RBC ION+ Visa vs Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card
The short answer: for most people the RBC ION+ Visa is the better overall card — we rate it 4/5 and it shines if you want everyday spenders and students who want high multipliers on groceries, gas, dining and streaming at a minimal fee.. Choose the Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card instead if your priority is no-fee scene+ points — a solid first or student card.
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| Our rating | 4.0 | 4.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $48/yr | No annual fee |
| Welcome bonus | $100 | $50 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% | 2.5% |
| Rewards type | points | points |
| Top earn rates |
|
|
| Purchase interest | 20.99% | 21.99% |
| Income required | None stated | None stated |
| Best for | Everyday spenders and students who want high multipliers on groceries, gas, dining and streaming at a minimal fee. | No-fee Scene+ points — a solid first or student card |
| Apply now | Apply now |
RBC ION+ Visa
Our winnerOutstanding earn rates for a $48/year card, and a great category-earner companion to a premium Avion card. Point value is modest unless paired with a full Avion card for pooling.
Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card
A friendly no-fee entry into the Scene+ ecosystem: 2x at participating grocers and on entertainment, plus easy approval, make it a good first or student card.
Frequently asked questions
Is the RBC ION+ Visa or the Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card better?
For most Canadians, the RBC ION+ Visa is the better overall pick (we rate it 4/5 vs 4/5). It's especially strong if you want everyday spenders and students who want high multipliers on groceries, gas, dining and streaming at a minimal fee.. The Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card can still win if you specifically want no-fee scene+ points — a solid first or student card.
Which card has the lower annual fee?
The Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card has the lower annual fee (no annual fee vs a $48 annual fee).
Do either of these cards charge foreign transaction fees?
RBC ION+ Visa: 2.5% foreign transaction fee. Scotiabank®SCENE+™ Visa* Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee.