The Citi Double Cash Card is a solid choice for those who prefer a simple, flat-rate cash back structure and a longer intro APR on balance transfers. However, the Discover it Cash Back is better for those who can maximize the rotating category bonuses and want to avoid foreign transaction fees. The Discover it Cash Back card's cashback match also provides excellent value in the first year.
| Attribute | Citi Double Cash Card | Discover it Cash Back |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Back Rewards Rate | Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases: 1% when you buy and an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal. | 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in purchases per quarter, requires activation), and 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases. |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Introductory APR Offer | 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months from date of account opening. | 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. |
| Regular APR | 18.24% - 28.24% (Variable) | 18.24% - 27.24% Variable APR |
| Credit Score Requirement | Fair/Good/Excellent (580-850) | Good to Excellent (typically 670 or higher) |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase. | None |
| Balance Transfer Fee | Intro fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, 5% of each transfer (minimum $5). | 3% intro fee on balances transferred within the first few months; after that, it can be up to 5%. |
| Purchase Protection | No purchase protection. | Not explicitly mentioned as a current benefit. (Note: Discover cut travel insurance and purchase protection benefits in early 2018) |
| Travel Insurance | The card may offer travel accident and lost luggage insurance. | Not offered |
| Sign-Up Bonus | Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases within the first 6 months of opening your account. This is fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou Points, redeemable for $200 cash back. | Unlimited Cashback Match - Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year. |
| Redemption Options | Statement credit, Direct deposit, Check by mail, Gift cards, Shop with Points at Amazon, Travel through the Citi Travel portal, Charitable contributions. | Direct deposit to your bank account, statement credit, gift cards, Amazon.com, or donations to charity. |
| Credit Limit | Not available | The balance transfer limit will not be more than the credit limit for your card. |