Cashless and contactless interactions have become the norm. Digital transactions are now so common that you rarely need to carry cash or physical credit cards. Since we use our smartphones constantly, it makes sense to use them for payments, too. Numerous mobile payment apps are available for Android and iOS devices. But which ones are the best? After years of testing and reviewing these services, we’ve curated a list of top recommendations—starting with our Editors’ Choice picks, Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
How Mobile Payment Apps Work
Mobile payment apps enable you to make transactions using your smartphone. They use technologies like near-field communication (NFC), QR codes, or peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers to move money securely. These apps link to your bank account, debit card, or credit card to facilitate payments.
Many also offer extra features like loyalty rewards, bill splitting, and even cryptocurrency support. Their primary goal is to make everyday transactions faster, safer, and more convenient.
Top Mobile Payment Apps in 2025
Here are some of the most reliable and widely used mobile payment apps available today.
Apple Pay
Apple Pay is a leading choice for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch users. It works seamlessly with NFC-enabled terminals in stores and supports in-app and online purchases. Security features include Face ID, Touch ID, and tokenization to protect your data.
Google Wallet
Google Wallet is a versatile option for Android users. It supports contactless payments in stores, online transactions, and peer-to-peer transfers. It also integrates with Gmail and other Google services for a unified experience.
Samsung Pay
Samsung Pay stands out due to its compatibility with both NFC and magnetic stripe terminals. This wider acceptance makes it useful in places where older payment systems are still in use. It also offers rewards and supports international payments.
PayPal
PayPal is one of the most established digital payment platforms. It supports online purchases, P2P transfers, and limited in-store payments. It’s widely accepted by retailers and works across various devices and operating systems.
Venmo
Owned by PayPal, Venmo is especially popular in the U.S. for social payments. It allows users to share and split expenses with friends. It also supports debit card transfers and purchases at eligible merchants.
Cash App
Cash App offers peer-to-peer payments, stock and bitcoin trading, and a physical debit card. Its user-friendly interface and extra features make it a strong all-in-one financial app.
Key Features to Compare
When choosing a mobile payment app, consider the following aspects:
- Supported platforms (iOS, Android, Web)
- Fees for transfers, withdrawals, or credit card usage
- International availability
- Security measures like encryption, biometric authentication, and fraud monitoring
- Additional perks such as cashback, rewards, or investment options
How to Send Money With Mobile Payment Apps
Peer-to-peer payments are one of the most popular uses for these apps. Services like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, Cash App, PayPal, and Venmo allow you to send money directly to others. Most apps store received funds in an internal account. Transferring money to your bank may involve fees, depending on the service and transfer speed.
Understanding Fees and Limits
Most P2P payments are free when using a linked bank account or debit card. However, using a credit card usually incurs a fee of around 3%. Some apps also charge for instant transfers to your bank.
For example:
- Cash App charges 0.5% to 1.75% for instant deposits (minimum $0.25).
- Venmo charges a 1.5% fee per expedited transfer (minimum $0.25).
- Google Wallet does not charge for standard bank transfers.
Weekly sending and receiving limits vary. Venmo starts with a $300 weekly limit, which can increase to $60,000 after identity verification. Apple Cash allows up to $10,000 per transaction and within a 7-day period.
Making In-Store Payments
Apps like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay support contactless in-store payments via NFC. Samsung Pay also works with traditional magnetic stripe readers, giving it broader compatibility. PayPal and Cash App allow in-store payments through QR codes or linked debit cards.
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International Payment Support
Only a few apps support cross-border transfers. Xoom, a PayPal service, allows payments to 131 countries. Recipients can collect cash in local currency without needing the app.
International transfers usually involve higher fees. For example, sending money to Guatemala via Xoom costs $2.99 from a bank account or $3.99 from a credit card. Exchange rate fees may also apply.
For in-store payments abroad:
- Apple Pay works in 26 countries.
- Samsung Pay is available in 17 countries outside the U.S.
- Google Wallet operates in the U.K.
Peer-to-peer transfers typically require U.S. accounts.
Using Mobile Payments on the Web and Smartwatches
Many apps offer web-based payment options. PayPal, Google Wallet, and Venmo all have functional web interfaces. Smartwatch support is also common—Apple Pay works on Apple Watch, Google Wallet on Wear OS devices, and Samsung Pay on Galaxy watches.
Security Measures
Mobile payment apps use encryption and tokenization to protect your data. Instead of sharing your actual card number, they generate a unique token for each transaction. This makes in-store payments safer than using physical cards.
All services comply with the PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Most banks also offer zero-liability policies for unauthorized transactions.
However, peer-to-peer payments are less protected. Once you send money, it’s like handing over cash—reversing transactions is difficult. Avoid using P2P apps for business transactions or purchases from strangers.
Be cautious of payment requests from unknown parties. Scammers sometimes send money from stolen accounts and ask for a refund, placing you at legal risk.
Additional Features
Many apps offer more than just payments:
- Bill splitting: Easily divide costs among friends.
- Order ahead: Pre-order food from supported restaurants.
- Loyalty cards: Store and use reward cards digitally.
- Gift cards: Manage and redeem gift cards in one place.
- Investing: Apps like Cash App allow stock and bitcoin trading.
- Debit and credit cards: Some services offer physical cards linked to your app balance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest mobile payment app?
Apps like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay use tokenization and biometric authentication for security. Always enable two-factor authentication and monitor your transactions.
Can I use mobile payment apps without a bank account?
Most apps require a linked bank account, debit card, or credit card. Some, like Cash App, allow you to hold a balance without immediate bank linkage.
Are there transaction limits?
Yes, most apps impose weekly sending and receiving limits. These often increase after you verify your identity.
Do these apps work offline?
In-store NFC payments usually require an internet connection. Some apps allow limited offline functionality, but a connection is needed for transaction processing.
Can I use mobile payments abroad?
It depends on the app and country. Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Wallet work in multiple countries for in-store payments, but peer-to-peer transfers are often region-locked.
How do I avoid scams?
Never send money to strangers. Verify requests from contacts directly. Use apps only with trusted merchants and friends.
Mobile payment apps provide a fast, secure, and convenient way to handle transactions. Whether you’re splitting bills, shopping online, or paying in-store, there’s an app to fit your needs. Choose one based on your device, preferred features, and everyday usage.