4.4/5
Rating Breakdown 4.4 Welcome Bonus 4.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.8/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Intro offer available Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Apply Now with Wells Fargo
4.2/5
Rating Breakdown 4.2 Offer Length 5.0 BT Fee 5.0 Offer Terms 3.0 On-going Value 3.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.4/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
N/A This card doesn't offer cash back, miles, or points
4.0/5
Rating Breakdown 4.0 Accessibility 4.0 Effectiveness 4.0 Cost 4.0 Other Perks 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Credit Building Cards We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.0/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 2% Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically.; Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer available Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Learn More
4.3/5
Rating Breakdown 4.3 Welcome Bonus 3.5 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 4.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.6/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $95
Rewards Rate
1x - 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.; 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.; 2x on all other travel purchases.; 1x on all other purchases.
Intro offer available 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 Travel℠.
Learn More
3.7/5
Rating Breakdown 3.7 Welcome Bonus 3.5 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 4.0 Benefits 3.5 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Business Cards We rate credit cards using our business methodology for cards tailored to business owners. We rank business cards based on earning power, the value you get weighed against the cost, the card benefits and their rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.4/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 5% Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year; Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year; Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
Intro offer available Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
Learn More
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 5.0 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 4.0 Benefits 2.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.1/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.; Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Intro offer available Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Learn More
4.0/5
Rating Breakdown 4.0 Accessibility 4.0 Effectiveness 4.0 Cost 4.0 Other Perks 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Credit Building Cards We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.0/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases-automatically.; Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.
Intro offer available Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Learn More
4.2/5
Rating Breakdown 4.2 Welcome Bonus 5.0 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 3.8 Benefits 4.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.3/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 10% Prime Card Bonus: Earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com with an eligible Prime membership; Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership; Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare); Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
Intro offer available Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Learn More
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.2/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0
Rewards Rate
1% - 5% 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!; 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.; 3% cash back on dining and drugstores.; 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro offer available Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
Learn More
3.3/5
Rating Breakdown 3.3 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 3.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
6.6/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $695
Rewards Rate
5x - 5x Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.; Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Intro offer available Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Learn More
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card's reward potential, the value you get compared to the card's cost, the benefits and the card's rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.1/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Annual Fee $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards Rate
1% - 6% 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%); 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Intro offer available Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Learn More
Written by ,
Edited by
Reviewed by
The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.
Reviews ethics statementWhy You Can Trust CNET Money
CNET Money’s mission is to help you maximize your financial potential. Our recommendations are based on our editors’ independent research and analysis, and we continuously update our content to reflect current partner offers. How we rate credit cards
Credit cards are great financial tools that can bolster your finances, but only when used responsibly. As such, there are some important features you should be aware of before applying.
Credit cards could lead to overspending, debt and credit damage if you don’t make your monthly payments on time. But they can also help lower your expenses through rewards and offer extra benefits and protections while you shop and travel.
Choosing a credit card can be a big decision. Some credit cards are packed with ways to maximize rewards, while others offer long 0% introductory APR periods for new purchases and balance transfers. Others still are designed solely for improving your credit. You may even receive perks like dining credits and airport lounge access with the right card. But none of those features are valuable if you end up with credit card debt.
When you know what benefits you want from a card, how it can fit into your budget and what you need to qualify for it, you’ll be ready to choose the best credit card for you.
I use my Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card for just about everything other than travel, dining, gas, and groceries. It’s a great card that works well with just about any tiered rewards card. Outside of its rewards, it offers a number of perks that transfer well into the real world, like the roadside dispatch benefit I used when my car broke down.
Whenever I use the Wells Fargo Active Cash, I earn 2% back in cash rewards. I redeem my cash rewards as statement credits to cover past expenses, making it very easy to realize value from this card. Not only that, but its extra perks – including roadside assistance and introductory purchase APR – have helped me both financially and and in the real world when my car broke down.
Additionally, it doesn’t charge an annual fee, which means it’s easy to add to my credit card mix. Its $200 cash rewards bonus for spending $500 in purchases within three months of account opening was easy to earn.
So long as you pay off your balance in full each month, this rewarding card shouldn’t cost you anything to use. It was the second credit card I’ve applied for, and I haven’t regretted it once.
4.4/5
Rating Breakdown 4.4 Welcome Bonus 4.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.8/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
$200 cash rewards Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Rewards Rate
2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card offers the most helpful benefits for people overall.
The lack of an annual fee makes this card accessible and low maintenance. The 2% cash rewards across your purchases is a competitive rate: While it’s not the highest you’ll find for some major shopping categories like groceries and gas, it gives you one of the best rates on more obscure spending categories like online shopping, services and bills.
The introductory APR gives you an opportunity to finance a large purchase or to prevent interest charges with a qualifying balance transfer, and the welcome offer has one of the best spending-to-rewards ratio.
For more details on this card’s benefits, see our full review of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
No annual fee
Introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Up to $600 in cell phone damage or theft protection subject to a $25 deductible
No outstanding cardholder perks or statement credits
3% foreign currency conversion fee
Rewards must be redeemed in $20 or $25 increments for some redemption options
Rating Breakdown 4.4
Welcome Bonus 4.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card offers the most helpful benefits for people overall.
The lack of an annual fee makes this card accessible and low maintenance. The 2% cash rewards across your purchases is a competitive rate: While it’s not the highest you’ll find for some major shopping categories like groceries and gas, it gives you one of the best rates on more obscure spending categories like online shopping, services and bills.
The introductory APR gives you an opportunity to finance a large purchase or to prevent interest charges with a qualifying balance transfer, and the welcome offer has one of the best spending-to-rewards ratio.
For more details on this card’s benefits, see our full review of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
No annual fee
Introductory APR offer on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Up to $600 in cell phone damage or theft protection subject to a $25 deductible
No outstanding cardholder perks or statement credits
3% foreign currency conversion fee
Rewards must be redeemed in $20 or $25 increments for some redemption options
Rating Breakdown 4.4
Welcome Bonus 4.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
4.2/5
Rating Breakdown 4.2 Offer Length 5.0 BT Fee 5.0 Offer Terms 3.0 On-going Value 3.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.4/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Rewards Rate
N/A This card doesn’t offer cash back, miles, or points
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
19.24% – 29.99% (Variable)
The Citi Simplicity* offers both one of the longest introductory balance transfer APR and a competitive balance transfer fee.
