Choosing the right credit card is one of the most important decisions in the financial field. However, the number of offers and also the comparisons causes confusion for many consumers. We want to change that! We not only offer you a detailed credit card comparison for Germany, but also valuable insights to help you find the perfect card for your individual needs.
The Basics of Credit Cards
What is a credit card?
A credit card is more than just a piece of plastic in your wallet. It is a powerful financial instrument that allows you to buy now and pay later. By granting a short-term loan through the card issuer, you can make purchases, avail services, or even withdraw cash without needing or using immediate liquidity.
How do credit cards work?
The principle behind credit cards is simple: every time you use your card, the card-issuing bank lends you money to pay for your transaction. At the end of the billing cycle, you will receive an invoice for your purchases. You can decide to repay the entire amount at once or in installments, with the latter being subject to loan interest will be charged.
The different types of credit cards and what makes them stand out
Credit cards come in many different variants, each with its own merits and uses. Here is a brief overview:
- Standard credit cards: Ideal for everyday use, without specific rewards or discounts.
- Bonus or Reward Cards: Offer points, miles or cashback on credit card spending.
- Travel Credit Cards: Ideal for frequent travelers, with perks such as travel insurance and airport lounge access.
- Business Credit Cards: Designed for the needs of businesses, with dedicated expense reports and rewards programs.
Each type of card has its own criteria and benefits, so it’s important to choose a card that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
With that in mind, let’s dive deeper into the world of credit cards and find out how to find the best one for you.
The best credit cards in Germany at a glance
Choosing the right credit card can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available on the German market. To make your decision easier, we have carefully reviewed the best credit cards in Switzerland as part of our credit card comparison. Here’s what you need to know:
Credit Card Test: The Best Credit Cards Compared
The performance of a credit card is determined by various factors, including fees, interest, rewards, and ancillary services. We have analyzed these factors in our card comparison to offer you a selection of the best credit cards tailored to different needs. From offering cashback credit cards, to those geared towards travelers, to premium credit cards, our comparison covers all aspects.
The Best Free Credit Cards
For those looking for a simple, cost-effective option, we’ve also picked the best free credit card in our review. Free cards offer the basic utility of a credit card without paying an annual fee to the credit card company. Some even offer additional benefits such as cashback on your purchases or no fees for foreign transactions.
Germany’s best credit card for specific needs
Not every credit card fits every lifestyle. Therefore, we have identified specific categories in which certain credit cards particularly shine:
- For travel: These cards offer travel insurance, free airport lounge access, and bonus points for flight and hotel bookings.
- For everyday use: Ideal for everyday use, with cashback on supermarket purchases and petrol station visits.
- For online shopping: Special offers and discounts at selected online retailers, as well as increased protection for online transactions.
- Prepaid credit cards: In some use cases, it may make sense that credit cards must first be “topped up” with money. This is called a “prepaid” credit card. Only the money that has been deposited into it can be spent here.
Each of these types of cards has unique advantages that make them ideal for the mentioned applications. By analyzing your personal preferences and habits, you can choose the card that will give you the most benefit.
With this overview, we hope to have given you a clear starting point for your search for the perfect credit card. The right choice depends on your individual needs and financial goals. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the costs and fees that play an important role in choosing your credit card.
Costs and Fees: A Deciding Factor
When comparing credit cards, the costs and fees associated with using the card are crucial factors. These can have a significant impact on the overall value of the card to you. Here is an overview of the most important cost types:
How much does it cost to pay by credit card in Germany?
There may be various fees associated with the use of a credit card, including:
- Renewal fees: Some credit cards charge an annual usage fee, which varies depending on the card and services offered.
- Transaction: Purchases in foreign currencies may incur fees, typically a percentage of the transaction amount.
- Cash Withdrawal Fees: Withdrawing cash with your credit card can be expensive, as it often incurs fees and high interest rates from the date of withdrawal.
