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TaptapSend vs Wise: Which is Better for African Transfers? (2025 Comparison)

By Adam.h • 7/8/2025

TaptapSend vs Wise: Which is Better for African Transfers? (2025 Comparison)

Sending money to Africa? TaptapSend and Wise are two of the most popular digital remittance services for African corridors. But which one is cheaper, faster, and more reliable in 2025? This in-depth guide compares TaptapSend and Wise for fees, speed, coverage, and more—so you can make the best choice for your next transfer.

Table of Contents

Overview: TaptapSend vs Wise

TaptapSend is a mobile-first remittance app focused on fast, low-cost transfers to Africa and Asia, with strong mobile money and cash pickup options. Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a global leader in transparent, low-fee international transfers, supporting bank and mobile money payouts in many African countries.

| Feature | TaptapSend | Wise | |----------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------| | Founded | 2018 | 2011 | | Countries | 20+ (Africa/Asia focus) | 70+ (global) | | Cash Pickup | Yes (select countries) | No | | Bank Transfer | Yes | Yes | | Mobile Money | Yes (strong coverage) | Yes (select countries) | | App/Online | Yes | Yes |

Fee Comparison

How Do TaptapSend and Wise Set Fees?

  • TaptapSend: Charges a flat or low percentage fee, with no hidden exchange rate markup
  • Wise: Charges a transparent percentage fee + a small fixed fee, with real mid-market exchange rates

Example Fee Table (Sending $300 from US)

| Destination | TaptapSend Fee | Wise Fee | TaptapSend Rate | Wise Rate | Amount Received (TaptapSend) | Amount Received (Wise) | |---------------|---------------|----------|-----------------|-----------|------------------------------|------------------------| | Ghana | $2.99 | $3.50 | 1 USD = 12.0 GHS| 1 USD = 12.1 GHS | 3,594 GHS | 3,615 GHS | | Kenya | $2.99 | $3.00 | 1 USD = 130 KES | 1 USD = 131 KES | 38,700 KES | 39,000 KES | | Senegal | $2.99 | $3.25 | 1 USD = 600 XOF | 1 USD = 605 XOF | 1,794,000 XOF | 1,803,000 XOF |

Rates and fees are examples. Use our calculators for real-time numbers.

Transfer Speed

  • TaptapSend: Most transfers are instant or within minutes to mobile money or cash pickup
  • Wise: Bank and mobile money transfers are usually same-day or next-day

Coverage & Payout Options

  • TaptapSend: Strong for mobile money and cash pickup in West and East Africa (Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, etc.)
  • Wise: Best for bank transfers and mobile money in select countries (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, etc.)
  • Both: Support sending from the US, UK, EU, and more

Real-World Example: Sending $300 to Ghana

  • TaptapSend:
    • Fee: $2.99
    • Exchange rate: 1 USD = 12.0 GHS
    • Amount received: 3,594 GHS (mobile money or cash pickup)
    • Speed: Instant
  • Wise:
    • Fee: $3.50
    • Exchange rate: 1 USD = 12.1 GHS
    • Amount received: 3,615 GHS (bank or mobile money)
    • Speed: Same day

Result: Wise delivers slightly more for this corridor, but TaptapSend is faster for mobile money and cash pickup.

How to Use the Fee Calculators

Tips for Saving on African Transfers

  • Compare both fees and exchange rates before sending
  • Use mobile money for instant, low-cost payouts
  • Send larger, less frequent transfers to save on per-transfer fees
  • Watch for first-time user promos or loyalty rewards
  • Always check the exchange rate markup

Internal Tools

FAQ

Which is cheaper: TaptapSend or Wise?

It depends on the country, amount, and payout method. Use the fee calculators to compare real-time costs for your transfer.

Which is faster for mobile money?

TaptapSend is usually instant for mobile money and cash pickup. Wise is fast for bank and mobile money, but may take longer in some corridors.

Are there hidden fees?

Both providers are transparent, but always check the exchange rate markup and payment method surcharges.

Is my money safe with TaptapSend and Wise?

Yes, both are regulated, licensed, and use secure technology. Always use official apps or websites.

Can I send to cash pickup locations?

TaptapSend supports cash pickup in select countries. Wise does not offer cash pickup.

References & Further Reading

Compare your transfer: TaptapSend Fee Calculator | Wise Fee Calculator

TaptapSendWiseAfricaMoney TransferComparisonFees2025
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