Cardholders get nearly two years to pay down a transferred balance, with the card’s offer lasting 21 months before the standard 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR kicks in. It’s introductory balance transfer fee of 3% ($5 minimum) lasts for the first four months -- then it spikes up to 5% ($5 minimum). It’s one of the best combinations on the market.
You can learn more in our Citi Simplicity review.
Rating Breakdown 4.2
Offer Length 5.0
BT Fee 5.0
Offer Terms 3.0
On-going Value 3.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
The Citi Simplicity* offers both one of the longest introductory balance transfer APR and a competitive balance transfer fee.
Cardholders get nearly two years to pay down a transferred balance, with the card’s offer lasting 21 months before the standard 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR kicks in. It’s introductory balance transfer fee of 3% ($5 minimum) lasts for the first four months -- then it spikes up to 5% ($5 minimum). It’s one of the best combinations on the market.
You can learn more in our Citi Simplicity review.
Rating Breakdown 4.2
Offer Length 5.0
BT Fee 5.0
Offer Terms 3.0
On-going Value 3.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
4.0/5
Rating Breakdown 4.0 Accessibility 4.0 Effectiveness 4.0 Cost 4.0 Other Perks 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Credit Building Cards We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.0/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Cashback Match™ Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Rewards Rate
1% – 2% Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically.; Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Rec. Credit
No Credit History Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card* tops our lists for best secured credit card and best credit cards for bad credit.
It has several winning features including a rewards program with one of the best welcome offers, a clear path forward toward better credit through responsible use and a reasonable minimum deposit requirement.
Discover even periodically reviews cardholder accounts after seven months, and promotes eligible consumers with good payment histories to unsecured credit cards.
You can learn more in our Discover it® Secured Credit Card review.
Rating Breakdown 4.0
Accessibility 4.0
Effectiveness 4.0
Cost 4.0
Other Perks 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Credit Building Cards
We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
2%
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
The Discover it® Secured Credit Card* tops our lists for best secured credit card and best credit cards for bad credit.
It has several winning features including a rewards program with one of the best welcome offers, a clear path forward toward better credit through responsible use and a reasonable minimum deposit requirement.
Discover even periodically reviews cardholder accounts after seven months, and promotes eligible consumers with good payment histories to unsecured credit cards.
You can learn more in our Discover it® Secured Credit Card review.
Rating Breakdown 4.0
Accessibility 4.0
Effectiveness 4.0
Cost 4.0
Other Perks 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Credit Building Cards
We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
2%
Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
4.3/5
Rating Breakdown 4.3 Welcome Bonus 3.5 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 4.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.6/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
60,000 bonus points 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 Travel℠.
Rewards Rate
1x – 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.; 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.; 2x on all other travel purchases.; 1x on all other purchases.
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
21.49% – 28.49% Variable
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is arguably the best travel card on the market. It’s hard to rival its rewards program -- it expands to everyday categories and has competitive rates on travel. Points are worth $0.01 when redeemed for statement credit, but you get a 25% boost in redemption value if you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel. This card also offers one-to-one point transfers to Chase’s 14 hotel and airline travel partners, which, if used strategically, can unlock outsized value for your points.
The welcome bonus -- 60,000 points when you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first three months of account opening -- that’s $750 toward travel booked through Chase Travel, as well.
There are no foreign transaction fees and you also get a slew of travel-related perks like baggage delay insurance, trip delay insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. In combination, this is a standout offer for a $95 annual fee.
Read more details in our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
Rating Breakdown 4.3
Welcome Bonus 3.5
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 4.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5x
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3x
3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
2x
2x on all other travel purchases.
1x
1x on all other purchases.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is arguably the best travel card on the market. It’s hard to rival its rewards program -- it expands to everyday categories and has competitive rates on travel. Points are worth $0.01 when redeemed for statement credit, but you get a 25% boost in redemption value if you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel. This card also offers one-to-one point transfers to Chase’s 14 hotel and airline travel partners, which, if used strategically, can unlock outsized value for your points.
The welcome bonus -- 60,000 points when you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first three months of account opening -- that’s $750 toward travel booked through Chase Travel, as well.
There are no foreign transaction fees and you also get a slew of travel-related perks like baggage delay insurance, trip delay insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. In combination, this is a standout offer for a $95 annual fee.
Read more details in our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
Rating Breakdown 4.3
Welcome Bonus 3.5
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 4.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5x
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3x
3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
2x
2x on all other travel purchases.
1x
1x on all other purchases.
Long 0% intro APR for purchases and balance transfers
3.8/5
Rating Breakdown 3.8 Offer Length 5.0 BT Fee 3.0 Offer Terms 3.0 On-going Value 3.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.6/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Rewards Rate
N/A This card doesn’t offer cash back, miles, or points
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
18.74% – 29.74% (Variable)
The U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card offers a whopping 21 billing cycles at 0% introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers (18.74% to 29.74% variable APR thereafter). Though there is no sign-up bonus or rewards program, there is also no annual fee, making this a low-maintenance option.
This a great card if you’re making a large purchase or want to prolong your interest-free payments. It’s also an excellent emergency credit card for times when you need to cover a large expense unexpectedly. Other 0% APR credit cards may have a shorter period of time with the 0% introductory rate, but you may receive other benefits and rewards.
Check out our full review of the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card for more information.
Rating Breakdown 3.8
Offer Length 5.0
BT Fee 3.0
Offer Terms 3.0
On-going Value 3.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
The U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card offers a whopping 21 billing cycles at 0% introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers (18.74% to 29.74% variable APR thereafter). Though there is no sign-up bonus or rewards program, there is also no annual fee, making this a low-maintenance option.
This a great card if you’re making a large purchase or want to prolong your interest-free payments. It’s also an excellent emergency credit card for times when you need to cover a large expense unexpectedly. Other 0% APR credit cards may have a shorter period of time with the 0% introductory rate, but you may receive other benefits and rewards.
Check out our full review of the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card for more information.
