15 Best Credit Cards of December 2023

ByRob Berger

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Allcards. Commissions do not affect our authors’ or editors’ opinions or evaluations. From our partners: See our advertiser disclosure here.

Picking the best credit card is no easy task. It depends largely on your financial goals (e.g., travel, cash back, 0% APR, build credit), how many cards you want to carry, and your credit score.

For me, the best credit cards are those that allow me to maximize cash back. I use many cards listed here and save and invest ALL the rewards. For more on my approach to credit card rewards, check out the video below.

Of course, you may have different goals. For that reason, we've selected 15 of the best credit cards ideal for any financial goal.

Overview of the Best Credit Card Offers

Credit CardKey Benefit
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®Up to 5% Cash Back
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American ExpressUp to 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets
Chase Freedom Flex(SM)Best for Travel with Up to 5% Cash Back
Wells Fargo Active Cash® CardSimple Cash Back with Unlimited 2% Cash Back
Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offerUp to 2% Unlimited Cash Back
Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit CardUp to 2.5% Cash Back
Prime VisaUp to unlimited 5% Cash Back on Amazon and Whole Foods
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card0% 21

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card0% intro APR for 21
American Express® Gold CardEarn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardEnjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit CardBest for students, 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming, and grocery stores
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit CardBest for Fair Credit with 1.5% Cash Back

Best Overall Credit Cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card makes the cut for several reasons. It has an excellent signup bonus, up to 5x rewards, and unparalleled travel benefits and perks, including no foreign transaction fees.

This card does come with an annual fee. The benefits, however, make the card well worth the cost. You also get a $50 hotel credit for stays purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Perks include Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Baggage Delay Insurance, and more.

Rewards Recap:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x points on all other purchases.
2x points
Travel
2x points on travel not booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, such as airfare, hotels, taxes and trains.
3x points
U.S. supermarkets
Earn 3x points on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).
3x points
Streaming services
Earn 3x points on select streaming services.
3x points
Dining
3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out.
5x points
Travel
5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
  • Annual Fee:  $95
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: $0

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved08/03/2023
872
Not Provided
$19,500
Approved04/19/2023
737
Equifax
$16,000
Approved04/19/2023
747
Experian
$16,000
Approved04/19/2023
747
TransUnion
$16,000
Approved11/11/2023
800
Not Provided
$16,800
Approved04/18/2023
790
Experian
$17,300
Approved05/21/2023
703
Experian
$17,300
Approved04/04/2023
735
Equifax
$17,300
Approved04/04/2023
825
Experian
$17,300
Approved07/06/2023
735
Experian
$5,000
Approved07/06/2023
745
Equifax
$5,000
Approved07/06/2023
755
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved10/19/2023
720
Not Provided
$19,500
Approved06/14/2023
759
Experian
$6,000
Approved04/06/2023
897
Not Provided
$23,800
Approved04/14/2023
765
Experian
$7,200
Approved04/14/2023
777
Equifax
$7,200
Approved04/14/2023
777
TransUnion
$7,200
Approved10/23/2023
745
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved10/03/2023
761
Equifax
$18,000
Approved10/03/2023
767
Experian
$18,000
Approved10/03/2023
774
TransUnion
$18,000

Read Our Review

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great all-around option for those who want elevated rewards on travel, dining, and drugstore purchases and 1.5% cash back on everything else. Plus, Chase will match whatever you earned in cash back the first year. If you earned $300 in cash back, Chase will credit you with an additional $300.

You also get free credit score access updated weekly with Credit Journey.

