Comparing credit cards before you apply will help you to find one with the right balance of features, perks, and fees to suit your needs. Using the table below, you can see a range of options from various providers and compare them side-by-side.
HSBC Credit Card Offer
HSBC Platinum Credit Card - Balance Transfer Offer
0% p.a. for 22 months on balance transfers
Offer ends 31 March 2020
Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply
HSBC Credit Card Offer
A platinum card offering 0% interest on balance transfers for 22 months with no balance transfer fee. Plus, an annual fee refund each year when you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases
Credit cards offer a wide range of features to suit different spending habits and goals. For example, if you want to pay off existing card debt, you could look at a card with a 0% balance transfer offer or if you want to be rewarded for your spending, you could look at reward and frequent flyer cards.
Once you know what you want from a credit card, you can focus your search by comparing credit cards in a specific category. Here are six of the most popular options.
Balance transfer credit cards. These cards offer you a low or 0% promotional interest rate when you move your existing credit card debt onto the new account. This can help you save on interest charges and pay off the debt faster.
Frequent flyer credit cards. Compare credit cards that offer thousands of bonus frequent flyer points through introductory offers, as well as points per $1 spent on your everyday, eligible purchases.
Reward credit cards. Earn points for your spending and redeem them for travel, gift cards, merchandise and more with a rewards credit card.
Low rate credit cards. Designed to help you save on interest charges, these credit cards offer a lower interest rate for purchases compared to other options.
0% purchase rate credit cards. These credit cards can help you save on new purchases by offering you a 0% interest rate for the first few months you have the card. After this introductory period ends, the card's standard interest rate applies to any balance from your purchases.
Other types of credit cards
Here are some of the other credit card categories you can consider when comparing different options.
To compare other credit card options, you can also check out our exclusive credit card deals for the latest introductory and sign-up offers that aren’t available anywhere else.
How to compare credit cards
No matter what type of credit card you’re looking for, it’s important to consider a range of factors so that you can get one that works for you. So, here are the key features you should look at when you compare credit cards.
Introductory offers
Credit cards often come with promotional features and perks for new customers, such as introductory 0% interest rates, bonus points or waived annual fees in the first year. These types of deals can give you more value when you first get a new card, as long as you meet the offer requirements.
Complimentary extras
Credit cards offer a wide range of complimentary features and benefits that you can use to get more value from the account.
Travel and medical insurance
Airport lounge passes
Flight and travel vouchers
Concierge services
Ticket and event offers
Purchase protection insurance
Extended warranty cover
Hotel discounts and status credits
Discounts with retail partners
Complimentary subscriptions
These perks can add up to hundreds of dollars of extra value, but only if you use them. When you’re looking at the complimentary extras during your credit card comparison, be realistic about whether or not you will be able to get value from these features so that they offset the cost of any fees.
As well as deciding which rewards program you want, think about how often you'll use the card and the amount of points you need to redeem rewards. This will help you compare different rewards credit cards so you can find one that works for you.
Rates and fees
Carefully comparing and understanding the rates and fees will help you work out the overall cost of each credit card you compare. Here are the key details to consider:
Annual fee: the amount you'll pay every year to keep the card and the account open (ranges from $0 to over $1,200)
Purchase rate: the interest rate charged for most purchases you make (usually 8.99% to 22% p.a.)
Interest-free days: the amount of days applicable to new purchases where interest isn't charged (usually 45 to 55)
Cash advance rate: charged when you make an ATM withdrawal or cash-equivalent transaction (usually 19.99% to 24.99% p.a.)
Cash advance fee: charged as a one-time fee when you make a cash-equivalent transaction (usually the greater of 2% of the transaction amount or $20)
Balance transfer rate: the interest rate that applies to your balance on the new card (usually 0% - 2.99% p.a.)
Balance transfer fees: if applicable, a percentage of the amount transferred charged as a one-time fee (usually 1% - 3%)
International transaction fees: charged when you make a transaction in a foreign currency (usually 2% - 3.5%)
Other fees and charges: additional cardholder fees, printed statement fees, optional rewards program enrolment
Make sure you consider these charges and when they could apply, so that you know what other potential costs you may have to pay for the card you choose.
From low rate and balance transfer options to rewards credit cards, super-premium platinum and black cards or those with no fees, there are credit cards available to suit almost anyone’s needs. Now that you understand more about the different factors that need to be considered, you can start comparing credit cards and apply for one that really works for you.
Sally McMullen is Finder's credit cards and frequent flyer editor by day and a music maven by night. Her byline can be spotted on Yahoo Finance, Dynamic Business, Financy and Mamamia as well as Music Feeds and Rolling Stone.