Fee-free credit cards: which one is the best?
Fee-free credit cards, which don’t charge an annual usage fee, are particularly attractive to users who want to use the basic features of a credit card at no extra cost. Some of these cards offer additional benefits such as cashback or no foreign currency fees, making them even more valuable.
Additional costs: Assignment abroad and more
In addition to the usual fees, you should also pay attention to costs incurred when using your card abroad or for special services:
- Foreign Transaction Fees: These are collected when you use your card for payments outside Switzerland.
- Costs for special services: These include fees for replacement cards, late payments, or credit line overdrafts.
To get the best terms, it’s important to take a close look at each credit card’s fee structure and match it to your own usage habits. A thorough comparison can help you find a card that suits your needs without incurring unnecessarily high costs.
With a clear understanding of the costs and fees associated with different credit cards, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the topic and answer some of the most common questions you may have when it comes to credit cards in Switzerland.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about credit cards in Switzerland
When looking for the ideal credit card, numerous questions often arise. Here we answer some of the most common concerns to help you make better-informed decisions.
How many credit cards can you have in Germany?
In Germany, there is no legal limit to the number of credit cards a person can hold. However, it is important that you are able to stay in control of your finances and pay your bills on time to avoid any negative impact on your credit score.
Which toll-free credit card is the best?
The “best” fee-free credit card depends on your individual needs and usage habits. Some cards offer additional benefits such as cashback or travel insurance, while others offer a simple structure at no extra cost. Compare the available options to find the card that suits you best.
Are 2 credit cards bad for the credit bureau?
Two credit cards in themselves are not necessarily bad for your credit rating or your creditworthiness. Rather, how you use these cards depends on several factors. Here are some points to consider:
- Usage and payment history: If you use your credit cards regularly and always pay your bills on time and in full, this can have a positive effect on your creditworthiness. A good payment history is taken into account by Schufa.
- Credit card utilization: A high amount used in relation to your credit limit (e.g. 80% or more) can be viewed negatively. It is advisable to control the use of credit cards in order to avoid high utilization.
- Number of credit cards: Two credit cards are usually unproblematic. However, multiple credit cards can potentially cause banks to question your financial discipline, especially if many cards have a high credit limit at the same time.
- Inquiries and new contracts: If you regularly apply for new credit cards, the inquiries can also have an impact on your Schufa rating. It is advisable to keep such inquiries to a minimum.
Overall, it is important to use credit cards responsibly. If you make your payments on time and do not overcharge your credit cards, two credit cards should not negatively affect your credit rating. You can find more information in the articles on Schufa and credit card management.
What do I need to look for in a credit card?
Important factors include annual fees, interest rates for installments, fees for foreign transactions, cashback or bonus programs, as well as additional benefits such as travel insurance.
Which credit cards are accepted in Germany?
Most international credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted in Switzerland.
With these answers, we hope to have clarified some of your questions. Credit cards offer a variety of benefits and features tailored to different needs. In the next section, we’ll take a look at the different credit card providers and brands in Switzerland to give you a more comprehensive overview.
Credit card providers and brands in Germany
The choice of credit cards in Germany is large and varied, with each brand and provider offering its own unique benefits. Understanding the key players in the market can help you make the best choice for your financial needs.
Overview of credit card brands
In Switzerland, the most widely used credit card brands are Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Each of these brands offers a wide range of card options, from basic versions with no annual fee to premium cards with extensive rewards programs and insurance benefits.
- Known for their global acceptance and security, Visa and Mastercard offer a variety of cards that cater to different customer segments.
- American Express, often known as Amex, stands out for its own rewards system and exclusive offers for cardholders.
