Rakuten Reviews

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9% users rated Terrible
1% users rated Poor
9% users rated Average
17% users rated Very Good
65% users rated Excellent
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I Ivan
14 days ago

Turning Frustration into a Positive Experience: My Journey with Rakuten

Embarking on my cashback journey with Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, initially filled me with excitement. The platform's reputation preceded it, promising seamless transactions and lucrative rewards. Having reactivated my old account from the Ebates era, I eagerly anticipated a similar experience. However, my enthusiasm soon turned to disappointment as I encountered hurdles along the way. Despite diligently shopping through Rakuten and meeting the minimum payout requirements, I found myself facing a frustrating predicament - delayed payouts. A significant portion of my cashbacks remained uncredited, leaving me disheartened. As I eagerly awaited my well-deserved rewards, the quarterly payout dates seemed to be in a perpetual state of postponement, elongating the wait and exacerbating my concerns. Determined to resolve the issue, I reached out to Rakuten's support team, seeking clarity and assistance. Unfortunately, my efforts only yielded automated responses, devoid of the personalized attention I longed for. The ambiguous reassurance of a potential future response left me feeling unheard and undervalued as a loyal customer. Reflecting on my experience, the sense of disappointment and frustration lingers. Despite the unfulfilled promise of substantial rewards amounting to over $250, the absence of timely payouts cast a shadow over my journey with Rakuten. The unresolved ticket, marked by the number #43219442, stands as a stark reminder of the unmet expectations and missed opportunities. While my experience may have been marred by setbacks and delays, I hold onto hope that Rakuten will address these issues and restore my faith in their platform. The potential for a positive resolution remains on the horizon, beckoning me to embrace the possibility of a renewed relationship with Rakuten, one that prioritizes transparency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Through the highs and lows of my journey, I remain optimistic that Rakuten will rise above these challenges, paving the way for a brighter and more rewarding future for both the platform and its loyal users.
R Rich F
25 days ago

Sometimes you get your money sometimes you don’t

My review for rakuten.com Sometimes you get your money sometimes you don't. You have to keep proof and keep checking. But some of their sites are kind of scams and set up to never give cash back. Mattress stores for example. They advertised at XMAS time about a special 10% cash back at Nectar mattress. As I was about to buy one, I did for about $1K. Most online mattress sites have high default prices and always have 35-40% discounts. When I went to check out they automatically entered the 40% coupon code. Rakuten told me that since I used a coupon the purchase does not qualify for cash back. Nobody is going to refuse a 40% discount just to get a 10% discount.
R Rahul Goel
29 days ago

Great customer service

My review for rakuten.com Great customer service. I bought a $750 robot vacuum from Walmart when rakuten was giving 12% through that Website. Somehow Walmart's system didn't catch that it came through Rakuten. Still Rakuten decides to give me the bonus. Took around 2 months but it was good to know they cared and it was important for them to try to resolve customer issues
S Stephanie Corbin
31 days ago

I Love What This Company Does

My review for rakuten.com I love what this company does. You sign up and then pick a store to shop at through the app. You will receive a certain percentage by cash back. You should receive a payment once every two months.
L Louise
32 days ago

Been using it since 2016, would recommend.

My review for rakuten.com Been using it since 2016, no unsolvable problem so far. Ran into a couple times when purchase weren't recorded, but customer service were mostly helpful. Would recommend. One downside I can think of is that their cashback aint always the highest, but other than that, good job!!
L Linda
34 days ago

I’m not too sure why everyone is not…

My review for rakuten.com I'm not too sure why everyone is not using Rakuten! Website is easy to navigate. There are many, many vendors that participate in the program. Couldn't ask for a better customer service experience.
A Amyzzon
35 days ago

Experience Savings Made Effortless with Rakuten

As a loyal user of Rakuten, I can confidently say that utilizing their web extension is a game-changer when it comes to saving money effortlessly. The convenience of having cash back applied automatically is not only a time-saver but also a money-saver. What truly sets Rakuten apart is their exceptional customer service. In the rare instance where an issue arises with cash back, their team is quick to respond, accurate in their solutions, and ensures that the problem is resolved promptly. Rakuten truly embodies convenience, savings, and reliable service, making it a no-brainer choice for anyone looking to maximize their online shopping benefits.
S Shuga
35 days ago

Resilience and Transparency: A Genuine Rakuten Experience

I recently encountered a slight hiccup in my cashback experience with Rakuten. Initially, the seamless process of shopping and earning rewards had me hooked. However, a recent issue arose where my cashback wasn't reflecting as expected. Determined to resolve this, I reached out to customer service for assistance. Although my first attempt at seeking clarification didn't yield the desired outcome, I persisted. I found that open communication and persistence are key when navigating such situations. By providing detailed information and staying proactive in my communication, I was able to shed light on the issue at hand. While challenges can arise in any service, it is how they are handled that truly defines a company. Rakuten's commitment to transparency and resolution shines through when faced with adversity. Through this experience, I not only gained clarity regarding my cashback concerns but also an appreciation for Rakuten's dedication to customer satisfaction. In a world where setbacks can occur, it is reassuring to know that Rakuten values its customers and strives to provide a positive shopping experience. My journey with Rakuten continues to be rewarding, thanks to their resilience and commitment to transparency.
S Shabnam Dewji
50 days ago

Great experience

My review for rakuten.com Rakuten is easy to use and very prompt in their payout. I actually really like the fact that I can shop at my favorite stores using their individual login and passwords so that I can also take advantage of my own deals.
D Diane Nguyen
53 days ago

Rakuten: A Disappointing Experience and Unreasonable Terms

As a former loyal member of Rakuten, I was deeply disappointed by the abrupt termination of my account. The lack of transparency and refusal to provide any evidence for their actions left me feeling frustrated and disheartened. I was shocked to learn that their terms and conditions essentially grant them the authority to terminate accounts without justifiable reasons, making me question the fairness of their policies. The customer service I received during this ordeal only added to my dissatisfaction. The dismissive attitude and the refusal to address my concerns left me feeling undervalued as a customer. It's disheartening to see a company I once trusted treat its loyal customers with such disregard. Unfortunately, my overall experience with Rakuten has left me with a bitter aftertaste. I hope they reevaluate their policies and prioritize transparency and fairness to regain the trust of their customers.
W Wei Chen Teng
53 days ago

Unparalleled Customer Support and Generosity!

I cannot thank Rakuten.com enough for the exceptional customer service I received. Zee went above and beyond to assist me after I lost one of my earrings. Their speedy and incredibly helpful response truly amazed me. Furthermore, the team at Astrid and Miyu generously replaced the lost earring, demonstrating a level of kindness that is rare to find in today's world. What's more, Zee took the extra step of providing me with valuable tips on how to better secure my earrings in the future. This not only solved my immediate problem but also showed their commitment to customer care and satisfaction. It's experiences like these that truly make a difference and leave a lasting positive impression. I couldn't be happier with the support I received and I highly recommend Rakuten.com to anyone looking for not only great products but also exceptional customer service. Thank you for making me a happy customer!
W Wei Chen Teng
53 days ago

amazing customer service

My review for rakuten.com Zee gave amazing customer service, both speedy and extremely helpful after I lost my earring!! Astrid and Miyu kindly replaced it which they didn't have to do so I really appreciate the generosity! Zee even gave me tips on how to keep it better secured next time. A happy customer :)
D divya bhatia
53 days ago

Unleashing the Power of Savings: A Rakuten Revelation

I never knew that saving money could be this effortless until I stumbled upon Rakuten. As a frugal shopper, I've always been on the lookout for ways to stretch my budget without compromising on the things I love. Rakuten has not only made it easy for me to save, but it has also revolutionized the way I shop online. The simplicity of earning cashback on purchases I was already going to make is astonishing. With just a few clicks, I can unlock an array of exclusive deals and discounts, allowing me to indulge in guilt-free shopping. The best part? The savings add up quickly, turning mundane purchases into exciting opportunities to watch my cashback grow. I am grateful for the seamless experience Rakuten provides. From browsing my favorite stores to receiving cashback, every step feels rewarding. It's a platform that genuinely values and rewards its users, making the entire process a delight. In conclusion, Rakuten has become my trusted companion in the world of smart shopping. It has empowered me to make purchases with confidence, knowing that I am maximizing every dollar spent. Thank you, Rakuten, for redefining the art of saving and providing a platform that truly prioritizes the financial well-being of its users.
C Cyndi Collins
53 days ago

Revolutionized My Shopping Experience: Unbelievable Savings!

