A credit card is a means of payment that you can use to pay in shops and online shops. Cash withdrawals are also possible, but are usually expensive (use debit cards for cash withdrawals). The amounts collected are billed once a month.
 

Most credit cards offer an instalment facility. This means that the bill can be paid in instalments. However, this costs high credit interest (usually 12 - 14 %), which is why we recommend that you always pay your credit card bills in full and on time.

We have compared the most important credit cards in our independent credit card comparison. The filter function will help you choose the perfect credit card. We were able to negotiate exclusive starting promotions with some providers. However, these have no influence on the rating result.

The most attractive are free credit cards with cashback and bonus programmes. In detail, we require the following for a very good rating:

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• There are no fixed costs (annual fees) for a very good rating.

• This applies regardless of whether you use the card or not.

• Card payments in Switzerland (in CHF) are free of charge both in shops and online.

• Sales-related cashback and bonus point credits are taken into account. 

• Attractive cashback or bonus conditions are decisive for a good test result.

• Digital billing (e-billing) is free of charge.

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Note: In general, a distinction can be made between three types of credit card: Standard (also Silver or Classic), Gold and Platinum. Only the standard offers are considered in the comparison, as the additional offers of Gold and Platinum cards are usually not worthwhile.

Our credit card comparison shows you the best credit cards in Switzerland. We take into account the fees as well as cashback and bonus programmes. Free credit cards with cashback and bonus programmes are the most attractive. However, you must be aware that with free credit cards only the fixed costs or annual fees are waived. To ensure that the credit card remains free and therefore attractive, you should bear the following in mind:
 

• Processing fees + exchange rate surcharges for foreign payments ⇨ Use a suitable foreign card when abroad

• High interest rates for instalment payments (around 12% to 14%) ⇨ Do not pay your credit card bill in instalments, but always pay on time and in full. Set up a direct debit order or a standing authorisation in eBill for this purpose.

• Cash withdrawal fees in Switzerland and abroad ⇨ Use a debit card for cash withdrawals

• Fees for paper invoices ⇨ Use electronic invoices

In our independent credit card comparison, we have compared the most important credit cards in Switzerland and evaluated them based on objective assessment criteria. This allows you to find the best credit cards in Switzerland at a glance. You can also use the filter function to filter the cards according to your individual needs.

When paying with cashback credit cards, a certain percentage of the purchase is credited to you each time you pay. For example, if you buy your new iPhone for CHF 1,000 with a credit card that grants 1% cashback, you will be credited CHF 10.

Yes, such cards are particularly attractive in combination with cashback or bonus programmes. A free credit card means that there are no annual fees. However, other costs - e.g. for cash withdrawals - may also be incurred with such credit cards. In our comparison, we have clearly listed the possible fees so that you are aware of the possible costs. With this knowledge, you can really use such credit cards free of charge.

Whether you choose a Visa, Mastercard, Amex or Diners credit card is less important than you might think. All of these providers are payment networks, which means that the most important factor is how many merchants accept the cards as a means of payment.

In Switzerland, Visa and Mastercard are accepted by almost all merchants. Amex and Diners are also widely used, but are sometimes not accepted by smaller merchants (e.g. cafés). In Switzerland, Amex and Diners are therefore usually issued as a card duo, i.e. in combination with a Visa or Mastercard. With such a card duo, you can pay practically anywhere. So it doesn't really matter which one you choose.

It is more important to understand that the banks decide on the conditions (fees and benefits). This is why two comparable Visa credit cards can cost significantly different amounts at two different banks. So you don't have to choose between Mastercard, Visa, etc., but between banks that offer credit cards.

Yes, if you pay for your purchases in Switzerland (in-store or online) with a free credit card with a cashback or bonus programme, you benefit with every purchase. You can find the best credit cards in Switzerland in our credit card comparison.

In addition, older debit cards are not accepted for online payments and in many countries credit cards are required for certain transactions (e.g. car hire or hotel reservations). Please note, however, that a credit card that is attractive in Switzerland is usually significantly more expensive abroad. There is no one-size-fits-all card, which is why we recommend a card specifically designed for use abroad.