When it comes to e-commerce platforms, AliExpress is a global favorite. But while the site attracts millions of buyers, many wonder if prices are shown in dollars or local currency. It’s a question that comes up given the company’s capacity to serve shoppers worldwide.

In reality, the U.S. dollar (USD) is the default listed currency, yet you can view prices in other currencies. Below, we’ll explain how AliExpress’s pricing system works in more detail.

AliExpress and Currencies: Are the Prices in Dollars?

Which Currency Does AliExpress Use to Display Prices?

AliExpress uses the U.S. dollar (USD) as its main reference for listing prices, as it’s the standard currency for international transactions.

But in which currency does AliExpress actually show prices? It depends on the country you’re accessing from. The site automatically adjusts the currency according to your location. For instance, if it detects your IP address is in Mexico, it changes prices to MXN.

In some cases, amounts are shown in the seller’s currency.

Nevertheless, the final payment processing is usually carried out in U.S. dollars (USD). That means your bank or card issuer may apply a conversion.

Hence, it’s important to verify your currency display settings and factor in potential conversion fees when purchasing on AliExpress.

Can You Change the Currency on AliExpress?

Yes. You can set your preferred currency from your account settings, whether on the website or mobile app.

On the website

1. Go to AliExpress.

2. Look for the “Language” or “Currency” option at the top of the page.

3. Choose your country and currency.

4. Confirm the changes by clicking “Save.”

On the mobile app

1. Download and install the AliExpress app.

2. Open the app, then go to “Account & Settings.”

3. Tap “Currency” and select the one you prefer.

Once you’ve configured your currency in your account, you’ll have a customized shopping experience without complications, adapted to your local needs.

Which Payment Methods Does AliExpress Accept for Dollar Payments?

Platforms like AliExpress, Shopee, and Temu provide several options to conduct transactions in dollars.

When paying on AliExpress, you’ll find methods like:

• WIRE bank transfers

• Credit and debit cards: Mastercard, American Express, Visa, Maestro

• Digital wallets: PayPal, Alipay (in selected countries)

• Alternate payment systems: Western Union, for instance

• Prepaid and virtual cards: Prepaid cards issued by Visa or Mastercard

Keep in mind Alipay is AliExpress’s own payment system, which is likely the only one accepted worldwide.

What If My Bank Automatically Converts the Currency?

As noted, prices may appear in your local currency or the seller’s currency, but the actual payment processes in USD. In other words, your bank or card issuer will convert the MXN amount to USD at purchase time.

If you don’t want a surprise when completing the transaction, it helps to take certain precautions.

Here are some recommendations:

Check with Your Bank

Your bank’s automatic conversion from local currency to USD could lead to a different charge than what you see on the platform. If you’re unsure of your bank’s policies, contact them to:

• Ask about possible fees for currency conversion

• Request details about exchange rates they typically apply

• Check if they offer tips for optimizing international transactions

Many banks charge a fixed fee or a percentage of the total amount for overseas purchases, but each bank’s policy differs. So it’s crucial to find this out.

Keep an Eye on Exchange Rate Fluctuations

AliExpress prices might be cheap, but currencies fluctuate constantly. So you might watch market trends and pick a good time to buy. This can help you cut costs and avoid extra fees.

Use a Card with No Currency Conversion Fees

If your bank charges extra for international transactions or currency conversions, you could look at other options—like a credit or debit card that doesn’t levy fees on overseas purchases. Such cards may have exchange rates closer to the market price and save you extra charges.

An appealing alternative for paying in digital dollars is the DolarApp virtual card known as DolarCard, backed by Mastercard for international transactions. Using this card, you can pay on AliExpress in USDc, with no hidden or additional conversion costs. Also, the app allows you to switch from pesos to digital dollars at a competitive exchange rate.

The Most Common Currencies on AliExpress

As one of the world’s primary e-commerce sites, AliExpress can adapt to users from everywhere. Hence, the currency options it offers match the majority of countries. However, the most frequent ones are:

• U.S. Dollar (USD): It’s the default and the most widely used on the platform. Because it’s ideal for shoppers seeking stability in global transactions.

• Euro (EUR): Follows the dollar in facilitating payment for users in EU countries, eliminating unnecessary conversions.

Other popular currencies include the British Pound (GBP), Chinese Yuan (CNY), and Russian Ruble (RUB). But the site also supports an array of local currencies depending on the user’s country.

Conclusion: Is It Worth Paying in Dollars on AliExpress?

Paying on AliExpress in dollars can be convenient, but it depends on your payment method and currency conversions.

If you have an international card that lets you pay directly in USD, you can avoid additional charges. This is the case with the DolarCard from DolarApp, which uses digital dollars for online purchases.

This is especially beneficial if your bank imposes steep fees or uses an unfavorable exchange rate. You can still purchase in your local currency, as long as you’re aware of how the final charge is processed.

That said, buying on AliExpress in USD might offer specific advantages:

• Avoid price discrepancies: Often, local-currency prices can fluctuate due to daily exchange rates, whereas dollar amounts generally stay constant.

• Greater availability: Some sellers only set their prices in USD.

• Exclusive deals: Certain promotions and discounts are more commonly available for USD transactions.

So now that you know which currency AliExpress uses—and your payment choices—evaluate each option to find which is most suitable, i.e. the one offering the most savings, especially when factoring in taxes on AliExpress purchases.

Overall, paying on AliExpress in USD may be the best approach not only to dodge price fluctuations but also to take advantage of exclusive deals and enjoy more stable transactions.