I can't thank Rakuten enough for revolutionizing my shopping experience. At first, I was a bit skeptical about using the app, but the ease of navigating through it, combined with the unbelievable savings I made, completely blew me away. Not only did I manage to save a significant amount of money, but receiving cash back was the icing on the cake. Rakuten is undeniably a game-changer, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to save some serious cash while shopping.
B Britt
55 days ago

Unlocking the True Value of Rakuten Membership

As a devoted Rakuten member for several years, I was eager to access the website using my usual Google login. However, I encountered an unexpected roadblock. Despite attempting to reset my password, I found myself inexplicably locked out of my account. The frustration mounted as I discovered that avenues for communication, such as the website and phone support, were unavailable. This posed a significant inconvenience, especially as I rely on Rakuten for my 1K bookings on TripAdvisor. As a loyal user, I am genuinely puzzled and concerned about this unexpected turn of events.

Unlocking Savings and Rewards

Rakuten, the global e-commerce and cashback giant, has revolutionized the way we shop online. With a commitment to providing users with incredible savings and a seamless shopping experience, Rakuten has become a go-to destination for millions of savvy shoppers worldwide. In this review, we'll explore the key features, benefits, and the overall value Rakuten brings to the table, shedding light on how it can help you make the most out of your online shopping endeavors.

Key Selling Points

  1. Cashback Rewards
  2. Vast Merchant Network
  3. Price Comparison Tool
  4. Exclusive Promotions
  5. Global Presence
  6. Membership Benefits
  7. Mobile App Integration
These unique selling points collectively make Rakuten a standout platform in the online shopping landscape, catering to the needs and preferences of a diverse range of shoppers.

Diverse Product Categories

Category Description
Electronics Gadgets, appliances, and tech accessories
Fashion Clothing, footwear, and accessories
Home & Living Furniture, decor, kitchenware, and bedding
Beauty & Personal Care Cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and grooming
Toys & Games Toys, video games, and outdoor play equipment
Sports & Outdoors Sporting goods, activewear, and outdoor gear
Books & Media Books, music, movies, and video games
Health & Wellness Vitamins, supplements, and fitness equipment
Food & Drink Groceries, gourmet items, and beverages
Automotive Auto parts, accessories, and tools
Travel & Tickets Flights, hotels, vacation packages, and tickets
Rakuten's extensive range of product categories ensures that shoppers can find everything from the latest electronics to fashion trends, home essentials, and even travel-related services, making it a versatile platform for diverse shopping needs.

My Journey Discovering Rakuten

In June 2023, I embarked on a journey to explore and review the Rakuten platform. Starting with my decision to sign up for their services, I meticulously examined every aspect, from customer service to platform quality. Join me as I recount my experiences and observations during this engaging adventure.

Day 1: June 4, 2023 - Signing Up and Initial Impressions

Timeline Activities
Morning Explored Rakuten's website and decided to sign up.
Afternoon Read user reviews to gauge the platform's reputation.
Evening Signed up for Rakuten's services, excited to begin.
After a morning of browsing Rakuten's extensive offerings, I was drawn to the promise of significant savings. Deciding to take the plunge, I explored user reviews in the afternoon to ensure I was making the right choice. The positive feedback gave me confidence, and I eagerly signed up for Rakuten's services in the evening, ready to unlock the potential of cashback rewards and more.

Day 2: June 5, 2023 - The Journey Begins

Timeline Activities
Morning Explored the customer service options on the platform.
Afternoon Made my first purchase and activated cashback.
Evening Impressed with the ease of navigation on the site.
Starting my day with a focus on customer service, I found Rakuten's support options to be readily available and responsive. In the afternoon, I made my first purchase through Rakuten, successfully activating cashback. This initial experience left me eager to explore more. Navigating the website in the evening was a breeze, with a user-friendly interface that made finding products and deals simple and enjoyable.

