5 Best Credit Cards in the UK [2024]

In the UK, 33.8 million adults (64%) rely on credit cards for their financial flexibility and the perks they offer

However, looking for the best credit card can be overwhelming due to the high number of options. To simplify this process, we have researched and curated a list of the top credit cards available in the UK.

This article will guide you through the key things you need to know when comparing credit cards. We will also examine each card, including its benefits, fees, eligibility, and who should use it.

⚠️ Caution: Credit cards can be useful for spreading costs and giving you extra protection on your purchases, but they shouldn’t be used to manage long-term debt.

How to Choose the Right Credit Card

Before we explore the options, let’s understand the essentials that will guide you in selecting your best credit card.

Check Your Credit Score

First and foremost, understanding your credit status before applying for a credit card is essential. This three-digit number significantly influences your eligibility for various credit card offers. High scores give you access to premium cards with better rewards, while lower scores may limit you to credit-building cards.

You can access your score for free through credit card providers or various services, such as  Experian, Credit Karma, and Money Super Market. This will give you an idea of where you stand. If your score is lower than expected, consider steps to improve it. For instance, pay your bills on time and reduce your debt before applying for a new card.

Determine Your Needs

Ask yourself a question: What do you expect from a credit card? Whether you aim to build credit, save on interest, or earn rewards, your goal will narrow down the options. Consider cards that align with your spending habits and financial strategies.

In general, credit cards can be categorised into three main types, each designed to suit different needs.

1. Credit-building cards: This type includes student, secured, or unsecured credit-building cards. They are tailored for individuals new to credit or looking to improve their scores. Features like free credit score access and opportunities for credit limit increases can aid your credit journey.
2. Interest-saving cards: If you carry balances or plan significant purchases, you should explore low-interest, 0% APR, or balance transfer credit cards. These options can help manage debt efficiently, minimising interest charges over time.
3. Reward cards: These cards offer cash back, points, or air miles for customers who pay off balances every month. Choose based on where you spend most to ensure rewards align with your lifestyle and spending patterns.

Compare Features and Offers

When exploring your credit card options, it's critical to meticulously analyse and compare the specific attributes and offers of each card. This process involves looking into several key areas, such as:

• Credit-Building Potentials: For cards aimed at improving your credit, look for those that report to the major credit bureaus–Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion– and offer pathways to upgrade to better cards without requiring a new application.
• Introductory Offers and Ongoing APRs: For saving on interest, pay close attention to the card’s APR details. Look for cards offering 0% introductory APR periods, and understand the duration and what the APR will adjust to once the introductory period ends. Also, review any balance transfer policies and fees.
• Rewards and Benefits: Evaluate the rewards structure, including sign-up bonuses and various redemption options available. Be mindful of how simple it is to accumulate and redeem rewards, and weigh the impact of any annual fees on the overall benefits you receive from the card.

Eligibility

Credit card companies usually have criteria for who can apply, like a minimum income or a good credit score. Checking the eligibility requirements before you apply can save you time and protect your credit score from unnecessary checks.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our list.

5 Best Credit Cards in the UK

📌 Note: The information provided below is subject to change. Ensure you check with each credit card provider for up-to-date information.

1. Amex Cashback Everyday

Amex Platinum Cashback Everyday is a credit card from American Express, a multinational financial services company that primarily issues payment cards and processes payments. This credit card offers a generous cashback reward without the annual fee.

Amex Cashback Everyday Key Benefits

• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in the first five months, up to GBP 125*.
• Earn 0.5% cashback on spending up to GBP 10,000. After that the card pays 1% cashback.
• Unlimited cashback.
• No annual fee.
• Compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and Fitbit Pay.
• Add up to 5 family members and earn complimentary supplementary cards.
• Receive Amex rewards, including Global Assist for travellers, travel insurance, airport lounge access, and discounts at Amex partner retail.

📌 Note: This special offer is exclusive to new customers (who have not held any American Express credit card in the past 24 months) and ends on 9 April 2024.

We Recommend Amex Cashback Everyday For

✅New Amex customers who looking to maximise their membership rewards in the early stages.

✅Anyone seeking a cashback credit card that earns rewards on everyday purchases without incurring regular fees.                                                                                                                                                  

Amex Cashback Everyday Fees

For detailed pricing information, you should check with the Summary Box on the American Express website.

Amex Cashback Everyday Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the card, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be aged 18 or over,
• Have a permanent UK home address,
• Have a current UK bank or building society account,
• Not have had bad debt in the past.

Before applying for the card, we recommend you use the eligibility checker. This tool can show how likely you are to get approved without affecting your credit score.

According to American Express, the application can be completed in 10 minutes and you could get a response within a minute.

2. Asda Money Credit Card

Offered by Asda Money, a financial services brand by one of the UK's leading supermarket chains, the Asda Money Credit Card is designed to bring value and convenience to your Asda shopping experience.

