Visa vs Mastercard: Which is better?

Both Visa and Mastercard offer convenient worldwide access, card security and other perks. But how do they compare?

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By

Emily Herring

Updated

Fact checked

When it comes to choosing a credit card, debit card or prepaid card, you usually have the option of a Visa or a Mastercard. These are the two major card-processing companies used in the UK, followed by American Express.

Each Visa or Mastercard credit card is independently issued by a bank or other provider that also offers a range of features and services to customers across their networks. Most banks and card providers don’t give you a choice between Mastercard or Visa, so you’ll probably find it more relevant to your decision-making process to focus on the features offered by a particular card and the provider in general.

Generally, there are very little differences between the two networks and you will rarely deal with Visa or Mastercard directly (it would usually be through your card provider). However, if you’re trying to decide between these two options, here we compare Visa and Mastercard features side-by-side to see how they stack up.

What are Visa and Mastercard?

Visa and Mastercard provide the technology and networks required for processing card payments. So if you buy an item with a Visa credit card, for example, the transaction will be processed on Visa’s network from the shop to the relevant bank or banks (including your own). Similarly, Mastercard credit card transactions are processed via the Mastercard payment network. These two companies are the largest card processors in the world, and their cards are accepted at millions of shops and other providers all over the globe. Generally, you will find most shops accept both Visa and Mastercard payments.

Individual banks and other financial institutions issue Visa or Mastercard credit cards based on the payment processing network they want to use. Whichever network is used, the company’s logo will be visible on the card. A few providers even offer both Visa and Mastercard options. In regards to specific card features, such as interest rates, annual fees, rewards programmes and introductory offers, it is ultimately the card issuer that decides what will be available on specific cards.

Traditionally, Visa has dominated the UK debit card market, but this is set to change. Santander and TSB will start issuing Mastercard debit cards in 2019, joining Virgin Money, Citibank, Clydesdale Bank, Yorkshire Bank and Metro Bank, which already provide Mastercard debit cards.