Comparison of credit card providers
When comparing the different providers, it’s important to consider the annual fees, interest rates, rewards programs, as well as additional benefits such as insurance and access to exclusive events:
| Credit card name | Annual fee | Bonus | Special perks | Insurances | Particularities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BonusCard Classic | 50% Off First Annual Fee | – | Pay & withdraw money worldwide | – | Also available as a prepaid credit card, Apple & Google Pay |
| LibertyCard Visa | Half an annual fee for the first year | – | Earn miles with every franc | – | Basic insurance package, Apple Pay & Google Pay |
| SimplyCard Visa | Low annual fee | – | Cashless payments and withdrawals worldwide | – | Available as a prepaid card or credit card, Apple Pay & Google Pay |
| Blackcatcard Prepaid Mastercard | Free | – | 5% cashback on Google Play Market and 2% on Amazon | – | Free Worldwide Delivery |
| LibertyCard Prepaid Visa | 50% discount for the first year | – | Earn points/miles with every franc spent | – | Prepaid Credit Card, Apple Pay & Google Pay |
| neon green Mastercard | 10 francs starting credit with the code ‘reisetopia’ | – | CO2-neutral account, sustainable wooden card | – | Transfers to 40 currency areas |
| American Express Green Card | 1st annual fee for free | 1 Membership Rewards point for every 2 francs spent | Travel & Accident Insurance, Shopping Insurance | – | – |
| neon metal Mastercard | 10 francs starting credit with the code ‘reisetopia’ | – | Free cash withdrawals worldwide, Exclusive insurance packages | – | Transfers to 40 currency areas |
| American Express Blue | Half annual fee | – | Benefits via American Express Selects, insurance package included | – | Mobile Payment Options |
| BonusCard Visa Exclusive | 50% Off First Annual Fee | – | Detailed insurance package, Earn multiple points with every franc spent | – | Apple & Google Pay available |
| BonusCard Gold Visa | 50% Off First Annual Fee | – | Travel insurance included, earn points with every franc spent | – | Apple & Google Pay available |
| Migros Visa Free | No annual fee | – | Collect Cumulus points with every franc of sales, travel interruption insurance | Purchase insurance | Mobile Payment Options |
| Credit Suisse Bonviva Gold Duo | Integrated into the Bonviva Platinum Banking package | – | Earn miles with every franc of spending, insurance package included | – | American Express with Mastercard / Visa (selectable) |
| Migros Cumulus Visa | Free credit card – no annual fee | – | No foreign currency fee, collect Cumulus points with every franc spent | Travel Insurance | – |
| Credit Suisse Bonviva Platinum Duo | Integrated into the Bonviva Platinum Banking package | – | Earn miles with every franc of spending, Comprehensive insurance package | – | 24-hour concierge service, priority pass included |
| Coop Supercard Credit Card | No annual fee | – | Collect Superpoints with every franc of sales, travel and flight accident insurance | – | Mobile Payment Options |
| Credit Suisse Bonviva Silver Duo | Included in the Bonviva Silver Banking package | – | Earn miles with every franc of turnover, transport accident insurance | – | American Express with Mastercard / Visa (selectable) |
| Hilton Credit Card | – | 5,000 points (= 1 free night) as a bonus | Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status, Discount on Food & Beverage at Hilton | Optional insurance package with strong benefits | – |
| UBS Prepaid Credit Card | – | – | Earn miles thanks to UBS KeyClub | – | No credit check, from 12 years, Fast top-up from UBS account |
| Visa Platinum | – | – | Priority Pass included, reduction of the annual fee due to sales | Comprehensive insurance package | Available in Swiss francs, euros and US dollars |
| N26 Standard Mastercard | Permanent with no annual fee | – | Free Payments Worldwide, Smart Online Banking | – | Free cash withdrawals |
| Swiss Miles & More Classic Duo | Half annual fee in the 1st year | 12,000 Miles & More Miles | Earn miles with every franc spent | Travel Comfort, Transport Accident | Stop mileage expiration |
| American Express Platinum Card | Half annual fee in the 1st year | 60,000 Points | Annual Travel Credit, Lounge Access, Points Earning | – | – |
| Swiss Miles & More Gold Duo | Half annual fee in the 1st year | 15,000 Miles & More Miles | Earn miles, high acceptance | Insurance package included | Stop mileage expiration |