I just need a card to purchase something overseas because I don’t know how to bank online and I don’t trust it. I had use a card before that I bought from a petrol station. I forgot the name of the card. Can you help please thanks for your help?
I’m afraid that I am unable to provide further info on that particular card you got from a petrol station however, you may go through this page about purchasing fuel voucher/gift card. You may also check out our guide to fuel cardsto learn more about how these cards work and to compare your options.
If you consider getting a travel card, you may compare your options on this page. Please make sure though to read the eligibility criteria, features and details of the card, as well as the relevant PDS/ T&Cs of the card before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you.
A secured credit card requires a security deposit before you can begin making charges. That security deposit acts as your credit limit. Although that may sound like a debit card or prepaid card, the secured credit card will report your payment history to the credit bureaus, which debit and prepaid cards do not do. After a year or so of using a secured card, you may be able to upgrade to an unsecured account and get your deposit back. You may click the link below to be routed to our page on secured credit cards and how it would help you build back your credit. Hope this helps!
Would it be possible to request a history of promotional deals, specifically those pertaining to interest free periods on purchases, that were available from the National Australia Bank (NAB) in March/April 2016?
You can check this page for Qantas Frequent Flyer Credit Cards comparison. You may click the name of your preferred card to know more details and you may click the green “Go to site” button to submit an online application through their official site.
I’m new to this whole credit card thing but I’m after basically a small credit card amount for personal and emergency use. I’m curious for your advice as to what would be the best one to start off with?
As a financial comparison service, we’re unable to recommend any specific product, service or strategy to our users as the ‘best’ option will always depend on the individual’s financial situation and needs. I would recommend you to compare different credit cards based on the offer provided and fees involved in conjunction with your financial situations and eligibility requirements.
Hi. I am searching for the best credit card that has NO capped frequent flyer points per month and also does not reduce the number of points per month after a certain $ amount is reached. Any suggestions?. Both Citi Emirates card and Virgin money cards are capping in March and April 2016 and I need to find an un-capped and unlimited card. Prefer someone linked to Velocity but will take Qantas points if no other choice. Thanks. John
Thank you for your inquiry.
Please note that you’ve come through finder.com.au, an online comparison service and is not in the position to recommend specific issuers, products or services.
To compare credit cards with uncapped points and no expiry, please check this page.
Changing to a new balance transfer credit card can reduce the interest rate that you are currently paying. Please refer to the following link for 0% balance transfer credit cards.
Considering a credit card; no other supplementary income – $1132 p/f. Child Support additional $399 a year. Low credit rating.
Have looked at lenders page providing information in regards to lenders who do accept centrelink as a form of income but so far I am not getting the answers I’m looking for. Only looking for a low limit so not to overspend, easy to keep track of for emergencies.
Generally with applying for a credit card, Centrelink benefits are handled on a case by case basis by banks/ lenders. The application requirements on each credit card provide an indicator to whether you are eligible to apply. For any further inquiries it is recommended to speak to the bank directly either through customer service centre or local branch. You may like to refer to the following link for more information on lenders who accept Centrelink benefits as a form of income and other loan options. Please also refer to this page for low interest rate credit cards.
* The credit card offers compared on this page are chosen from a range of credit
cards finder.com.au has access to track details from and is not representative
of all the products available in the market. Products are displayed in no particular
order or ranking. The use of terms 'Best' and 'Top' are not product ratings and are
subject to our disclaimer.
You should consider seeking independent financial advice and consider your own
personal financial circumstances when comparing cards.
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Important information about this website
finder.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We compare from a wide set of major banks, insurers and product issuers.
finder.com.au has access to track details from the product issuers listed on our sites. Although we provide information on the products offered by a wide range of issuers, we don't cover every available product. You should consider whether the products featured on our site are appropriate for your needs and seek independent advice if you have any questions.
Products marked as 'Promoted' or "Advertisement" are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options and find the best option for you.
The identification of a group of products, as 'Top' or 'Best' is a reflection of user preferences based on current website data. On a regular basis, analytics drive the creation of a list of popular products. Where these products are grouped, they appear in no particular order.
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We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.
Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labelling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.
Providing or obtaining an estimated insurance quote through us does not guarantee you can get the insurance. Acceptance by insurance companies is based on things like occupation, health and lifestyle. By providing you with the ability to apply for a credit card or loan we are not guaranteeing that your application will be approved. Your application for credit products is subject to the Provider's terms and conditions as well as their application and lending criteria.
