Credit cards
Compare our best credit card deals
Longest Barclaycard balance transfer + exclusive cashback
Up to 31 months 0% on balance transfers. Rep APR 24.9%
Exclusive £25 cashback. Ends 6th Feb 12pm. Barclaycard T&Cs apply^
- Find out which credit cards you’re eligible for without impacting your credit score
- Compare up to 88 credit cards[1] to find one that suits your needs
We compare credit cards from trusted providers, including:
^Barclaycard T&Cs: Minimum BT of £2500 in 60 days is required for £25 Cashback 3.45% Transfer fee. New customers only. Representative example: Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year, at a Purchase Rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). Aged 21+, UK resident for 2+ years, have managed credit for 4+ years annual earning min £20k. Compare the Market Ltd acts as a credit broker, not a lender. Credit is subject to application, financial status and borrowing history. Transfers from other Barclaycard accounts are not allowed.
[1] Correct as of December 2024.
Our best credit card deals
Looking for a credit card? Below are some of the best 0% purchase and 0% balance transfer credit cards currently available from our panel of 20 trusted providers[1]:
Our best 0% purchase credit cards
These are some of the 0% purchase credit cards with the longest interest-free periods from our panel of providers (accurate as of 22 January 2025).
Most cards are for new customers only, so check before applying. Where a card is ’up to’ a certain 0% length it means, depending on your credit history, you might not get the full 0% period advertised.
Barclaycard Platinum purchase credit card: up to 22 months 0% + possible £20 cashback
| 0% purchase period | Up to 22 months |
|---|---|
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable) |
| Good to know |
£20 cashback if you spend £500+ within 90 days. Must successfully apply by 6 February Also 0% for up to 19 months on balance transfers made in first 60 days (3.45% transfer fee) New customers only, credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
MBNA 0% transfer and purchase credit card: up to 22 months 0% on purchases made in first 60 days
| 0% purchase period | Up to 22 months |
|---|---|
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year, at a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable), representative 24.9% (variable) |
| Good to know |
Only purchases made in first 60 days are interest-free Also 0% for up to 22 months on balance transfers made in first 60 days (3.49% transfer fee) Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
Lloyds Bank Platinum 0% purchase and balance transfer credit card: up to 21 months 0% on purchases
| 0% purchase period | Up to 21 months |
|---|---|
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year, at a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable), representative 24.9% (variable) |
| Good to know |
Also 0% for up to 19 months on balance transfers made in first 90 days (2.99% transfer fee) Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
Our best 0% balance transfer credit cards
These are some of the 0% balance transfer credit cards with the longest interest-free periods from our panel of providers (accurate as of 22 January 2025).
Most are for new customers only and you can’t normally make a transfer between two cards from the same banking group, so check before applying. Depending on your credit history, you might not be eligible for these cards or get the full 0% period advertised.
EXCLUSIVE CASHBACK - Barclaycard Platinum 31 month balance transfer credit card: up to 31 months 0% + possible £25 cashback
| 0% balance transfer period | Up to 31 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.45% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 60 days to get offer EXCLUSIVE £25 cashback when you transfer £2,500+ within 60 days. Must successfully apply by 6 February Also 0% on purchases for up to 3 months from account opening date New customers only, credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
Tesco balance transfer credit card: 30 months 0%
| 0% balance transfer period | 30 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.19% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 90 days to get offer Also 0% for up to 9 months on money transfers made in first 90 days (3.99% transfer fee) Collect Clubcard points almost everywhere you spend using your card, plus your usual points in Tesco Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
MBNA balance transfer credit card: up to 30 months 0%
| 0% balance transfer period | Up to 30 months |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 3.20% |
| Representative APR** | 24.9% |
| Representative example |
Assumed borrowing of £1,200 for 1 year at a purchase rate of 24.94% (variable), representative 24.9% APR (variable). |
| Good to know |
Transfers must be made in first 60 days to get offer Also 0% for up to 9 months on money transfers made in first 60 days (4% transfer fee) Credit subject to status, T&Cs apply |
How we choose which 0% credit cards to feature
We offer 96[1] credit cards via our panel of lenders – this page just gives you a flavour of some of our best.