Rating Breakdown 3.8
Offer Length 5.0
BT Fee 3.0
Offer Terms 3.0
On-going Value 3.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Balance Transfer / Intro APR Cards
We rate credit cards using our balance transfer / Intro APR methodology for cards whose primary feature is a promotional period where new purchases or a transferred balance will accrue no or low interest for a period of time. We rank these credit cards based on the quality of their introductory offers, fees, lasting value and standard rates. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
3.7/5
Rating Breakdown 3.7 Welcome Bonus 3.5 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 4.0 Benefits 3.5 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Business Cards We rate credit cards using our business methodology for cards tailored to business owners. We rank business cards based on earning power, the value you get weighed against the cost, the card benefits and their rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.4/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Earn up to $750 bonus cash back Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
Rewards Rate
1% – 5% Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year; Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year; Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
18.49% – 24.49% Variable
The Ink Business Cash is hard to beat if you’re a small business owner. It offers a good return for your expenses along with a rewarding welcome bonus and a number of shopping and travel protections.
There is a $25,000 annual spending cap on the 5% and 2% rewards categories to keep in mind, but up to that point it’s one of the most rewarding business cards you could pick. Its rewards are also well-rounded, with a healthy mix of gas station, restaurant, office supply store and internet, phone and cable service categories.
You can learn more in our Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card review.
Rating Breakdown 3.7
Welcome Bonus 3.5
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 3.5
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Business Cards
We rate credit cards using our business methodology for cards tailored to business owners. We rank business cards based on earning power, the value you get weighed against the cost, the card benefits and their rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
2%
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
The Ink Business Cash is hard to beat if you’re a small business owner. It offers a good return for your expenses along with a rewarding welcome bonus and a number of shopping and travel protections.
There is a $25,000 annual spending cap on the 5% and 2% rewards categories to keep in mind, but up to that point it’s one of the most rewarding business cards you could pick. Its rewards are also well-rounded, with a healthy mix of gas station, restaurant, office supply store and internet, phone and cable service categories.
You can learn more in our Chase Ink Business Cash Credit Card review.
Rating Breakdown 3.7
Welcome Bonus 3.5
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 3.5
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Business Cards
We rate credit cards using our business methodology for cards tailored to business owners. We rank business cards based on earning power, the value you get weighed against the cost, the card benefits and their rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
2%
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 5.0 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 4.0 Benefits 2.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.1/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Cashback Match Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
Rewards Rate
1% – 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.; Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
18.24% – 28.24% Variable APR
Discover it® Cash Back* offers a unique sign-on bonus: an unlimited cash-back match at the end of your first year. You don’t even have to reach a minimum spending threshold, like with most other sign-up bonuses -- but you can outearn other credit cards with such bonuses if you spend enough.
You will enjoy 5% cash back up to the quarterly maximums (then 1%) on rotating quarterly categories as you activate them. Some of these quarterly categories include purchases from Amazon.com, grocery stores or gas stations. Discover will also give you 1% cash back on all other purchases. We’ve also collected a few other credit cards with generous welcome bonuses.
Check out more details in our full review of the Discover it Cash Back.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 5.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 2.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
1%
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Discover it® Cash Back* offers a unique sign-on bonus: an unlimited cash-back match at the end of your first year. You don’t even have to reach a minimum spending threshold, like with most other sign-up bonuses -- but you can outearn other credit cards with such bonuses if you spend enough.
You will enjoy 5% cash back up to the quarterly maximums (then 1%) on rotating quarterly categories as you activate them. Some of these quarterly categories include purchases from Amazon.com, grocery stores or gas stations. Discover will also give you 1% cash back on all other purchases. We’ve also collected a few other credit cards with generous welcome bonuses.
Check out more details in our full review of the Discover it Cash Back.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 5.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 2.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
1%
Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
4.0/5
Rating Breakdown 4.0 Accessibility 4.0 Effectiveness 4.0 Cost 4.0 Other Perks 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Credit Building Cards We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.0/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Cashback Match Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
Rewards Rate
1% – 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases-automatically.; Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
Rec. Credit
No Credit History Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
18.24% – 27.24% Variable APR
The Discover it® Student Cash Back* offers better rewards than a lot of credit cards, though it may be more complicated to navigate. Its bonus categories rotate quarterly and need to be manually activated each time, lest you miss out on any rewards. It also has one of the best welcome bonuses on the market. At the end of your first year, Discover will essentially double the rewards you earn for your first year with the card.
There is a quarterly spending cap of $1,500 to earn the 5% rewards rate (then 1%), but may not be an issue for college students with smaller budgets. It’s a rewarding card to use to build your credit with responsible use before moving on to non-student credit cards.
You can find all the details in our Discover it Student Cash Back review.
Rating Breakdown 4.0
Accessibility 4.0
Effectiveness 4.0
Cost 4.0
Other Perks 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Credit Building Cards
We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases-automatically.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
The Discover it® Student Cash Back* offers better rewards than a lot of credit cards, though it may be more complicated to navigate. Its bonus categories rotate quarterly and need to be manually activated each time, lest you miss out on any rewards. It also has one of the best welcome bonuses on the market. At the end of your first year, Discover will essentially double the rewards you earn for your first year with the card.
There is a quarterly spending cap of $1,500 to earn the 5% rewards rate (then 1%), but may not be an issue for college students with smaller budgets. It’s a rewarding card to use to build your credit with responsible use before moving on to non-student credit cards.
You can find all the details in our Discover it Student Cash Back review.
Rating Breakdown 4.0
Accessibility 4.0
Effectiveness 4.0
Cost 4.0
Other Perks 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Credit Building Cards
We rate credit cards using our credit-building methodology for cards designed to help grow your credit score. Student credit cards, secured credit cards and credit cards with low or no credit requirements fall into this category. We rank them based on how easy they are to qualify for, credit-building features and how much they cost. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases-automatically.
1%
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.
4.2/5
Rating Breakdown 4.2 Welcome Bonus 5.0 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 3.8 Benefits 4.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.3/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Rewards Rate
1% – 10% Prime Card Bonus: Earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com with an eligible Prime membership; Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership; Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare); Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
The Prime Visa has a lot going for it. It offers a high cash-back rate for Amazon’s unmatched catalog of products while providing a slew of useful shopping protections for your new purchases. It also has one of the easiest to reach welcome bonuses -- simply get approved for this card to have a $100 Amazon gift card added to your account.
While the card itself doesn’t carry an annual fee, you have to be an Amazon Prime member to qualify for it, a $139 yearly expense. While that’s a bit higher than the average credit card annual fee, if you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, faster package delivery and access to Prime Video might offset this cost.
You can learn more about it in our Prime Visa review.
Rating Breakdown 4.2
Welcome Bonus 5.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 3.8
Benefits 4.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
10%
Prime Card Bonus: Earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com with an eligible Prime membership
5%
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
2%
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
1%
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
The Prime Visa has a lot going for it. It offers a high cash-back rate for Amazon’s unmatched catalog of products while providing a slew of useful shopping protections for your new purchases. It also has one of the easiest to reach welcome bonuses -- simply get approved for this card to have a $100 Amazon gift card added to your account.
While the card itself doesn’t carry an annual fee, you have to be an Amazon Prime member to qualify for it, a $139 yearly expense. While that’s a bit higher than the average credit card annual fee, if you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, faster package delivery and access to Prime Video might offset this cost.
You can learn more about it in our Prime Visa review.
Rating Breakdown 4.2
Welcome Bonus 5.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 3.8
Benefits 4.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
10%
Prime Card Bonus: Earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com with an eligible Prime membership
5%
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
2%
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
1%
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.2/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
$200 Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
Rewards Rate
1% – 5% 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!; 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.; 3% cash back on dining and drugstores.; 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
20.49% – 29.24% Variable
This card tops many of our best lists and for good reason: The Chase Freedom Flex* can help you earn rewards on a wide range of spending, thanks to its static reward categories and its quarterly rotating categories.
It’s difficult to find a purchase type that the Freedom Flex doesn’t cover or hasn’t covered in the past. It stands out from other rotating rewards cards by offering a longer window to activate new categories. You’ll even earn retroactive rewards on any eligible purchases. So, if you forget to activate a category until later in the quarter, your past qualifying purchase will still earn the higher rewards rate as long as you activate by the quarterly deadline.
In addition to its strong earning potential, its welcome bonus offers one of the best returns on the spending required to reach it. It also includes a number of useful perks including purchase protection, which covers your new purchases against damage and theft and some sought-after travel protections, including auto rental collision damage waiver and other travel insurance.
You can read more in our Chase Freedom Flex review.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5%
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3%
3% cash back on dining and drugstores.
1%
1% cash back on all other purchases.
This card tops many of our best lists and for good reason: The Chase Freedom Flex* can help you earn rewards on a wide range of spending, thanks to its static reward categories and its quarterly rotating categories.
It’s difficult to find a purchase type that the Freedom Flex doesn’t cover or hasn’t covered in the past. It stands out from other rotating rewards cards by offering a longer window to activate new categories. You’ll even earn retroactive rewards on any eligible purchases. So, if you forget to activate a category until later in the quarter, your past qualifying purchase will still earn the higher rewards rate as long as you activate by the quarterly deadline.
In addition to its strong earning potential, its welcome bonus offers one of the best returns on the spending required to reach it. It also includes a number of useful perks including purchase protection, which covers your new purchases against damage and theft and some sought-after travel protections, including auto rental collision damage waiver and other travel insurance.
You can read more in our Chase Freedom Flex review.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5%
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
5%
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3%
3% cash back on dining and drugstores.
1%
1% cash back on all other purchases.
3.3/5
Rating Breakdown 3.3 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 3.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 5.0 Fees and APR 3.0 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
6.6/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Earn 80,000 points Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Rewards Rate
5x – 5x Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.; Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
See Pay Over Time APR
The Platinum Card from American Express is often referred to as the best card available, primarily due to the sheer number of premium benefits and annual credits that come with it. You’ll just want to make sure you can make good use of these perks to justify the steep $695 annual fee.
American Express advertises that you can get up to $1,500 in value from the myriad of annual benefits it offers. Annual credits include up to $200 in statement credits for incidental airline fees at one qualifying airline, up to $200 statement credit for select prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection booked through American Express Travel (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay) and up to $200 in Uber Cash for rides and food in the U.S. (and up to $200 in Uber Cash for rides and food in the U.S. (up to $15 Uber Cash each month, plus an additional $20 in December).
Otherwise, its rewards are relatively lackluster, especially compared to its high price tag. But if you travel often, it’s worth considering.
You can find the complete list of benefits in our review of the Platinum Card from American Express.
Rating Breakdown 3.3
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 3.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
The Platinum Card from American Express is often referred to as the best card available, primarily due to the sheer number of premium benefits and annual credits that come with it. You’ll just want to make sure you can make good use of these perks to justify the steep $695 annual fee.
American Express advertises that you can get up to $1,500 in value from the myriad of annual benefits it offers. Annual credits include up to $200 in statement credits for incidental airline fees at one qualifying airline, up to $200 statement credit for select prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection booked through American Express Travel (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay) and up to $200 in Uber Cash for rides and food in the U.S. (and up to $200 in Uber Cash for rides and food in the U.S. (up to $15 Uber Cash each month, plus an additional $20 in December).
Otherwise, its rewards are relatively lackluster, especially compared to its high price tag. But if you travel often, it’s worth considering.
You can find the complete list of benefits in our review of the Platinum Card from American Express.
Rating Breakdown 3.3
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 3.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 5.0
Fees and APR 3.0
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5x
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Best dining card
3.6/5
Rating Breakdown 3.6 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 4.0 Value for Money 4.0 Benefits 3.5 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
7.2/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
25,000 points Earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible Net Purchases in the first 90 days.
Rewards Rate
1x – 4x 4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery.; 2X points on streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).; 2X points at gas stations and EV charging stations (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).; 1X point on all other eligible purchases.
Rec. Credit
800 – 850 Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
18.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
The U.S. Bank Altitude Go has one of the best rates for dining rewards we’ve seen on a credit card without an annual fee. And while earning rewards for eating out is arguably its best feature, its other rewards for gas stations, streaming services and grocery stores are competitive with the best flat-rate cash back cards available.
You’ll also get an introductory purchase and balance transfer APR and an annual $15 streaming credit to essentially knock out one of your subscription costs. There’s plenty of value here for people who eat out often and those who love to order in and stream their favorite shows.
Rating Breakdown 3.6
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 3.5
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
4x
4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery.
2x
2X points on streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).
2x
2X points at gas stations and EV charging stations (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).
1x
1X point on all other eligible purchases.
The U.S. Bank Altitude Go has one of the best rates for dining rewards we’ve seen on a credit card without an annual fee. And while earning rewards for eating out is arguably its best feature, its other rewards for gas stations, streaming services and grocery stores are competitive with the best flat-rate cash back cards available.
You’ll also get an introductory purchase and balance transfer APR and an annual $15 streaming credit to essentially knock out one of your subscription costs. There’s plenty of value here for people who eat out often and those who love to order in and stream their favorite shows.
Rating Breakdown 3.6
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 4.0
Value for Money 4.0
Benefits 3.5
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
4x
4X points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery.
2x
2X points on streaming services and at grocery stores (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).
2x
2X points at gas stations and EV charging stations (excludes discount stores and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024).
1x
1X point on all other eligible purchases.
4.1/5
Rating Breakdown 4.1 Welcome Bonus 3.0 Rewards Program 5.0 Value for Money 5.0 Benefits 3.0 Fees and APR 3.5 How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
8.1/10
CNET rates credit cards by comparing their offers to those of their categorical competitors. Each card is individually evaluated through a formula which reflects the standards and expectations of the contemporary market. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Intro Offer
Earn $250 Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards Rate
1% – 6% 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%); 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more; 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations; 1% Cash Back on other purchases
Rec. Credit
670 – 850 Good – Excellent Recommended Credit: Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. A credit score is used to indicate an applicant’s credit worthiness and may provide guidance about account eligibility. It does not necessarily guarantee approval for any financial product.
APR
19.24% – 29.99% Variable
The Blue Cash Preferred from American Express offers the best cash-back rate for purchases made at U.S. supermarkets (though there is a spending threshold) and for select U.S. streaming subscriptions. It also has strong rewards for U.S. gas station purchases and for transit.
Its $95 annual fee ($0 intro for the first year) hardly puts a dent in its earning potential. If you spend as little as $1,600 on groceries at U.S. supermarkets annually (most people will likely spend much more) you’d earn enough rewards to cover the fee, without considering its U.S. gas station and select U.S. streaming rewards. The card essentially pays for itself and then some.
You can find all the details in our Blue Cash Preferred review.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
The Blue Cash Preferred from American Express offers the best cash-back rate for purchases made at U.S. supermarkets (though there is a spending threshold) and for select U.S. streaming subscriptions. It also has strong rewards for U.S. gas station purchases and for transit.
Its $95 annual fee ($0 intro for the first year) hardly puts a dent in its earning potential. If you spend as little as $1,600 on groceries at U.S. supermarkets annually (most people will likely spend much more) you’d earn enough rewards to cover the fee, without considering its U.S. gas station and select U.S. streaming rewards. The card essentially pays for itself and then some.
You can find all the details in our Blue Cash Preferred review.
Rating Breakdown 4.1
Welcome Bonus 3.0
Rewards Program 5.0
Value for Money 5.0
Benefits 3.0
Fees and APR 3.5
How We Rate Rewards / Travel Cards
We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards
Card Details
Rewards Rates
6%
6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
6%
6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
3%
3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
1%
1% Cash Back on other purchases
Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more
Experts recommend focusing on your monthly expenses, financial goals and creditworthiness when choosing the best credit card for your wallet.
Before you start shopping for a card, you should know what your credit score is. A credit score is how lenders can tell your risk level as a borrower. Lenders view a higher credit score as an indication that you’ll pay back money you borrow regularly. Basically, the higher your score, the more responsible you look.
You should only consider a credit card if you can meet the credit score requirements, said Beverly Harzog, a credit card expert and author of The Debt Escape Plan and Confessions of a Credit Junkie.
“You don’t want to apply for a credit card that you can’t possibly get approved for,” she said.
For example, while travel cards can be rewarding and lucrative, you typically need a good or excellent credit score to qualify. That’s a FICO score of 670 to 850.
Applying for a card that you don’t qualify for can impact your score and approval odds if you’re applying for too many cards at once. “Every time you apply for a card, it’s a hard inquiry on your credit report which can temporarily lower your credit score,” said Harzog.
If your score isn’t where you need it to be for the credit card you want, you can either work on raising your credit score before applying for the card or look for a credit card with a lower credit score requirement.
Consider your financial habits and try to match them with credit card features that will help you stay on track -- if you’re goal-oriented, you might want to choose a card that lets you earn a welcome bonus with your regular spending, for example.
If you already have a credit card, consider how you manage that card when looking for the next one, said Gerri Detweiler, a credit card expert and member of the CNET Money expert review board.
“Do you tend to carry a balance or are you someone who uses your credit card almost like a debit card and you always pay the balance in full?” Detweiler said. “That will help you determine whether the interest rate is important to you.”
You should aim to pay your statement balance in full and on time each month to avoid interest and only charge what you can afford -- especially since interest rates are still high and making credit card debt more expensive. But if there’s a chance you’ll carry a balance, keep the card’s variable interest rate in mind.
After narrowing down your list to cards you qualify for and those that complement your spending habits, think about the value you want from the card and how you want to realize it.
You may choose a flat-rate cash-back card to earn rewards on every purchase. Or you may be more interested in a credit card that offers points or miles toward travel, airfare or hotel stays. Maybe you want to maximize rewards with a credit card that offers a larger return on your top spending categories -- such as gas, travel and dining.
“You will find that points will take you further than cash back -- it’s typically worth more when you are trading in points,” said Shonda Martin, a credit card expert. “However, if you are not chasing the typical benefits of a rewards credit card like travel and free experiences, then cash back will be fine.”
Credit cards that offer rewards usually charge higher interest rates than credit cards that don’t have rewards programs. They may also come with an annual fee. If there’s a chance you’ll carry a balance, the interest charges could wipe out any benefits you get from points or cash-back rewards you earn.
