How good is Rakuten (formerly Ebates)?

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) has a Lunoo score of 8.2/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

Where does Rakuten (formerly Ebates) rank on Lunoo?

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is ranked #2 in Lunoo's Best Cashback rankings with a score of 8.8/10.

Is Rakuten (formerly Ebates) worth it in 2026?

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) scores 8.2/10 in the Cashback category on Lunoo. Compare it with alternatives to find the best fit for your needs.

What are the best alternatives to Rakuten (formerly Ebates)?

Visit lunoo.com/alternatives/rakuten-formerly-ebates to see top-ranked competitors with objective AI-powered scores and side-by-side comparisons.

How does Rakuten (formerly Ebates) compare to competitors?

Lunoo provides objective, AI-powered comparisons. Use the comparison tool to see Rakuten (formerly Ebates) side-by-side with any alternative.

zoom_in Click to enlarge

Rakuten (formerly Ebates)

8.81

Great

▲ ▼

Cashback Online Browser Extension Data Driven User Friendly Mobile App Loyalty Program Mobile Optimization Personalized Offers

language

description Rakuten (formerly Ebates) Overview

Rakuten remains a dominant force in the cashback space, boasting a vast network of over 5,000 retailers and consistently high cashback rates. Its user-friendly browser extension automatically alerts users to available offers, simplifying the earning process. Rakuten's 'Welcome Bonus' for new users is a significant draw, and its frequent promotional events further enhance its value. While the payout minimum can be a slight drawback, the sheer breadth of retailers and reliable cashback make it a top choice for online shoppers.

Rakuten's commitment to customer service and its established reputation contribute to its overall appeal.

insights Why this score

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) ranks #2 of 42 in the Cashback ranking, behind Rakuten Shopping, ahead of Mercado Pago.

balance Rakuten (formerly Ebates) Pros & Cons

thumb_up Pros

check Massive retailer network
check Straightforward browser extension
check Flexible payout options
check High potential cashback rates

thumb_down Cons

close Delayed quarterly payouts
close Requires tracking cookies
close Complex in-store tracking

help Rakuten (formerly Ebates) FAQ

Why is Rakuten still called Ebates by some shoppers?

Rakuten Rewards used to be Ebates, a cashback site founded in the late 1990s. Rakuten acquired Ebates in 2014 and phased the Ebates name into Rakuten Rewards in 2019.

How does Rakuten cashback actually get paid?

Rakuten earns affiliate commission when shoppers click through to partner stores, then shares part of that commission as cashback. Users typically receive payments through PayPal or check, depending on account settings and country.

Does the Rakuten browser extension change store prices?

The extension is mainly there to alert shoppers when cashback or coupons are available at a store. The purchase still happens on the retailer's site, such as Macy's, Nike, or Walmart, rather than inside Rakuten's own checkout.

How does Rakuten compare with Honey or Capital One Shopping?

Rakuten is primarily a cashback portal, while Honey and Capital One Shopping are better known for coupon finding and price comparison. Many shoppers use Rakuten when they know where they are buying and want a cashback rate tracked on that purchase.

swap_horiz

Looking for Rakuten (formerly Ebates) alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward