Free currency converter calculator
Convert between currencies at the current exchange rate — enter an amount and rate to see the converted value and the effective cost of bank spreads, updated live, as you type.
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Simple interest only — does not compound. I = P × r × t.
Results are estimates. Consult a professional.
How the currency converter works
A currency converter multiplies your base amount by the exchange rate between the two currencies. The rate quoted by financial data providers is the mid-market rate — the midpoint between what dealers will buy and sell a currency for. Banks and money transfer services add a spread on top, so you receive less than the mid-market rate implies.
Worked example: $1,000 USD to euros with bank spread
Sarah is wiring $1,000 USD to a vendor in Germany. The mid-market EUR/USD rate today is 0.92 (meaning 1 USD buys €0.92). Her bank charges a 2% spread. How many euros does the vendor actually receive?
Mid-market rates vs. typical spreads by channel
Exchange rates change by the second, but the spread charged by the conversion channel is what you can control. The figures below show typical spreads — always compare before transferring large amounts.
| Currency Pair | Typical Bank Spread | Card/ATM Spread | Specialist Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| USD / EUR | 1.5–3% | 1–2% | 0.3–0.5% |
| USD / GBP | 1.5–3% | 1–2% | 0.3–0.5% |
| USD / JPY | 1.5–3% | 1–2.5% | 0.3–0.6% |
| USD / CAD | 1–2.5% | 0.5–1.5% | 0.2–0.4% |
| USD / AUD | 1.5–3% | 1–2% | 0.3–0.5% |
| USD / MXN | 2–4% | 1.5–3% | 0.5–1% |
Spreads are approximate and vary by provider, amount, and account type. Specialist services include Wise, Revolut, and similar remittance platforms. Source: CFPB remittance guidance; published provider rate sheets.
Tips for getting the best exchange rate
The exchange rate you see on Google or XE.com is the mid-market rate that banks themselves trade at. What you receive is always less. These five steps help you close that gap.
- Compare the all-in cost, not the rate alone — Some services advertise a rate close to mid-market but charge a flat fee on top; others build everything into the spread. Always calculate total euros (or yen) received to compare apples to apples.
- Avoid airport and hotel exchange kiosks — These typically charge spreads of 5–10%, the worst rates available. Withdraw local currency from an ATM inside your destination airport instead, or pay by card using a no-foreign-transaction-fee card.
- Lock in rates for large transfers — Many specialist services (Wise, OFX, Currencies Direct) let you lock a rate for 24–72 hours or even forward-contract months ahead. Useful when you know you will need euros for a property purchase.
- Avoid 'dynamic currency conversion' at point of sale — When a foreign ATM or retailer asks whether you want to pay in your home currency, always choose the local currency. The offered rate typically includes a 3–6% spread applied by the merchant's bank.
- Use specialist services for amounts over $1,000 — For transfers above $1,000, a specialist money-transfer platform will typically save 1–3% versus a retail bank — hundreds of dollars on a $10,000 wire.
Accuracy and limitations
Exchange rates fluctuate continuously during market hours and the mid-market rate displayed by this calculator may not match the rate your bank or transfer service applies at the exact moment of your transaction. Rates shown are indicative only. Transfer fees, correspondent bank fees, and recipient bank charges may further reduce the amount delivered. Always confirm the total cost and delivered amount with your transfer provider before executing.
Not financial advice — consult a financial professional for your specific situation.
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