5 mins
09 Sept 2024
| Feature | Debit card | UPI |
| Transaction type | Online and offline purchases, ATM withdrawals | Instant bank transfers, online payments, bill payments |
| Linkage | Direct link to bank account | Linked through UPI-enabled app with a bank account |
| Security | PIN, OTP, or biometric authentication | PIN-based security; does not require sharing bank account details |
| Ease of use | Requires entering card details or swiping/tapping the card | Uses VPA for transactions; does not require entering bank details |
| Transaction speed | Instant but with authentication steps | Instant with minimal steps |
| Acceptance | Widely accepted at most merchants | Growing acceptance, especially online and in peer-to-peer transfers |
| Dependency | Requires physical card for many transactions | No physical card required; relies on mobile device and internet |
| Charges | Possible charges for ATM withdrawals, international usage | Mostly free for domestic transfers |
