Wallets versus bank deposits — Wise, Revolut, Sony Bank, and PRESTIA — compared on supported currencies, holding limits, cards, receiving details, and the different legal protections that matter for savings.
Wise gives the broadest currency coverage and app conversion, Revolut the best card and travel functions, and Sony Bank and PRESTIA offer conventional foreign-currency bank deposits — and wallets and bank deposits carry different limits and legal protections.
A multi-currency wallet (Wise, Revolut) holds balances in many currencies, may give local receiving details, and pairs with a card — but it is not necessarily a bank deposit, and it may have holding limits and narrower protection. A foreign-currency bank deposit (Sony Bank, PRESTIA) is a conventional deposit with statements and branch support, better for foreign salary or pension receipt and direct bank-to-bank foreign-currency transfers.
For breadth and app conversion, Wise leads with 40+ currencies, though a Japan address defaults to a ¥1 million total holding limit (temporarily raisable). Revolut leads on card and travel functions. Sony and PRESTIA lead where you want a real deposit relationship. The legal-protection difference matters most if you intend to hold significant savings.
For travel and everyday multi-currency spending, a wallet with a good card (Wise or Revolut) is usually best. For receiving a foreign salary or pension and holding it as a real deposit, a bank (Sony or PRESTIA) fits better. Many residents keep both — a bank deposit for income and long-term holding, and a wallet for conversion and travel.
Compare supported currencies, holding limits, card conversion cost, ATM allowances, incoming receiving details, and deposit protection before committing a large balance to any one product.
International transfers · Wise
A licensed money-transfer service that uses the mid-market exchange rate with a transparent, upfront fee — often cheaper than bank wires for personal transfers.
Fees: Transparent per-transfer fee plus mid-market rate — compare the recipient amount.
Multi-currency account · Revolut
A multi-currency app account with a card and fee allowances for currency exchange, useful for people who spend or hold multiple currencies.
Fees: Plan-based; free FX up to allowances, then a fee — verify current terms.
Online bank · Sony Bank
An online bank popular with residents who want strong foreign-currency features, a well-regarded app, and comparatively English-friendly service.
Fees: No monthly account fee; ATM/transfer fees depend on tier — verify current schedule.
Bank (English support) · SMBC Trust Bank PRESTIA
The bank most often recommended for English-language service, multi-currency accounts, and international needs, aimed at globally minded residents.
Fees: Account and transfer fees vary; balance-based fee waivers apply — verify current schedule.