Rewards Recap:

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
Earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Travel
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned at the end of your first year! There is no limit to how much cash back you can earn.
  • 0% Intro APR: 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first  15 months months. After that, your rate will be 20.49% - 29.24% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved03/20/2023
785
Experian
$5,000
Approved07/18/2023
765
Experian
$12,500
Approved07/18/2023
773
TransUnion
$12,500
Approved07/18/2023
785
Equifax
$12,500
Approved09/06/2023
754
Experian
$9,000
Approved09/08/2023
740
Equifax
$15,000
Denied09/05/2023
738
Experian
---
Denied09/05/2023
740
Equifax
---
Denied09/05/2023
750
TransUnion
---

Read Our Review

Cash Back Cards

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an excellent value for anyone who wants to save money on groceries. You'll earn 6% cash back, plus 6% cash back on select streaming services, 3% on gas and transit, and 1% cash back on everything else. It's pretty easy to earn back more than the annual fee, which is waived for the first year anyway.

The annual fee is $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Rewards Recap:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
3% cash back
Gas
3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
3% cash back
Transit
3% cash back on transit, such as taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains and buses
6% cash back
U.S. supermarkets
6% cash back on groceries up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%
6% cash back
Streaming services
6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
  • Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months months. After that, your rate will be  19.24% - 29.99%, variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved01/19/2023
825
Not Provided
$6,000
Approved02/16/2022
663
Not Provided
$8,000
Approved02/03/2022
803
Not Provided
$1,000
Approved06/22/2022
705
Experian
$10,000
Approved04/09/2022
780
Experian
$6,000
Approved04/09/2022
787
TransUnion
$6,000
Approved06/02/2022
620
Not Provided
$30,000
Approved05/04/2023
738
Experian
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
748
TransUnion
$20,000
Approved05/04/2023
755
Equifax
$20,000
Approved03/20/2022
673
Experian
$1,000
Approved09/05/2022
698
Experian
$10,000
Approved09/05/2022
730
TransUnion
$10,000
Approved09/05/2022
733
Equifax
$10,000
Approved10/22/2022
656
Experian
$15,000

Read Our Review

Chase Freedom Flex(SM)

Chase Freedom Flex(SM) is loaded with rewards. It's arguably one of the most rewarding cash back cards available today, and that's why it made our list here.

It's similar to the Chase Freedom Unlimited® with arguably a better welcome offer and slightly different cash back rewards.

Rewards Recap:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Drugstores
3% cash back on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Dining
3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
Rotating Categories
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
5% cash back
Travel
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15. After that, your rate will be  20.49%–29.24% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the amount of each transaction in U.S. dollars

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/02/2023
741
TransUnion
$14,000
Approved04/02/2023
748
Experian
$14,000
Approved08/02/2023
800
Not Provided
$19,000
Approved10/24/2023
800
Not Provided
$8,600
Approved09/03/2023
795
Experian
$22,500
Approved09/03/2023
847
TransUnion
$22,500
Approved06/02/2023
789
TransUnion
$12,000
Approved06/02/2023
791
Experian
$12,000

Read Our Review

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

If you're looking for an easy, everyday rewards credit card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card might be your best choice. It checks a lot of boxes: a welcome offer, cash back rewards, and it's one of the few cards with no annual fee that offers cell phone protection, up to $600 when you pay your monthly bill with the card.

Rewards Recap:

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer:  Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on Purchases and qualifying balance transfers for the first 15 months from account opening. After that, your rate will be 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each transaction converted to U.S. dollars.

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/20/2023
810
Not Provided
$2,000
Approved09/02/2023
746
Experian
$6,000
Approved09/02/2023
774
Equifax
$6,000
Approved09/02/2023
786
TransUnion
$6,000
Approved06/03/2023
820
Equifax
$30,000
Approved02/18/2023
800
Not Provided
$20,000
Approved06/23/2023
700
Experian
$30,000
Approved04/14/2023
756
Experian
$13,000
Approved10/23/2023
745
Equifax
$12,000
Approved04/26/2023
743
Experian
$8,000
Approved04/26/2023
751
TransUnion
$8,000
Approved04/26/2023
765
Equifax
$8,000
Approved10/04/2023
721
Experian
$16,000
Approved09/24/2023
763
Experian
$15,000
Approved09/24/2023
784
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved09/24/2023
792
Equifax
$15,000
Denied04/01/2023
744
TransUnion
---
Denied04/01/2023
747
Experian
---
Denied04/01/2023
767
Equifax
---

Read Our Review

Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer

The Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer offers up to 2% cash back on purchases. You can earn an unlimited 1% on every purchase and an additional 1% when you off your purchases. It's a very straightforward reward structure so you won't have to worry about reward categories.

