Loading...
Remitly vs Western Union
A detailed comparison of Remitly and Western Union — fees, exchange rates, speed, and features side by side.
Remitly
4.6Remitly specializes in personal international money transfers with a focus on remittances to developing countries, offering competitive rates and fast delivery.
Western Union
4.2Western Union is one of the world's oldest and largest money transfer companies, with an extensive agent network for cash pickups in 200+ countries.
Sample Transfer: $1,000 USD → INR
Remitly
₹92,510.25
Fee: $0.00 | Rate: 92.5103
Western Union
₹92,510.25
Fee: $0.00 | Rate: 92.5103
| Feature | Remitly | Western Union |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.6/5 (Excellent) ✓ | 4.2/5 (Good) |
| Fee Structure | From $0 to $3.99 per transfer | From $0 to $10+ depending on method |
| Exchange Rate Markup | 0.5% - 2% above mid-market | 1% - 4% above mid-market |
| Transfer Speed | Minutes to 3-5 days | Minutes to 5 days |
| Countries | 100+ | 200+ ✓ |
| Currencies | 40+ | 130+ ✓ |
| Regulated | Yes | Yes |
| Founded | 2011 | 1851 |
| Payment Methods | Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card | Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card, Cash ✓ |
| Delivery Methods | Bank Deposit, Cash Pickup, Mobile Money, Home Delivery ✓ | Bank Deposit, Cash Pickup, Mobile Wallet |
Remitly
✓Pros
- Express transfers arrive in minutes
- Cash pickup available in many countries
- Mobile money delivery option
- First transfer promotions often available
- Home delivery in select countries
✕Cons
- Rates less competitive for large transfers
- No multi-currency account
- Focused mainly on remittance corridors
Western Union
✓Pros
- Massive global agent network
- Cash pickup in 200+ countries
- Transfers can arrive in minutes
- Cash payment option available
- Well-established and trusted
✕Cons
- Higher fees than digital-only competitors
- Exchange rate markup can be significant
- Online rates differ from in-store