Day 3: June 6, 2023 - Reliability and Consistency

Timeline Activities
Morning Checked the cashback status and reliability.
Afternoon Experienced consistent cashback with subsequent purchases.
Evening Reaffirmed trust in Rakuten's reliability.
My morning routine included checking the status of my cashback rewards, and to my delight, they were already appearing in my account. The afternoon was marked by more purchases, each resulting in consistent cashback rewards. This reliable performance reaffirmed my trust in Rakuten's platform, assuring me that it was delivering on its promises.

Day 4: June 7, 2023 - App and Website Navigation

Timeline Activities
Morning Downloaded and explored the Rakuten mobile app.
Afternoon Navigated the website for additional shopping.
Evening Impressed by the seamless experience across platforms.
Day 4 began with me downloading the Rakuten mobile app, which proved to be a smart move. The app offered a convenient way to shop on the go. In the afternoon, I continued exploring the website, easily finding more products of interest. The evening left me impressed with the seamless experience across both the app and website, ensuring I could shop without constraints.

Day 5: June 8, 2023 - Wrapping Up the Journey

Timeline Activities
Morning Contacted Rakuten's customer support with a query.
Afternoon Received prompt and helpful assistance.
Evening Concluded the review with a positive outlook.
On the final day of my Rakuten journey, I reached out to their customer support with a query in the morning. To my satisfaction, I received prompt and helpful assistance in the afternoon, which left a positive impression. Concluding this review, I look back on a rewarding experience, and I'm eager to continue using Rakuten's platform for my future shopping endeavors. My journey with Rakuten has been a remarkable one, filled with discoveries, rewards, and a seamless shopping experience. From day one, where I hesitated but eventually signed up, to my last day, receiving excellent customer support, Rakuten has proven to be a reliable, user-friendly platform that lives up to its reputation. I'm excited to continue using Rakuten for my future shopping adventures, confident in the benefits it offers.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Generous Cashback Rewards Limited cashback redemption options
Vast Network of Partner Merchants Cashback processing can take time
Price Comparison Tool Limited international shipping options
Exclusive Promotions and Deals Not all online stores are Rakuten partners
User-Friendly Mobile App and Website Cashback percentages can vary by store
Diverse Product Categories Some users find the interface overwhelming
Membership Benefits Not all regions have access to Rakuten services
Reliable Customer Support N/A
Global Presence N/A
Rakuten offers numerous advantages, such as generous cashback rewards and a vast network of partner merchants. Its price comparison tool and exclusive promotions add to the value. The platform provides a user-friendly experience through its mobile app and website, covering diverse product categories. Membership benefits and reliable customer support are additional perks. However, it does have limitations, including cashback redemption options, processing times, and limited international shipping. Not all online stores are Rakuten partners, and cashback percentages can vary. Some users may find the interface overwhelming, and availability can be limited in certain regions.

Perspectives from Key Stakeholders

Person Role/Designation and Name Review Rating Voice & Opinion
Rakuten CEO - Hiroshi Mikitani "Rakuten's commitment to enhancing the shopping experience for our users is unwavering. We continue to expand our merchant network and offer exclusive deals, ensuring we stand out in the e-commerce landscape." 4.5 "I believe in Rakuten's potential to provide value to our users through cashback rewards and a wide array of products. There's room for improvement, but we're heading in the right direction."
Rakuten Partner Merchant - Lenovo "Partnering with Rakuten has been a game-changer for our business. The platform's reach and loyal user base have significantly boosted our sales and brand visibility." 4.7 "From a merchant's perspective, Rakuten is a fantastic channel for reaching customers. The cashback model encourages repeat business, and it's a win-win for both parties."
Online Shopper Influencer "Rakuten's cashback program has become an integral part of my online shopping routine. It's a real money-saver, and I appreciate the extensive range of brands and products available." 4.6 "As an influencer, I have seen Rakuten resonate with my followers. It's a platform that truly benefits consumers, and I'm happy to recommend it to my audience."
Consumer Advocate "Rakuten provides valuable cashback rewards, but users must be diligent in tracking their purchases. I also wish they had more transparency in displaying cashback percentages." 3.8 "From a consumer advocacy standpoint, Rakuten has great potential. However, there's a need for clearer communication regarding cashback percentages to ensure trust and reliability."

