, transfer money, and manage savings accounts.

Pros of using a digital wallet 

Convenience

One of the biggest pros of using a digital wallet is that you can leave your cash and cards at home and still pay for things while you’re away from home — whether it’s gas, groceries, or restaurant meals. 

Expense tracking

While you can do this with a bank as well, digital wallets can offer a fast way to track expenses. You can see what you’re spending in just a few taps in the app. 

Data security

Digital wallets are encrypted to protect your financial information. You typically have to use a password or biometric authentication like a fingerprint to use a digital wallet. That means that even if your phone is stolen, your money is safe — unlike if someone steals your wallet. 

Cons of using a digital wallet 

Requires a mobile device

There are many reasons requiring a mobile device could be inconvenient, including if you lose your phone, forget to charge it, or don’t own one. The last thing you want while away from home is to rely on your phone to make payments when it’s low on battery. 

Limited acceptance

Digital wallets are becoming increasingly popular as a payment method. Even still, not every merchant accepts them! If you visit a store that doesn’t accept contactless payments through a digital wallet and you’ve left your physical wallet at home, this could also cause a problem.

Merchants may not accept digital wallet purchases because it’s a bigger investment to get the right hardware and software to accept them. This adds to their operating costs, which may not be feasible for small businesses.

Limitations when using or sending money abroad

Some digital wallets are limited when it comes to handling multiple currencies or international transfers. In that case, you can use an international money transfer service like Ria Money Transfer! 

Send money abroad with Ria Money Transfer

At Ria, we make international money transfers easy and cost-effective to send online, through our app, or in-person. Ria customers can send money directly to more than 480 million mobile wallet users across 39 countries. We also offer the Ria eWallet in Malaysia for a convenient way to manage and send money.

Join millions of people in using Ria Money Transfer with low fees and great exchange rates. Start sending money using our online currency calculator or app today!

---

The information on or through this site is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on as a substitute for specific advice about laws, regulations, taxes, finances, immigration or travel. For specific advice, contact a licensed attorney, financial advisor or other professional. 

We disclaim all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on this site. We do not warrant the accuracy or usefulness of this information. This site may contain links to other sites and information provided by third parties for your convenience. We do not endorse nor make any guarantees with respect to these sites, their accessibility, the information they contain or the way they treat any information you provide to them.