Best cashback card in Hong Kong: The ultimate comparison

What is a cashback card

At its core, a cashback card is a rewards card that refunds you a small percentage of the amount you spend on eligible purchases. Think of it as a continuous discount on everything you buy. For every transaction you make, whether it's for supermarket groceries, a new gadget, or booking a holiday, the card issuer credits a certain percentage of that purchase back to you⁸.

These rewards, often called 'cash rebates' or 'cash rewards', accumulate over time. Depending on the card's terms, this accumulated cash can be used to offset your credit card statement balance, be deposited directly into your bank account, or redeemed for vouchers and other benefits.

For savvy consumers in Hong Kong, using a cashback card for everyday purchases and online shopping is a simple yet effective way to maximise savings and get more value from spending. The same applies to businesses. Over time, the cashback earned can help reduce operational expenses and potentially increase profitability. Understanding how these cards work is the first step toward unlocking their full potential⁸.

Understanding types of cashback cards

Cashback cards are not a one-size-fits-all product. They come in several different structures, each designed to cater to different spending habits. Understanding these types is crucial to selecting a card that aligns with your lifestyle.

1. Flat-rate cashback cards

This is the simplest type of cashback card. It offers a single, consistent percentage back on all eligible purchases, regardless of the category. A great example is the Mox Credit Card, which often promotes unlimited cashback on all spending. These cards are ideal for individuals who value simplicity and don't want to track different spending categories. The reward rate might be slightly lower than specialised cards, but the "earn on everything" approach is hassle-free⁶ ⁷.

2. Tiered-rate cashback cards

These cards offer different cashback rates depending on how much you spend within a billing cycle. For example, a card might offer 1% cashback on the first HK$5,000 you spend, and 1.5% on any spending above that amount. This structure rewards higher spending but requires you to be mindful of your monthly budget to reach the more lucrative tiers.

Bonus category cashback cards (rotating or fixed)

This is the most common type and often offers the highest reward rates. These cards provide an elevated cashback percentage on specific spending categories.

• Fixed categories: Cards like the Citi Cash Back Card permanently offer higher rebates on set categories, such as its signature 2% on dining, hotels, and overseas spending. This is perfect for users whose spending is consistently concentrated in these areas².
• Rotating categories: Some cards feature bonus categories that change every quarter (e.g., groceries from January-March, travel from April-June). These can be highly rewarding but require you to enroll in the new categories and adjust your spending strategy periodically.

Furthermore, it's essential to distinguish between cards offering unlimited cash rebate versus those with a rewards cap. An unlimited card, like the Mox Credit Card, will continue to give you rewards no matter how much you spend. In contrast, a card like the HSBC Red Credit Card might offer a high 4% on online spending, but this rate may only apply up to a certain spending limit per month or year, after which a lower base rate applies¹ ⁷.

How cashback credit cards work

The mechanism behind cashback credit cards is straightforward. When you make a purchase with your card, the merchant pays an interchange fee to the card issuer (your bank). The bank then shares a portion of this fee with you in the form of cashback⁸.

Let's break down the process:

1. Spending: You use your cashback credit card for an eligible purchase. For instance, you spend HK$500 at a restaurant using your Citi Cash Back Card.
2. Calculation: The card issuer calculates the reward based on your card's specific rate for that category. Since the Citi Cash Back Card offers 2% on dining, the calculation is HK$500×0.02=HK$10.
3. Accrual: This HK$10 cash reward is added to your rewards balance, which you can usually track through your online banking portal or mobile app.
4. Redemption: Once you've accumulated a certain amount of cashback (or at any time, depending on the card's policy), you can redeem it. Common redemption options include²:
   
   1. Statement Credit: The most popular option, where the cash reward is applied directly to your credit card bill, reducing the amount you owe.
   2. Direct Deposit: Some cards allow you to transfer the cash directly to a linked savings or chequing account.
   3. Vouchers or Gift Cards: You might be able to convert your cash rewards into vouchers for specific retailers.

It's crucial to read the terms and conditions. Some transactions, such as cash advances, balance transfers, or payments for financial services, are typically ineligible for cashback. Understanding these nuances ensures you're effectively maximising your earnings on every eligible Hong Kong dollar spent.

Top cashback credit cards in Hong Kong

Choosing a card in Hong Kong’s competitive market can be daunting. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top contenders, each with its own strengths.

Keep in mind that these are primarily personal cards rather than dedicated corporate cards. Still, they can be practical for entrepreneurs managing small business or personal business-related expenses¹ ² ⁴ ⁵ ⁶ ⁷.

1. HSBC Red Credit Card

The HSBC Red Credit Card is a powerhouse for the modern digital consumer. Its standout feature is the impressive 4% cash rebate on all online spending. This makes it the go-to card for anyone who frequently shops at HKTVmall, ASOS, or books travel and entertainment online. It also offers a solid 2% on supermarket purchases, making it great for groceries.

While the high rebates have spending caps, they are generally generous enough for the average user. With a perpetual annual fee waiver and added benefits like travel insurance, it’s a well-rounded card for young professionals¹.

2. Citi Cash Back Card

If your lifestyle revolves around dining out and travelling, the Citi Cash Back Card is a top-tier choice. It offers a straightforward and unlimited 2% cash rebate on all local dining, hotel stays, and foreign currency spending. This uncapped feature is a significant advantage for high spenders. All other local spending earns a standard 1%.

Citibank is also known for its attractive welcome offers for new customers, often providing a substantial cash rebate or a premium gift after meeting an initial spending requirement² ³.

