Ibotta or Rakuten? Here’s What Most Reviews Won’t Tell You
You’ve just returned from a shopping spree, bags filled with goodies, and the only thing better than the finds is getting a little cash back. But which app is going to give you the best bang for your buck—ibotta or rakuten? Let’s break it down.
| Feature | ibotta | rakuten |
|---|---|---|
| Cashback Rate | 1% to 10%+ | 1% to 40%+ |
| Minimum Payout | $20 | $5 |
| Payment Methods | PayPal, Gift Cards | PayPal, Check |
| Mobile App | ✓ | ✓ |
| In-Store Offers | ✓ | ✗ |
| Browser Extension | ✗ | ✓ |
✅ ibotta Pros
- Wide range of in-store offers, ideal for grocery shopping.
- User-friendly app interface.
- Regular bonus opportunities for extra cash back.
❌ ibotta Cons
- Higher minimum payout of $20.
- Limited online shopping offers.
- Some offers require product verification.
✅ rakuten Pros
- High cashback rates, especially during promotions.
- Low minimum payout of $5, making it easier to cash out.
- Effective browser extension for online shopping.
❌ rakuten Cons
- No in-store offers, limiting savings to online purchases.
- Somewhat cluttered website interface.
Cashback Rates and Offers
When it comes to cashback rates, rakuten typically offers higher percentages, particularly during promotional events. If you’re the type who waits for big sales or holiday events to do your shopping, rakuten will likely maximize your savings. On the flip side, ibotta shines with its in-store offers, especially at grocery stores and supermarkets. For those who prefer physical shopping, ibotta provides more consistent, everyday savings.
Payout Methods and Requirements
Let’s talk cash flow. With ibotta, you’re looking at a $20 minimum before you can transfer funds, which might take a while if you’re not a frequent shopper. Rakuten, however, only requires $5 for a payout, making it more accessible for casual shoppers. Both apps offer PayPal, but rakuten also mails checks, which can be a perk for those who like a tangible reward.
Usability and Convenience
Using these apps should be hassle-free. Ibotta excels with its straightforward app interface that makes finding deals a breeze, but its lack of a browser extension is a downside for online shoppers. Rakuten’s browser extension automatically applies cashback deals as you browse, which is incredibly convenient, though its website can feel cluttered. If you’re heavily into online shopping, rakuten’s extension is a game-changer.
Both ibotta and rakuten have their quirks. Ibotta’s need for product verification can be tedious, especially when you’re in a hurry. Rakuten’s lack of in-store deals means you miss out on everyday purchases like groceries. Be mindful of these limitations based on your shopping habits.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re a dedicated online shopper who enjoys the ease of automatic cashback and doesn’t mind waiting for the big sales, rakuten is your best bet. But if you’re a regular grocery shopper who likes to see savings on everyday purchases, ibotta is the way to go. Both apps can be valuable additions, but it really depends on where you spend most of your money.
Can I use both ibotta and rakuten for the same purchase?
No, you can’t stack these services for a single purchase. You’ll need to pick one based on where you’ll get the best cashback rate.
How long does it take to receive payment from these apps?
Rakuten pays out every quarter, while ibotta allows you to cash out as soon as you hit the minimum threshold.
Is there a membership fee for either ibotta or rakuten?
Both ibotta and rakuten are free to use, with no membership fees required to earn cashback.
