Compare Credit Cards

Your credit card comparison checklist awaits, no matter what kind of card you’re after…

It’s important to compare different credit cards so that you know you’re getting the best deal possible. The card you have may have seemed great when you got it, but there are new credit cards coming on the market all the time, and a different one may be able to give you lower interest rates, better rewards program benefits and better protection against fraud. When it comes to credit cards, it pays to shop around.

In a recent survey, only 6% of Australians said they bothered to check out a credit card comparison site before making a credit card application. Around 50% only applied to their own bank. Comparing credit cards is crucial because if you don’t know the facts, you won’t get the best card available. It’s just that simple.

So what factors should you compare different credit cards on? Find out in this handy guide. We’ve given you all the tips you need to know about comparing cards, no matter what type you’re after.

Featured Balance Transfer & Low Rate Credit Card

With the St George Vertigo MasterCard you will receive a great low rate on purchases plus pay a low rate on any balances transferred from other cards.

• $55 annual fee
• 13.24% p.a. on purchases
• 0.99% p.a. for 12 months on balance transfers
• Cash Advance Rate of 21.49% p.a.
• 55 days interest free
• Minimum Income Requirement of $15,000 p.a.

Read the St George Vertigo terms and conditions.

Credit Card Comparison:

			Interest Rate (p.a.)	Balance Transfer Rate (p.a.)	Annual fee	Cash Advance Rate (p.a.)
	St George Vertigo	A low interest rate on balance transfers and purchases with a low annual fee.	13.24%	0.99% for 12 months	$55	21.49%
	Bank of Melbourne Vertigo Credit Card	An excellent introductory rate on balance transfers that reverts to the low on-going purchase rate at the end of the balance transfer period.	13.24%	0.99% for 12 months	$55	21.49%
	Westpac Low Rate Card	A low interest credit card with some excellent introductory offers. Limited time offer.	0% for 6 months (reverts to 13.49% )	0% for 6 months	$45	21.49%
	Citibank Clear Platinum Card	A rare Platinum credit card with a low balance transfer and no annual fee offer.	11.99%	2.9% for 12 months	$99	21.74%
	ANZ Platinum Credit Card	Take advantage of this great offer from ANZ with a low rate on purchases and a low balance transfer offer.	0% for 6 months (reverts to 19.24% )	0% for 6 months	$0 annual fee for the first year( $87 thereafter)	20.99%
	ANZ Low Rate MasterCard - Balance Transfer	Offering a low balance transfer and a low interest on-going purchase rate and a competitive annual fee.	0% for 3 months (reverts to 13.24% )	0% for 3 months	$58	21.49%
	Virgin Flyer Credit Card	A great introductory offer on balance transfers, earn 1 Velocity Point per $1 spent up to $1,500 per month, then 1 Velocity Point for every $2. Get 4 free flights every year.	20.99%	1.9% for 9 months	$99	20.99%
	Virgin High Flyer Credit Card	Earn 2.5 Velocity Points per $1 spent for first 3 months, Plus a low balance transfer offer.	20.99%	1.9% for 6 months	$249	20.99%
	Bankwest Breeze MasterCard	A credit card with a low rate on balance transfers and purchases.	10.99%	4.99% for 12 months	$69	21.99%
	HSBC Credit Card	No annual fee for life, plus a low balance transfers option for 6 months.	17.99%	0% for 6 months with 2% handling fee	$0	21.99%
	Westpac 55 Day Credit Card - Special Offer	Benefit from a special introductory rate on purchases of 0% for 5 months and a $0 annual fee for the first year.	0% for 5 months (reverts to 19.59% )	3.99% for 6 months	$30	21.49%
	ANZ Frequent Flyer Platinum American Express/Visa	An excellent dual credit card offer with an AMEX for greater points earning and VISA for global acceptance.	19.74%		$295	20.99%
	American Express Gold Business Card	Keep track of your business expenses with a dedicated business credit card. Your account details can be uploaded in to MYOB, Excel or Quicken to help with BAS reporting. Plus earn 1 reward point per $1 spend	%		$169
	Commonwealth Bank Low Rate Credit Card	A credit card with a low rate on balance transfer and purchases with low annual fee.	13.49%	5.99% for 5 months	$78 ($48 for qualifying customers)	21.74%
	Citibank BP Credit Card	A cash back on the first spend per month at BP Petrol Service Stations.	20.89%	0% for 6 months	$89	21.39%
	Citibank Emirates Platinum Card	A great balance transfer offer and earn 4 Skywards Miles for every $1 spent up to 25,000 points on the Citibank Emirates Platinum Card.	20.99%	0.9% for 9 months	$0 annual fee for the first year ( $229 thereafter)	21.24%