Build credit through responsible use
Earn rewards on your top spending categories
Cardholder perks, such as complimentary memberships and travel protections
Access to funds in case of emergency
Increased security when making purchases
Convenient to use, especially if traveling overseas with a no-foreign-transaction-fee card
Potential to overspend, leading to debt
Annual fees for certain cards
High interest charges if you don’t pay the monthly statement balance in full
Fees for late payments, cash advances and more
Ultimately, the right credit card depends on your goals and preferences. Decide what features you’re looking for: rewards, longer payment periods for a large purchase, credit-building tools, an emergency credit line or other benefits.
From there, you can decide the type of card you’re looking for. You can then use online reviews like those at CNET to further narrow down what terms will work best for you.
Situation | CNET credit card recommendation |
Building credit | Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card |
Earning travel rewards | Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card |
Balance transfer | Citi Simplicity® Card |
No foreign transaction fees | Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card |
Large purchases with payment flexibility | Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card |
If this is your first time applying for a credit card, you likely have a lot of questions about how credit cards work and who can get one. We’ll cover the basics here.
A credit card is a personal credit account that allows you to make purchases upfront with money you’re borrowing from the credit card issuer. You may earn rewards or perks as a cardholder in exchange for your spending, depending on the card.
The issuer will use your credit score, income and other factors to determine your approval and credit card interest rate (also known as APR). The card issuer will determine your interest rate and credit limit when you’re approved.
You have to pay back any charges you put on your credit card. If you don’t pay off your credit card in full by the due date, the balance will accrue interest. You’ll most likely pay interest on your account’s average daily balance, including the charges you’ve paid. Interest charges and fees are how the credit card issuer makes money.
You’ll need to be at least 18 years old to qualify for a credit card, but issuers may have other requirements. You also have to be a US citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify for most cards issued in the United States. You’ll also need to have a physical address and Social Security Number. You must also have any bankruptcy or foreclosure proceedings concluded.
Generally speaking, the better the benefits, the more requirements you’ll need to meet for approval. Credit cards with attractive rewards programs or cash-back rewards typically require better credit than those with fewer perks and rewards. Your credit limit and interest rate will also depend on your qualifications -- the more you can show you’ll repay your debts, the more likely your lender will offer a higher credit limit and lower interest rate.
When you submit a credit card application, you’ll need to provide personal information that will help creditors decide whether to approve your application and the terms they’ll offer. Among the factors that they may use to decide your creditworthiness are your income and your credit score.
Your credit score is determined by several different factors, including your payment history, age of credit accounts, number of credit accounts and credit utilization -- how much of your overall credit you’re using.
Your credit score is based on your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus -- Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. Credit cards are one way to start building your credit history, but student loans, auto loans and mortgages also count toward your credit score. Your lenders will report your behavior to these bureaus, which can harm or help your credit score.
If you have poor or fair credit when applying for a credit card, you might qualify for credit builder or secured credit cards that are geared toward building credit instead of rewards or benefits.
But good to excellent credit can expand your options for rewards and travel credit cards. These cards also typically offer more perks and higher credit limits.
A credit card’s interest rate is called the annual percentage rate, or APR. Credit card issuers typically offer a variable APR, which depends on the federal benchmark interest rate set by the Federal Reserve.
Most credit cards’ interest rates are expressed as a range, like 20.49% to 29.24%. You can find your credit card’s APR outlined in the terms and conditions your issuer provided to you with your card.
Interest charges can add up quickly. While your credit card has an annual percentage rate, interest compounds daily. You can find out how much interest your balance accrues daily by dividing your card’s APR by 365. A card that has an APR of 24%, for example, would have a daily periodic rate of approximately .0657%.
To calculate your monthly finance charge, most credit cards use the average daily balance over an entire billing cycle. Multiply your average daily balance by the daily periodic rate, then multiply that number by the number of days in the billing cycle.
Using the same example as above, let’s say you have an average daily balance of $3,000 for a 30-day month. So your monthly finance charge would be $3,000 x .0657% x 30 = $59.13. Interest charges can add up quickly, so it’s best to avoid them whenever possible.
So long as you treat your credit card like a debit card -- in other words, if you pay off any purchases you make right away -- you won’t have to worry about interest charges.
If you miss a credit card payment, you could face fees, a higher APR and even a lower credit score. How severe the consequences are typically depends on your payment history and the number of missed payments on your account.
Depending on your card, you’ll typically incur a late payment fee of $30 for your first late payment. Missing multiple payments could also lead to additional fees and a penalty APR, a punitive rate much higher than a standard credit card’s APR. It’s typically capped at 29.99%.
However, missed payments typically won’t appear on your credit report for 30 days after the due date, so long as you make the payment before then.
“When you get a new card, make sure that it’s on your radar,” said Harzog. Put a note on your calendar or set up auto-pay for at least the pay minimum payment, she suggested.
Some credit cards let you earn rewards based on your purchases. Regardless of the rewards type, the value comes in how you use the card, said Detweiler.
Rewards come in two camps -- cash back and points or miles -- but they work generally the same way.
If you don’t want to build a strategy around points and miles for free travel, cash back can be a straightforward way to earn rewards on your purchases, said Martin. Here’s a brief rundown.
Points and miles are usually geared toward travel purchases but can be redeemed for other purchases. Here’s the difference:
Whether you’re new to credit cards or have multiple cards already, understanding the many different types of credit cards available and what each offers is essential. Here’s how they compare.
Rewards credit cards let you earn cash back, points or miles for purchases you make. Depending on the credit card, you can maximize rewards by spending in certain bonus categories. Rewards cards include cash-back credit cards, travel credit cards and co-branded credit cards with hotels and airlines. Each rewards you for spending within the categories outlined in the card’s reward program.
If you’re willing to build a credit card rewards strategy around your top spending categories, finding a card that offers the best rewards for your spending can mean big savings for your wallet, said Detweiler. “If you’re not interested in that or you don’t have the time to do that, then a card with a good flat reward rate might be a better bet,” she added.
rewards system lets you earn and redeem points you’ve earned by using specified Chase cards. You can redeem points for gift cards, cash back, travel and merchant purchases, or transfer them to one of Chase’s travel partners. Some Chase cards offer a higher rate to cardholders who redeem points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
If your Amex card offers Membership Rewards points, you can use Amex’s portal to redeem them for travel, gift cards, statement credits and transfer rewards to travel partners. The point value will depend on your Amex card and redemption option. The value of Amex points comes from how flexible they are -- you can redeem them for statement credits which will lower your overall account balance, or you can transfer them to one of Amex’s many travel partners where they could be worth much more.