Compare Mastercard Credit Cards by type

Comparison is ordered by representative APR with affiliated products shown first.
Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Finder score Balance transfers Balance transfer fee Purchases Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
Santander Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer Credit Card
Santander Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 26 months reverting to 23.9%
3% (min. £5)
0% for 3 months reverting to 23.9%
£0
23.9% APR (variable)
Sign up for Santander Boosts to receive cashback, vouchers, offers and prize draws from selected retailers.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 23.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 23.9% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 23 months reverting to 24.9%
3.49%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Balance Transfer Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Balance Transfer Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 13 months reverting to 24.9%
0%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
2.99%
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
M&S Bank Credit Card Purchase Plus Offer Mastercard
M&S Bank Credit Card Purchase Plus Offer Mastercard
4.1
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 12 months reverting to 24.9%
0%
0% for 20 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
1 point per £1 spent with M&S and 1 point per £5 spent elsewhere. Enjoy 55 days interest free, preferential rates plus no cash advance fee when buying M&S travel money with the card.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
NatWest Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 23 months reverting to 24.9%
3.49%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
NatWest Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Balance Transfer Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 13 months reverting to 24.9%
0%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
NatWest Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
2.99%
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
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Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
Santander Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer Credit Card
Santander Everyday Long Term Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 23.9%
0% for 26 months
(3% fee)
£0
23.9% APR (variable)
Sign up for Santander Boosts to receive cashback, vouchers, offers and prize draws from selected retailers.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 23.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 23.9% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 23 months
(3.49% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
M&S Bank Credit Card Purchase Plus Offer Mastercard
M&S Bank Credit Card Purchase Plus Offer Mastercard
4.1
★★★★★
0% for 20 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 12 months
(0% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
1 point per £1 spent with M&S and 1 point per £5 spent elsewhere. Enjoy 55 days interest free, preferential rates plus no cash advance fee when buying M&S travel money with the card.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
NatWest Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Longer Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 23 months
(3.49% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
NatWest Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Balance Transfer Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 13 months
(0% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 19 months
(2.99% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
NatWest Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
NatWest Purchase & Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 19 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 19 months
(2.99% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
M&S Bank Credit Card Transfer Plus Offer Mastercard
M&S Bank Credit Card Transfer Plus Offer Mastercard
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 26 months
(3.49%, min £5 fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
1 point per £1 spent with M&S and 1 point per £5 spent elsewhere. Enjoy 55 days interest free, preferential rates plus no cash advance fee when buying M&S travel money with the card.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
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Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
Santander All in One Credit Card
Santander All in One Credit Card
4.5
★★★★★
0% for 15 months reverting to 23.9%
0% for 15 months
(0% fee)
£3 per month
29.8% APR (variable)
0.5% after £1 of monthly spend. Maximum of £10 cashback paid per month. Cashback paid Monthly into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 23.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £3 per month, your representative rate is 29.8% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
Pulse Card Mastercard (existing NewDay customers only)
Pulse Card Mastercard (existing NewDay customers only)
3.0
★★★★★
Your interest rate will stay the same as your current NewDay card
N/A
£0
APR (variable)
Get 0.25% cashback every time you shop, up to a maximum of £150 cashback per year
If you are a current NewDay customer and have been invited to transfer to a Pulse Card, your interest rate and credit limit will remain the same.
Read review
Lloyds Bank Cashback Credit Card Mastercard
Lloyds Bank Cashback Credit Card Mastercard
3.5
★★★★★
22.94%
22.94%
(5% fee)
£0
22.9% APR (variable)
0.25% on £1 to £4000 of yearly spend. 0.5% after £4001 of yearly spend. Cashback paid January into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 22.94% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 22.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Halifax Cashback Credit Card Mastercard
Halifax Cashback Credit Card Mastercard
3.5
★★★★★
22.94%
22.94%
(5% fee)
£0
22.9% APR (variable)
0.25% on £1 to £4000 of yearly spend. 0.5% after £4001 of yearly spend. Cashback paid January into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 22.94% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 22.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Santander Edge Credit Card Mastercard
Santander Edge Credit Card Mastercard
4.5
★★★★★
23.9%
23.9%
(3% fee)
£3 per month
29.8% APR (variable)
2% after £1 of monthly spend. 1% after £1 of monthly spend. Maximum of £15 cashback paid per month. Cashback paid Monthly into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 23.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £3 per month, your representative rate is 29.8% APR (variable).
Read review
Santander World Elite Mastercard
Santander World Elite Mastercard
4.4
★★★★★
0% for 18 months reverting to 18.9%
0% for 18 months
(0% fee)
£15 per month
49.8% APR (variable)
0.5% on £1 to £3000 of monthly spend. Maximum of £15 cashback paid per month. Cashback paid Monthly into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 18.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £15 per month, your representative rate is 49.8% APR (variable).
Read review
Lloyds Bank World Elite Mastercard
Lloyds Bank World Elite Mastercard
4.2
★★★★★
22.94%
22.94%
(5% fee)
£15 per month
55% APR (variable)
0.5% on £1 to £15000 of yearly spend. 1% after £15001 of yearly spend. Cashback paid Anniversary into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 22.94% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £15 per month, your representative rate is 55% APR (variable).
Read review
Halifax World Elite Mastercard
Halifax World Elite Mastercard
4.2
★★★★★
22.94%
22.94%
(5% fee)
£15 per month
55% APR (variable)
0.5% on £1 to £15000 of yearly spend. 1% after £15001 of yearly spend. Cashback paid Anniversary into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 22.94% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £15 per month, your representative rate is 55% APR (variable).
Read review
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Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
The Royal Bank Credit Card
The Royal Bank Credit Card
4.5
★★★★★
12.9%
12.9%
(0% fee)
£0
12.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 12.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 12.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
NatWest Credit Card
NatWest Credit Card
4.5
★★★★★
12.9%
12.9%
(0% fee)
£0
12.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 12.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 12.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Santander All in One Credit Card
Santander All in One Credit Card
4.5
★★★★★
0% for 15 months reverting to 23.9%
0% for 15 months
(0% fee)
£3 per month
29.8% APR (variable)
0.5% after £1 of monthly spend. Maximum of £10 cashback paid per month. Cashback paid Monthly into Card Account. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 23.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £3 per month, your representative rate is 29.8% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
118 118 Money Guaranteed Rate Card
118 118 Money Guaranteed Rate Card
3.5
★★★★★
34%
34%
(0% fee)
£0
34% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 34% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 34% APR (variable).
Check eligibility
Read review
NatWest Reward Black Credit Card
NatWest Reward Black Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
21.9%
21.9%
(0% fee)
£84 per annum. Reward Black Current Account holders: Year 2 onwards - £0 per annum
40.7% APR (variable)
You'll earn 1% back at supermarkets and 0.5% back everywhere else, including supermarket petrol stations. At selected retailers, you could earn 1-15% back.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 21.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £84 per annum. Reward Black Current Account holders: Year 2 onwards - £0 per annum, your representative rate is 40.7% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Royal Bank of Scotland Reward Black Credit Card
Royal Bank of Scotland Reward Black Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
21.9%
21.9%
(0% fee)
£84 per annum. Reward Black Current Account holders: £0 per annum
40.7% APR (variable)
Earn 1% back at supermarkets and 0.5% back everywhere else, including supermarket petrol stations. At selected retailers, you could earn 1-15% back.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 21.9% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £84 per annum. Reward Black Current Account holders: £0 per annum, your representative rate is 40.7% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
Yonder Credit Card (only for London residents)
Finder Award
Yonder Credit Card (only for London residents)
4.5
★★★★★
29.94%
N/A
1 month for £0, £15 per month thereafter
66.7% APR (variable)
First month free for new members, £15 p/m thereafter. Plus, 10,000 bonus points. Earn 5 points per £1 spent and up to 25 points per £1 at selected partners. Membership includes worldwide travel insurance and no FX fees.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 29.94% (variable) p.a. with a fee of £15 per month, your representative rate is 66.7% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
The Ulster Bank Credit Card Mastercard
The Ulster Bank Credit Card Mastercard
4.5
★★★★★
12.9%
12.9%
(0% fee)
£0
12.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 12.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 12.9% APR (variable).
Read review
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Compare Visa cards by type