Easily compare: Low Rate Balance Transfer Offers

The key points to consider when transferring your balance to another bank are:

• What interest rate applies to the balance transfer? Generally speaking, the lower rate the bank will give you, the less time you have to settle your debt before the regular rate kicks in.
• How long do you have before the balance transfer rate runs out? It could be 6 months, 9, 12, etc, but you need to know.
• Is there an annual fee?
• Is there a limited time in which you have to instigate a balance transfer with the new bank – e.g. within three months of receiving the new card, or less?
• What does the balance transfer apply to? The special rate of interest applies to the transferred amount only. It will not apply to any new purchases, nor to any new cash transactions made on the card—these will be treated differently to the transferred amount.

Click and compare: low balance transfer credit cards

Easily compare: Rewards Credit Cards

The key points to consider when comparing different rewards credit cards are:

• Don’t assume you’re getting something for nothing – take into account every aspect of the card into account when comparing or you may end up paying more for few benefits.
• Is there an annual fee?  You may be paying more in fees than you receive back in rewards.
• How do you earn your points? Points are earned when you spend on your card. You should never think it is a good move to spend purely to earn points. If you end up not being able to pay off your balance at the end of the month, the value of any points earned will be more than wiped out by your interest payments.
• What are you points worth? Translate the reward points of different cards back into dollar value. E.g. $1 = 1 point = 5c, another may be $1 = 1 point = 50c, or $1 = 1 point = 75c etc. You need to put in the effort to uncover this information, but if you don’t do it then you cannot effectively compare different rewards schemes.
• How can you redeem your points? The main options are: Travel rewards: make sure your card is affiliated with the airline that you often use and that services routes you usually fly on. The rewards often also cover more than just flights. Retail goods: you can earn points for shopping at affiliated retail locations or whenever you make any purchase, or you can have discounts applied at the time of purchase with that specific card. Cashback: this means you get a certain amount of cashback for your spending. Either you get a percentage of your total spend back, usually 1%, or you can redeem accumulated points for cash. Cashback can be paid in multiple ways. Charities: These cards will donate a percentage of your total spend to the given charity.
• Cap and expiry – there may be a limit imposed on how many points you can earn on a certain period. Check the expiry date on points too – this prevents people who do not spend much from saving up for a decent reward because they are forced to redeem their points before then.
• Interest free days, interest rates, fees and charges. A rewards card is just like any other credit card and you will be hit with interest charges if you do not pay off your balance in full each month.

Click and compare: rewards credit cards

Easily compare: No Annual Fee Credit Cards

The key points to consider when comparing different No Annual Fee credit cards are:

• Is the provider compensating themselves in another way for waiving the annual fee?
• Does an annual fee kick in after a certain time period, e.g. after one year?
• What is the interest rate? Look for the lowest interest rate available unless you are absolutely, without a doubt certain that you’ll be able to pay off your debt in full each month.
• How many interest free days do you get? You should still be able to get interest-free days even if there is no annual fee. Most cards will allow up to 55 days interest-free credit on purchases, though it varies. Note that you don’t actually get 55 days interest free on all your purchases – this is the maximum amount of time you get if your first transaction is on the first day of your new statement period.
• Balance transfer offers – this is typically a popular hook to get new customers, however, if you do have a debt on another card and you can find a new provider offering a zero fee and a great balance transfer rate, you should grab it while you can. The new card provider will most likely be gambling on the possibility that you will not be able to pay off your transferred balance before the offer period expires and a much higher interest rate takes over. Make sure you check the fine print in this situation because the rate your balance transfer reverts to may not be the regular rate of interest; it may instead be the cash advance interest rate, which is usually around 20%. It is your responsibility to check, therefore, sure that you choose a balance transfer deal that is realistic. In other words, one that offers a long enough period of time to completely repay the debt.

