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Credit Cards » Compare Credit Cards » Target Red Card vs. Macy’s Credit Card: What Store Card Offers The Highest Rewards?

Target Red Card vs. Macy’s Credit Card: What Store Card Offers The Highest Rewards?

The Target RedCard is our winner especially if you focus on groceries and dining, with much better cashback rates than Macy's Credit Card.
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Interest Rates Last Update: November 15, 2024
The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Interest Rates Last Update: November 15, 2024

The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.

We earn a commission from our partner links on this page. It doesn't affect the integrity of our unbiased, independent editorial staff. Transparency is a core value for us, read our advertiser disclosure and how we make money.

When it comes to choosing a store card that maximizes rewards, the Target Red Card and Macy's Credit Card stand out as contenders. Both cards aim to entice shoppers with enticing perks, but a closer look reveals distinctions that might sway your decision.

Target vs. Macy’s Credit Card : General Comparison

The Target RedCard keeps rewards simple, focusing on Target purchases. Cardholders get an instant 5% discount on all purchases, whether shopping in-store or online.

This is a great perk for regular Target shoppers, especially if you're furnishing your home, stocking up on groceries, or keeping up with the latest fashion trends.

Target Circle card rewards and savings
Target Circle card rewards and savings (Screenshot taken by our team from Target app)

RedCard holders also enjoy free shipping on most Target.com orders, making it an even better option for online shopping.

On the flip side, the Macy's Credit Card offers a more detailed rewards program with a tiered system. You earn more points in categories like dining, groceries, and gas.

Plus, Macy's cardholders get access to additional perks, such as discounts, surprise savings, and exclusive free shipping events. For frequent Macy's shoppers, this rewards structure can lead to more significant long-term benefits.

macy amex card

target red card

Macy's Credit Card
Target RedCard Credit Card
Annual Fee
$0
$0
Rewards
spend $1,200 or more annually to get 5X points per dollar on purchases made at Macy's, 3X points if you spend $500 to $1199 and 2X points if you spend up to $500. Also, get 3X points at restaurants including delivery, 2X at gas stations & supermarkets and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else
5% off at Target and target.com, 2% on dining and gas purchases and 1% everywhere else outside of Target
Welcome bonus
30% discount on Macy's on the day you are approved and the following day, up to $100
None
Foreign Transaction Fee
3%
$0
Purchase APR
33.74% variable
29.45% Variable
Read Review
Read Review
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers From Our Partners

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.

Cashback Analysis: Which Card Gives More?

Based on our analysis, and assuming all supermarket and gas purchases are made via  Target – the Target Red Card card will drive you more cash back:

macy amex card

target red card

Spend Per Category
Macy's Credit Card
Target RedCard Credit Card
$15,000 – U.S Supermarkets
30,000 points
$750
$4,000 – Macy's
20,000 points
$40
$5,000 – Restaurants
15,000 points
$100
$4,000 – Travel
4,000 points
$40
$4,000 – Gas
8,000 points
$80
Total Points / Cashback
77,000 points
$1,010
Estimated Redemption Value
1 point ~ 1 cent
/
Estimated Annual Value
$770
$1,010

* Assuming all supermarkets purchases made via Target

Additional Benefits: Target vs. Macy’s Credit Card

The Target card offers many extra shopping benefits for cardholders, such as exclusive deals, extended return time, and free shipping.

On the other hand, Macy's credit card provides member exclusive savings and perks, birthday surprise and free shipping.

Macy's Credit Card

macy amex card

  • Star Passes: Exclusive savings reserved for cardholders, providing special discounts on purchases.

  • Star Money Bonus Days: During these exclusive periods, cardholders can accelerate their rewards accumulation, making their shopping experiences more rewarding.

  • Birthday Surprise: Cardholders receive a delightful birthday surprise as a token of appreciation.

  • Member Exclusives: Enjoy bonus points when shopping for your favorite brands and other exclusive perks available only to cardholders.

  • Free Shipping at Macy’s with your card:

    • Silver Tier: Free shipping on purchases of $25 or more.
    • Gold & Platinum Tiers: Enjoy free shipping with no minimum purchase requirement, enhancing the convenience of online shopping for cardholders.
Target RedCard Credit Card

target red card

  • Free 2-day shipping: Enjoy the convenience of swift delivery with free 2-day shipping on an extensive selection of items when shopping on Target.com.
  • RedCard Exclusives: Gain access to special items and exclusive offers available only to RedCard holders, enhancing your shopping experience with unique perks.
Target Circle personal Deals
Target Circle personal Deals (Screenshot taken by our team from Target app)
  • Extended Return Time: Benefit from an additional 30 days for returns and exchanges at Target, providing flexibility and peace of mind for your purchases.
  • Starbucks Discount: Save 5% on your purchases at any in-store Starbucks location when using your Target Red Card, adding an extra perk for coffee enthusiasts.
  • Specialty Gift Cards Savings: Receive a 5% discount on specialty gift cards for travel, restaurants, movie tickets, and more, allowing you to save on a variety of experiences and purchases beyond Target.

When You Might Prefer The Target RedCard?

