ATM Card vs Debit Card: what is the difference?

An ATM card comes with limited features and does not offer the same suite of services as a debit card.
 

When you withdraw money from an ATM, shop online, and recharge your phone balance, which card are you using? An ATM card or a debit card? While most people think that an ATM card and a debit card are the same, they are not. You may not have known this because banks tend to issue an ATM-cum-debit card. However, there are certain fundamental differences between ATMs and debit cards. Let's dive in.

Difference between an ATM Card and a Debit Card
 

Understanding each card's function is essential to knowing the differences between ATM and debit cards.

ATM Card
 

• An ATM card serves one primary purpose – to withdraw cash from ATMs.
• The functionality of ATM cards is limited to this, and you cannot use an ATM card to make purchases online or offline in any retail store. It is the most significant difference between an ATM and a debit card.
• An ATM card is linked to your bank account, and you need a four-digit PIN to withdraw funds using it.
• By using an ATM card, you can withdraw cash from any ATM available around you.
• The benefit of an ATM card is that you can use it at an ATM of any bank and not just of your bank. However, your bank may charge fees for withdrawals from other bank ATMs beyond a certain monthly limit.
• You can use your ATM card to check your account balance. You can also access mini statements for recent transactions at the ATM using your ATM card.

Debit Card
 

• A Debit Card is a multi-functional card, and you can use it for online and offline transactions and for withdrawing cash from ATMs. It is the biggest ATM card vs debit card difference.
• You can also use debit cards for internet banking services and make international payments.
• You can pay utility bills and recharge your phone with a debit card.
• Most debit cards come with reward points that you can earn when purchasing your card.
• Another difference between an ATM vs debit card is that you can use a debit card to utilise the overdraft facility provided by your bank.
• Debit cards tend to have higher daily withdrawal limits than ATM cards.
• You can use your debit card to check your account balance as with ATM cards.

The bottom line

The difference between ATM and debit cards boils down to their utility. An ATM card can only be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. At the same time, a debit card, in addition to withdrawing funds from ATMs, can also be used to make other transactions such as domestic and international purchases, bill payments, etc. So, a debit card serves the purpose of an ATM card and offers several other benefits.

Hence, it makes more sense to opt for a debit card than an ATM card. Depending on your bank, there may be different debit cards that offer different benefits and rewards. For instance, IDFC FIRST Bank Debit Cards may offer free airport lounge access, cashback rewards, complimentary accidental insurance, and more. They are designed to make your day-to-day transactions seamless and convenient.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.