The Wells Fargo Rewards Program lets you redeem your rewards for travel and gift cards when you use your eligible Wells Fargo credit card. You can redeem your rewards for purchases with participating merchants or use them as a statement credit toward your Wells Fargo credit card, checking account or mortgage.
Capital One Travel is geared toward helping Capital One cardholders save money on travel, especially when booked through the Capital One Travel portal. You can book flights, hotels and rental cars with your rewards.
Citi credit cards earn rewards as ThankYou points, which can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards, statement credits and travel. Citi ThankYou points are typically worth 1 cent each when redeemed for travel through the Citi Travel portal. You can redeem for travel beyond airfare and hotels, too, including theme parks, cruises and other experiences.
Bilt is a newer rewards program but no less competitive than the ones you’re familiar with. And you don’t even need the Bilt Mastercard®️ to earn rewards. Bilt has its own dining program you can use and its own travel portal powered by Expedia. You can also link your Lyft account to your Bilt account and earn rewards that way. Similarly to Amex, the value of Bilt Rewards comes from transferring your Bilt points to hotel and airline partners. Bilt partners include IHG hotels, Marriott Bonvoy, and United.
Balance transfer credit cards can help you pay off credit card debt with no interest for a limited time if the card offers an introductory APR. These cards give you a window of time -- usually between nine and 21 months -- to transfer a balance from another card and pay off the debt without accruing interest.
For example, you may choose a balance transfer card with a 12-month introductory offer. “During that 12 months, you could really tackle that debt and hopefully, pay it off faster than you would have at a 19.8% interest rate,” said Detweiler.
Balance transfer cards can come in handy in today’s high-rate environment. “If you do need to consolidate some higher rate credit card debt, or if you want to finance a big purchase over several months, there are some good offers out there,” Detweiler added.
But remember you still must always make at least the minimum monthly payment on time. Skipping payments means you could lose the introductory APR period, and you’ll pay interest on any remaining balance you may have.
Most of the best balance transfer cards include a one-time balance transfer fee that’s usually 3% to 5% of the balance, which you should factor into your budget, said Harzog. But, paying this fee will typically be less expensive than paying continuous interest charges on a credit card that carries a high interest rate.
A 0% APR credit card can help you avoid interest charges completely if you pay off your balance during the introductory period. Taking advantage of a 0% APR credit card introductory offer can come in handy if you’re making a big purchase and need more time to pay off the balance.
And introductory offers are still strong, despite rates rising over the past two years, said Detweiler. But it can be a slippery slope into debt if you’re not careful.
“The most important thing to pay attention to is the fact that it’s time-limited,” said Martin. “A lot of people will see 0% interest and think that means forever when typically it’s either for a limited period of time or it’ll be cut off after a certain dollar amount of spend.”
When that introductory period ends, you’ll start accruing interest on your outstanding balance.
A student credit card can help college students kickstart their credit-building journey. Generally, college students don’t have an extensive credit history. Student cards don’t always offer competitive terms or rewards, but they’re generally easier to get and can be great for establishing a credit history and learning the basics.
One of the most important things to remember with a credit card is to pay off the purchases you make to avoid carrying a balance. If you revolve a balance from month to month, you’ll have to deal with interest charges, which can quickly add up.
There are often restrictions when applying for a credit card if you’re under the age of 21, said Harzog. You may have to show proof of income, whether it’s a part-time job or a side hustle.
A student card can also help you to access to emergency funds in a pinch.
Repairing or establishing your credit isn’t always easy. But there are credit cards with lower credit requirements that can help improve your credit score. The most popular are secured credit cards. In lieu of having good credit, you’ll pay a security deposit in order to get your card. The deposit is oftentimes refundable and will typically be used to fund your starting credit limit.
To start building your credit, pay your bill on time each month. Your positive payments will be reported to the three major credit bureaus -- Equifax, TransUnion and Experian -- and will then be reflected on your credit reports.
But a common mistake when rebuilding or building credit is spending too much of your credit limit, said Detweiler. You always want to keep your credit utilization -- how much credit you’ve used versus your full credit line -- under 30%. This is particularly important with secured cards that often have lower credit limits.
If you use your full credit limit, it can ding your credit score, even if you pay your balance off in full, said Detweiler. Instead of putting all purchases on your card, consider charging only a few purchases like gas, a streaming service or one bill.
Most credit card issuers offer secured credit cards, and while some offer rewards and perks, most don’t. Over time the card issuer may consider you for an unsecured credit card and refund your deposit. And if you use a secured card responsibly for 12 to 18 months, you can rebuild your credit as long as the issuer is reporting it to the bureaus, Harzog added.
However, your negative card activity -- like late payments and frequently spending up to your credit limit -- will also be reported.
Geared toward business people who travel frequently, business credit cards offer rewards for your expenses and useful perks like free employee credit cards.
There are many business credit cards to choose from -- business travel cards, rewards credit cards that offer points or cash back, or corporate cards for businesses with large expenses.
“A lot of people are trying to start their own endeavors, and the credit card companies are keeping up with that trend and trying to offer products that would really fit that growing market of people who want to become entrepreneurs and business owners,” credit expert Julia Menez said.
You’ll still be on the hook for credit card debt if you don’t pay your bill in full and on time each month. Otherwise, you’ll pay more in interest and fees. And you could damage your business and personal credit scores.
Depending on your spending habits and goals, you may benefit from a category-specific card that still lets you earn rewards on everyday spending. Here are a few popular picks.
An airline credit card can come in handy if you’re loyal to one airline. Plus, you may get more flight perks like seat upgrades, lounge access, travel credits and more. But other card choices with flexible rewards may offer similar benefits for more airlines -- especially if you’re paying an annual fee.
But before opening an airline card, consider if a general travel card would be better, said Menez. “I would recommend that most people who are getting into the points game focus first on flexible points like Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One or Bilt points where you have options to move them to a variety of different airlines.”