Rewards Recap:

2% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR 18 months. After that, your rate will be 19.24% - 29.24% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/20/2023
803
Not Provided
---
Approved07/11/2023
667
Equifax
$3,000
Approved07/25/2022
690
Not Provided
$2,400
Approved08/26/2022
772
Equifax
$5,000
Denied01/10/2023
737
Equifax
---

Read Our Review

Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card

The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card is my go-to cash back credit card. There's no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees and the card is compatible with Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Rewards Recap:

1.5% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other qualifying eligible purchases.
2.5% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn up to 2.5% cash back on your first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle.
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: None
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved05/19/2022
757
TransUnion
$15,000
Approved04/29/2022
748
TransUnion
$8,000
Approved08/25/2022
735
TransUnion
$8,000
Approved04/10/2023
686
TransUnion
$5,000
Denied08/29/2022
758
TransUnion
---

Read More

Prime Visa

One card that gets an honorable mention is the Prime Visa. If you buy from Amazon or Whole Foods, this card is a must.

There's no annual fee and you can earn up to unlimited 5% cash back.

Rewards Recap:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases.
2% cash back
Dining
Earn unlimited 2% back at restaurants.
2% cash back
Gas
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations.
2% cash back
Transit
Earn unlimited 2% back on local transit and commuting (including rideshare).
5% cash back
Select Categories
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership.
5% cash back
Travel
Earn unlimited 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership.
10% cash back
Select Categories
Eligible Prime cardmembers earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com.
  • Annual Fee: $0, but you'll need a Prime membership, currently $14.99 a month or $139 a year.
  • Welcome Offer:  Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card (or more) instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: $0

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved05/17/2023
686
Not Provided
---
Approved07/08/2023
782
Equifax
$18,000
Approved07/08/2023
799
TransUnion
$18,000
Approved07/08/2023
806
Experian
$18,000
Approved06/27/2023
736
Experian
$2,000
Approved06/27/2023
771
Equifax
$2,000
Approved05/25/2023
820
Not Provided
$28,000
Approved05/25/2023
837
Not Provided
$28,000
Approved05/25/2023
844
Not Provided
$28,000
Approved06/01/2023
660
Experian
$3,000
Approved06/01/2023
677
TransUnion
$3,000
Approved06/01/2023
680
Equifax
$3,000
Approved06/14/2023
730
Not Provided
$5,000
Approved07/11/2023
739
Experian
$20,000
Approved05/21/2023
704
Experian
$500
Approved04/03/2023
751
Experian
$17,300
Approved11/24/2023
760
Not Provided
$15,000
Approved07/18/2023
758
Experian
$6,000
Approved10/11/2023
811
Equifax
$5,000
Approved10/11/2023
814
TransUnion
$5,000
Approved10/11/2023
817
Experian
$5,000
Approved05/01/2023
771
Experian
$21,300
Approved06/12/2023
741
Experian
$6,900
Approved06/12/2023
751
TransUnion
$6,900
Approved06/12/2023
759
Equifax
$6,900
Approved04/23/2023
681
Not Provided
$3,500

Read our Review

See also: Our complete list of cash back credit cards

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card 

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card has one of the longest 0% APR offers available today. You get 0% APR for 21 months on balance transfers and 12 months on purchases.

You won't get much in the way of rewards and there's no welcome bonus, but for a balance transfer card, it's hard to beat.