Click and compare: no annual fee credit cards

Easily compare: Low Interest Credit Cards

The key points to consider when comparing different Low interest credit cards are:

• Look for the lowest annual fee
• Look for the lowest interest rate
• Check whether the rates are introductory rates or ongoing
• Check whether the card has a rewards scheme – but evaluate these with a fine toothed comb before going ahead, as you may lose out if you don’t
• Check for hidden fees and charges – read the fine print on the website before you apply
• Check what the cash transaction or cash handling fee is
• Check what the foreign transaction fees are if you travel

Click and compare: low interest credit cards

Find the best credit card for you

Compare Australian credit cards and read up on relevant and valuable Australian credit card articles. If you're new to credit cards or would like to find more information about particular credit cards, new and comprehensive credit card guides are listed.

• Compare the Best Credit Cards - We take the most popular credit card types and select the best credit card of each. Our rating of 'best' is a mixture of independent review, Cannex star ratings and consumer feedback.
• Compare the Top 10 Credit Cards - This is the same credit card comparison table which features on the homepage. The difference between 'best' and 'top' credit cards? This is a more straightforward table which focuses mainly on low interest cards.
• Compare Low Interest Credit Cards - One of the most popular forms of credit card. Simple and straight to the point, recommended for Australians who sometimes carry a credit card balance and need to save money with low rates.
• Low Interest Rate Information - Everything you need to know about the advantages and disadvantages of a low interest card vs other credit card forms. Links to various articles explaining relative low interest concepts, such as interest free days which will help determine whether a low rate card is suitable for your needs.
• Compare Balance Transfer Credit Cards - Get straight into comparing the best 0%, 2.9% and 4.9% balance transfer offers. Some handy tips on avoiding balance transfer traps and maximising your savings included on the page.
• Balance Transfer Information - A more comprehensive guide to balance transfers. The ultimate branch out to our balance transfer resources, explaining the in's and out's of the balance transfer process and the potential for savings.
• Compare Reward Program Credit Cards - People spend different amounts on their credit cards per annum. The amount you spend affects how much you can potentially earn, or lose from your reward cards. We compare the top reward cards in three different annual spend levels - $12,000+, $24,000+ and $60,000+.
• Reward Program Information - Reward programs are one of the most enticing and complex features of credit cards. On the surface it sounds easy - earn points for spending on your credit card, and redeem those points for rewards. However, once you take into account interest repayments and annual fees, it becomes obvious that credit cards with reward programs aren't for everyone. View our extensive resources to determine whether rewards are right for you.
• Compare No Annual Fee Credit Cards - No annual fees are arguably the most appealing feature to consider when you compare credit cards. Whether you're after a balance transfer, rewards, low interest or even a business card, everyone will seek out the lowest fee possible with their card.
• No Annual Fee Information - Credit cards with no annual fee often come with a catch, such as a lack of grace periods on purchases and high rates. If you're uncertain whether a no annual fee card will benefit you in the long run, have a read of the no annual fee credit card guide.
• Compare Gold & Platinum Credit Cards - For those who earn, spend and travel a lot there's no better and rewarding option than a gold credit card or a platinum credit card. While these cards have high annual fees and interest rates, they offer plenty of international travel benefits and insurance, high credit limits and other privileges.
• Gold & Platinum Information - While these credit cards offer plenty of features, they're only truly beneficial if you take advantage of them. Your $200+ annual fee covers a wide range of insurance and entertainment access, but you need to ask yourself whether it's truly worth the cost.
• Compare Debit Cards - Some of us either don't trust ourselves with a credit card, or truly don't need access to credit. They can make do with using their own savings, but would still like the purchase access that a credit card offers. The two best debit cards are listed on the page for ease of comparison.
• Debit Information - A comprehensive explanation of debit cards, weighing up the pros and cons of owning a credit card verses a debit card.
• Compare Cashback Cards - Cashback credit cards a sub-category of reward program cards. In essence there are two types of 'cashback' offers - 'cashback rewards' and money back. This comparison is predominantly for 'cashback rewards' because they are the most popular and valuable on the Australian market.
• Cashback Information - Find out the differences between the two forms of cashback card offers, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
• Overseas Travel Credit Cards - Learn everything you need to know about credit cards if you are considering travelling overseas.
• No Fee Balance Transfer Credit Cards - find out how to transfer your balance to a new credit card without paying a balance transfer fee
• Travel Services Credit Cards - Find credit cards that offers benefits for regular travellers
• Interest Free Credit Cards - Credit cards that offers an interest free balance transfer period or purchase rate
• Super Balance Transfer Credit cards - A credit card that features a phenomenal balance transfer offer, is targeted to attracting new customers. These are great offers if you are looking to consolidate and pay less credit card interest

