When I heard that Maya was getting into cryptocurrency, I was intrigued. I’d always thought about getting into crypto, but the idea of setting up wallets, dealing with exchanges, and tracking rates on multiple platforms felt like a headache waiting to happen. So, when I saw a crypto option appear in the Maya app—right alongside the usual e-wallet features—I figured I’d give it a shot. Here’s my take on how it went, from setup to pros and cons.
Getting Started: How Easy Is It?
Since I was already using Maya for regular transactions, I found setting up the crypto feature simple. Here’s how I got started:
- Opening the Crypto Tab – Right on the main screen of the app, I saw the new “Crypto” option sitting alongside my usual features. No searching or extra steps; just a tap, and I was in.
- Choosing a Cryptocurrency – Maya offers some of the big names, like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), and a few other popular options. I liked that I didn’t need to hop between platforms to access different coins—it was all right there.
- Buying Crypto – Buying was straightforward: I chose the amount, confirmed, and it was done. No transferring funds or managing a separate account; it was all linked to my Maya balance. That simplicity made a big difference for me as a beginner.
Overall Ease: For anyone who’s looking for a straightforward, beginner-friendly entry into crypto, I think Maya does a great job.
What I Enjoy About Maya’s Crypto Feature
- Friendly and Simple Interface
I found the interface very easy to navigate. Maya presents information without overwhelming you with technical terms or steps. I’ve tried other platforms that felt confusing, but Maya keeps it simple, which makes it easier to get started. - Instant Transactions
Because Maya links to my wallet balance, I didn’t have to wait long for transactions to show up. It’s immediate, so I can see my purchases and changes to my balance right away. Waiting hours or days isn’t fun, so I appreciated the quick updates. - Accessible for Beginners
Maya’s crypto feature feels designed for beginners. There’s no need for separate wallets or learning complicated steps, so it’s a good way to dip your toes in without a huge time commitment. Plus, since it’s in a familiar app, I felt more comfortable trying things out. - Easy Conversions to Pesos
With just a few taps, I could convert crypto back into pesos, which made it feel safer and more convenient. I tried it with a small amount, and it went smoothly. Traditional exchanges sometimes have a few more steps, so having an easy cash-out option is a bonus.
Downsides I’ve Noticed
- Higher Fees
The fees on Maya are higher than on some dedicated crypto exchanges. While that’s fine for casual trading or smaller amounts, I wouldn’t want to trade frequently here if I were looking to save on fees. - Limited Cryptocurrency Choices
Maya’s options are limited to a handful of the most popular coins. While that’s fine for my needs right now, more serious investors or those looking to trade less common coins might find it restrictive. - No External Wallet Transfers
Currently, there’s no way to transfer crypto from Maya to an external wallet. That’s not an issue if you’re just exploring or trading small amounts, but long-term crypto holders usually prefer external wallets for added security. For now, I’m okay with it, but it’s something to consider. - Market Volatility
Like any crypto platform, Maya doesn’t control the volatility of the market. Prices change rapidly, so it’s easy to get swept up in the moment. I’ve learned to avoid impulsive buys or sells based on quick swings, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Final Thoughts
In the end, I’d say Maya’s crypto feature is a great choice if you’re in the Philippines and want an easy, approachable way to explore cryptocurrency. The convenience of having everything in one app is a huge plus, and it takes away a lot of the complexity that can make crypto seem intimidating.
That said, if you’re a more serious investor or plan to hold large amounts long-term, you might find the higher fees and limited options less ideal. But for beginners or those just curious about crypto, Maya is a fantastic option to start learning the ropes.