  • Rewards: None
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: None
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on Balance Transfers for 21 months and 12 months on purchases. After that, your rate will be 18.24% - 28.99% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/13/2023
777
TransUnion
$13,100
Approved04/13/2023
781
Experian
$13,100
Approved04/21/2023
676
Equifax
$1,000
Approved04/21/2023
709
Experian
$1,000
Approved04/21/2023
715
TransUnion
$1,000
Approved01/11/2023
720
Equifax
$8,900
Approved02/15/2023
734
Experian
$1,000

Learn More

U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card

The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card also offers one of the longest 0% APR windows available for both purchases and balance transfers. If you need to make a major purchase or pay off some higher interest debt, this card is a good choice. It's a bit lacking in rewards, but you can choose your due date, and you get cell phone protection.

  • Rewards: None
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: None
  • 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 months. After that, your rate will be 18.74% - 29.74% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 2% of each foreign purchase transaction or foreign ATM advance transaction in U.S. Dollars. 3% of each foreign purchase transaction or foreign ATM advance transaction in a Foreign Currency

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/22/2021
800
Not Provided
$5,000
Approved01/31/2021
750
Not Provided
$1,100
Approved07/30/2021
740
Not Provided
$500
Denied05/18/2019
700
Not Provided
---

Read Our Review

See also: Our complete list of 0% credit cards

Travel Rewards Credit Cards

American Express® Gold Card

The American Express® Gold Card offers benefits such as $120 dining credit, $120 in Uber Cash, and $100 hotel credit in addition to the other rewards listed. There's a generous welcome offer and American Express has great customer service.

There are also no foreign transaction fees, making this an excellent card for international travel, and you can choose between a Gold or Rose Gold card.

Rewards Recap:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x points on all other eligible purchases
3x points
Airfare
3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
4x points
U.S. supermarkets
4x points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per year.
4x points
Dining
4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • Annual Fee: $250
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved09/28/2021
688
Experian
$1,750
Approved06/13/2022
673
Experian
$1,750
Approved06/13/2022
696
Equifax
$1,750
Approved06/13/2023
699
TransUnion
$1,750
Approved06/07/2022
750
TransUnion
---
Approved06/07/2022
752
Experian
---
Approved06/07/2022
761
Equifax
---

Read Our Review

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express has a hefty annual fee, but if you use all the credits it can be a good value. It offers a $200 Hotel Credit, $240 Digital Entertainment Credit, $200 Airline Fee Credit, $200 Uber Cash, $300 Equinox Credit, and a  $189 CLEAR Credit. You also get a $155 Walmart+ credit that includes free shipping on Walmart purchases and a Paramount+ subscription.

Rewards Recap:

1x points
On all other eligible purchases
1x on all other purchases
5x points
Airfare
5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases each calendar year
5x points
Hotels
5x points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
  • Annual Fee:  $695
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved04/28/2023
812
Equifax
---
Approved04/28/2023
820
TransUnion
---
Approved04/28/2023
825
Experian
---
Approved08/16/2023
698
Equifax
$25,000
Approved08/16/2023
709
Experian
$25,000
Approved08/16/2023
728
TransUnion
$25,000
Approved01/04/2023
696
Not Provided
---
Approved01/23/2023
675
Not Provided
$6,000

Read Our Review

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great travel rewards card. You get a $50 hotel credit, which effectively slashes the annual fee in half, and you can transfer your points to Capital One travel partners. Points can be worth more if you transfer them because the partners place more (or less) value on them than Capital One.

You get two complimentary visits to Capital One airport lounges a year and a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Frequent travelers will want to consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, but for the occasional traveler, this card is a good bet.

