Apple Pay Logo
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6.1

Overall Score

Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: April 26th, 2024

Apple Pay is compatible with Apple devices, providing a contactless option for making in-store purchases, as well as making it easy to send and receive money from friends and family directly in messages. Apple Pay is a safe and secure way to make payments.

Note, use of Apple Pay is exclusive to those with iOS devices.

Keep reading for a full review of this company, as well as Apple Pay reviews from real customers.

 

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The Good

  • Compatible with Major Banks and Credit Card Issuers
  • Easy set-up
  • Simple NFC-Payment System
  • Reliable Security
  • Apple Credit Card Option
  • Apple Wallet
  • Positive Customer Reviews

Compatible with Major Banks and Credit Card Issuers

Apple Pay is available to use with almost all major banks and credit card institutions, roughly totaling over 2,500 in the US, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, with more being added regularly. Credit card companies which support adding their cards into the Apple Pay app include: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Users are able to easily integrate their bank information through a simple verification processes. Some banks, of which Capital One is an example have created apps of their own to better accompany and serve Apple Pay users.

Easy Set-Up

Users can easily add credit cards to their digital wallet by taking a picture of their card from the app, verifying information which is auto-populated for accuracy and approving the card's addition to one's Apple Pay wallet. Information is stored on Apple servers, equipped with servers with redundant security measures. Additionally, financial information is not shared during any transaction, with a unique token generated by the app for each card, which improves the security of the app. All cards are consolidated into PassBook with the user's coupons, etc.

Simple NFC-Payment System

Apple Pay relies on near-field communication (NFC) technology to support contactless payments. This innovative technology allows you to exchange payment data between readers and devices that support Apple Pay. Wearable Apple products, such as the Apple Watch also feature NFC, allowing you to easily make purchases with your watch if you don't want to pull out your phone. If your Apple Watch is stolen, you don't have to worry about thieves stealing your information because the watch forces users to enter a password when it senses that it's no longer touching skin.

Reliable Security

The contactless NFC technology makes users' point-of-sale experience quick and painless. Different mobile wallet point of sale technologies have many debated pros and cons. 

When a compatible device is active (turned on) and detects the NFC at check-out, users are asked to provide their Touch ID (fingerprint) or passcode. The Secure Element on the device provides the payment system with a specific Device Account Number and a transaction-specific dynamic security code. Once the appropriate financial institution approves the payment (which happens in most cases within a few seconds) the payment is completed at the terminal. This process of encryption is in many ways more secure than using physical credit cards.

Apple Credit Card Option

Apple has a credit card products that lives on the iPhone; although you can also use a physical card. The card has no fees and features tools to help you pay less interest. In addition, the card offers generous rewards with unlimited 2 percent daily cash back whenever your iPhone or Apple Watch with Apple Card to make a payment; you can access greater cash back rewards when shopping with Apple and select merchants, such as, Uber and Walgreens.

Apple Wallet

You can store Apple Cash, credit cards, debit cards, as well as boarding passes, and tickets in Apple Wallet. In addition, specific apps take advantage of Apple Wallet, allowing you to quickly and easily make payments without having to pull out your physical card(s).

Positive Customer Reviews

The majority of Apple Pay reviews are 5-star. Satisfied customers frequently highlight the following:

  • Convenience — sending and receiving money from friends and family, and making contactless payments
  • Ability to easily make payments with Apple Watch
  • Secure payments
  • Apple Card cash back rewards
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Customer Review: Tanner Hales from Pleasant Grove, Utah

"I absolutely love Apple Pay. I cannot tell you how many times that it has saved my bacon when I am in the store and realize that I have forgotten my wallet. I simply pull out my iPhone and pick which card I want, then boom. DONE. I have never had issues with the security of it either. I can keep close tabs on who uses it with notifications when money has been spent using my Apple Pay account."

Negative reviews are limited, but some customers have noted experiences in which it appeared that a payment didn't go through so they tried again, resulting in a double charge.

