Every month, Finder's experts examine over 250 cards in our database to determine our best credit cards for different categories. We narrow it down to cards available through Finder and analyse them based on the rates, fees, offer details and any other factors specific to the category of credit cards.
In addition to the key factors, we may consider any additional features or introductory offers that are relevant and have the potential to offer further value.
In-depth methodology based on the type of credit card
Finder's experts have created specific methodology for the most popular types of credit cards.
We don't always include each category as part of our top picks, as sometimes there are limited offers available. But we have included each type of credit card methodology here for accuracy.
Balance transfer credit card methodology
To be eligible for this category, credit cards must offer a 0% balance transfer rate for an introductory period. The other key factors we consider are:
- The length of the introductory period (the longer the period, the higher the ranking)
- Whether or not there is a balance transfer fee
- The annual fee, including if it is waived in the first year
- The purchase rate
- The interest rate that applies to balance transfers after the introductory period
Low rate credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider a low rate credit card to offer an interest rate below 15% p.a. for purchases. The other key factors we consider are:
- The annual fee, including if it is waived in the first year
- 0% balance transfer offers
- 0% purchase rate offers
- Cashback offers
- The cash advance interest rate and/or rate that applies after any introductory period
$0 annual fee credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer either a waived annual fee or an ongoing $0 annual fee for this category. The other key factors we consider are:
- The annual fee after the first year (the lower the ongoing annual fee, the higher the ranking)
- Bonus point offers
- 0% balance transfer offers
- 0% purchase rate offers
- The ongoing interest rate for purchases
0% foreign fee credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees on overseas purchases, including those made online with businesses based overseas. The other key factors we consider are:
- The annual fee
- The interest rate for purchases
- The cash advance interest rate and fees
- Overseas ATM withdrawal fees
- Complimentary travel insurance
- Additional travel benefits, including airport lounge access or frequent flyer points
Rewards credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer introductory bonus points for this category. The other key factors we consider are:
- The amount of bonus points offered (the more points, the higher the ranking)
- Bonus point spend requirements
- The annual fee
- The points earned per $1 on eligible spending
- The value of points, based on reward examples and/or Finder's points value calculator
- The terms for interest-free days on purchases
- The interest rate for purchases
Frequent flyer credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer introductory bonus frequent flyer points or status for this category. The other key factors we consider are:
- The amount of bonus points offered (the more points, the higher the ranking)
- Bonus point spend requirements
- The annual fee
- The points earned per $1 on eligible spending
- The value of points, based on reward examples and/or Finder's points value calculator
- The terms for interest-free days on purchases
- The interest rate for purchases
0% purchases credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer an introductory 0% interest rate for purchases. The other key factors we consider are:
- The length of the introductory period (the longer the period, the higher the ranking)
- The purchase rate that applies after the introductory period
- The annual fee, including if it is waived in the first year
Cashback credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer introductory cashback or an ongoing rate of cashback for this category. The other key factors we consider are:
- The value of the cashback
- The cashback offer requirements, including any amount someone needs to spend to receive it
- The annual fee
- The interest rate for purchases
Business card methodology
Finder's experts consider cards offered to business owners for this category. We then consider:
- The availability of additional cards for employees
- The expense management features
- Accounting software integration (e.g. for MYOB, Xero, QuickBooks)
- Rewards
- The annual fee, including any fees for employee cards
- The interest rate or interest-free payment terms (for charge cards)
0% purchase & balance transfer credit card methodology
Finder's experts consider credit cards that offer both an introductory 0% interest rate for purchases and an introductory 0% interest rate for balance transfers. The other key factors we consider are:
- The length of each 0% p.a. introductory period (the longer the period, the higher the ranking)
- Whether or not there is a balance transfer fee
- The annual fee, including if it is waived in the first year
- The purchase rate
- The interest rate that applies to balance transfers after the introductory period
Keep in mind: Our top picks may not always be best for you. Based on your situation, you may find certain features to be more or less important, so compare your options before you apply.
More guides on Finder
-
Credit cards for pensioners
Learn how to apply for a credit card when you're retired or on a pension and compare cards to find one that suits your needs.
-
Credit cards with lounge access
Find out how you can enjoy the luxury and services of airport lounges all around the world with a credit card that offers complimentary airport lounge access.
-
Credit Card Surcharges
Compare the surcharges that you can expect when you pay with a credit card and pick up tips to avoid these extra fees.
-
The best credit cards in Australia (seriously, we sorted through 250+)
While there isn't one best credit card, you can find a card that suits your needs by comparing the features, deals and offers that are trending here.
-
Joint credit cards
Learn which credit card issuers allow joint-account credit card applications so you can decide if this option is right for you.
-
Credit card limit calculator
Learn what information the bank uses to determine your credit limit and the steps you need to take before you request a limit increase.
-
Australian Bank ATM Fees and Charges
Find out what you'll be charged and how you can avoid the costs when using your credit card to withdraw money from an ATM.
-
Easy credit cards to get approval for in Australia
When you apply for a credit card online, you could receive a response within 60 seconds. Find out how you to find a card that you're eligible for and increase your chances of approval.
-
Can I delete my transaction history in online banking or apps?
Want to how make purchases on your credit card without being judged by anyone? Here's what you need to know about the details on your statement.
-
No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards
Find out how you can keep your overseas spending costs down by comparing credit cards with no foreign transaction fees and no currency conversion fees.