Advertiser Disclosure: The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which Allcards.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Allcards.com does not include all companies or all offers available in the marketplace. AllCards has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. AllCards and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Learn More Here
Credit Score Disclosure: Allcards.com 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.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Allcards. Commissions do not affect our authors’ or editors’ opinions or evaluations. From our partners: See our advertiser disclosure here.
Picking the best credit card is no easy task. It depends largely on your financial goals (e.g., travel, cash back, 0% APR, build credit), how many cards you want to carry, and your credit score.
For me, the best credit cards are those that allow me to maximize cash back. I use many cards listed here and save and invest ALL the rewards. For more on my approach to credit card rewards, check out the video below.
Of course, you may have different goals. For that reason, we've selected 15 of the best credit cards ideal for any financial goal.
In this article:
[hide]
- Overview of the Best Credit Card Offers
- Best Overall Credit Cards
- Cash Back Cards
- Balance Transfer Credit Cards
- Travel Rewards Credit Cards
- Bad Credit, No Credit, Limited Credit, or Students
- Complete List of the Best Credit Cards
- How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Thoughts
Overview of the Best Credit Card Offers
| Credit Card | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card | Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Up to 5% Cash Back |
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Up to 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets |
| Chase Freedom Flex(SM) | Best for Travel with Up to 5% Cash Back |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card | Simple Cash Back with Unlimited 2% Cash Back |
| Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer | Up to 2% Unlimited Cash Back |
| Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card | Up to 2.5% Cash Back |
| Prime Visa | Up to unlimited 5% Cash Back on Amazon and Whole Foods |
| Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card | 0% 21 months |
| U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card | 0% intro APR for 21 months |
| American Express® Gold Card | Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening |
| Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card | Best for students, 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming, and grocery stores |
| Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card | Best for Fair Credit with 1.5% Cash Back |
Best Overall Credit Cards
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card makes the cut for several reasons. It has an excellent signup bonus, up to 5x rewards, and unparalleled travel benefits and perks, including no foreign transaction fees.
This card does come with an annual fee. The benefits, however, make the card well worth the cost. You also get a $50 hotel credit for stays purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Perks include Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Baggage Delay Insurance, and more.
Rewards Recap:
1x points
1x points on all other purchases
2x points
2x points on all other travel purchases
3x points
Earn 3x points on online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
3x points
Earn 3x points on select streaming services
3x points
3x points on dining
5x points
5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 08/03/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 04/19/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/19/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/19/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 11/11/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 04/18/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 05/21/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/04/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/04/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 07/06/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 07/06/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 07/06/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 10/19/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 06/14/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/06/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 04/14/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/14/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/14/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 10/23/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 10/03/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 10/03/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 10/03/2023 | TransUnion |
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great all-around option for those who want elevated rewards on travel, dining, and drugstore purchases and 1.5% cash back on everything else. Plus, Chase is offering extra cash back in the first year for the welcome bonus.
You also get free credit score access updated weekly with Credit Journey.
Rewards Recap:
1.5% cash back
Earn 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
Earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
- 0% Intro APR: 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months months. After that, your rate will be 20.49% - 29.24% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 03/20/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 07/18/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 07/18/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 07/18/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 09/06/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 09/08/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Denied | 09/05/2023 | Experian | ||
| Denied | 09/05/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Denied | 09/05/2023 | TransUnion |
Cash Back Cards
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an excellent value for anyone who wants to save money on groceries. You'll earn 6% cash back, plus 6% cash back on select streaming services, 3% on gas and transit, and 1% cash back on everything else. It's pretty easy to earn back more than the annual fee, which is waived for the first year anyway.
The annual fee is $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards Recap:
1% cash back
1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
3% cash back
3% cash back at U.S. gas stations
3% cash back
3% cash back on transit, such as taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains and buses
6% cash back
6% cash back on groceries up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%
6% cash back
6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
- Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Welcome Offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 months months. After that, your rate will be 19.24% - 29.99%, variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
*Terms Apply
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 01/19/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 05/04/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 05/04/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 05/04/2023 | Equifax |
Chase Freedom Flex(SM)
Chase Freedom Flex(SM) is loaded with rewards. It's arguably one of the most rewarding cash back cards available today, and that's why it made our list here.
It's similar to the Chase Freedom Unlimited® with arguably a better welcome offer and slightly different cash back rewards.
Rewards Recap:
1% cash back
1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
3% cash back on drugstore purchases
3% cash back
3% cash back on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
5% cash back
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate
5% cash back
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months. After that, your rate will be 20.49%–29.24% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the amount of each transaction in U.S. dollars
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 04/02/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/02/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 08/02/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 10/24/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 09/03/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 09/03/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/02/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/02/2023 | Experian |
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
If you're looking for an easy, everyday rewards credit card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card might be your best choice. It checks a lot of boxes: a welcome offer, cash back rewards, and it's one of the few cards with no annual fee that offers cell phone protection, up to $600 when you pay your monthly bill with the card.
Rewards Recap:
2% cash back
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on Purchases and qualifying balance transfers for the first 15 months from account opening. After that, your rate will be 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of each transaction converted to U.S. dollars.
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 04/20/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 09/02/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 09/02/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 09/02/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/03/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 02/18/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 06/23/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/14/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 10/23/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/26/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/26/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/26/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 10/04/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 09/24/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 09/24/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 09/24/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Denied | 04/01/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Denied | 04/01/2023 | Experian | ||
| Denied | 04/01/2023 | Equifax |
Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer
The Citi® Double Cash Card - 18 month BT offer offers up to 2% cash back on purchases. You can earn an unlimited 1% on every purchase and an additional 1% when you off your purchases. It's a very straightforward reward structure so you won't have to worry about reward categories.
Rewards Recap:
2% cash back
Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR 18 months. After that, your rate will be 19.24% - 29.24% variable, depending on creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 06/20/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 07/11/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Denied | 01/10/2023 | Equifax |
Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card
The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card is my go-to cash back credit card. There's no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees and the card is compatible with Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Rewards Recap:
1.5% cash back
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other qualifying eligible purchases.
2.5% cash back
Earn up to 2.5% cash back on your first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: None
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 05/19/2022 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/29/2022 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 08/25/2022 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/10/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Denied | 08/29/2022 | TransUnion |
Prime Visa
One card that gets an honorable mention is the Prime Visa. If you buy from Amazon or Whole Foods, this card is a must.
There's no annual fee and you can earn up to unlimited 5% cash back.
Rewards Recap:
1% cash back
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases.
2% cash back
Earn unlimited 2% back at restaurants.
2% cash back
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations.
2% cash back
Earn unlimited 2% back on local transit and commuting (including rideshare).
5% cash back
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership.
5% cash back
Earn unlimited 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership.
10% cash back
Eligible Prime cardmembers earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com.
- Annual Fee: $0, but you'll need a Prime membership, currently $14.99 a month or $139 a year.
- Welcome Offer: Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 05/17/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 07/08/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 07/08/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 07/08/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/27/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/27/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 05/25/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 05/25/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 05/25/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 06/01/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/01/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/01/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 06/14/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 07/11/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 05/21/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/03/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 11/24/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 07/18/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 10/11/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 10/11/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 10/11/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 05/01/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/12/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/12/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/12/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/23/2023 | Not Provided |
See also: Our complete list of cash back credit cards
Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Cardhas one of the longest 0% APR offers available today. You get 0% APR for 21 months on balance transfers and 12 months on purchases.
You won't get much in the way of rewards and there's no welcome bonus, but for a balance transfer card, it's hard to beat.
- Rewards: None
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: None
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on Balance Transfers for 21 months and 12 months on purchases. After that, your rate will be 18.24% - 28.99% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 04/13/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/13/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/21/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/21/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 04/21/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 01/11/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 02/15/2023 | Experian |
U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card
The U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card also offers one of the longest 0% APR windows available for both purchases and balance transfers. If you need to make a major purchase or pay off some higher interest debt, this card is a good choice. It's a bit lacking in rewards, but you can choose your due date, and you get cell phone protection.
- Rewards: None
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: None
- 0% Intro APR: Get 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 months. After that, your rate will be 18.74% - 29.74% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2% of each foreign purchase transaction or foreign ATM advance transaction in U.S. Dollars. 3% of each foreign purchase transaction or foreign ATM advance transaction in a Foreign Currency
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 04/22/2021 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 01/31/2021 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 07/30/2021 | Not Provided | ||
| Denied | 05/18/2019 | Not Provided |
See also: Our complete list of 0% credit cards
Travel Rewards Credit Cards
American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card offers benefits such as $120 dining credit, $120 in Uber Cash, and $100 hotel credit in addition to the other rewards listed. There's a generous welcome offer and American Express has great customer service.
There are also no foreign transaction fees, making this an excellent card for international travel, and you can choose between a Gold or Rose Gold card.
Rewards Recap:
1x points
1x points on all other eligible purchases
3x points
3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
4x points
4x points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per year.
4x points
4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- Annual Fee: $250
- Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
*Terms Apply
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 05/13/2022 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 05/13/2022 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/13/2022 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/13/2022 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 06/13/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/07/2022 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 06/07/2022 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 06/07/2022 | Equifax |
The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Platinum Card® from American Express has a hefty annual fee, but if you use all the credits it can be a good value. It offers a$200 Hotel Credit,$240 Digital Entertainment Credit,$200 Airline Fee Credit,$200 Uber Cash,$300 Equinox Credit, and a $189 CLEAR Credit. You also get a $155 Walmart+ credit that includes free shipping on Walmart purchases and a Paramount+ subscription.
Rewards Recap:
1x points
1x on other purchases
5x points
5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases each calendar year
5x points
5x points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
- Annual Fee: $695
- Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
*Terms Apply
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 04/28/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 04/28/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 04/28/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 08/16/2023 | Equifax | ||
| Approved | 08/16/2023 | Experian | ||
| Approved | 08/16/2023 | TransUnion | ||
| Approved | 01/04/2023 | Not Provided | ||
| Approved | 01/23/2023 | Not Provided |
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great travel rewards card. You get a $50 hotel credit, which effectively slashes the annual fee in half, and you can transfer your points to Capital One travel partners. Points can be worth more if you transfer them because the partners place more (or less) value on them than Capital One.
You get two complimentary visits to Capital One airport lounges a year and a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. Currently, there are only three Capital One lounges in the U.S., so it might not be as useful as you might think. However, Capital One is planning more lounges.
Frequent travelers will want to consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, but for the occasional traveler, this card is a good bet.
Rewards Recap:
2x miles
2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
5x miles
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Offer: Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 07/11/2023 | Experian |
See also: Our complete list of travel rewards credit cards
Bad Credit, No Credit, Limited Credit, or Students
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a great card for students. It has a small welcome bonus (enough for pizza night) and solid cash back rewards everywhere students spend the most money. And there's no annual fee.
Rewards Recap:
1% cash back
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
3% cash back
Earn 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
3% cash back
Earn 3% cash back on popular streaming services
3% cash back
Earn 3% cash back on dining
3% cash back
Earn 3% cash back on entertainment
5% cash back
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
5% cash back
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.
8% cash back
Earn 8% cash back on entertainment purchases when you book through the Capital One Entertainment portal
10% cash back
Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn $50 Cash Back when you spend $100 in the first three months
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 09/22/2021 | Experian | ||
| Denied | 03/06/2021 | Not Provided |
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a simple 1.5% cash back on every purchase. The card also offers up to 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (see terms).
