Here are the top 3 alternatives to Rakuten, depending on whether you are looking for cashback/rewards (similar to Rakuten is US/EU model) or an e-commerce marketplace (similar to Rakuten Japan):
1. Honey (by PayPal) Best for Automatic Savings
If you use Rakuten for cashback while shopping online, Honey is its biggest competitor. Owned by PayPal, it operates primarily as a browser extension.
- Why its a top alternative: Unlike Rakuten, where you must manually activate the cashback, Honey automatically tests and applies coupon codes at checkout. It also offers a cashback rewards program called "Honey Gold."
- Best Feature: The "Droplist" feature allows you to add items to a list, and Honey will notify you if the price drops.
- Platform: Browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and Mobile App.
2. Capital One Shopping Best for Price Comparison
Formerly known as Wikibuy, this tool is excellent for ensuring you aren not overpaying. It functions similarly to Honey but is owned by Capital One.
- Why its a top alternative: It provides a powerful price comparison tool that checks if the item you are looking at is cheaper on another website (like Walmart vs. Target). It also automatically applies coupon codes and offers rewards that can be redeemed for gift cards.
- Best Feature: It tracks items you ve viewed and alerts you if the price drops at that specific store.
- Platform: Browser extension and Mobile App.
3. TopCashback Best for Highest Payouts
If you are a power user who wants the highest percentage of cashback returned to you (and don not mind waiting a bit longer), TopCashback is often recommended.
- Why its a top alternative: TopCashback is known for passing on 100% of the commission they earn from retailers to the user, whereas Rakuten and Honey sometimes take a cut. This often results in slightly higher cashback rates.
- Best Feature: They have a "Signed Up & Bagged" feature that tracks sign-ups and insurance purchases, which tend to have high payouts.
- Platform: Website and Mobile App.
Bonus: If you mean the Rakuten Marketplace (Japanese model)
If you are looking for an online store similar to Rakuten Ichiba (a massive department store-like marketplace), the closest alternative would be:
Amazon: The global standard for variety and fast shipping.
eBay: If you are looking for unique items, used goods, or auctions.
Walmart Marketplace: A major competitor in the US for general merchandise.