Comparison is ordered by representative APR with affiliated products shown first.
Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Finder score Balance transfers Balance transfer fee Purchases Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card
HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 26 months reverting to 24.9%
3.49% fee, min £5
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.
When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable). You might get different interest rates and promotional periods to those shown here, because these depend on your circumstances.
Check eligibility
Read review
HSBC Purchase Plus Credit Card
HSBC Purchase Plus Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 16 months reverting to 24.9%
3.49%, min £5
0% for 18 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable). You might get different interest rates and promotional periods to those shown here, because these depend on your circumstances.
Check eligibility
Read review
The Co-operative Bank Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa
The Co-operative Bank Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 24 months reverting to 20.6%
3% (minimum £5)
0% for 4 months reverting to 20.6%
£0
20.6% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 20.6% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 20.6% APR (variable).
Read review
Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
4.6
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 15 months reverting to 24.9%
1.5% (min. £5) for 3 months reverting to 2.4% (min. £5)
0% for 15 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
first direct Credit Card
first direct Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 20 months reverting to 24.9%
2.99% (min. £5)
24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Barclaycard Platinum 28 Month Balance Transfer Visa
Barclaycard Platinum 28 Month Balance Transfer Visa
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 28 months reverting to 24.9%
3.45%
24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Buy tickets for up to 3500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive pre-sale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Barclaycard Platinum 20 Month Balance Transfer Visa
Barclaycard Platinum 20 Month Balance Transfer Visa
4.0
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 20 months reverting to 24.9%
1.99%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Buy tickets for up to 3500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive pre-sale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Barclaycard Platinum 12 Month Balance Transfer Visa
Barclaycard Platinum 12 Month Balance Transfer Visa
3.5
★★★★★
★★★★★
Expert analysis
0% for 12 months reverting to 24.9%
0%
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Buy tickets for up to 3500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive pre-sale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
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Updated daily
Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card
HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 26 months
(3.49% fee, min £5 fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.
When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable). You might get different interest rates and promotional periods to those shown here, because these depend on your circumstances.
Check eligibility
Read review
HSBC Purchase Plus Credit Card
HSBC Purchase Plus Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 18 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 16 months
(3.49%, min £5 fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable). You might get different interest rates and promotional periods to those shown here, because these depend on your circumstances.
Check eligibility
Read review
Barclaycard Forward Credit Card
Barclaycard Forward Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 33.9%
33.9%
(0% fee)
£0
33.9% APR (variable)
Rate discounts: 3% interest rate reduction if you make all your repayments on time for the first year, and a further drop of up to 2% more if you continue to do so in the second year.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 33.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 33.9% APR (variable).
Go to site
Read review
The Co-operative Bank Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa
The Co-operative Bank Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 4 months reverting to 20.6%
0% for 24 months
(3% (minimum £5) fee)
£0
20.6% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 20.6% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 20.6% APR (variable).
Read review
Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
4.6
★★★★★
0% for 15 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 15 months
(1.5% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
first direct Gold Credit Card
first direct Gold Credit Card
3.0
★★★★★
0% for 12 months reverting to 24.9%
24.9%
(0% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Barclaycard Platinum 20 Month Balance Transfer Visa
Barclaycard Platinum 20 Month Balance Transfer Visa
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 20 months
(1.99% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Buy tickets for up to 3500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive pre-sale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
Read review
Barclaycard Platinum 12 Month Balance Transfer Visa
Barclaycard Platinum 12 Month Balance Transfer Visa
3.5
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 12 months
(0% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Buy tickets for up to 3500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive pre-sale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
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Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
MBNA Limited Platinum Visa
MBNA Limited Platinum Visa
3.5
★★★★★
13.94%
13.94%
(5% (0% fee if transfer is completed within the first 90 days) fee)
£0
13.9% APR (variable)
0.25% after £1 of yearly spend. Cashback paid January into Card Account. Earn 0.25% cashback on purchases within the first 36 months of account opening. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 13.94% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 13.9% APR (variable).
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AIB Options 1 Credit Card
AIB Options 1 Credit Card
3.5
★★★★★
17.44%
17.44%
(1.5% fee)
£0
18.9% APR (variable)
0.5% after £5000 of yearly spend. Minimum of 12 transactions per year required. Maximum of £250 cashback paid per year. Cashback paid Anniversary into Card Account. For initial £5K a £25 cashback is paid, plus an additional £1 for every further £200 spent.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 17.44% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 18.9% APR (variable).
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Barclaycard Rewards Visa
Barclaycard Rewards Visa
4.5
★★★★★
28.9%
28.9%
(0% fee)
£0
28.9% APR (variable)
0.25% after £1 of yearly spend. Cashback paid On request into Card Account. Cashback paid annually or on request. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 28.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 28.9% APR (variable).
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Name Product Finder score Purchases Balance transfers Annual/monthly fees Representative APR Incentive Link
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card (+optional Business Rewards)
Finder Award
CASHBACK
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card (+optional Business Rewards)
4.0
★★★★★
35.15%
N/A
£99 per annum
35.15% APR (variable)
Earn points on all card spend. Points can be redeemed for Avios or 1% cashback. 10,000 bonus points when £5,000 is spent on card in first 3 months.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 35.15% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 35.15% APR (variable). Optional upgrade to Business Rewards (£99 per year).
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Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
Finder Award
CASHBACK
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
35.15%
N/A
£0
35.2% APR (variable)
Earn 1 point for every £1 of card spend. Redeem 1 point for 1p (1% cashback)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 35.15% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 35.2% APR (variable).
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Jeeves Business card
CASHBACK
Jeeves Business card
4.0
★★★★★
N/A (this product is a charge card).
0%
(0 fee)
£0
N/A (this product is a charge card).
Earn up to 2% cashback on all your advertising spending in the first 90 days, up to 1% cashback thereafter, and 1.5% cashback on spend with Google, Amazon, Meta. Terms apply.