| Travel Prepaid Mastercard | No annual fee | – | No foreign currency charges, available in EUR, USD, CHF | – | Fast charging via app |
| American Express Gold Card | Half annual fee in the 1st year | 30,000 Membership Rewards points | Earn points, two complimentary lounge entries | – | 100 francs dining credit per year |
| Swiss Miles & More Platinum Duo | Half an annual fee for free | 20,000 Miles & More Miles | Swiss First Class check-in, comprehensive insurance package | Comprehensive insurance package | Stop mileage expiration |
| neon free Mastercard | Free | – | Transfers to 40 currency areas, payment with eBill | – | 10 francs starting credit, free Mastercard debit card |
| Poinz Swiss Loyalty Card | No annual fee | – | Up to 1 percent cashback worldwide | – | Additional cards free of charge |
| Zak Visa Debit | Free | 50 francs starting credit | Mobile payments with Google Pay, Apple Pay | – | Pay for free worldwide |
| Yuh Mastercard | Free | 50 CHF Trading Credits | Payment with eBill and TWINT | – | Free Mastercard debit card, 13 currencies |
| Swisscard Cashback Cards | Free | Up to 100 francs starting bonus | Cashback refund for each payment | – | Duplicate Amex & Visa/Mastercard cards |
| Wise Card Credit Card | No annual fee | – | Single account for 50+ currencies, Apple Pay and Google Pay | – | Quick account opening |
| Cornèrcard Miles & More Combined Offer Gold | Half annual fee in the 1st year | 20,000 Miles & More Miles | Earn miles with every franc spent | – | Unlimited validity of Miles and More miles |
Choosing the right credit card provider and brand depends on your personal and financial needs. Do you want a simple card for everyday purchases or a premium card with extensive additional services? The answers to these questions will help you make an informed decision.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and loyalty programs that can help you get the most out of your credit card.
Benefits and Bonus Programs
Choosing a credit card isn’t just based on cost. Benefits and loyalty programs play a crucial role in how valuable a card can be to the cardholder. Here are some of the key benefits that credit cards can offer and how to get the most out of them.
Credit cards with the best loyalty programs
Loyalty programs reward you with points, miles or cashback for using your credit card. The most attractive programs offer:
- Cashback: A refund of a percentage of your expenses, directly to your credit card account or as a credit.
- Points Programs: Earn points for every franc spent, which can be exchanged for goods, services or airline miles.
- Travel miles: Perfect for frequent travelers, these cards earn miles that can be redeemed for airline tickets, upgrades, and other travel services.
The best choice depends on your personal spending habits and preferences. Some cards offer flexible reward options that allow for a combination of these benefits.
Additional credit card services
In addition to bonus programs, many credit cards offer other benefits that can increase their value:
- Travel insurance: Many credit cards include travel insurance benefits, such as cancellation and travel medical insurance, which provide additional protection while traveling.
- Purchase insurance: Protection against theft, damage or loss of goods purchased with the card.
- Access to airport lounges: Premium credit cards often offer free or discounted access to airport lounges worldwide.
- Exclusive offers and discounts: Partnerships with retailers, restaurants, and other service providers provide cardholders with special discounts and offers.
These add-ons can be especially valuable if they are tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. It is worthwhile, similar to comparing loansit is also worth carefully comparing the offers of different cards to find the one that offers you the greatest benefit.
Choosing the right credit card with the right benefits and rewards programs can be a great way to get value out of your day-to-day spending. However, be sure to read the terms and restrictions of these offers to make sure they meet your expectations.
Now that we’ve looked at the different benefits and rewards programs that credit cards can offer, let’s next turn to the security aspects and protections that are important for credit card holders.
