--- title: What is the difference between Virtual and Physical Cards? description: Choosing between virtual and physical cards depends on your needs. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide. Physical Cards Virtual Cards For frequent online shopping with immediate access and added --- [Skip to content](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge/what-is-a-virtual-card#main-content) - [English](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge/what-is-a-virtual-card) - [简体中文](https://www.paytend.com/migration/zh-cn/knowledge/什么是虚拟卡-1) English Show submenu for translations [Sign in](https://www.paytend.com/_hcms/mem/login?redirect_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paytend.com%2Fmigration%2Fen%2Fknowledge%2Fwhat-is-a-virtual-card) ![PaytendLogo.jpg\]](https://www.paytend.com/hs-fs/hubfs/PaytendLogo.jpg?height=38&name=PaytendLogo.jpg) Open main navigation Close main navigation - - [English](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge/what-is-a-virtual-card) - [简体中文](https://www.paytend.com/migration/zh-cn/knowledge/什么是虚拟卡-1) English Show submenu for translations - [Sign in](https://www.paytend.com/_hcms/mem/login?redirect_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paytend.com%2Fmigration%2Fen%2Fknowledge%2Fwhat-is-a-virtual-card) - Hello, how can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Help Center](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge) 2. [Cards](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge/cards) 3. [Order & Delivery](https://www.paytend.com/migration/en/knowledge/cards#order-delivery) # What is the difference between Virtual and Physical Cards? Choosing between virtual and physical cards depends on your needs. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide. Physical Cards - **Tangible and versatile**: Can be used in-store and ATMs. - **Standard security**: Features include a chip, magnetic stripe, and CVV. - **Delivery required**: Standard delivery may take 3-14 working days. Virtual Cards - **Digital-only**: Accessible via an app with no physical copy. - **Instant use**: Ready immediately after generation (*usually takes around 5 minutes to be generated*). - **Enhanced online security**: Ideal for safer online transactions, often with temporary or single-use numbers. #### Which One Should You Choose? For frequent online shopping with immediate access and added security, choose a virtual card. For in-person transactions and ATM access, a physical card is the better option. 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