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Debite corporate card
Debite corporate card
4.0
★★★★★
N/A (this product is a charge card).
N/A
£0
N/A (this product is a charge card).
Earn 4% cashback for the first 3 months on card spending. Cashback is credited to your account after 30 days. Cashback is capped at £1,000 a month.

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Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
Nationwide Member Credit Card All Rounder
4.6
★★★★★
0% for 15 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 15 months
(1.5% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
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Nationwide Member Credit Card Balance Transfer
Nationwide Member Credit Card Balance Transfer
4.5
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 24.9%
0% for 18 months
(1.5% fee)
£0
24.9% APR (variable)
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 24.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 24.9% APR (variable).
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Barclaycard Rewards Visa
Barclaycard Rewards Visa
4.5
★★★★★
28.9%
28.9%
(0% fee)
£0
28.9% APR (variable)
0.25% after £1 of yearly spend. Cashback paid On request into Card Account. Cashback paid annually or on request. Maximum spend for cashback purposes is limited to credit limit.
Representative example: When you spend £1,200 at a purchase rate of 28.9% (variable) p.a., your representative rate is 28.9% APR (variable).
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Tymit Credit Card
Tymit Credit Card
4.0
★★★★★
0% for 3 months reverting to 29.9%
N/A
£0
29.9% APR (variable)
Representative Example: 29.9% (variable) based on a borrowing of £1200 over 12 months with no annual fee.
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What features and services do Visa and Mastercard offer?

