Google Pay vs Monese

Google Pay lets customers pay online or in apps using payment methods saved to their Google Account. On Chrome and Android, Autofill can enter saved card details at checkout, while the Buy with Google Pay button lets shoppers choose a payment method and shipping address. Android users can tap at store card readers and transit gates or stations, using saved cards, tickets, and other items. Google Wallet can hold credit, debit, loyalty, and travel cards for Google Pay use. Eligible cards may use virtual card numbers to conceal actual card details from merchants during online purchases. At checkout, users may also choose providers such as Affirm, Klarna, or Zip, subject to eligibility. Businesses can add Google Pay API checkout to an app or website, and Google says it charges no additional fee to accept Google Pay, though payment provider processing fees still apply. Google describes payment data as end-to-end encrypted and says it will not sell personal information or transaction history. Google Pay is free, but feature availability depends on region and device; contactless payments require an Android phone with NFC.

Monese offers mobile money accounts for spending, sending and saving through an app. Accounts support payments, transfers, direct debits, standing orders, savings tracking, account details, and physical or virtual cards. The app provides spending overviews, weekly and monthly budgets, instant spending notifications, and up to 10 savings pots with roundups. Customers can add cards to Apple Pay and Google Pay, or link multiple UK bank accounts to view balances and make instant top-ups. Security features include biometric login, multi-factor authentication, 3D Secure, single-device access and card locking. Monese is available on Android, iOS and web. Its Pay as you go account is free and described as basic and intended for occasional use. Everyday costs £2.95 a month and includes two free bank transfers out monthly, with a £1 fee beyond that allowance. Applicants must be at least 18, live in one of 31 EEA countries, and provide an email address, phone number, government ID and in-app video selfie. Monese says UK e-money funds are safeguarded, but its services are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. It has no physical branches and does not handle cash or cheques.