Head to head · Best Affiliate Networks for Publishers
Brandreward vs Rakuten
Brandreward and Rakuten score within 0.2 of each other, so the decision comes down to fit rather than quality.
| Criterion | BrandrewardFair Fit | RakutenFair Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.4 | 3.4 |
| Capability45% of composite | 3.4 | 3.4 |
| Publisher fit40% of composite | 3.5 | 4.0— higher score for Rakuten |
| Total cost of ownership15% of composite | 3.6— higher score for Brandreward | 1.8 |
| Best for | Small, Mid-Market | Mid-Market, Enterprise |
| Pricing | Free for publishers to join; operates on a performance-based revenue share model where publishers receive 85% of generated commissions. | Custom pricing models typically based on performance commissions, plus negotiated monthly platform and setup fees; free for publishers to join. |
Brandreward
- High commission rates compared to industry standards
- Excellent support from account managers
- Wide range of advertisers available
- Limited payout options
- Some users report technical issues
- Initial setup can be complex
Rakuten
- Premium advertiser base including luxury retail and top travel brands
- Curated advertiser marketplace maintains quality
- Strong global reach across US, UK, JP, and AU
- Higher approval standards than open networks
- Interface and reporting less intuitive than Impact or CJ
- Commission tracking less transparent for some advertisers
Common questions
Is Brandreward or Rakuten better?
Brandreward and Rakuten score within 0.2 of each other, so the decision comes down to fit rather than quality. Brandreward scores 3.4/5 and Rakuten scores 3.4/5 on Benchmark Grid's independent assessment. Scores are set editorially by SODP against published criteria and cannot be purchased.
Which is cheaper, Brandreward or Rakuten?
On total cost of ownership — which covers pricing transparency, entry cost, implementation, hidden-fee risk and ongoing cost — Brandreward scores 3.6/5 and Rakuten scores 1.8/5. A higher score means better value, not a lower sticker price.
How are these scores calculated?
Each tool is assessed across 12 criteria grouped into Capability (45% of the composite), Publisher Fit (40%) and Total Cost of Ownership (15%). Assessment is carried out by SODP's editorial team against a published methodology. Vendors cannot pay for inclusion, scores or rankings.
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Both tools are scored in Best Affiliate Networks for Publishers. See alternatives to Brandreward or alternatives to Rakuten.
