CreditCardGuru

MBNA True Line Mastercard vs Scotiabank Value Visa Card

The short answer: for most people the MBNA True Line Mastercard is the better overall card — we rate it 4.1/5 and it shines if you want paying down debt with a low rate and a 0% balance transfer. Choose the Scotiabank Value Visa Card instead if your priority is low interest on both purchases and cash advances.

Advertiser disclosure: we may be compensated for links on this page. Our ratings stay independent. Learn more.

Our rating
4.1
4.0
Annual fee
No annual fee
$29/yr
Welcome bonus
None
None
Foreign transaction fee
2.5%
2.5%
Rewards type
cash back
cash back
Top earn rates
  • 0% rewards
  • 0% rewards
Purchase interest
12.99%
13.99%
Income required
None stated
None stated
Best for
Paying down debt with a low rate and a 0% balance transfer
Low interest on both purchases and cash advances
Apply nowApply now

MBNA True Line Mastercard

Our winner
4.1

Not a rewards card — a debt-payoff tool. The low 12.99% purchase rate and 0% intro balance-transfer offer make it one of the best ways to tackle existing credit card balances.

Scotiabank Value Visa Card

4.0

A low-interest workhorse: 13.99% on both purchases and cash advances, plus recurring 0% balance-transfer promos, for a small $29 fee. Built for carrying or consolidating a balance.

Frequently asked questions

Is the MBNA True Line Mastercard or the Scotiabank Value Visa Card better?

For most Canadians, the MBNA True Line Mastercard is the better overall pick (we rate it 4.1/5 vs 4/5). It's especially strong if you want paying down debt with a low rate and a 0% balance transfer. The Scotiabank Value Visa Card can still win if you specifically want low interest on both purchases and cash advances.

Which card has the lower annual fee?

The MBNA True Line Mastercard has the lower annual fee (no annual fee vs a $29 annual fee).

Do either of these cards charge foreign transaction fees?

MBNA True Line Mastercard: 2.5% foreign transaction fee. Scotiabank Value Visa Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee.