Not all credit cards are born equal. Different cards have different offers, features, and charges, and choosing a card is not as simple as going for the one with the lowest advertised rate. Various types of card are suitable for different types of use, and choosing the right card for you depends on how you plan to use it as well as how low the rate is, or how attractive the introductory offer.
If you intend to use the card mainly as a convenient way of spending and usually clear your balance every month, then the headline interest rate doesn’t really matter to you, as you shouldn’t be paying any interest at all. Instead, make sure the card you’re planning to apply for has a long ‘grace period’ on interest charges, giving you chance to pay your statement before any interest is applied. Interest free periods should be at least 30 days and are more usually in the 50-60 day range.
This kind of card user can also benefit from a cashback or rewards scheme if the card is regularly used for purchases, and so long as you avoid carrying a balance over you can actually turn a profit from your credit card account.
If, however, you use the...