Compare the best credit cards in Canada - Ratehub.ca (2024)

  • Travel cards
  • Cash back cards
  • No-fee cards
  • Balance transfer cards

Our methodology: how we choose the best credit cards

Ratehub.caevaluates the best credit cards by considering overall consumer value and suitability for various types of consumers. Our evaluation methodology incorporates factors such as the card’s annual fee, rewards earning rates, ease-of-use, welcome or promotional offers, approval rates, eligibility criteria, and redemption choices. We have also considered the pros and cons of each card to help you determine which case best suits your financial needs and spending habits.

featured

American Express Cobalt® Card

Annual fee

156

Welcome offer

earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points.

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featured

CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card

Annual fee

120

Welcome offer

earn 10% cash back welcome bonus of up to $250 (first 4 statements). Offer not available to QC residents. Terms and conditions apply.

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Annual fee

Welcome offer

earn an extra 10% back on up to $1,000 in everyday purchases within the first 2 months. Must apply by April 30, 2024.

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featured

Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card

Annual fee

Welcome offer

earn up to $1,300 in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived. Offer ends July 1, 2024.

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compare all rewards cards

  • Sponsored

    Travel Card

    Earn up to $1,300 in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived.

  • Sponsored

    TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card

    Earn up to $1,200 in value, including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points (enough for a round trip to New York City). Conditions apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

  • Cash Bonus offer

    Rewards Points Card

    Earn up to 25,000 bonus points in your first year!*

MBNA True Line® Mastercard®

Annual fee

Welcome offer

earn a 0% promotional annual interest rate for 12 months on balance transfers completed within 90 days of opening the account, with a 3% transfer fee.

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featured

CIBC Select Visa* Card

Annual fee

29

Welcome offer

Transfer your credit card balance. Get 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee and a first year annual fee rebate. Terms and conditions apply.

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featured

Scotiabank Value® Visa* Card

Annual fee

Welcome offer

0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 10 months. Offer ends 31 October 2024.

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featured

BMO® Preferred Rate MasterCard®

Annual fee

Welcome offer

earn a 0.99% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months with a 2% transfer fee and we'll waive the $29 annual fee for the first year*

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compare all balance transfer and low interest cards

2024 credit card awards

Discover the best credit cards of the year with our in-depth analysis and extensive testing. We’ve evaluated countless options to bring you the top cards tailed to your specific spending personality, whether you’re a frequent flyer or a student.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best credit card in Canada?

The best credit card in Canada depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like your spending habits, annual fees, rewards, interest rates, and additional benefits when choosing a credit card. Compare options to find one that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.

What is a credit card and how does it work?

A credit card allows you to borrow money from a bank up to a set limit. You use the card to make purchases, and the bank sends you a bill at the end of each billing cycle. You can either pay the full balance to avoid interest or pay a minimum amount, which incurs interest charges. Responsible credit card use can help build your credit score, and some cards offer rewards for spending.

How many credit cards should I have?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how many credit cards you should have. It's a matter of personal preference and financial responsibility. For many individuals, one or two well-managed credit cards are sufficient. However, if you can handle them responsibly and benefit from the rewards and benefits, having a few additional cards may make sense. Always monitor your credit usage and financial situation to make informed decisions about your credit card portfolio.

How does interest work on a credit card?

Interest on a credit card is the cost of borrowing money from the card issuer. It's calculated based on the card's Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and your average daily balance. If you don't pay your full balance by the due date, you'll be charged interest on the remaining amount, and this can accumulate over time if you carry a balance. To avoid interest charges, pay your balance in full each month.

What should I compare when choosing a credit card?

There are a few different features to look at when comparing credit cards.

  • Credit card APRs, it's important to look at a credit card's annual percentage rate as it's the interest on the card in the case you don't make your monthly payment in full.
  • Credit card rewards, which include points, miles or cashback.
  • Credit score, each card has its own credit score requirements for approval.
  • Annual fee, not all cards have annual fees, but the ones that do often come with perks and rewards.