Check out more credit card comparison tips and guides to help you compare credit cards and find a credit card that is right for you.

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• Business Credit Card Comparison
  

  The principle of a business credit card is quite similar to that of a personal credit card. However, there are some important differences, which offer business owners excellent advantages, including tax deductions on certain expenses and benefits available only to companies. With so many business credit cards available on the market, though, any business owner would be wise to conduct a business credit card comparison to make sure they are getting the best possible deal.

• 10 Ways To Compare Credit Cards That You Hadn’t Thought Of
  

  There are so many types of credit cards available that you may not know how to choose one. Here are some things to watch for on how to compare credit cards.

• The Difference between Standard, Gold, and Platinum Credit Cards
  

  When researching credit cards or applying for one, you have probably noticed that a lot of the cards are available in different colours. At first glance, though, it can be difficult to tell what the difference is between these cards, other than colour of course. However, you will notice that each colour is indicative of a certain tier and offers different benefits. The standard card is the lowest tier, followed by the gold card and the top tier is the platinum card.

• Why a Charge Card May Suit You Better Than a Credit Card
  

  The concerns of a credit card holder can be many, including concerns about the many fees and restrictions on their account that are slowly taking it toll on their financial peace. There is a way to stop all of that plus their purchases from coming back down the road to haunt them. By using a simple charge card in place of a credit card, users can use their charge card just like a credit card, and enjoy all the benefits, but none of the downsides. The following article details some of the advantages of using a charge card as opposed to a credit card.

• Credit Card Comparison: Which Interest Rates Matter Most?
  

  If you are looking for a new credit card, you will see a lot of different rates of interest being advertised. You need to know which interest rates are the most important and the ones that will affect your use of the card.

• Why Getting a Credit Card That Suits Your Lifestyle Can Actually Save You Money
  

  Undoubtedly, if you choose the type of credit card that is in line with your lifestyle and your spending habits, then you will save a lot of money in the long run. This is because you will be able to avoid paying high levels of interest and penalties or enjoy the benefits of a great rewards program. Therefore, the key to saving money with your credit cards is to ensure the card you apply for meets your requirements.

• Five Things To Look For When Comparing Credit Cards
  

  There are dozens of credit cards in Australia, each offering slightly different features and benefits. Choosing the right credit card for you can be a minefield. This guide should help.

• Credit vs Debit Card Comparison
  

  Nowadays, with online shopping becoming more widespread and an increasing number of offline retailers implementing systems that are moving away from cash transactions, plastic is practically a necessity. Additionally, cards are much safer than carrying around wads of cash and more and more people are looking for cheaper options that will help them manage their finances and their cash flow. With so many options on the market, it is important that people conduct a credit vs debit card comparison beforehand because these two types of cards are quite different.

• Credit Card Comparison Charts
  

  There are so many different offers for credit cards on the Australian market that it is absolutely mandatory to do a credit card comparison to find the best deal. The simplest way to do this comparison is with the help of credit card comparison charts as they centralise all the relevant information on various cards side by side.

• Balance Transfer Credit Card Comparison Guide
  

  Have you thought about transferring your credit card balance to save? That is what balance transfer is all about. Read on and compare the latest offerings of the best Australian credit card companies.