How we choose which 0% purchase cards to feature
- Longest 0% purchase period
- Whether the 0% borrowing is offered 'up to' a certain period based on applicants' credit history or is available to everyone accepted for a card
- Any cashback or other perks
- Representative APR
- Duration of 0% balance transfer period (if applicable)
- Balance transfer fee (if applicable)
- Other terms and conditions
How we choose which 0% balance transfer cards to feature
- Longest 0% balance transfer period
- Standout offers
- Cards where you get the full 0% length if accepted (not 'up to' a certain number of months)
- Lowest balance transfer fee (if applicable)
- Lowest representative APR
- Longest 0% purchase period (if applicable)
- Other terms and conditions
Compare the Market Limited acts as a credit broker, not a lender. To apply you must be a UK resident and aged 18 or over. 0% interest applies as long as you make minimum monthly repayments. Credit is subject to status and eligibility. **Representative APR: the estimated cost of borrowing – calculated as an annual percentage rate – after the 0% period ends.
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Types of credit card you can apply for
There are several types of credit card to suit different situations – from life’s little emergencies to big purchases or cutting debt.
The best credit card type for you depends on your circumstances and what you want to use it for. Here are some of the options.
0% balance transfer cards
Use a 0% balance transfer card to move debt from an existing card or cards to one with 0% interest for a fixed period to cut debt costs, often for a fee of the amount transferred.
0% purchase cards
With a 0% purchase card, you won’t be charged interest on new card spending for a fixed period, as long as you make at least the minimum payments each month.
0% on balance transfer and purchase cards
Combine the benefits of transfers and spending with a 0% on balance transfer and purchase card. These cards typically offer a 0% period on both, meaning you could make brand-new purchases and transfer a balance without paying interest.
Reward cards
A reward card gives you cashback, points, air miles or other rewards as you spend on your card. Just make sure to check if they come with a fee or minimum spend.
Credit-building cards
With careful spending and repaying, a credit-building card can help improve your credit score.
Travel credit cards
A good travel credit card has low or 0% foreign exchange fees, and usually great exchange rates when using abroad.
Money transfer credit cards
Use a money transfer credit card to transfer money into your bank account at 0% or low interest, to pay off an overdraft or cover other expenses, often for a fee of the amount transferred.
Cashback credit cards
A cashback credit card gives a percentage of the amount you spend on the card back as an incentive to use it, so you’re paid to spend. But keep an eye on interest – this could add up if you’re not careful.
When you find a credit card you like the look of, make sure you understand how any promotional offers work so you aren’t hit with penalties or high charges. For example, if there’s a 0% introductory offer on balance transfers, what happens once the offer ends? And what about missed or late payments? Is there an initial fee? Can you afford it?
Take the time to fully understand any terms and conditions, so you can maximise the benefits available without paying a penalty.
Also note that applying for multiple credit cards could damage your credit score. This is likely to make it harder for you to borrow money in the future.
Do current high interest rates affect what kind of new credit card I should choose?
On 7 November 2024, the Bank of England (BoE) base rate was cut to 4.75% from 5%, and while a relief to borrowers, rates are still high when you compare them to the past 5-10 years.
The base rate – also known as the bank rate – influences the interest rates that lenders charge to their customers. A high interest rate can make it more expensive to get credit.
Here are cards that help you avoid paying interest (if used well):
- 0% purchase credit card: useful if you need to make a large purchase and want to spread the cost. As long as you keep up with the minimum monthly payments, you won’t be charged interest. Just make sure you pay off the balance in full before the end of the introductory 0% period.
- 0% balance transfer credit card: useful if you’re paying high interest rates on other credit card balances. Pay a fee to move or consolidate your debts onto a 0% balance transfer card. If you keep up with the minimum monthly payments, you won’t be charged interest for the promotion period. Just make sure you pay off the balance in full or transfer the amount to a new 0% card at the end of the promotional period.
- 0% money transfer card: useful to avoid paying high interest on a short-term debt, like an overdraft. Just make sure you keep up with payments to hold onto the 0% rate and plan to pay it off before the end of the 0% deal.
If you do qualify for a 0% credit card, make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully. You should also have a clear plan to make the repayments before taking on a new credit card.
Do you need to buy something essential and don’t have the savings to cover it?
A 0% purchase card allows you to spread the cost of big purchases over a number of months without paying interest, as long as the credit limit is big enough for what you’re buying.
But you’ll need to pay at least the minimum amount each month to keep the 0% and avoid penalties, and clear the outstanding balance before the 0% deal ends to avoid paying potentially high interest afterwards.
Do you want to cut debt costs?
Move debt from existing cards onto a 0% balance transfer card and pay no interest on what you move for a set period.
But you could be charged a balance transfer fee – typically, a percentage of the amount you’re transferring. As we say above, always pay at least the minimum monthly payment and aim to clear the balance before the 0% period ends.
