Ripio Card review

Who it's for

Overview

The Ripio Card is a prepaid crypto card issued by the Argentinian company Ripio, which operates on the Visa network. This card is designed for users who want to integrate cryptocurrency into their daily spending, offering both physical and virtual card options. It supports Apple Pay and Google Pay, making it convenient for users who prefer mobile wallet payments. The card is currently available only in Argentina, which limits its accessibility for international users.

One of the standout features of the Ripio Card is its cashback program, which offers attractive rewards for users who pay with cryptocurrency. However, potential users should be aware of the card’s custodial nature and the associated risks and limitations that come with it.

Rewards and Benefits

The Ripio Card offers a compelling rewards structure for users who frequently transact in cryptocurrencies. Cardholders can earn:

• 2% cashback in USDT, BTC, or ETH on all crypto payments, which is a significant incentive for users who hold and transact in these cryptocurrencies.
• 0.5% cashback in ARS for payments made with Argentine pesos, which is a modest but useful benefit for local transactions.
• During the first 30 days after card activation, users enjoy an elevated rewards rate of 4% cashback on crypto payments and 1% on ARS payments, providing an additional boost to new users.

These rewards are particularly attractive for users who regularly use cryptocurrencies for transactions, as they offer a tangible return on spending. However, the volatility of cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH means that the actual value of the cashback can fluctuate significantly.

Fees and Value

The Ripio Card is designed to minimize some of the common fees associated with crypto cards, but it is not entirely fee-free. Key points to consider include:

• No maintenance or issuance fee, which is a significant advantage for users looking to avoid recurring charges.
• A 0.5% fee applies to purchases paid with cryptocurrency, which is a consideration for users who plan to use their crypto holdings for transactions. This fee is relatively modest compared to some other crypto cards but can add up over time.
• Users should be aware that third-party ATM operator fees may apply for cash withdrawals, which is a standard practice for most prepaid cards.

The absence of an annual fee is a notable benefit, making the Ripio Card a cost-effective option for users who can take advantage of the cashback rewards and avoid the crypto purchase fee.

Who It’s For

The Ripio Card is best suited for users who are based in Argentina and have a regular need for spending cryptocurrencies. It is ideal for:

• Cryptocurrency enthusiasts who want to use their digital assets for everyday transactions and benefit from cashback rewards.
• Users who prefer prepaid cards and do not want to deal with the complexities of credit checks or credit lines.
• Individuals who value convenience, as the card supports both physical and virtual formats and integrates with popular mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

However, users outside of Argentina will not be able to take advantage of this card, and those who are not comfortable with the custodial nature of the card should consider other options. For more detailed comparisons, visit our card comparison page or learn more about our rating methodology on the how we rate page.

Overall, the Ripio Card offers a solid value proposition for Argentinian users who want to leverage their cryptocurrency holdings for everyday spending. Its rewards structure is particularly appealing, but the crypto purchase fee and custodial nature are important factors to consider.

Fees & costs

Pros & cons

Supported crypto

Coins:

Our take

The Ripio Card is a strong choice for Argentinian users seeking crypto cashback rewards with no annual fee, though the 0.5% crypto purchase fee and custodial setup are key considerations.

Frequently asked questions