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Compare the best credit cards in Canada - Ratehub.ca (2024)

FAQs

Which card has the best rate in Canada? ›

Canada's best low interest credit cards at a glance
  • sponsored. MBNA True Line® Mastercard® credit card. 4.5 Ratehub rated. 12.99% ...
  • BMO® Preferred Rate MasterCard® 13.99% Purchase interest rate. Pay $6/mo. ...
  • CIBC Select Visa* Card. 4.5 Ratehub rated. Pay $6/mo. ...
  • Scotiabank Value® Visa* Card. 12.99% Purchase interest rate.
Mar 1, 2024

How do I find the right credit card for me in Canada? ›

Choose the best credit card for you

You can see how cards measure up to each other by looking at their annual fees, welcome bonuses, interest rates, earn rates and benefits. Optimize your spending. If you're considering a rewards card, knowing where you spend your money helps identify the card that matches you best.

What credit cards can I get with 620 score Canada? ›

Minimum credit score for popular Canadian credit cards
CardMin. credit score
Neo Credit Mastercard600Go to site
Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card600Go to site
BMO CashBack Mastercard660Go to site
American Express Cobalt Card700Go to site
2 more rows
Apr 2, 2024

What is the #1 credit card to have? ›

The best credit card overall is the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card because it gives 2% cash rewards on all purchases and has a $0 annual fee. For comparison purposes, the average cash rewards card in 2024 gives about 1% back.

What credit card is most accepted in Canada? ›

Visa, Mastercard and Amex are all widely accepted in Canada. Sources used for this article: BMO - BMO Ascent World Elite Mastercard. BMO - Important information about BMO Credit Cards.

What US cards work in Canada? ›

In Canada, nearly all stores accept both Visa and MasterCard. These two credit card giants are widely accepted across the country, with only a few places remaining that solely accept cash or debit payments. Determining which card incurs the lowest fee depends on the specific card you possess.

What is the easiest credit card to get approved for in Canada with bad credit? ›

Summary of best credit cards for bad credit, fair credit and no credit
CARD NAMEBEST FORANNUAL FEE
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard (Essential Plan)Best prepaid card to build credit.$0.
Neo CreditBest fair credit card for no annual fee.$120.
Best credit cards for no credit: Canadian newcomers#colspan#$0.
13 more rows
May 8, 2024

What can a 800 credit score get you in Canada? ›

A credit score of 800 is considered exceptional and reflects a strong credit history. With such a high credit score, you are very likely to qualify for a line of credit from most lenders. Of course, the specific terms and approval process can vary depending on the lender and your individual financial situation.

How good is 825 credit score in Canada? ›

Although credit scoring models vary, generally, credit scores from 660 to 724 are considered good; 725 to 759 are considered very good; and 760 and up are considered excellent.

What are the three top credit cards? ›

Best credit cards of May 2024
  • Best for point value: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
  • Best for dining and entertainment: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.
  • Best overall: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card.
  • Best cash back on everyday spending: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express.

Is there a credit card that approves everyone? ›

First Progress Platinum Elite Secured Mastercard: The First Progress Platinum Elite Secured Mastercard requires no credit history or minimum credit score for approval. Your security deposit is refundable, and the card is accepted nationwide.

Is Visa or Mastercard better in Canada? ›

Visa credit cards generally offer more valuable points programs and travel benefits. Mastercard credit cards generally offer better cash back rewards and more types of insurance. High spenders should consider a Visa credit card, but the majority of Canadians will get more use out of Mastercard.

Is it best to use cash or card in Canada? ›

Use the credit card instead of cash wherever possible. Credit card issuers typically charge fees for international transactions and you may get the best exchange rate and fees lower than those associated with exchanging cash.

Which cards have the highest interest rate? ›

The current highest credit card interest rate is 36% on the First PREMIER® Bank Mastercard Credit Card. The next highest credit card interest rate seems to be 35.99%, charged by the Total Visa® Card and the Milestone® Mastercard®.

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