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The Bad

  • Not Accepted at all Retail Locations
  • Proprietary to iOS devices
  • Limited use outside of U.S.

Not Accepted at all Retail Locations

Although the list of merchants that accept Apple Pay is extensive and growing, there are some retailers that may not accept it for payment. However, in most cases if the retailer's payment terminal accepts tap, you should be able to use Apple Pay to complete a transaction.

Proprietary to iOS Devices

As one could expect with a product designed by one of the major devices and operating systems, this app is not available or compatible with a device which is not made by Apple. Additionally, the operating system which is required for the app to function is iOS 8.1 or higher, so users with older devices will not be able to use Apple Pay at all. Estimates suggest that Apple devices make up less than 40 percent of the mobile market in the United States, so the majority of mobile phone users are left out of being able to use this service.

Limited use outside of U.S.

For those who travel internationally, Apple Pay is only offered in the United States, Canada, The United Kingdom and Australia.

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The Bottom Line

If you are a current Apple product user, particularly if you have an iPhone or Apple Watch, Apple Pay is an excellent option for your mobile wallet and mobile payment needs. If you have multiple Apple products, you can easily connect them so that you can quickly and easily make payments. If your friends and family also have iPhones, you can conveniently send and receive money through messages.

Overall, Apple Pay provides increased convenience and security to contactless payments. You can store your credit cards and debit cards in the Apple Wallet.

In addition, Apple offers the Apple card, a credit card with generous cash back rewards that lives on your iPhone.

Based on customer reviews, the majority of which are positive, we would recommend this product.

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Star Rating

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4.7

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191 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

81%

4 grade

12%

3 grade

3%

2 grade

1%

1 grade

4%

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Amani Patel Harrisonburg, VA

Apple Wallet is an amazing service that makes me feel safe and secure about my financial information. Unlike services like Paypal and Venmo, I find that with apple pay, I rarely encounter any issues. I love how I can easily add cards to my apple wallet, and that I can store many important documents, including vaccination cards, transportation tickets, and passes.

10 months ago

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Kevin Ortiz

Apple Pay has been the most convenient payment method I have recently used. I find that in Puerto Rico there are several limitations in terms of the technology since many businesses are not up-to-date and sometimes don’t have Waze of accepting Apple Pay. I believe that the cashback feature when using Apple Pay, has been revolutionary since it offers 2% on this specific payment method as well as 3% in pharmacies.

1 year ago

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Emma Morrill

Apple Pay is amazing! Unlike other banks it takes money as as soon as it is spent so you always have an accurate representation of how much you have. It’s really easy to use while buying things online on your phone. I’ve also enjoyed having access to it on my Apple Watch. This let me go on walks around the neighborhood without needing my wallet. I would always have access to my money whenever I needed it.

1 year ago

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Carlos M. Hercules, CA

I love apply pay. I have my debit and credit cards in there. pretty easy to use. all you got to do easy double press the lock button, choose your card you want to pay and tap it. easy as that. it's useful when you leave your wallet/purse behind. I also love it because you can add other types of cards like tickets to theme parks, theaters, concerts, and even your Dave and buster playing card. you can also add types of digital coupons and have them save for when you're ready to pay. Thanks, apple, for this!

2 years ago

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Sinister Babe Kyle, TX

My favorite way to send money to family or friends or receive money. Quick and easy to use! I love getting to see my balance in my wallet app makes paying on the online easier as well and more convenient.

11 months ago Edited January 15, 2024

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G.J. Boise, ID

So far I have had no issues with Apple Pay. It’s easy to use and I like that I am able to use it without having to enter my card number each time I want to purchase something on line. They have no restrictions on what you can buy when you shop online. I have used Apple Pay for games, clothing and many other things. I feel this is a easy and safe way to pay for anything you shop for online.

2 years ago

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Nyla C. Edison, NJ

Apple Pay always comes in hand whenever I don't have my debit card on me, but I always have my phone in hand. It conveniently works with the tap of my lock button and as I input my passcode - again, super convenient. I like how you're able to easily send money to others using Apple Pay too.