Rewards Recap:

2x miles
All eligible purchases
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
5x miles
Hotels
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Annual Fee: $95
  • Welcome Offer: Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved05/17/2021
739
Experian
$15,000
Approved08/30/2021
775
Equifax
$10,000
Approved07/11/2023
691
Experian
$5,000
Approved10/25/2021
728
Experian
$10,000
Approved10/25/2021
731
Equifax
$10,000
Approved10/25/2021
740
TransUnion
$10,000

Read Our Review

See also: Our complete list of travel rewards credit cards

Bad Credit, No Credit, Limited Credit, or Students

Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card 

Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a great card for students. It has a small welcome bonus (enough for pizza night) and solid cash back rewards everywhere students spend the most money. And there's no annual fee.       

Rewards Recap:

1% cash back
On all other eligible purchases
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Supermarkets
Earn 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
3% cash back
Streaming services
Earn 3% cash back on popular streaming services
3% cash back
Dining
Earn 3% cash back on dining
3% cash back
Entertainment
Earn 3% cash back on entertainment
5% cash back
Hotels
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
5% cash back
Rental Cars
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
8% cash back
Select Categories
Earn 8% cash back on entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal
10% cash back
Select Categories
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: Earn $50 Cash Back when you spend $100 in the first three months
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved09/22/2021
564
Experian
$500
Denied03/06/2021
752
Not Provided
---

Read our Review

Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a simple 1.5% cash back on every purchase. The card also offers up to 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (see terms).

You can get automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as six months, free credit monitoring with the CreditWise® app, and $0 fraud liability if your card is ever lost or stolen. You can also get customized alerts and manage your account with the Capital One mobile app.

Rewards Recap:

1.5% cash back
All eligible purchases
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • Annual Fee: $39
  • Welcome Offer: None
  • 0% Intro APR: None
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: None

The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.

App StatusDateCredit ScoreBureauCredit Limit
Approved06/01/2023
621
Not Provided
$2,000
Approved02/04/2022
800
Not Provided
$4,000

Read Our Review

See also: Our complete list of the best credit cards for credit scores of 650-700, 600-649, and under 600.

Complete List of the Best Credit Cards

Below see our list of credit cards that we have rated 4.5 stars or better (5.0 is the highest possible score). Check out the reviews of each card for more details on rewards, annual fees, and signup bonuses.

