Rakuten vs Honey — Which Cashback & Coupon App Is Better in 2026?

If you want to save money while shopping online, both Rakuten and Honey are popular tools that help shoppers earn rewards or find coupon discounts automatically.

This updated comparison explains how each platform works and which one may help you save more on everyday online purchases.

What is Rakuten?

Rakuten is a cashback shopping platform that pays users real cash rewards when they shop through its referral links at participating online stores.

See Rakuten sign-up bonus details

Rakuten Pros

  • Earn real cashback payouts via PayPal or check
  • Frequent double cashback promotions
  • Works with major clothing and retail brands
  • Easy browser extension for tracking rewards

Rakuten Cons

  • Cashback payments are issued quarterly
  • Some retailers offer lower cashback percentages
  • Rewards depend on shopping activity

What is Honey?

Honey is a coupon browser extension that automatically searches for working promo codes at checkout. It also offers shopping rewards through its Honey Gold program.

View Honey referral bonus information

Honey Pros

  • Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout
  • Simple and beginner-friendly savings tool
  • Honey Gold rewards on select purchases
  • Popular among frequent online shoppers

Honey Cons

  • Coupon success rates vary by retailer
  • Rewards may be limited compared to cashback sites
  • Does not always guarantee savings

Which App Saves More Money?

Rakuten often provides stronger long-term savings through cashback rewards, especially for larger purchases. Honey is typically better for quick coupon savings during checkout.

Many experienced shoppers install both tools to maximize total discounts and cashback opportunities.

Best Strategy to Maximize Online Shopping Savings

  1. Install both Rakuten and Honey browser extensions.
  2. Check cashback percentages before completing purchases.
  3. Allow Honey to test coupon codes automatically.
  4. Combine savings with referral bonuses and seasonal sales.

Final Comparison Summary

  • Best cashback earning potential: Rakuten
  • Best automatic coupon savings: Honey
  • Best overall strategy: Use both tools together

Disclosure: This page may contain referral links. Cashback rates and coupon availability can change at any time.