Understanding Revolut Pay: The 1-Click Checkout Solution
That "Revolut Pay" button appearing at online checkouts is a digital wallet solution designed to speed up transactions. Revolut Pay is a secure payment method that allows you to make online and in-person purchases directly from your Revolut account balance or saved cards.
It eliminates the need to manually enter card numbers or bank details for every transaction, offering a true "1-click checkout" experience. While it is developed by the global finance app Revolut, a crucial detail often missed is that you do not need a Revolut account to use it. It functions as a universal payment gateway for guests, though account holders unlock faster workflows and rewards.
Why Use It?
Why switch from a native option like Apple Pay or Google Pay? While those services offer operating-system-level speed, Revolut Pay offers a financial incentive: RevPoints. According to official product details, using this specific checkout method earns users at least double RevPoints on purchases compared to standard card usage. These points can be redeemed for immediate discounts at checkout.
Getting Started: Prerequisites and Setup
For Existing Revolut Users
If you already bank with Revolut, the setup is largely automated.
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Requirement: Have the Revolut mobile app installed on your device.
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Preparation: Ensure you are logged into the app. The system is designed to automatically open your app (deep-link) to confirm purchases, utilizing your stored balance or cards.
For Non-Revolut Users (Guest Checkout)
You can use this service without downloading the app.
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Requirement: A valid payment card (credit or debit) and an email address.
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Preparation: No prior registration is needed. You will enter your details during your first purchase, and you have the option to save these details for future transactions.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using Revolut Pay Online
The online experience varies slightly depending on your user status. Here is how to navigate both paths safely.
For Verified App Users
This is the optimized path designed for speed.
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Locate the Button: When you reach the checkout page of a participating merchant (there are over 20,000 brands currently supported), look specifically for the Revolut Pay button.
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Automatic Redirection: Clicking the button triggers your Revolut app to open. If you are on a desktop, you may be prompted to scan a QR code or authenticate via a notification on your phone.
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Authentication: Log in if you aren't already active in the session.
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Confirmation: A prompt will appear asking you to approve the payment. Verify the amount and merchant.
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Completion: Tap to confirm. The transaction draws directly from your account or linked card, and you are redirected back to the merchant's "Success" page.
Pro Tip: Because the payment is customer-initiated from within the app, it bypasses the need for entering a CVV or long card number, reducing the risk of keyloggers intercepting your data on the web browser.
Guest Checkout (No Account Needed)
If you do not have the app, follow these steps:
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Select Revolut Pay: Click the branded payment button at checkout.
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Enter Details: A window will appear asking for your card details and email address.
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Authentication: You will likely undergo a standard security check (like 3D Secure) depending on your card provider.
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Optional Save: After the first purchase, you are offered the option to save your details. If you choose this, future purchases will require authentication (via email or SMS code) but won't require re-entering card numbers.
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Post-Transaction: You may receive an email prompting you to create a Revolut account, but this is optional.
How to Use Revolut Pay In-Person
Revolut Pay is not strictly for e-commerce; it also functions in physical retail locations that use the Revolut Terminal.
The Scan-to-Pay Process
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Identify the Terminal: Look for the Revolut Terminal at the point of sale.
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Scan the QR Code: When it is time to pay, the terminal screen will display a QR code. Open your phone's camera or the QR scanner within the Revolut app.
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Approve in App: Scanning the code triggers a payment request on your phone.
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Confirm: Approve the purchase with a single tap in the app.
This method allows you to pay without physically taking out your wallet or tapping a plastic card, adding a layer of physical security to the transaction.
Maximizing Rewards: The RevPoints System
One of the distinct features of this payment method is the integration with RevPoints. If you are an account holder, simply using the "Revolut Pay" button instead of entering your Revolut card details manually triggers a different reward tier.
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The Multiplier: You earn at least double RevPoints based on your specific plan when using this checkout method.
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Redemption: These points are not just for collecting; they can be used directly at checkout. If you have a sufficient points balance, you will see an option to apply them as a discount against your current purchase total before you confirm the payment.
Troubleshooting and Common Friction Points
Even seamless systems encounter issues. Here is how to handle common hurdles.
Fixing Unresponsive Buttons
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Mobile: Ensure your Revolut app is updated to the latest version. If the app doesn't open automatically, try manually opening the app to see if a pending approval request appears.
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Desktop: Ensure pop-up blockers aren't preventing the authentication window from launching.
Understanding Redirects
It is normal behavior to be redirected. When you select this payment method, payment processors like Stripe redirect you to Revolut Pay’s secure environment to authenticate. Once you verify your identity (via the app or email code), you are automatically redirected back to the merchant's store to finalize the order. Do not close the browser window during this redirection.
Geographic Availability
Currently, Revolut Pay is primarily a digital wallet payment method used in the United Kingdom and the European Union. If you are traveling outside these regions or trying to purchase from a merchant based elsewhere, the option may not appear even if you have a valid account.
Currency Support
The system supports presentment currencies including EUR, GBP, RON, HUF, PLN, and DKK. If you are attempting a transaction in an unsupported currency, the button may be disabled or default to a standard card entry form.