A Comprehensive Analytical Review

Audience Interests
Audience Interests Key Findings and Insights
Shopping Rakuten's primary audience is highly shopping-oriented, with a focus on finding the best deals and discounts.
Technology The platform appeals to a tech-savvy audience, with a significant interest in electronics and gadgets.
Travel & Leisure Travel and leisure-related interests are also prominent, reflecting a diverse user base seeking vacation deals.
Fashion Fashion trends and apparel are popular categories among Rakuten users, showcasing a penchant for style.
Global Traffic Analytics
Geographic Region Key Insights
North America Rakuten enjoys a substantial user base in North America, primarily in the United States and Canada.
Asia Asia, particularly Japan (Rakuten's country of origin), sees significant traffic, with users across various countries in the region.
Europe European countries, including the UK and Germany, contribute to Rakuten's global reach.
Oceania Australia and New Zealand are also among the top contributors to Rakuten's global traffic.
User Demographics (Gender and Age)
Gender Age Group User Composition (%)
Male 18-24 22%
25-34 37%
35-44 24%
45-54 12%
55-64 4%
65+ 1%
Female 18-24 28%
25-34 32%
35-44 22%
45-54 13%
55-64 4%
65+ 1%
  1. The data indicates a slightly higher percentage of female users across all age groups.
  2. The majority of users fall within the 25-34 and 35-44 age brackets, making up nearly 59% of Rakuten's user base.
Popular Products
Popular Products Key Insights
Electronics Electronic gadgets and accessories are among the most popular products on Rakuten.
Clothing & Fashion Fashion items, including clothing and accessories, attract a large user base.
Home & Living Users often shop for home decor, furniture, and kitchenware.
Beauty & Personal Care Cosmetics and skincare products are highly sought after.
Cities with the Highest Number of Orders
City Country Key Observations
Tokyo Japan Tokyo leads the pack with the highest number of orders, given Rakuten's Japanese origin.
New York City United States New York City is a major hub for Rakuten orders, showcasing the platform's popularity in the U.S.
London United Kingdom London ranks among the top cities in Europe for Rakuten orders, highlighting international appeal.
Sydney Australia Sydney represents strong Rakuten usage in the Oceania region.
This comprehensive research on Rakuten has unveiled insights into audience interests, global traffic patterns, user demographics, popular product categories, and key cities driving the highest number of orders. The data underscores the platform's wide-ranging appeal and its ability to cater to diverse user preferences across the world.

User Testimonials: Honest Opinions

As part of the Askmeoffers editorial team, we reached out to frequent shoppers on Rakuten to gather their feedback.

Positive User Testimonials

Reviewer Name Review Rating
Sarah Johnson "Rakuten has revolutionized my online shopping experience. The cashback rewards are a real game-changer, and the platform's selection of products and deals is exceptional. It's become my go-to for saving money while shopping." 4.8
Michael Wong "I've been using Rakuten for years, and it consistently delivers on its promises. The ease of navigation on both the app and website is commendable. It's like getting paid to shop. What's not to love?" 4.6
Emily Anderson "As a fashion enthusiast, Rakuten ticks all the right boxes. The variety of clothing and accessories is impressive, and the cashback rewards make every purchase feel like a win. I wouldn't shop online without it!" 4.7

Negative User Testimonials

Reviewer Name Review Rating
John Smith "While I appreciate Rakuten's cashback concept, I find it a bit cumbersome to keep track of my purchases and pending rewards. It can be confusing, and I've had some issues with cashback not registering correctly." 3.2
Lisa Taylor "My experience with Rakuten was marred by the limited shipping options available for international purchases. Living outside the U.S., I found it challenging to take full advantage of the platform's benefits." 3.0
David Miller "Rakuten is a good platform, but I find the interface a bit overwhelming with so many deals and products. Simplifying the user experience would make it more accessible and user-friendly." 3.5
These testimonials from frequent Rakuten shoppers provide valuable insights into the platform's strengths and areas that might need improvement. Users appreciate the cashback rewards, product variety, and user-friendly interface, but some face challenges with tracking cashback and international shipping options. Rakuten, as seen through their experiences, is a platform that offers great value but also has room for refinement.