Please read our website terms of use for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.
I just need a card to purchase something overseas because I don’t know how to bank online and I don’t trust it. I had use a card before that I bought from a petrol station. I forgot the name of the card. Can you help please thanks for your help?
Martina
Hi Martina,
Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.
I’m afraid that I am unable to provide further info on that particular card you got from a petrol station however, you may go through this page about purchasing fuel voucher/gift card. You may also check out our guide to fuel cards to learn more about how these cards work and to compare your options.
If you consider getting a travel card, you may compare your options on this page. Please make sure though to read the eligibility criteria, features and details of the card, as well as the relevant PDS/ T&Cs of the card before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you.
I hope this helps.
Thank you and have a wonderful day!
Cheers,
Jeni
Need. A credit card that will accept my 218 credit score
Hi Max,
Thank you for reaching out to finder.
A secured credit card requires a security deposit before you can begin making charges. That security deposit acts as your credit limit. Although that may sound like a debit card or prepaid card, the secured credit card will report your payment history to the credit bureaus, which debit and prepaid cards do not do. After a year or so of using a secured card, you may be able to upgrade to an unsecured account and get your deposit back. You may click the link below to be routed to our page on secured credit cards and how it would help you build back your credit. Hope this helps!
https://www.finder.com.au/secured-credit-cards
Cheers,
Reggie
Would it be possible to request a history of promotional deals, specifically those pertaining to interest free periods on purchases, that were available from the National Australia Bank (NAB) in March/April 2016?
Hi Marisa,
Thanks for your inquiry.
Yes, you may visit the nearest NAB office or call 13 22 65 to get a copy of your statement.
Hope this information helped.
Cheers,
Arnold
What card offers the most Qantas points for a new credit card?
Hi Richard,
Thanks for your inquiry.
You can check this page for Qantas Frequent Flyer Credit Cards comparison. You may click the name of your preferred card to know more details and you may click the green “Go to site” button to submit an online application through their official site.
Cheers,
Rench
Which credit cards offer ApplePay?
Hi DD,
Thanks for your question.
You can compare credit cards with Apple Pay on this page.
Cheers,
Anndy
I’m new to this whole credit card thing but I’m after basically a small credit card amount for personal and emergency use. I’m curious for your advice as to what would be the best one to start off with?
Cheers.
Hi Bec, thanks for your inquiry.
As a financial comparison service, we’re unable to recommend any specific product, service or strategy to our users as the ‘best’ option will always depend on the individual’s financial situation and needs. I would recommend you to compare different credit cards based on the offer provided and fees involved in conjunction with your financial situations and eligibility requirements.
You may also refer to our tips to consider when applying for your first credit card.
I hope this has helped.
Sharon
Hi. I am searching for the best credit card that has NO capped frequent flyer points per month and also does not reduce the number of points per month after a certain $ amount is reached. Any suggestions?. Both Citi Emirates card and Virgin money cards are capping in March and April 2016 and I need to find an un-capped and unlimited card. Prefer someone linked to Velocity but will take Qantas points if no other choice. Thanks. John
Hi John,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Please note that you’ve come through finder.com.au, an online comparison service and is not in the position to recommend specific issuers, products or services.
To compare credit cards with uncapped points and no expiry, please check this page.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Debbie
Does changing to a new credit card and transferring the balance reduce the interest rate?
Hi Wolfie, thanks for your inquiry!
Changing to a new balance transfer credit card can reduce the interest rate that you are currently paying. Please refer to the following link for 0% balance transfer credit cards.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Hi,
I am under 457 visa can i apply for a card that states not for temporary resident?
Many thanks
Kind regards,
Chris
Hi Chris, thanks for your inquiry!
For more information on which lenders/ banks provide credit card services for 457 Visa holders please see this page.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Considering a credit card; no other supplementary income – $1132 p/f. Child Support additional $399 a year. Low credit rating.
Have looked at lenders page providing information in regards to lenders who do accept centrelink as a form of income but so far I am not getting the answers I’m looking for. Only looking for a low limit so not to overspend, easy to keep track of for emergencies.
Hi Leah, thanks for your inquiry!
Generally with applying for a credit card, Centrelink benefits are handled on a case by case basis by banks/ lenders. The application requirements on each credit card provide an indicator to whether you are eligible to apply. For any further inquiries it is recommended to speak to the bank directly either through customer service centre or local branch. You may like to refer to the following link for more information on lenders who accept Centrelink benefits as a form of income and other loan options. Please also refer to this page for low interest rate credit cards.
Cheers,
Jonathan