Visa and Mastercard offer a wide range of features and services that banks and other providers can choose to include on their different cards. These include:

  • Contactless payments. Credit cards with Visa or Mastercard contactless functionality allow you to make payments by tapping your card against a compatible reader. You don’t even need to enter a PIN if the transaction is worth less than £45. Contactless Visa and Mastercard credit cards can also be added to compatible mobile payment services that allow you to use your phone for purchases.
  • Premium cards. Visa and Mastercard both provide a range of standard and premium card options, such as Visa Platinum credit cards or World Mastercard cards. Gold and Platinum features vary based on the credit card provider but could include concierge services, global customer assistance, complimentary insurance and offers and privileges at a range of stores, hotels and restaurants.
  • Exclusive offers. The Mastercard Priceless Cities programme provides exclusive entertainment, dining, travel and shopping offers and experiences to customers with a Mastercard. Some premium cards may also offer access to even more exclusive packages. Meanwhile, smaller rival American Express has a benefits programme called American Express Experiences.
  • Online payment. Visa Checkout allows customers to shop online with participating retailers using a simple sign-in, which allows them to securely store shipping and payment details. Meanwhile, Mastercard offers a similar system with their digital wallet Masterpass.
  • Global security services. The Visa Global Customer Card and Mastercard Global Service support hotlines provide assistance if your card is lost or stolen, or if you have enquiries about your account. These services are available 24/7 from anywhere in the world. Alternatively, you can call your bank or card provider.
  • Online shopping protection. Both Visa and Mastercard offer programs that add another layer of security to online card payments. Verified by Visa and Mastercard SecureCode are optional services that some providers may offer when you use your credit card online.

Side-by-side comparison of Visa and Mastercard in 2018

How can I compare Visa and Mastercard credit cards?

Visa and Mastercard both offer worldwide acceptance and a similar range of features and services. Again, the features available may still depend on the actual card issuer. So rather than only comparing these two companies, it’s better to look at the specific details of each card you’re considering. This could include:

  • Annual fees. Most credit cards charge an annual fee, which could be as low as £25 for a basic card, or upwards of £450 for a premium option. The credit card issuer determines the annual fee based on the features available, with more perks usually equalling a higher cost. For this reason, Visa Platinum, Signature and Infinite cards, as well as World Mastercards, typically have higher fees because of the premium features they offer.
  • Interest rates. Standard credit card interest rates can significantly increase the cost of the card you choose, so it’s important to look at both the purchase rate and the cash advance rate for each card you compare. Again, these rates are set by the issuer but tend to be higher for more premium products.
  • Rewards. There is a wide range of Visa and Mastercard credit cards that are linked to rewards programs and frequent flyer programs. These products offer you points per £1 spent on purchases and usually include other additional features as well as higher annual fees. When comparing rewards cards, consider the earn rate, the type of rewards available and your average card spending so that you can decide if the annual fee will be worth it.
  • Dual accounts. Generally, rewards credit cards processed on the American Express payment network offer a more competitive points earn rate than Visa or Mastercard options. As Visa and Mastercard have more extensive networks, though, you can use them in a wider range of locations. As a result of these different features, some card issuers offer accounts that come with both an Amex card and a Visa or Mastercard to help you maximise your rewards.
  • Interest-free days. If you pay your balance in full by the statement due date, most credit cards will offer an interest-free period, such as “up to 44 days interest free.” This feature allows you to make purchases while avoiding interest. It’s worth noting that interest-free days are not applicable for cash advances, balance transfers or if you don’t pay your balance in full by the due date on your statement.
  • Complimentary extras. Credit card providers may offer a range of additional perks, including complimentary insurance, concierge services, airport lounge access and flight vouchers. These benefits can add value to the card you choose if you use them, and vary significantly between products.
  • Introductory offers. Credit card providers regularly offer new customers additional perks for a limited time, such as bonus points, 0% balance transfer interest rates or 0% purchase rates. These features are available for an introductory period and can add short-term value to the card you choose.
  • Security services. In addition to the security services offered by Visa and Mastercard, credit card providers may offer 24/7 fraud-monitoring services, daily transaction limits or even the ability to temporarily lock your card if you have misplaced it. All credit cards are chip-and-PIN products, which offer superior security for in-person payments.

