When it comes to comparing Maestro and Mastercard, both have their own unique set of features and benefits. However, there are some stark differences between the two that consumers should be aware of before making a decision about which card to use. In this blog post, we will explore the key distinctions between Maestro and Mastercard, so that you can make an informed choice about which card is best for you.
What is Maestro?
Maestro is a subsidiary of Mastercard that issues Maestro debit cards. Maestro cards are co-branded with Maestro and Mastercard logos and can be used at Maestro-compatible terminals around the world. Maestro debit cards are linked to the cardholder’s bank account and can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs or to make point-of-sale purchases. When making a purchase, the cardholder must enter their PIN to complete the transaction. Maestro cards are not credit cards, so they cannot be used to borrow money or to make purchases on credit. Maestro is a popular choice for international travelers as it can be used in over 150 countries.
What is Mastercard?
Mastercard is a payment system that allows customers to make financial transactions, such as purchases or transfers. Mastercard also provides customer support and security features. Mastercard was founded in 1966 and is headquartered in Purchase, New York. Mastercard is accepted at over 24 million locations worldwide. Mastercard has over 2 billion cardholders. Mastercard offers several different card types, such as debit cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards. Mastercard also offers rewards programs and discounts on travel and entertainment. Mastercard is a publicly traded company. The ticker symbol for Mastercard is MA.
Difference between Maestro and Mastercard
Maestro and Mastercard are both payment systems that allow customers to make purchases and withdrawals. Maestro is a debit card system, while Mastercard is a credit card system. Maestro cards are linked to the customer’s bank account, so the customer can only spend what is available in their account. Mastercards are issued by banks and financial institutions, and the customer can spend up to their credit limit. Maestro cards can be used in over 150 countries, while Mastercards can be used in over 210 countries. Maestro cards are accepted at most ATMs, but not all merchants accept Maestro cards. Mastercards are accepted at most merchants, but there are some exceptions. Maestro cards usually have a Debit Card logo, while Mastercards usually have a Credit Card logo.
Conclusion
Although both Maestro and Mastercard are debit cards, they have a few key differences. For one, Maestro is accepted in more countries than Mastercard. Additionally, Maestro allows you to withdraw cash from ATMs, while Mastercard does not. If you’re looking for a debit card that can be used internationally and offers the ability to withdraw cash, then Maestro may be the better choice for you.