Credit Card Security and Safeguards
In an age where online transactions are ubiquitous, credit card security is more important than ever. Fortunately, modern credit cards offer a variety of security features that protect your financial assets and personal information.
Insurance and protection
Many credit cards include insurance and protection, which can provide a valuable safety net in unexpected situations:
- Fraud Protection: Almost all credit cards offer fraud protection, which protects you from unauthorized transactions. If your card is stolen or fraudulent activities you are generally not responsible for these expenses.
- Limitation: Many providers limit your liability in the event of theft or loss of your card, provided you report the incident in time.
- Travel insurance: This can provide protection in the event of trip cancellation, trip interruption, loss of baggage and other unforeseen events.
Tips for using credit cards safely
In addition to the security measures built in by the providers, there are also steps you can take yourself to increase your credit card security:
- Regularly monitor your account activity: Keep an eye out for unusual transactions and report them to your credit card provider immediately.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Secure your online accounts with strong, unique passwords and, if possible, enable two-factor authentication.
- Be careful when shopping online: Only use your credit card on trusted websites and make sure your connection is secure (HTTPS).
- Keep your credit card information safe: Never share your card details openly and keep physical cards in a safe place.
Combining these security measures with the protection provided by your card can ensure a high level of security and protect you from financial loss.
In the next section, we’ll go over the acceptance and uses of credit cards to give you a complete overview of how and where to use your card, both in Switzerland and internationally.
Acceptance and possible applications
The acceptance of credit cards has increased worldwide, and the flexibility they offer makes them an essential financial tool for many people. However, there are still differences in acceptance and uses, depending on the map and the location. Here’s an overview of what you should know.
Credit card acceptance in Germany and abroad
Credit cards are widely accepted in Switzerland, from supermarkets and restaurants to online stores. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, while American Express and Diners Club can be used in slightly fewer stores. If you’re traveling abroad, it’s good to know that Visa and Mastercard enjoy almost worldwide acceptance, making them a great choice for travelers.
Mobile payment services and credit cards
The integration of credit cards with mobile payment services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay has made the use of credit cards even more convenient. These services allow you to securely store your credit card in your smartphone and make payments with a simple touch or facial recognition. The adoption of mobile payments is growing both in Switzerland and internationally, making it a convenient option for fast and secure transactions.
Applying for Credit Cards: A Guide
Applying for a credit card is a relatively simple process, but there are some important steps and considerations.
The credit card application process
- Comparison of options: Start with a thorough comparison of available credit cards to find the one that best suits your needs.
- Review of requirements: Make sure you meet the card’s requirements, such as minimum income and credit score.
- Submission of the application: You can submit your application online, by mail, or sometimes in person at the bank. You will need to provide personal information, proof of income, and sometimes other documents.
- Waiting for approval: After verifying your details, the provider will decide whether you will be approved for the card. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Requirements for a credit card in Germany
In Germany, applicants must fulfill various requirements in order to apply for a credit card. Here are the most important criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old. Some banks also allow minors to apply for a credit card, but usually only in conjunction with a parent or guardian.
- Income: A regular income is required. Most banks will require proof of your income to ensure that you are able to pay your bills.
- Credit rating: A good credit rating is crucial. Banks generally check your Schufa file to assess your creditworthiness. A positive Schufa report is necessary to obtain a credit card.
- Residence: You must be resident in Germany. This is important for the identity check and contract creation.
- Proof of identity: When applying, you must present a valid ID or passport. Confirmation of address may also be required.
Conclusion: How to choose the right credit card?
Choosing the right credit card depends on a number of personal factors, including your financial habits, needs, and goals. Consider each card’s annual fees, interest rates, rewards, and security features to make a decision that suits your needs. Remember that a credit card is a tool that, if used responsibly, can increase your financial flexibility and provide valuable benefits. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them by e-mail. Write to info@kredit-fuchs.de
