Debit and credit cards have a lot in common. But you can tell them apart by some differences in how they work. Oh, and by the card colours, of course.
What's the Difference between a Debit Card and a Credit Card?
Last Article Update 27.10.2025
Debit cards are often used to withdraw money from ATMs or for everyday purchases, for example at the supermarket or at vending machines. When paying with a debit card, the amount is immediately debited from your current account.
Credit cards are often used for larger purchases, or as a flexible and secure payment method abroad. Credit cards let you spend money up to a certain limit. When using a credit card, the amount is charged to your account, but not taken off immediately. Once a month, you get a statement. You can pay the full amount back at once, or in instalments (fees apply for this option).
Pay contactless
Contactless payments are a convenient way to make purchases and are possible with both credit and debit cards. If you want to pay without a physical card, you can activate Google Pay or Apple Pay, which are mobile payment solutions. You can add both your debit or credit card to your wallet and can then make contactless payments with your smartphone or smartwatch by holding your device towards the payment terminal.
What to keep in mind
Before you make a large payment, it's a good idea to check your debit card limit and credit card limit to see how much you can use. This can also help you decide which card you want to use.
There are two ways to see your debit card limit in the George app:
a) Tap the card symbol in the top right of your Overview, find your card and tap "Card Limit".
b) From your current account, go to "Functions". Then, go to the card you want and tap "Card Limit".
Remember: Your debit card limit is not the same as your daily signing limit.
The most significant difference
The main difference is that debit cards use the existing balance on the current account, while with credit cards you actually borrow money up to a certain credit limit without extra fees. The decision on which type of card to use depends entirely on your individual financial needs and preferences.
Author: Tamara Berger-Feichter