Zerofy Card vs OCBC Rewards Card: Which is Better in Singapore?

Choosing a rewards card in Singapore often comes down to how much effort you are willing to put into maximising rewards. Some cards offer higher reward rates but only for specific spending categories, while others focus on simple cashback across most purchases.

Two cards that frequently appear in comparisons are the Circles Zerofy Cashback Card and the OCBC Rewards Card.

The OCBC Rewards Card is known for offering high reward points for shopping and retail purchases, especially at department stores and partner merchants. The Zerofy Card, on the other hand, focuses on simple cashback rewards that apply to everyday digital spending without complicated conditions.

This comparison breaks down the key differences between Zerofy and OCBC Rewards across cashback, fees, flexibility, and usability to help you choose the card that suits your spending habits.

Key Takeaways

• Zerofy Card offers simple cashback without minimum spend requirements

• OCBC Rewards Card offers higher rewards for shopping and retail purchases

• Zerofy may be better for general online spending and overseas transactions

• OCBC Rewards may suit users who frequently shop at partner retail stores

What is a Zerofy Card?

The Zerofy Card is a digital cashback debit card managed through the Circles.Life app. It is designed to make cashback simple by applying a flat reward structure across most eligible purchases.

Users earn 1% cashback on eligible spending, including online shopping, subscriptions, and digital services.

In addition to the base cashback rate, users may receive higher cashback offers when purchasing through Zerofy partner merchants available within the Circles marketplace.

Because the card is integrated directly with the Circles.Life app, users can easily track spending, monitor cashback earnings, and manage the card digitally.

Zerofy Card vs OCBC Rewards Card — Quick Comparison

Cashback and Rewards Comparison

Zerofy Card Rewards

Zerofy focuses on a simple cashback model that applies to most purchases.

Users receive:

• 1% cashback on eligible spending

• Additional cashback through Zerofy partner merchants

• No monthly cashback caps

Because the cashback structure is consistent, users do not need to track specific categories or merchants to earn rewards.

OCBC Rewards Card Rewards

The OCBC Rewards Card is designed primarily for shopping and retail spending.

Users earn OCBC$ reward points, which can be accumulated and later redeemed for rewards such as vouchers, travel benefits, or merchandise.

The card typically offers higher rewards when spending at:

• Department stores

• Fashion and retail merchants

• Selected partner brands

However, these rewards often come with category restrictions and points caps, meaning not all spending earns the same reward rate.

Fees Comparison (FX, Annual, Hidden Costs)

Zerofy Card Fees

Zerofy removes many of the typical fees associated with credit cards.

Key fee advantages include:

• No annual fees

• No foreign exchange markup fees

• No minimum spending requirements

Because the card functions more like a prepaid or debit-style card, users also avoid credit interest charges.

OCBC Rewards Card Fees

The OCBC Rewards Card follows the traditional credit card fee model.

Potential costs may include:

• Annual fees after promotional waivers

• Foreign currency transaction fees

• Interest charges if balances are carried forward

These charges are standard for credit cards but should be considered when comparing total reward value.

Ease of Use and Flexibility

Zerofy Card

Zerofy prioritises ease of use and digital convenience.

Users can:

• Activate and manage the card through the Circles.Life app

• Track cashback instantly

• Use the card for online purchases, subscriptions, and travel spending

Because cashback applies broadly, users do not need to adjust their spending patterns.

OCBC Rewards Card

The OCBC Rewards Card works best for users who regularly shop within its bonus categories.

To maximise rewards, users may need to:

• Track eligible shopping categories

• Monitor reward point caps

• Redeem accumulated points for rewards

While this system can offer strong rewards for frequent shoppers, it requires more active management.

Pros and Cons

Zerofy Pros

• Simple cashback structure

• No minimum spend requirements

• No cashback caps

• No FX markup fees

• Easy digital card management

Zerofy Cons

• Lower base cashback compared with specialised reward cards

OCBC Rewards Card Pros

• Strong rewards for retail shopping

• Popular for department store purchases

• Flexible reward redemption options

OCBC Rewards Card Cons

• Reward points instead of direct cashback

• Category restrictions

• Monthly points caps

• Foreign exchange fees for overseas spending

Who Should Choose Zerofy?

Zerofy may be a good option if:

• You prefer simple cashback instead of reward points

• You frequently spend online or internationally

• You want no annual fees and fewer reward conditions

• You want a secondary card for everyday spending

Final Verdict

Both cards serve different types of spending behaviour.

The OCBC Rewards Card may be attractive for users who frequently shop at department stores or retail merchants where higher reward points can be earned.

The Zerofy Card, however, focuses on simplicity. With no cashback caps, no minimum spending requirements, and no foreign exchange markup fees, it can be a convenient option for everyday purchases and overseas spending.

For some users, using both cards together may offer the best balance. The OCBC Rewards Card can be used for retail shopping rewards, while Zerofy can cover general spending and international purchases.