Cashback Sites vs. Cashback Credit Cards — Which Pays More?

Updated April 2026 · 6 min read

Both cashback credit cards and cashback sites promise to put money back in your pocket. But they work differently, and using both together can maximize your savings. Here's how they compare.

How Cashback Credit Cards Work

Cashback credit cards give you a percentage back on every purchase you make with the card. Typical rates are 1-2% on general purchases, with some cards offering 3-5% in rotating bonus categories like groceries, gas, or dining.

How Cashback Sites Work

Cashback sites (like CashHop) give you a percentage back when you shop through their tracked links. Rates typically range from 1-10% depending on the retailer. This cashback comes from the retailer's affiliate marketing budget, not from a credit card company.

Side-by-Side Comparison

The Best Strategy: Stack Both

The good news is you don't have to choose. Use your cashback credit card to pay, and click your CashHop bookmark before shopping. You'll earn cashback from both sources on the same purchase.

For example, shopping at a retailer offering 5% through CashHop and paying with a 2% cashback credit card means you effectively save 7% on your purchase.

When Cashback Sites Win

• Higher rates on specific retailers (up to 10%)
• No credit check or credit card application
• No annual fee, ever
• Available to everyone, regardless of credit score

When Credit Cards Win

• Work on in-store purchases
• Automatic on every purchase (no link to click)
• Purchase protection and fraud coverage