Do you have a low credit score and want to build it?
A credit builder card could help you improve your credit score if you only spend what you can afford and you pay it off in full each month to avoid interest. It’s also a good option if you have no credit history and need to build it.
In return for offering you a card, a provider will minimise its risk with low spending limits and higher interest rates.
Do you or can you pay off your card in full each month? Then get paid to spend
If you always pay your credit card bill in full every month, or you can do so, then get a card that pays you a bonus for spending.
This could be a cashback credit card that pays you back a percentage of what you spend or a rewards credit card where you could earn airline points, shopping vouchers and more.
With these, if you don’t pay the card in full each month they can become pointless as the interest could cancel out the gain.
How do credit cards work?
You can use a credit card to make purchases or move debts from other cards.
Once approved for a card, you’ll be given an interest rate and a credit limit – the maximum amount you can spend on your card.
You’ll receive a monthly bill showing you the amount you owe. You must make at least the minimum payment each month to avoid penalties. If you can pay off the full balance each month, you won’t be charged interest.
If you miss or are late with a repayment, or go over your credit limit, you’ll be charged a penalty fee. You may also damage your credit score.
Read more on how credit cards work.
How to apply for a credit card
Start by using our eligibility checker to see which cards you’re likely to be accepted for, without harming your credit score, thus avoiding wasted applications. You’ll need to provide:
Your personal details
UK address history
Annual salary and other income
Decide which credit card suits your needs, then click the apply button and you’ll be taken to the provider’s website to confirm your details and complete its application process. You’ll usually need to provide your bank account number and sort code.
See our guide on how to apply for a credit card for more information.
Compare the Market Limited acts as a credit broker, not a lender. To apply you must be a UK resident and aged 18 or over. Credit is subject to status and eligibility.
Can I get a credit card with a bad credit score?
While the best credit card deals are offered to borrowers with good credit records, it’s possible to find a credit card for bad credit. Just bear in mind that they often come with higher interest rates and lower credit limits.
Used responsibly, this type of card could help boost your credit score. In the future, you might be eligible for a credit card with a better interest rate.
What is representative APR?
The representative APR is an advertised rate that at least 51% of successful credit applicants must be given.
APR – or annual percentage rate – is what your borrowing will cost you each year. It’s calculated by taking into account the rate of interest, plus other standard charges like an annual fee or balance transfer fee.
The APR helps you compare the true cost of credit cards from different providers. For example:
Card A
Purchase rate (variable): 22.2%
Annual fee: £250
Credit limit: £1,200
Representative APR (variable): 96.7%
Card B
Purchase rate (variable): 22.9%
Annual fee: £0
Credit limit: £1,200
Representative APR (variable): 22.9%
While the purchase rate for Card A is slightly lower, the impact the annual fee makes on overall costs can be seen in the representative APR.
Credit card pros and cons
Pros
Can offer cheap borrowing
Some cards let you make purchases and pay no interest for an initial period. Others allow you to move credit card debt (for a fee) and pay no interest on the transferred balance for a set period.
Can prove your creditworthiness
Making repayments on time, and not going over your credit limit, will show lenders that you’re responsible with money.
Can give you extra rewards on your spend
Rewards cards can give you cashback or rewards on your spending. You can be quids in as long as you pay your credit card bill in full every month.
Could give you extra protection on what you buy
Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, you could get a refund if there’s a problem with purchases over £100 but not more than £30,000.
Cons
Section 75 protection isn’t guaranteed
There isn’t an automatic legal right to receive money back through Section 75. It will depend on the circumstances, as well as the card issuer and the Mastercard or Visa scheme rules.
Can offer temptation
People can get into serious debt by misusing credit cards. Use them carefully and don’t spend more than you can afford to pay back.
Can incur penalties or lose a 0% rate if not well managed
If you pay your card late or miss payments, you may be charged a fee. And you may lose any promotional offers, such as 0% interest on purchases.
Late or missed payments could also damage your credit score, making it more difficult for you to get credit in the future.
Could end up paying a lot and it could take years to clear the debt
If you only make the minimum payment, you could end up paying interest on what you owe, sometimes for many years or even decades This could make your purchases more expensive.
Depending on the card you use, you may also have to pay for transactions such as withdrawing cash or using your card abroad.
For more information on the positives and the pitfalls, read our guide to the pros and cons of credit cards.
What our expert says...
“There are many types of credit cards, some that give rewards to people for spending, some that help you cut the cost of existing credit card debt and others that help you borrow at cheap rates. That means a card suitable for one person may be unsuitable for someone else, so carefully consider what is right for you.