Revenued Business Card Visa® Commercial Card
Rewards
3%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$500
Rating
5.0
Receive $500 after spending $5,000 in your first 90 days.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Rewards
1x - 5x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.9
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Capital One Venture X Business
Rewards
2x - 10x miles
Annual Fee
$395
Welcome Offer
150,000 Miles
Rating
4.9
150,000 Miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
PayPal Cashback Mastercard
Rewards
2% to 3%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.9
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
2x - 10x
Annual Fee
$395
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.9
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Rewards
1x - 10x
Annual Fee
$550
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.9
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
Rewards
1.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$900
Rating
4.9
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Rewards
1-3x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Rating
4.9
New Cardmember Offer! Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Rewards
1%-5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$900
Rating
4.9
Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Rewards
2%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.9
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer
Rewards
1% to 2%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.9
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
Rating
4.9
SPECIAL OFFER: Unlimited Matched Cash Back. Chase will automatically match all the cash back you earned at the end of your first year! There is no limit to how much cash back you can earn.
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
Rewards
1% - 5% Cash Back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$500
Rating
4.8
Earn a $500 cash bonus after you spend $4,500 on purchases in the first 150 days the account is open.
Journey Student Rewards from Capital One
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
N/A
American Express® Gold Card
Rewards
1x-4x
Annual Fee
$250
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.8
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
1.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
N/A
Wells Fargo AutographSM Card
Rewards
1x to 3x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
30,000 Points
Rating
4.8
For a limited time, earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $300 cash redemption value.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card
Rewards
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
Hilton Honors American Express Card
Rewards
3x to 7x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Rating
4.8
Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Capital One Spark Cash Plus
Rewards
2% to 5%
Annual Fee
$150
Welcome Offer
$1,200
Rating
4.8
$1,200 Cash Back once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
Union Bank® Platinum™ Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
None
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
Rewards
1x - 5x
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
50,000 Points
Rating
4.8
Earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $2,000 in the first 120 days.
The Owner’s Rewards Card by M1
Rewards
1.5% - 10% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.8
$200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
Rewards
3x to 26x points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
140,000 Points
Rating
4.7
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Citi Custom Cash® Card
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.7
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Capital One Spark Miles for Business
Rewards
2x
Annual Fee
$0 intro for first year; $95 after that
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.7
Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles - equal to $500 in travel once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
United℠ Business Card
Rewards
1x - 2x miles
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.7
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$750
Rating
4.7
$750 Cash Back once you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Chase Freedom Flex(SM)
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$$200 + 5% gas and grocery store offer
Rating
4.7
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card
Rewards
1.5-2.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.7
Citi Premier® Card
Rewards
1x - 3x
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.7
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card
Rewards
2%-5%
Annual Fee
$195
Welcome Offer
$1,000
Rating
4.7
Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Discover It® Secured Credit Card
Rewards
1% - 2%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.7
Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
1% - 10%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
N/A
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
1% - 4%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.6
Earn a $200 Bonus after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first 3 billing cycles following account opening of a PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
Rewards
2x to 17x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.6
Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
Rewards
1% - 2%
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Welcome Offer
$250
Rating
4.6
Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
Synchrony Premier World Mastercard®
Rewards
2%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card
Rewards
1x - 2x miles
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.6
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Rewards
2x to 6x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
3
Rating
4.6
Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$250
Welcome Offer
60,000 Miles
Rating
4.6
Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card
Rewards
2% Cash Back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
Prosper® Card
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$39
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa® Secured Card
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Rewards
3x - 26x points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
140,000 Points
Rating
4.6
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Capital One Spark Cash Select for Good Credit
Rewards
1.5% to 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
N/A
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$99, waived for first 12 months
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
World of Hyatt Credit Card
Rewards
1x to 9x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Get 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
Rewards
1x to 5x points
Annual Fee
$400
Welcome Offer
50,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 50,000 bonus points worth $750 in travel when you spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
2x - 5x miles
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
American Express® Green Card
Rewards
1x to 3x points
Annual Fee
$150
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn 20% back on eligible travel and transit purchases made during your first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $200 back in the form of a statement credit.
Wells Fargo Business Elite Signature Card
Rewards
1.5% or 1x points
Annual Fee
$0 first year, and then $125
Welcome Offer
$1000
Rating
4.5
Earn a one-time $1,000 cash back bonus or 100,000 bonus points when you spend $25,000 in the first three months after account open date.
Aer Lingus Visa Signature® Card
Rewards
1 to 3 Avios
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
Rewards
1X to 4X points
Annual Fee
$199
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Aeroplan® Credit Card
Rewards
1x to 3x Points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn up to 100,000 bonus points – 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 25,000 points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
1 to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$50
Rating
4.5
Earn $50 Cash Back when you spend $100 in the first three months
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$595
Welcome Offer
70,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
UMB Simply Rewards
Rewards
1x to 3x Points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
15000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 15,000 Bonus Points when you spend $1,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Rewards
1%-6%
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Welcome Offer
$250
Rating
4.5
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card
Rewards
1x to 5x points
Annual Fee
No Annual Fee
Welcome Offer
15,000 Points
Rating
4.5
15,000 Bonus Points when you spend $1,500 in first 90 days
CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®
Rewards
1x to 2x Miles
Annual Fee
$99, waived for first 12 months
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of account opening.
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students
Rewards
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.5
Online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
Capital One Savor Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
$300
Rating
4.5
Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
1% -10%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.5
$200 Cash Back after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Prime Visa
Rewards
1% - 10%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$100
Rating
4.5
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card (or more) instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
American Express® Business Gold Card
Rewards
1x - 4x points
Annual Fee
$295 ($375 if application is received on or after 2/1/24)
Welcome Offer
70,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Rewards
1x - 2x
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Welcome Offer
15,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Rewards
1x to 5x Points
Annual Fee
$695
Welcome Offer
120,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Rewards
3x to 12x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
170,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 170,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/17/24.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Welcome Offer
40,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
Rewards
1.5X - 2X Points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
60000 Points
Rating
4.5
Get 60,000 online bonus points — a $600 value — after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$250
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$550
Welcome Offer
60,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students
Rewards
1%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
BankAmericard® Secured Credit Card
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Jasper Mastercard
Rewards
Up to 6%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Petal® 1 "No Annual Fee" Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
None
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
N/A
Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®
Rewards
1.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.5
Earn $200 bonus when you open a Rewards Checking account and make 3 debit card transactions
Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
N/A
Credit One Bank® Platinum Visa®
Rewards
1%
Annual Fee
$39
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Hotels.com® Rewards Visa® Credit Card
Rewards
1 stamp
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Rewards
1x - 5x points
Annual Fee
$695
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rewards
1.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.5
One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Wells Fargo Reflect® Card
Rewards
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
Rewards
2x - 3x Points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
75,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You

