When it comes to cashback credit cards, Citi offers two standout options: the Citi Double Cash® Card and the Citi Custom Cash® Card. Both provide valuable rewards, but which one is the better fit for your spending habits? In this comparison, we’ll break down their features, benefits, and ideal use cases to help you decide.
Overview of Citi Double Cash and Citi Custom Cash
Before diving into the details, let’s take a quick look at what each card offers:
- Citi Double Cash® Card: Earns a flat 2% cashback on all purchases—1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay off your balance.
- Citi Custom Cash® Card: Earns 5% cashback on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle (up to $500 in purchases), and 1% on all other purchases.
Comparing Cashback Rewards
Citi Double Cash: Simple and Consistent
The Citi Double Cash Card is ideal for those who prefer a straightforward rewards structure. With 2% cashback on all purchases, you don’t have to track categories or adjust spending habits. This makes it a great choice for everyday purchases and those who want a reliable cashback rate.
Citi Custom Cash: Maximizing Bonus Categories
The Citi Custom Cash Card is designed for strategic spenders. It automatically rewards 5% cashback on your highest spending category each billing cycle, up to $500. Eligible categories include:
- Restaurants
- Gas stations
- Grocery stores
- Travel
- Streaming services
- Drugstores
- Home improvement stores
- Fitness clubs
If you consistently spend in one of these categories, the Citi Custom Cash can provide significant value. However, purchases beyond the $500 cap earn just 1% cashback.
Which Card Offers More Cashback?
The best card depends on your spending habits. Let’s consider two scenarios:
Scenario 1: Even Spending Across Categories
If you spend $1,500 per month across various categories, the Citi Double Cash would earn:
- $1,500 x 2% = $30 cashback
With the Citi Custom Cash, assuming no single category exceeds $500, you would earn:
- $500 x 5% = $25 cashback
- $1,000 x 1% = $10 cashback
- Total: $35 cashback
In this case, the Citi Custom Cash edges out the Citi Double Cash, but only slightly.
Scenario 2: High Spending in One Category
If you spend $500 per month on groceries and $1,000 on other purchases, the Citi Custom Cash would earn:
- $500 x 5% = $25 cashback
- $1,000 x 1% = $10 cashback
- Total: $35 cashback
Meanwhile, the Citi Double Cash would earn:
- $1,500 x 2% = $30 cashback
Here, the Citi Custom Cash comes out ahead, but only if you maximize the 5% category.
Additional Benefits and Considerations
Annual Fees
Both cards have no annual fee, making them cost-effective options for cashback rewards.
Introductory Offers
The Citi Custom Cash often includes a welcome bonus, such as $200 after spending $750 in the first three months. The Citi Double Cash typically does not offer a welcome bonus.
Foreign Transaction Fees
Both cards charge a 3% foreign transaction fee, making them less ideal for international travel.
Which Card Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Choose Citi Double Cash if: You want a simple, flat-rate cashback card with no spending limits or category tracking.
- Choose Citi Custom Cash if: You consistently spend in one of the 5% bonus categories and can maximize the $500 cap each month.
- Consider both if: You want to use Citi Custom Cash for its 5% category and Citi Double Cash for all other purchases.
Final Thoughts
Both the Citi Double Cash and Citi Custom Cash offer excellent cashback opportunities, but the right choice depends on your spending habits. If you prefer simplicity, the Citi Double Cash is a solid option. If you can optimize your spending in a specific category, the Citi Custom Cash can yield higher rewards.
For many, a combination of both cards may be the best strategy—using Citi Custom Cash for its 5% category and Citi Double Cash for everything else. Whichever you choose, both cards provide valuable cashback with no annual fee, making them great additions to your wallet.