• Low Interest Credit Card Comparison
  

  If you’re paying exorbitant amounts of interest on your credit card bill each month, you could benefit by spending some time doing a low interest credit card comparison. Not only will you see how you can save money on interest, but you may also find there are some great deals out there.

• Low Rate Credit Card Comparison
  

  When the time comes to get credit cards, low rate credit card comparison is incredibly important. This should be the number one factor that helps you settle on the best credit card to meet your credit or credit repair (as the case may be) needs.

• Credit Card Comparison Balance Transfer
  

  Balance transfer credit cards are a great solution for many people to get their outstanding credit card debt under control. This is because these cards offer a very low interest rate for a predetermined period of time and in some cases the rate can be as low as 0%. However, once the promotional period is up, the rate usually reverts to the regular purchase rate of the credit card. In this article we will be looking at how a balance transfer credit card can benefit you, how you should use it to ensure you gain maximum benefits and how to conduct your own credit card comparison balance transfer to make sure you get the most advantageous deal possible.

• Credit Card Reviews – How to Review a Credit Card
  

  We are living in a time where virtually everybody carries at least one credit card in their wallet. If your changing credit card provider, what are you looking for in your new credit card? It’s time to carry out some credit card reviews. What’s the best way to conduct a credit card review?

• Why It Makes Sense To Use Online Credit Card Comparison When Choosing A Credit Card
  

  Credit cards are ubiquitous. It seems everyone has one these days but finding the right one does take some extra effort. Finding the right research and information can make all the difference when deciding on the right credit card for you.

• Why Doing Research About Australian Credit Card Options is a MUST
  

  If you’re thinking about applying for an Australian credit card, understanding the various credit card options and conducting the right kind of credit card research is vital. Otherwise you could end up with a card that isn’t right for your particular financial needs.

• Side By Side Comparison: Credit Cards vs Charge Cards
  

  Many people do not understand the difference between a credit card and a charge card. One is very different from the other and it is important to know these differences before making an application for either.

• 5 Features You Should Look For When Shopping For a Credit Card
  

  It is a rare person these days that is without a credit card. Finding the right credit card, however, does take some effort and research on the part of the borrower. There will be specific things that you will want to consider when searching for that perfect card.

• Credit Card Comparison Tables
  

  Getting a credit card is just as important, if not more important, as making any large purchase. So, if you spend days researching and checking different stores to find the best deal on a microwave or a refrigerator, why wouldn’t you do at least the same when applying for a new credit card? Sadly, it seems that very few Australians who actually take the time to research credit card offers and they end up burning money by paying higher interest costs than necessary. However, we are going to show you how you can easily do a credit card comparison, which won’t take you days, with the help of credit card comparison tables.

• Compare 0% Balance Transfer Credit Cards
  

  0% balance transfer offers provide you with instant savings benefits taking a big chunk out of repayments and debt. Having the ability to transfer your existing credit card balances on to a new balance transfer card can have significant benefits. Follow our guide to balance transfer card comparison helping you compare the best 0% interest balance transfer credit cards.

Popular Credit Card Offers

			Interest Rate (p.a.)	Balance Transfer Rate (p.a.)	Annual fee	Cash Advance Rate (p.a.)
	Westpac Low Rate Card - 0% Offer	A credit card with a low rate offer on both balance transfers and purchases, plus a low annual fee.	0% for 6 months (reverts to 13.49% )	0% for 6 months	$45	21.49%
	Citibank Clear Platinum Card	Competitive interest rate on purchases and balance transfers offer.	11.99%	2.9% for 12 months	$99	21.74%
	St George Vertigo	Take advantage of this great offer from St.George with a low rate on purchases and a low balance transfer offer.	13.24%	0.99% for 12 months	$55	21.49%
	ANZ Platinum Credit Card	An introductory interest rate offer on balance transfers and purchases, plus a $0 first year annual fee.	0% for 6 months (reverts to 19.24% )	0% for 6 months	$0 annual fee for the first year( $87 thereafter)	20.99%