Finding the best credit card for you is both an art and a science. To some extent, it's about the numbers. You can look for cards with the lowest interest rates and fees or the highest rewards. But it's also about matching the best credit card with your specific financial needs.

As a result, the top card will vary from one person to the next. You should consider your financial goals, such as earning rewards, paying down debt with a 0% offer, or just having an everyday card you can use. Also, consider your credit score. If you don't know your score, there are plenty of ways to access your score for free.

Cash Back Credit Cards

For cash back cards, there are two approaches. You either carry one card with excellent rewards or multiple cards to get the most out of every purchase. The one-card approach is simple but doesn't maximize your rewards. The multiple-card approach is a bit of a hassle, but you get the most cash back.

To maximize your cash, the Chase Freedom Flex(SM) and Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express mentioned above are two excellent options.

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Finding the best 0% card for balance transfers is primarily about the numbers. You want a 0% offer that lasts as long as possible. And to the extent available, you'd prefer not to pay a transfer fee. That has become impossible today, as many balance transfer offers have left the market. Still, paying even a 3% balance transfer fee is better than paying a 15% interest rate if you're carrying a balance on another credit card.

Travel Credit Cards

Travel cards represent a diverse universe of rewards. They include general travel rewards independent of a specific company, airline miles cards, hotel rewards cards, and even specialty cards. The “best” travel card depends on how you use the card and how you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many credit cards should I have?

There's no “right” answer here. The amount of cards you should have depends on what you use them for and your ability to pay them off monthly.

If you travel by plane often throughout the year, a travel rewards card can get you great air miles. If you also travel by car or have a long commute, you might also choose a credit card offering high cash back for gas station spending.

If you don't want to keep track of multiple cards and remember which one to use to get the most rewards, a basic everyday spending card might be your best option.

When is it time to get a new credit card?

If you have good or excellent credit, check if the card you're currently using offers the same or better rewards and perks as the ones listed above. If you find another credit card that can beat yours and you haven't applied for credit in the last six months, it might be time for a new credit card. Choose carefully though, applying for too many cards in a short period can be a reason to deny your application.

Are credit cards with annual fees worth it?

If you can get your money back in the form of cash back, paying an annual fee for a credit card is worth it. These cards usually come with additional perks including airport lounge access or travel credits. Before you commit to applying for the card, do the math and be sure you can easily earn that annual fee back by using the card.

Final Thoughts

I've monitored credit card offers since 2007 and gathered this information from a database of hundreds of cards. This article contains what I think are the overall best credit cards available today.

Please note this list is updated monthly, and offers are subject to change. If you're just as keen about using the best credit cards as I am, be sure to revisit this page. I'm confident you'll find one that works for you.

Rob Berger is the founder of allCards.com. He's written about personal finance and investing since 2007 and is the author of the highly acclaimed book, Retire Before Mom and Dad. He is a former litigation attorney in the securities field and the Founding Editor of Forbes Advisor.