3 years ago

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Robyn Brady Kent, OH

Most secure form of payment that I have. I love my Apple card and how much money I am earning!! I have $256 in my wallet right now from simple day to day purchased. Easy to understand payments and they remind you when it is due so you don't pay the crazy interest.

3 years ago

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peanutbutter424 Manhattan Beach, CA

I recommend Apple Pay. If you ever forget your wallet like I do, It's nice to know you're not stuck. Also, it works well during the pandemic because it is "contactless". Just hover your phone over the card reader. I highly recommend.

4 years ago

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Emily Crawfordville, FL

It is so easy to use! You set it up on your wallet and just put your phone to the reader. I love having Apple Pay because I usually already have my phone in my hand so I don't have to dig through my purse to pay things anymore.

4 years ago

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JDWain Tallahassee, FL

Apple Pay is great and has bailed me out a few times when i forgot my wallet at home. Im sure one day none of us will even be carring wallets any more and just use our phones to pay for things! Also its really nice that most places take Apple Pay these days

4 years ago

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Deric Lambdin Alpine, UT

I have used Apple Pay for quite some time now. I have never had any major problems having any of the compatible machines read my payment. I really enjoy the option to keep everything secure with the iD touch feature. Apple also makes it really easy by being able to double click the home button twice to pull up my mobile wallet. Even if there is a small problem on occasion, swiping my card doesn't take much more energy. I would honestly recommend Apple Pay to any of my friends who have compatible iPhones.

8 years ago

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Brianna S Tallahassee, FL

Apple Pay is so convenient for not only myself, but also my family members. Not everyone has cashapp or zelle but thankfully we all have IPhones and are able to send money to each other that way. Also it says that it take 2-3 business days for your money to go into your account, however, there have been plenty times where it has transferred before that given time!

3 years ago

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Eban Beltran Arlington, TX

I’m trying to get into the habit of using Apple Pay more. It’s certainly great at saving you if you get caught without your wallet, but what a lot of people don’t know is that it’s not only easier and more convenient than pulling out your credit card but that it still works with your loaded credit cards rewards systems like miles/points/cash back. It’s true - just look it up online for reputable articles that say the same.

3 years ago

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Tanner Hales Pleasant Grove, UT

I absolutely love Apple Pay. I cannot tell you how many times that it has saved my bacon when I am in the store, and realize that I have forgotten my wallet. I simply pull out my iPhone, and pick which card I want, then boom. DONE. I have never had issues with the security of it either. I can seep close tabs on who uses it with notifications when money has been spent using my Apple Pay account.

6 years ago

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Anna Hu Provo, UT

Apple Pay has been so convenient for me! I love that I often no longer need to carry my wallet with me as simply scanning my phone will complete the transaction in 2 seconds. Very nice how so many vendors now take Apple Pay, making all purchases so much easier. Very safe and secure as it is authorized through my thumb print. Definitely hope to see Apple Pay at even more businesses in the future as this is a great service.

6 years ago

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Reem Haddad Houston, TX

ApplePay has changed the game. I love the efficiency of it and I love how convenient it is. I have forgot my wallet so many times, especially having to get gas, and thankfully have been able to use Applepay.

1 year ago

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Christian Nakamura Secaucus, NJ

It's so useful to be able to just tap my phone to pay! The only complaint I'd have is that big chain stores often don't have compatibility with ApplePay, but that's the stores' issue.

1 year ago

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Don Thigpen Kansas City, MO

Not as user-friendly as I need them to be as you can try using another card on your phone and use them by mistake. One positive is I have instant and easy access to their product through the app on my phone. Practically all merchants accept their product.

1 year ago Edited February 9, 2023

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Connor Smith Palm City, FL

I like the convenience of Apple Pay on my phone, it makes life easier because I always have my phone on me. It’s nice to just have your card ready and available at all times with Apple Pay.