3. Mox Credit Card

As a virtual bank, Mox brings a fresh, digital-first approach. The Mox Credit Card, a product of Standard Chartered, is built on simplicity and transparency. Its primary appeal is its no annual fee and unlimited cashback.

While the base rate might be 1%, Mox frequently partners with popular merchants to offer elevated "CashBack" rates, which can go up to 5% or more. Its integration with Apple Pay and Google Pay, coupled with a seamless mobile app for tracking spending and rewards, makes it a favourite among tech-savvy users who want a low-maintenance, high-convenience card⁶ ⁷.

4. Standard Chartered Smart Card

The Standard Chartered Smart Card is designed for smart, flexible spending. Its key value proposition is having no foreign currency transaction fees, making it an excellent companion for overseas travel and shopping on international websites. It also offers a competitive 5% cashback at specific everyday merchants. Another unique feature is the option to split transactions into three-month interest-free instalments at no extra charge, providing greater control over your cash flow. With no annual fee, it’s a strong contender for budget-conscious consumers and frequent travellers⁴ ⁵.

Eligibility and application

Applying for a cashback credit card in Hong Kong is a standardised process, but each bank has specific requirements. Generally, you will need to meet the following criteria¹ ² ⁴ ¹⁰:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: You typically need to be a Hong Kong resident with a valid HKID.
• Income: Most cards have a minimum annual income requirement. This can range from around HK$96,000 for entry-level cards like the SC Smart Card to HK$120,000 or more for cards like the HSBC Red and Citi Cash Back. Banks will require proof of income, such as recent salary slips or bank statements.
• Credit Score: A crucial, though often unstated, requirement is a good credit score. Your credit history, as reported by TransUnion, demonstrates your reliability as a borrower. A history of timely payments will significantly increase your chances of approval.

The application process is now predominantly online. You can visit the bank's website, fill out the application form, and upload digital copies of your HKID, proof of address, and proof of income. Approval can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

How to choose the best cashback card

With so many excellent options, the "best" card is subjective and depends entirely on you. Follow these steps to make an informed decision¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁶ ⁷:

1. Analyse your spending habits

Track your expenses for a month or two. Where does most of your money go? If you spend heavily on online shopping, the HSBC Red Card is a natural fit. If you're a foodie who loves to travel, the Citi Cash Back Card is likely your best bet. If your spending is varied and you dislike fees, the Mox Card or SC Smart Card are strong choices.

2. Compare fees and rates

Look beyond the headline cashback rate. Check the annual fee and if it's waivable. If you travel, check the foreign transaction fees. The SC Smart Card shines here with its 0% fee. Also, be aware of the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), the interest you'll pay if you don't clear your balance each month. High interest charges can quickly negate any cashback you've earned.

3. Read the fine print

Understand the limitations. Is there a cap on the amount of cashback you can earn in high-reward categories? Is there a minimum spending requirement to unlock a welcome bonus or earn rewards? These details are critical to decide which card you'll choose.

4. Evaluate additional perks

Don't overlook extra benefits. Perks like complimentary travel insurance, purchase protection, airport lounge access, or concierge services can add significant value, especially if they align with your needs.

5. Check reviews and welcome offers

See what other users are saying about the card's customer service and mobile app experience. Finally, compare the current welcome offers, as they can provide a huge initial boost in value.

How to maximise card cashbacks and rewards

Getting the card is only half the battle. To truly benefit, you need to use it strategically 1,2,4,6,7.

1. Use the right card for the right purchase

If you hold multiple cards, use each for its strength. Use the HSBC Red for your online subscriptions and the Citi Cash Back when you're dining out.

2. Pay your balance in full

This is the golden rule. Interest charges are almost always higher than the cashback rewards you earn. Carrying a balance will cost you more than you gain.

3. Meet welcome offer requirements

Plan your spending to meet the minimum threshold for welcome bonuses. This could mean timing a large purchase (like a new phone or flight tickets) with your new card application.

4. Stay updated on promotions

Banks frequently run limited-time promotions, offering boosted cashback rates at certain merchants. Keep an eye on your email or the bank's app for these offers.

5. Redeem rewards wisely

Let your rewards accumulate to a meaningful amount before redeeming. Always choose the redemption option with the best value—usually a statement credit.

Enjoy unlimited 1% cashback and exclusive perks with Aspire Corporate Cards

While these cards are ideal for optimising personal spending, businesses have a distinct set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to managing expenses and earning rewards. However, from our experience, we've seen firsthand how Hong Kong entrepreneurs can't maximise their card rewards and benefits due to complex fee structure and strict eligibility.

Aspire's Corporate Card offers Hong Kong businesses a modern and flexible alternative. We built this multi-currency debit card based on Hong Kong entrepreneurs' needs of smarter way to manage expenses.

With Aspire, you can issue unlimited cards at no extra cost. Each card can be customised with spending limits and assigned to specific merchants, clients, or projects—helping you prevent fraud and unauthorised expenses. All this comes with zero annual or subscription fees.

You can spend directly in USD to avoid conversion fees on international purchases while earning 1% cashback on digital transactions. On top of that, you’ll get access to over USD $500,000 worth of exclusive perks, including 50% off Google Workspace and 90% off Xero for 6months. These cards also integrate seamlessly with Hong Kong’s digital payment ecosystem.

Designed for both local and global use, Aspire’s card provides the agility today’s businesses need to operate efficiently across borders.