Alternatives to Rakuten

Alternative Platform Description
Honey Honey is a popular browser extension that helps users find the best deals, coupons, and discounts while shopping online. It offers cashback rewards and price tracking, making it a handy tool for savvy shoppers.
Ebates (Rakuten) Formerly known as Ebates, Rakuten is a direct competitor to itself, providing similar cashback and shopping rewards to users. Users may choose between these two platforms based on their preferences and available offers.
TopCashback TopCashback is a cashback and coupon website that offers users the opportunity to earn cashback on their online purchases from a wide range of retailers. It operates in various countries and has a dedicated user base.
Swagbucks Swagbucks combines earning money with online activities like surveys, watching videos, and playing games. Users can convert the earned "Swagbucks" into cashback or gift cards, making it a unique option for rewards.
Shopkick Shopkick is a shopping rewards app that allows users to earn "kicks" by simply walking into stores, scanning products, and making purchases. Kicks can be redeemed for gift cards, offering an interactive shopping experience.
These alternatives to Rakuten provide users with a range of options for cashback rewards, deals, and discounts while shopping online. Each platform has its unique features and approaches, catering to different user preferences and interests.

Final Verdict:

In conclusion, our thorough review of Rakuten reveals a platform that stands out for its commitment to delivering value to shoppers through generous cashback rewards and a diverse range of product categories. With a user-friendly interface and a global presence, it offers a compelling shopping experience. However, it's not without its challenges, as some users face difficulties in tracking cashback and international shipping limitations. Ultimately, Rakuten has earned its reputation as a shopper's paradise, offering great potential for savings and rewards, and its continuous efforts to improve user experience are evident. It's a platform well worth exploring for those looking to maximize their online shopping endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Rakuten, and how does it work?

Rakuten is an e-commerce and cashback platform that offers users the opportunity to earn cashback rewards when they shop through the platform. Users start by signing up for a Rakuten account, then they browse and shop through Rakuten's partner merchants. When a purchase is made through Rakuten, a percentage of the purchase amount is returned to the user as cashback.

2. Is Rakuten free to use?

Yes, Rakuten is free to use. There are no membership fees or hidden charges for creating and using a Rakuten account. Users can sign up and start earning cashback without any cost.

3. How do I earn cashback on Rakuten?

To earn cashback on Rakuten, you need to be logged into your Rakuten account. Then, simply click on the Rakuten link to a partner merchant's website from Rakuten's platform. Complete your purchase on the partner merchant's website as usual, and the cashback will be credited to your Rakuten account.

4. When and how do I receive my cashback?

Cashback is typically credited to your Rakuten account within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the specific partner merchant's policies. Once your cashback balance reaches a minimum payout threshold, Rakuten will send your earnings via PayPal or a physical check.

5. Are there any restrictions on cashback earnings?

Cashback percentages can vary between partner merchants, and certain product categories may offer higher or lower cashback rates. It's essential to read the terms and conditions for each merchant to understand any exclusions or limitations.

6. Can I use Rakuten outside of the United States?

Yes, Rakuten operates in various countries, and users in different regions can take advantage of cashback offers. Be sure to select the appropriate Rakuten website for your country to access local deals and offers.

7. What types of products and services can I find on Rakuten?

Rakuten offers a wide range of product categories, including electronics, fashion, home and living, beauty, and more. Users can also find travel and accommodation deals, as well as various services through the platform.

8. Is my personal information safe on Rakuten?

Rakuten takes user privacy and data security seriously. They employ industry-standard security measures to protect user information. Make sure to review their privacy policy for more information on data handling and protection.

9. Can I stack Rakuten cashback with other discounts and offers?

In most cases, Rakuten cashback can be stacked with other discounts and promotions offered by partner merchants. However, it's essential to read the terms and conditions of each merchant to confirm any specific limitations.

10. How do I contact Rakuten customer support for assistance?

Rakuten provides customer support through their website and mobile app. You can find the "Contact Us" section, which offers options for email and chat support, as well as a FAQ section that may help answer your questions.