2 years ago

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Cade Boudreaux Irving, TX

Apple Pay is an amazing app. As someone who doesn’t always have my wallet on me, having something on my phone to where I don’t need any of my cards is very convenient and easy to use!

4 years ago

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Kaysha Love Las Vegas, NV

Apple Pay is a great source of online banking/ card reader. I love all the features that come along using Apple Pay, especially the fact that Apple Pay is compatible with all apple products.

4 years ago

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Kimberly LeBaron Delta, UT

Apple Pay is very simple to set up and use. You can transfer money, and pay for things in stores with your phone. Apple wallet is great for storing plane tickets too. The only downside is that got can’t transfer money via I messaged to people who don’t have iPhones.

5 years ago

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Isabelle Hong Pleasant Grove, UT

I find apple pay to be great. It's very easy to use; you just click the home button on your iPhone twice and it'll connect to the register. Most places now have Apple Pay available and it's very convenient.

6 years ago

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Lesa Burgess Pleasant Grove, UT

I use Apple Pay wherever I can. Usually it's just a matter of finding a vendor that accepts it. I am surprised how few still do. I guess that's the only knock that I have on it, but it would be the same for it's competitors. I like the ease of set-up, the notifications, and the ability to pay consumer-to-consumer.

6 years ago

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Hannah Pleasant Grove, UT

ApplePay is so slick. I have no complaints about it. So easy to use, easy to switch between cards in your "wallet," easy to add cards to. Every time I use it I praise Apple to high heaven.

7 years ago

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Yanesezah Fenelon Delray Beach, FL

I believe Apple Pay is a very convenient mobile wallet for IPhone users. It is easy to input card information and use the mobile wallet at different stores. I like that there are extra security measures to ensure no one else has access to your mobile wallet.

3 years ago

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CJ Milke Olney, MD

I used Apple Pay when I went on a family trip to Europe a couple summers ago. It was so convenient to not have to carry around cash in their currency. I could always use Apple Pay and it would automatically convert into their currency and easily pay the amount needed.

3 years ago

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Zach Newman American Fork, UT

I love Apple Pay. It is so convenient and easy to use. I have it on both my watch and my phone. The watch feature is nice when I'm out on a run or something and don't have my phone. Several times I've stopped at a gas station mid run to get a drink or quick energy boost, apple pay was there to save the day.

3 years ago

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Paige Ellis Slade Gilbert, AZ

When I am buying something online, I love having Apple Pay pop up as an option. It makes it so much easier to not have to go hunt down my wallet to pull out my card. I’m happy I don’t have to pay fees to have this service on my phone.

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Joannetta Jarman Secaucus, NJ

Our grandson taught my husband and I how to use it and its great. I never remember all of my cards when getting around. We like to keep our debit cards on here so that we don't risk losing it and giving access to our banks. Also the wallet feature is handy to see memberships.

3 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Mark Troxel Provo, UT

I use Apple Pay when available at retailer as my form of contactless payment. It is also used by Apple when I need to pay for something in the Apple Store. It is simple to use as I connect any current credit card to Apple Pay and can switch between them in the phones wallet. I general only use my favorite rewards card. There are no additional fees for using Apple Pay to the consumer. Apple Pay is a free service on any Apple device.

3 years ago

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Mary Alice M. Orem, UT

I have started using my Apple Pay a lot and I love it. I'm always misplacing my cards, and so it is nice to have it on my phone where I don't have to worry about bringing my wallet with me. Some places don't have apple pay which makes it frustrating, but I really like the service they provide.

3 years ago

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Steve Ashby Portland, OR

If you are going to have an Apple phone you may as well take advantage of this great feature. It works great keeping your credit cards and other "cards" available. I like the feature of putting airplane boarding passes, insurance cards, and other types of documents.

3 years ago

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brindle's corner ,

Very easy to make quick transactions. I like that if you are sending the money to someone it can show up in a text message so it doesn’t have to be in a whole other app. Usually most restaurants or store have apple pay and it’s very easy to use there.

