Honest Thoughts on the Best Buy Citi Card – Good or Bad?
If you’re wondering whether the Best Buy Citi Card is worth it, the straightforward answer is it’s a good choice for frequent Best Buy shoppers but not ideal as an everyday credit card. The card offers solid financing options, rewards on Best Buy purchases, and exclusive member perks, but it lacks versatility when compared to other cash-back or travel rewards cards. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and everything you should know before applying.
What Is the Best Buy Citi Card?
The Best Buy Citi Card, also known as the My Best Buy® Credit Card, is a store-branded credit card issued by Citi. It comes in two versions:
- Standard Store Card – Can only be used at Best Buy (in-store or online).
- Visa Version – Can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, with additional rewards outside Best Buy.
Both versions are designed to reward loyal Best Buy customers with financing offers and points that can be redeemed for Best Buy gift certificates.
Key Benefits of the Best Buy Citi Card
1. Special Financing Options
One of the biggest perks is deferred-interest financing on larger purchases. For example:
- 6 months financing on purchases of $199 and up
- 12–24 months on select items (like appliances, TVs, or computers)
This allows you to spread payments out interest-free — as long as you pay in full before the promotional period ends.
2. Reward Points System
The card uses the My Best Buy rewards program:
- 5% back in rewards (2.5 points per $1) for Best Buy purchases with the Visa version.
- 3% back (1.5 points per $1) if you have the standard store-only card.
- 2% back at restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations (Visa version only).
- 1% back everywhere else Visa is accepted.
These points convert into reward certificates you can use on future Best Buy purchases.
3. Exclusive Offers
Cardholders often get early access to sales, special member-only promotions, and bonus point events that non-members don’t see.
Downsides of the Best Buy Citi Card
1. High APR
The regular APR can be over 30%, which is significantly higher than the national average. If you carry a balance, interest charges will quickly wipe out any rewards you earn.
2. Limited Redemption
Rewards are only useful at Best Buy. Unlike cash-back cards, you can’t redeem for statement credits, travel, or flexible options.
3. Deferred Interest Risk
If you don’t pay off your financed purchase by the deadline, you’ll be charged retroactive interest on the entire purchase amount. This can be a nasty surprise.
4. Complicated Rewards Tracking
Rewards are issued as certificates in $5 increments, and they also expire quickly (usually within 60 days). This makes them harder to manage compared to standard cash-back.
Who Should Consider the Best Buy Citi Card?
This card is best for:
- Frequent Best Buy shoppers who make big tech purchases.
- People who pay balances in full every month.
- Shoppers who want financing flexibility on big-ticket electronics.
It’s not ideal for:
- Anyone who wants simple cash-back rewards.
- Shoppers who rarely visit Best Buy.
- People who may carry balances (because of high APR).
Best Buy Citi Card vs. Other Credit Cards
Compared to Cash-Back Cards
General cash-back cards like the Citi® Double Cash or Chase Freedom Unlimited® provide 2–5% back on all purchases, which is more flexible since you’re not tied to Best Buy rewards.
Compared to Store Cards
Other store cards (Amazon, Target, Walmart) usually provide 5% back every day, plus more flexible financing. Best Buy’s card is competitive but slightly less convenient due to certificate redemptions.
Tips to Maximize the Best Buy Citi Card
- Pay in full to avoid the high APR.
- Use financing offers only if you’re confident you can pay off before the promo ends.
- Track your reward certificates so they don’t expire unused.
- Pair it with a general cash-back card to cover non-Best Buy purchases.
Honest Verdict: Is the Best Buy Citi Card Good or Bad?
In simple terms: Good for Best Buy loyalists, bad for casual shoppers.
If you shop at Best Buy frequently and take advantage of financing or big-ticket purchases, the card can save you money. However, if you’re looking for an everyday credit card, the high APR, limited redemption options, and expiring rewards make it less appealing.
For most people, a general cash-back or travel rewards card will be a smarter choice. But if Best Buy is your go-to electronics store, this card could be worth keeping in your wallet.
Final Thoughts
The Best Buy Citi Card has a very specific audience – it’s not designed for everyone. If you’re a tech enthusiast or a regular Best Buy shopper, it offers valuable rewards and financing perks. For others, it’s better to explore more versatile credit card options.