Different types of credit cards explained

Other details of Visa and Mastercard

While it’s definitely more important to compare individual credit card features when looking for a new card, if you’re still interested in the whole Visa vs Mastercard debate, here are some other details to consider.

The history of Mastercard

Mastercard credit cards were originally developed in the US in 1966. This was during the early days of modern credit and charge cards, and there was a huge demand for products that could be used to make payments at a wide range of businesses. This led to the formation of the Interbank Card Association (ICA) and the MasterCharge card.

The Mastercard brand officially came into effect in 1979 as an evolution of this card payment network. It continued to grow as a major credit card brand and officially offered an IPO through the New York Stock Exchange in 2006 (trading as MA). Along with Visa, Mastercard has been at the forefront of credit card technology developments for security and card acceptance, including the implementation of EMV-chip credit cards and contactless payments.

The history of Visa

Visa’s history dates back to 1958 when the Bank of America launched the BankAmericard. This was the first mass-marketed credit card program and it quickly grew in popularity.

By the 1970s, BankAmericard was an independent entity and went on to take the name Visa. Visa then launched VisaNet, which was the first electronic payment authorisation, clearing, and settlement system in the world. It has continued to grow as a card payment processor since then and, like Mastercard, has been at the forefront of technologies including chip cards and contactless payments.

How do Visa and Mastercard make money?

Visa and Mastercard’s profits primarily come from the entities that use their services, such as banks and shops. Some of their sources of revenue include:

  • Card issuer fees. Both Mastercard and Visa charge financial institutions service fees for the use of their payment systems.
  • Bank settlement fees. Credit card issuers pay this fee at the time of settlement of payments.
  • Overseas fees. Mastercard and Visa charge issuers a fee for processing payments made in a foreign currency. These charges are often passed onto credit card customers in the form of a foreign currency or international transaction fee.

Visa and Mastercard compared

VisaMastercard
Market capitalisation (value)1US$516.76 billionUS$390.40 billion
Employees215,000+13,400+
Number of cards in circulation3.2 billion32.5 billion4
Value of transactions per yearUS$7.3 trillion5US$5.2 trillion6
Winner?checkmark

The details above show that Visa is by far the bigger company. However, in recent years, Mastercard has substantially increased its market share, bridging the gap between these two credit card giants.

VisaMastercard
Number of countries and territories200+210+
Number of merchants537 million (approx)37 million (approx)
Number of ATMsMore than 2 million7More than 1 million8
Winner?A tieA tie

1 and 2 At October 2018, reported by Forbes 3 Visa Annual Report 2017 4 Mastercard Incorporated Reports (October 2018) 5 Visa Annual Report 2017 6 Mastercard Sustainability Report 2017 7 Visa website (November 2018) 8 Mastercard Global ATM Locator (October 2018)

In terms of card acceptance, the table above shows that the two schemes are roughly the same. Although Visa boasts a wider ATM network than Mastercard, neither of them state a specific number of ATMs and acceptance may also depend on your card issuer. As these details are also published online with no date to them, it’s difficult to gauge how accurate they are, so we’ve called it a draw. As always, when choosing a card, make sure to weigh up all of its fees, features and benefits rather than just looking at which one is a Visa or a Mastercard.

While there are differences between Mastercard and Visa at a corporate level, the variations are relatively minor when it comes to using a credit card processed by one of the two companies. In general, you’re better off focusing on features such as the interest rate, annual fee and complimentary extras available when comparing credit cards so that you can find one that suits your needs.

Frequently asked questions

We show offers we can track - that's not every product on the market...yet. Unless we've said otherwise, products are in no particular order. The terms "best", "top", "cheap" (and variations of these) aren't ratings, though we always explain what's great about a product when we highlight it. This is subject to our terms of use. When you make major financial decisions, consider getting independent financial advice. Always consider your own circumstances when you compare products so you get what's right for you. Most of the data in Finder's comparison tables has the source: Moneyfacts Group PLC. In other cases, Finder has sourced data directly from providers.

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