Directory / How we rate
How we rate
Every platform in our directory gets a score out of 10, computed from six weighted factors. The methodology is the same for every card — no paid placements in ratings.
| Factor | Weight | What we measure |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & pricing | 40% | Issuance fee (15%), monthly/annual fee (10%), FX & conversion fees (15%). Free issuance and zero FX score highest. |
| Availability | 25% | Number of supported regions from our 9-region map. Broader coverage scores higher. |
| Features | 20% | Cashback rewards, virtual + physical options, Apple/Google Pay, top-up flexibility. |
| Trust & maturity | 15% | How well we could verify the data: verified sources score highest; unverified platforms are marked and scored lower. |
What the scores mean
9–10: best-in-class — free or near-free, widely available, well verified.
7–8.9: strong options with minor trade-offs.
5–6.9: decent but limited — higher fees, narrow regions, or thin verification.
Below 5: hard to recommend today.
Important notes
Ratings are editorial opinions based on public web research, not financial advice. Platforms marked "unverified" carry an amber-striped availability map — treat their data as provisional until confirmed in-app. Fees change frequently; the provider's app always has the final word.