Asda Money Credit Card Key Benefits

• Earn a cashback of 1% on all your purchases at Asda, including groceries, clothing, and fuel.
• Earn 0.3% when spending elsewhere.
• Collect "Asda Pounds" faster to exchange for vouchers on Asda purchases, both online and in-store.
• Special offer: Receive a GBP20 bonus after spending GBP50 in the first 60 days*
• Compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
• No annual fee.

📌 Note: The offer will end on 13 May 2024 and is exclusive to applicants that do not hold Asda Money or Select Credit Card in the last 12 months.

We Recommend Asda Money Credit Card For

✅ Frequent shoppers at Asda who are looking to maximise rewards on your purchases.

✅ Budget-conscious customers who seek a cashback card to maximise savings on their purchases.

Asda Money Credit Card Fees

For detailed pricing information, you should check with the Asha Summary Box document.

Asda Money Credit Card Eligibility Criteria

• Must be at least 18 years old 
• Provide proof of UK residence
• Provide details of your income.

In addition, Asda provides a tool to check eligibility for credit cards and estimate interest rates and credit limits. If the result is likely to be approved for the card, you can then proceed to apply for the card.

3. Halifax Clarity Credit Card

The Halifax Clarity Mastercard®, offered by Halifax, stands out as a premier choice for travellers. Below are the key features that make this card noteworthy.

Halifax Clarity Key Benefits

• No international transaction fee, including purchases and cash withdrawals.
• 24/7 UK call centre
• Compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
• No annual fee

We Recommend Halifax Clarity For

✅ Frequent travellers. They can save more from international transaction fees, including purchases and cash withdrawals.

Halifax Clarity Fees

Halifax charges interest on cash withdrawals, but you can avoid interest on purchases by paying off the balance in full each month.

Halifax Clarity Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Halifax credit card, you must meet the following criteria: 

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a UK resident.
• Be employed with a regular annual income.
• Have no County Court Judgements (CCJs), Individual Voluntary Agreements (IVAs), or bankruptcies on their credit record.
• Not have been declined for a Halifax credit card within the last 30 days.

 4. Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card

The Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card is a purchase credit card from Barclay. It stands out as a prime choice for new Barclay customers seeking their new purchase credit card. Below are their key benefits.

Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card Key Benefits

• 0% interest on purchases up to 21 months from the time you open your bank account.
• 0% interest for up to 20 months on balance transfers, which must be completed within 60 days of account opening.
• A transfer fee of 3.45% applies to each balance transfer made (the minimum is GBP250).
• Compatible with digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
• No annual fee

Barclaycard notes that their 0% interest offer on purchases is available exclusively for new customers.

In addition, the full 21-month period is subject to applicants’ credit history and previous credit management. If your credit history doesn't meet certain criteria, you may instead qualify for a 10-month period of 0% interest on purchases.

We Recommend Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card For

✅ New Barclay customers seeking a new purchase card with a long interest-free period.

✅ Anyone who plans to consolidate debt from existing credit cards with a balance transfer credit card.

Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card Fees

Please check the summary of rates for detailed pricing information. 

Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Barclaycard Platinum Credit Card, you must meet the following criteria.

• At least 21 years old.
• No IVAs, CCJs, or bankruptcies in the last 6 years.
• A history of on-time payments.
• At least 4 years of credit management experience.
• A permanent UK address for at least 2 years.
• An annual income of over GBP 20,000.
• The ability to make repayments on any existing debts.

Before applying, it is recommended to use Barclaycard’s free eligibility checker. It's a quick process that takes only a few minutes and won't affect your credit score.

5. Santander All-in-One Credit Card

The Santander All-in-One Mastercard® is designed to be versatile and appealing to everyone, from frequent shoppers and travellers to those looking to manage their finances more efficiently. Here are its key benefits.

Santander All-in-One Credit Card Key Benefits

• Benefit from 0% interest on purchases for the first 15 months from account opening.
• Benefit from 0% interest on balance transfers for 15 months, with no balance transfer fee.
• Make overseas purchases without any foreign exchange fees.
• Earn 0.5% cashback on all purchases, up to GBP 10 monthly.
• Compatible with wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

We Recommend Santander All-in-One Credit Card For

✅ Individuals seeking a single credit card that offers multiple benefits, simplifying the management of various financial activities all in one place.

✅ Anyone seeking the rewards card to earn cashback on their everyday spending.

Santander All-in-One Credit Card Fees

For more information, you should check with the Key Facts Document.

Santander All-in-One Credit Card Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for an All-in-One Credit Card if you:

• Are 18 and over
• Are a permanent resident of the UK 
• Have an income of more than GBP 10,500 annually
• Don’t already have an All-in-One card.

Final Note

When choosing and comparing credit cards, it's important to assess your financial situation and requirements closely. Identify the card that aligns with your needs and thoroughly review its terms and conditions and promotional offers before applying.

Maintaining a healthy consumer credit score is key. Ensure to pay your bills promptly and in full to avoid interest charges that can diminish the benefits of any rewards.