Co-branded hotel credit cards are good if you prefer one hotel chain over others because you’ll get more perks and rewards for that brand.
“A lot of the hotel co-branded cards will cost $95 a year, but they’ll come with a free night certificate,” said Menez. “As long as you’re going to stay with that hotel anyway, all hotel nights, with inflation these days, are going to cost more than $95, so that card will pay for itself.”
However, if you prefer to fly or stay with more than one brand, a general rewards card might suit you better. You’ll have more flexibility to book stays with other hotel brands and transfer rewards to the credit card issuer’s travel partners.
A gas credit card can help you save a few cents at the pump up to a certain amount each month. Some co-branded gas cards, like the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi*, require a store or wholesale membership. But if you’re behind the wheel often, the card can be worthwhile to help save money.
Most gas companies provide their own credit cards too, including Shell, BP and ExxonMobil. However, there are more general credit cards that feature a gas bonus category too, among other rewards. These cards provide more flexibility than retail gas credit cards.
Also known as store credit cards, are credit cards that are co-branded with a specific brand, like the Target RedCard™. They focus on providing rewards with the brand they’re tied to, along with special perks like two-day shipping or extended returns.
However, retail credit cards tend to have higher interest rates and lackluster rewards programs compared to standard rewards credit cards. But if you don’t have the credit to qualify for a general rewards card, a retail credit card could be worth a look.
A credit card can help you build credit, but only if you do so responsibly. That means avoiding overspending and paying off your balance on time and in full each month. Credit cards also provide a secure method for making payments thanks to their security protections.
“If you’re going to carry a balance, I don’t recommend credit cards at all,” said Harzog. “Because you could just get into trouble so fast. I speak from personal experience -- many years ago when I got out of college and got into debt with many cards.”
It’s important to avoid getting enticed to spend on unnecessary purchases. A good way to do so is to treat your credit card like a debit card. If you don’t have the money to pay off a purchase immediately, reconsider before completing the transaction.
However, credit cards can also help you earn money back on purchases that can help you save in the long run, said Harzog. “But you have to be organized and you have to pay that bill every month when it comes,” she added.
Experts say it’s fine to have multiple credit cards -- as long as you can manage them responsibly.
“You can get a lot of credit cards and you can still have a really high credit score,” said Detweiler. “It’s more about how you manage them than the number of cards that you have.”
Detweiler recommends shopping around for new credit cards regularly to maximize rewards. “At least once a year, review the cards you have and see what else is out there.”
Note: When you apply for a new card, you may see a dip in your credit score, but the decrease should be small and temporary.
When it comes to building credit with a credit card, you have a few options.
A credit-building card only helps if you use it responsibly by making on-time payments and not overspending.
If you can’t qualify for your own credit card, consider asking to become an authorized user on someone else’s account. Any positive activity they have can be reflected in your credit scores, although so can their negative activity.
If you’re using a credit card to build your credit, the most important thing you can do is pay your balance before it’s due each month, according to Harzog.
“Pay all your bills on time. Every single bill -- pay them all on time,” she said. “Payment history is 35% of a FICO score.”
It’s also important to keep your debt-to-credit ratio, or credit utilization, lower than 30%. So if you have credit limits totaling $10,000, you’d want to charge no more than $3,000 across all of your credit accounts, even if you pay off your balance each month.
Other ways to build credit include keeping old credit card accounts open -- as long as they’re in good standing.
Using your credit products responsibly will be the fastest way to build credit. And chances are, you won’t have exceptional credit without a credit card, said Martin.
“Unfortunately, that’s just how the system is made. It’s how our credit scores are built,” she said. “Credit is just your ability to borrow money, so in order to show or exemplify you are a great borrower, you have to show that on your credit report. Credit cards are one of the main things that you should use to exemplify great credit use.”
Building credit is not a quick process. While you could see results in six months, rebuilding or establishing a good credit score could also take years.
Read more: Here’s the Secret to Getting a Perfect Credit Score, According to Experts
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a credit card. Remember to check your credit report and score before applying.
The best credit card for beginners will help you build credit and learn responsible habits, so consider a card that has simple rewards and low fees. The best thing you can do when you get the card is pay off your purchases right away. Once you’ve gotten the hang of things and used your card responsibly for at least a few months, you can apply for more advanced credit cards.
Each credit card issuer offers a wide variety of credit cards for different types of spending -- even cards from the same issuer offer varying benefits. You’ll need to find the card and issuer that best fits your goals and spending habits.
While there’s no definitive answer to how many credit cards you should have, you should only apply for credit cards you can safely manage. If you apply for too many and payments start to slip between the cracks, you’ll likely land in financial trouble.
You also don’t want to apply for too many at once, because each card application temporarily dings your credit score.
You need to be 18 to apply for a credit card, but some credit cards let you add a younger authorized user to reap the benefits of someone’s credit card history.
You’ll need to provide the credit card issuer with the following information when applying for a credit card:
CNET reviews credit cards by exhaustively comparing them across set criteria developed for each major category, including cash back, welcome bonus, travel rewards and balance transfer. We take into consideration the typical spending behavior of a range of consumer profiles -- with the understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different -- and the designated function of a card.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express, click here.
*All information about the Discover it Cash Back, Discover it Student Cash Back, Discover it Secured Credit Card, Chase Freedom Flex, Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card, Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi and Citi Simplicity Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
How to Use a Credit Card Like a Debit Card
Credit Card Payments: The Key to Avoiding Debt and Boosting Credit
Which Purchases Should Go on Your Credit Card?
What’s the Difference Between Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover Cards?
Best Credit Cards for Couples in September 2024
No Preset Spending Limit Cards: What They Are and How to Get One
The Best Credit Cards for Earning Hyatt Points in September 2024
6 Reasons the Chase Sapphire Preferred Should Be Your Next Credit Card
The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.
Written by
Dashia Milden
Editor
Dashia is a staff editor for CNET Money who covers all angles of personal finance, including credit cards and banking. From reviews to news coverage, she aims to help readers make more informed decisions about their money. Dashia was previously a staff writer at NextAdvisor, where she covered credit cards, taxes, banking B2B payments. She has also written about safety, home automation, technology and fintech.
Written by
Evan Zimmer
Staff Writer
Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.
Source: cnet.com