3 years ago

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daphjohnson Saratoga Springs, UT

Truly the greatest invention of all time. There have been a few times when I am running errands that I forget my wallet at home. I can still finish my shopping because I know I can pay with Apple Pay! It is a convenient way to get what you need, fast. Especially during a pandemic when you don't want to touch public devices.

3 years ago

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Desiree Pleasant Grove, UT

Apple Pay is very convenient for me. One time I forgot my wallet, and I had to pay for something, and luckily I was able to use Apple Pay. It was amazingly quick and easy. A lot of stores and vending machines are accepting Apple Pay now. It's safe and super easy to use.

4 years ago

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Grant Conrady Fayetteville, AR

I use Apple Pay every chance I get. I love being able to pay for items with my iPhone and Apple Watch and it is extremely convenient in a pinch! Apple Pay is easy to use and I never feel like my information is at risk of being leaked.

4 years ago

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Tara Bindrup Smithfield, UT

I love the convenience and safety with the use of Apple Pay app. I use it all the time and love how I don’t have to have my wallet or purse with me and I don’t have to really touch anything at check out except my own phone! So convenient!

4 years ago

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keiontai henry Tallahassee, FL

Apple pay allows for such easy convenience when it comes to not having your wallet on you! With just a double tap of your phone you've already completed the transaction! It also allows for the safe exchange of money between parties.

4 years ago

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Irinna Danielson Riverton, UT

I was really hesitate to use Apple Pay because I was worried this way of paying and transferring money would not be safe. I've been pleasantly surprised by how easy the service is to use and I haven't had any issues with money not going through or fraud or anything like that. Super convenient and easy to use, especially during this pandemic when there are increased fears about using cash and coins and dealing with touch pads to pay.

4 years ago

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Shante Reeder Ogden, UT

I'm embarrassed to say I've had an iPhone for 10 years and have just recently started to use Apple Pay! It is so nice to not have to take my wallet everywhere I go! I also love that if I am ever in a bind and don't have my wallet, everything I need is stored in my phone! Very secure to use, and very easy!

4 years ago

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Cody Linden Lehi, UT

I love being able to use my phone to make payments! Setting up my card was simple, I just had to take a picture of my card and enter in a few other details. Now whenever I want to make a payment I can just hold my thumb on the home button and hold it over the card reader. It's a great feature when I forget my wallet in the car!

6 years ago

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Analisa Vigil Lubbock, TX

I enjoy having Apple Pay. It was a great back up when I left my wallet at home and did not have anything else to pay with. Starbucks accepts Apple Pay.

1 year ago

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peggy cherry Fayetteville, NC

Apple Pay is so convenient Sometimes I may say a little too convenient. If I purposefully leave my wallet at home I sometimes breakdown and use my Apple Pay.

1 year ago

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2L8 iwon Westfield, IN

From my usage of Apple Pay it has been convenient to use to pay with my phone when I’ve forgotten my wallet. Apple Pay from my experience has been amazing and convenient at stores

1 year ago Edited September 18, 2023

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Mellissa Clark Palm Bay, FL

I honestly have just started using Apple Pay and I am still a bit hesitant. I like that I don’t have to carry my wallet with me and I can use my phone to make purchases, but I don’t like how easily it can be for my card to be scanned for a payment from my phone.

1 year ago

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Kelise Tallahassee, FL

I love how convenient Apple Pay is! Its always a hassle for me to find my cash/debit cards sometimes so I like how readily available Apple Pay makes payments faster.

4 years ago

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OwenE. Hattiesburg, MS

Apple Pay is very convenient, and it allows me to make purchases even when I do not have my wallet with me. It also saves various gift cards, so I can even make purchases with those without my wallet.

4 years ago

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Nicholas Genes Los Angeles, CA

It needs more usability. Not many people use apply pay and there is enough other option to keep me from using this as my primary mobile wallet. Money kinda just sits in there till I remember I have it.

4 years ago