For example, if you cannot pay off your card in full each month then a rewards cards may not be worthwhile as the interest cost can be more than the gain, such as the cashback amount. In that scenario, as you'll likely be charged interest, consider if a balance transfer card could help you cut the cost of that debt.
Whatever you choose, always stick to the key do's and don'ts of each type of card such as never breaching your credit limit and always making at least the minimum monthly payment on time.”
- Guy Anker, Personal finance and insurance expert
Why compare credit cards with Compare the Market?
Check your eligibility without impacting your credit score
Filter by type of card you’re comparing
Frequently asked questions
How do lenders decide whether to offer a credit card?
Lenders will look at a number of factors when deciding whether to offer you a card. These include:
Your income – you’ll need to give details of your annual salary and any other money you have coming in.
Your credit score – the lender will carry out a hard credit check to find out how trustworthy you’ve been in the past at paying back money you’ve borrowed.
The amount of debt you have – the lender will want to feel confident you can afford to pay back any money owed on your credit card.
Why might I be rejected for a credit card?
You may be rejected for a credit card because you have a poor credit score. Lenders will look at your score to see how likely you are to repay debt.
If you’ve been rejected for a credit card, wait at least three – but ideally six – months before you apply again. Making multiple credit applications over a short period can damage your credit score further.
When you apply for a credit card, use our eligibility checker to see which cards you’re likely to be accepted for, without impacting your credit score.
Why should I pay off more than the minimum fee each month?
If you pay off more than the minimum fee each month, you’ll pay less interest.
The minimum payment is the lowest amount you need to pay to avoid potential penalties. It’s usually calculated as a percentage of your balance, plus any applicable interest or fees, and will fall as your balance reduces.
Can I get a joint credit card?
You can’t get a joint credit card, but you can add an additional cardholder to your account.
An additional cardholder will need to be over 18 and could be your partner, family member or friend. However, some credit card providers may ask that they’re either a close family member or someone living at the same address.
They’ll get their own card, but you’ll be fully responsible for any debt on that card and all the admin involved. It’s important that you trust your additional cardholder not to run up big debts.
What happens when a car hire company or hotel asks for my card up front?
A car hire company may ask for your card up front for pre-authorisation. This is to make sure they can collect the money owed to them if you don’t pay up.
The company puts a hold on some of your credit. While that’s in place, you won’t be able to spend that money elsewhere. For example, if your credit limit is £1,000 and a car hire company puts a pre-authorisation of £500 on your card, you’ll only be able to spend £500 more on your card.
Do credit card interest rates change?
Most credit cards have a variable interest rate, which means the rate can go up or down at any time.
Providers have the right to change their interest rates when they want. And changes to the Bank of England base rate can also affect the interest rate on credit cards.
Can I withdraw a credit card application?
Yes, you have a 14-day cooling off period from when you receive your card to tell the provider you’ve changed your mind.
There’ll be no penalty fee for withdrawing your application, but you’ll need to pay off any outstanding balance on the card within 30 days.
What happens if I miss a repayment on my credit card?
If you miss a repayment on your credit card, you’ll usually have to pay a penalty. You might also lose any introductory benefits, like 0% interest, and your credit score may also be damaged.
How can I get more credit?
You may automatically be offered a higher credit limit once you’ve proved yourself to be a responsible borrower by always repaying on time. Otherwise, you can contact your provider to ask for an increase, which you may or may not get.
Be aware that a requested increase will leave a mark on your credit file, whereas an automatic one won’t.
Can I pay off my credit card early?
Yes, you can pay off your credit card early. Unlike with many loans and mortgage debts, you normally won’t be charged any fees or penalties.
How do I cancel a credit card?
To cancel your credit card, contact your credit card provider and let them know you want to close the account. Before you can do this, you’ll need to pay off any balance left on your card.
Once you receive your final statement, check it to make sure the last payments are shown and the balance is fully cleared. Check your credit report to make sure the card has been cancelled, but bear in mind that it could take several weeks for the change to be updated.
Once the card is cancelled, cut through the number and name, and throw it away.
Does Compare the Market compare all the credit cards on the market?
Our credit card comparison service doesn’t include every single credit card available in the UK. That’s because some credit card providers have exclusives available through their own high-street branches or websites, or on other price comparison sites.
Plus, some credit cards are only available to people in clubs or membership organisations.
But we do have many options from major banks and credit card providers for you to compare on your credit card search.
