Our Verdict
The RBC ION+ Visa earns solid marks for recognizing and rewarding how Canadians actually spend money in 2025, with its 3x earning on streaming, gaming, and digital subscriptions addressing a massive spending category ignored by most competitors. The inclusion of groceries, dining, food delivery, and rideshares in the bonus categories creates comprehensive coverage of essential and lifestyle spending, while the $48 annual fee remains reasonable for the benefits provided. Mobile device insurance adds practical value in our smartphone-dependent world, addressing a real need for protection that costs significantly more through carriers. The card's primary weakness lies in Avion points' disappointing redemption values, typically offering just 0.58 cents per point for travel or Pay with Points redemptions, meaning that 3x earning effectively yields only 1.74% return. The requirement for a 660+ credit score excludes some potential users who could benefit from its structure, while the annual fee, though modest, requires strategic use to ensure positive value. Despite these limitations, for urban millennials and Gen Z consumers whose spending aligns with the bonus categories, the RBC ION+ Visa provides relevant rewards on modern spending patterns that traditional cards miss, making it a forward-thinking choice in the evolving credit card landscape.
7.2 / 10
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Earn 3x points in select spending categories
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Enjoy a welcome bonus of up to 14,000 points
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Partial monthly annual fee rebate availalbe
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Mobile device insurance
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You'll pay an annual fee of $48
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You'll need a credit score of at least 660 to be eligible for the card
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Low rewards points value
Requirements
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident Be at least the age of majority in your province (18 or 19 years old)