You might prefer the Target Red Card If:

  • Frequent Target Shopper: If you find yourself regularly shopping at Target for everyday essentials or special items, the Target Red Card's consistent 5% discount on every eligible purchase can quickly add up, offering immediate and reliable savings.

  • Simple and Instant Savings: If you prefer a straightforward rewards system without the complexity of points and tiers, the Target Red Card might be your go-to choice. Its 5% discount at checkout provides instant savings without the need to track points or navigate a tiered structure.

Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers From Our Partners

Amex gold

Rewards Plan:
1X – 4X 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
60,000 points 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership

upgrade cash rewards

Rewards Plan:
1.5% 1.5% cash back on payments
Welcome Bonus:
$200 Earn $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking account and making 3 debit card transactions.

AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Card review

Rewards Plan:
1-6% 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
$250 $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.

When You Might Prefer The Macy's Credit Card?

You might prefer the Macy's Credit Card If:

  • Diverse Shopping Habits: If your shopping preferences extend beyond Target and include a variety of brands and products, the Macy's Credit Card offers a more versatile rewards system. Its tiered structure allows you to earn points on a broader range of purchases.

  • Frequent Macy's Shopper: For those who regularly shop at Macy's, the Macy's Credit Card provides an opportunity to capitalize on the tiered rewards system, potentially earning more substantial discounts and perks based on your annual spending.

Compare The Alternatives

If you're looking for a store credit card with great rewards for online shopping – there are some good alternatives you may want to consider:

Citi-costco-anywhere-visa-credit-card review

Apple card

Sam's Club® Mastercard®

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Apple Credit Card
Sam's Club® Mastercard®
Annual Fee
$0 ($60 Costco membership fee required)
$0
$0 ($50/$110 for Club/Plus membership – MUST)
Rewards
1-4% 4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases
1% – 3% 3% cash back at Apple and select Apple pay partners. 3% Daily Cash back at Ace Hardware, Duane Reade, Exxon, Mobil, Nike, Panera Bread, T-Mobile, Uber, Uber Eats, and Walgreens. 2% on other Apple pay purchases, and 1% on all other purchases
1-5% 5% cash back on gas anywhere Mastercard is accepted (on the first $6,000 per year, then 1% after), 3% cash back on Sam’s Club purchases for Plus members, 3% on dining and takeout and 1% on all other purchases
Welcome bonus
None None
N/A
None $30 statement credit after making $30 in Sam’s Club purchases within the first 30 days
Foreign Transaction Fee
$0
$0
N/A
Purchase APR
19.99% – 27.99% (Variable)
15.99% – 26.99% Variable
20.40% or 28.40% Variable

Compare Target Red Card

While Target RedCard offers a less attractive cashback rewards ratio than Amazon, it still may be a better option for some. Let's compare.

Target Red Card vs. Prime Visa: How They Compare?

If you focus on groceries – the Target RedCard wins, but if you focus on travel or gas – you may want the Costco credit card.

Target Red Card vs. Costco Anywhere Visa Card: How They Compare?

If you do all your grocery and fuel shopping at either Target or Sam's Club, the cashback you get from both credit cards is pretty similar.

Sam’s Club Mastercard vs Target Red Card: How They Compare?

The target RedCard is our clear winner, with a higher cash-back rate and estimated annual value. Here's what you can get with each card.

JCPenney Credit Card vs Target Red Card: How They Compare?

Compare Macy's Credit Card

The Macy's Credit Card is a clear winner with higher points rewards ratio and higher cashback value for the same spend than Nordstrom Card.

Nordstrom vs. Macy’s Credit Card: Which Store Card Gives You The Most Value?

The Macy's Credit Card is a clear winner with higher points rewards ratio and overall cashback value for the same spend than JCPenney Card.

Macy’s vs. JCPenney Credit Card: Which Gives You The Most Value?

Unlike Kohl's card, the Macy's Credit Card offers points rewards on all categories, making it more attractive for the average consumer.

Macy's Credit Card vs Kohl's Charge Card by Capital One: Which One Wins?

Picture of Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor.  Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more.
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Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Credit Card Reviews Methodology

In order to determine the best possible credit cards, we look at things like fees, interest rates and rewards. We do this with companies that are associated with us as partners as well as other offerings. From there, we make a decision about what the best card is related to different categories and needs. We focus on interest rate cost & fees, especially the cost of carrying a balance, rewards – cards accumulate rewards in different currencies—points, miles, cash back—and their values vary widely usability – cards that accept a wide range of credit profiles and offer simple solutions for things like checking your credit score or contacting. We also consider customer reviews.

We look at cards related to good or excellent credit ratings that will then provide a range of different benefits and improvements for someone who has these scores. We also look at low fees when it comes to those who have lower credit scores.

This website is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear).

This website does not include all card companies or all card offers available in the marketplace. This website may use other proprietary factors to impact card offer listings on the website such as consumer selection or the likelihood of the applicant’s credit approval.

This allows us to maintain a full-time, editorial staff and work with finance experts you know and trust. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impacts any of the editorial content on The Smart Investor.

While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, The Smart Investor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof.

Learn more about how we review products and read our advertiser disclosure for how we make money. All products are presented without warranty.