You can get automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as six months, free credit monitoring with the CreditWise® app, and $0 fraud liability if your card is ever lost or stolen. You can also get customized alerts and manage your account with the Capital One mobile app.
Rewards Recap:
1.5% cash back
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- Annual Fee: $39
- Welcome Offer: None
- 0% Intro APR: None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
The following credit score data are based on publicly available information we have collected from various forums. We have no way to confirm the accuracy of this data. In addition, keep in mind that credit card issuers use a number of factors in their underwriting process, and these factors can change at any time.
| App Status | Date | Credit Score | Bureau | Credit Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approved | 06/01/2023 | Not Provided |
See also: Our complete list of the best credit cards for credit scores of 650-700, 600-649, and under 600.
Complete List of the Best Credit Cards
Below see our list of credit cards that we have rated 4.5 stars or better (5.0 is the highest possible score). Check out the reviews of each card for more details on rewards, annual fees, and signup bonuses.
Receive $500 after spending $5,000 in your first 90 days.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Rewards
2x - 10x
Annual Fee
$395
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.9
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of your Citi Double Cash® card account opening.
Rewards
2x - 10x miles
Annual Fee
$395
Welcome Offer
150,000 Miles
Rating
4.9
150,000 Miles once you spend $20,000 in the first 3 months, and an additional 150,000 miles once you spend $100,000 in the first 6 months
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year)
Rating
4.9
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Rewards
1x - 5x
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
50,000 Points
Rating
4.8
Earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $2,000 in the first 120 days.
$1,500 Cash Back once you spend $20,000 in the first 3 months, and an additional $1,500 once you spend $100,000 in the first 6 months
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
N/A
Rewards
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
Rewards
3x to 7x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.8
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
$200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
Rewards
1.5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.8
N/A
Rewards
3x to 26x points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
165,000 Points
Rating
4.7
Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Rewards
1-3x points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Rating
4.7
New Cardmember Offer! Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
Rewards
1.5% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$750
Rating
4.7
$750 Cash Back once you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Rewards
1% - 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$$200 + 5% gas and grocery store offer
Rating
4.7
Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
Rewards
2x to 5x miles
Annual Fee
$0 intro for first year; $95 after that
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.7
Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles - equal to $500 in travel once you spend $4,500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earn 5 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening.Certain hotels have resort fees.
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Rewards
2% Cash Back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$350
Welcome Offer
100,000 Miles
Rating
4.6
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $8,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 3/27/24.
Rewards
1% - 10%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.6
N/A
Rewards
3x - 26x points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
140,000 Points
Rating
4.6
Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn a $200 Bonus after you make $1,000 or more in purchases during the first 3 billing cycles following account opening of a PNC Cash Rewards® Visa® Credit Card.
Rewards
1% - 2%
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Welcome Offer
$250
Rating
4.6
Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
Rewards
1x - 9x points
Annual Fee
$199
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.6
60,000 Bonus Points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Earn an additional 15,000 Bonus Points after you spend $12,000 within the first 6 months of account opening.
Rewards
2x to 17x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
100,000 Points
Rating
4.6
Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Rewards
1x - 2x miles
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
Welcome Offer
80,000 Miles
Rating
4.6
Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 3/27/24.
Rewards
1.5x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$450
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 75,000 bonus miles + 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Rewards
1 to 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$50
Rating
4.5
Earn $50 Cash Back when you spend $100 in the first three months
Rewards
1% - 5% Cash Back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$500
Rating
4.5
Earn a $500 cash bonus after you spend $4,500 on purchases in the first 150 days the account is open.
Rewards
1% to 5% cash back
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee the first year, $95 thereafter
Welcome Offer
$750
Rating
4.5
Earn $750 in rewards when you spend $7,500 in eligible purchases on the account owners' card within the first 120 days of opening your account.
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$595
Welcome Offer
70,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$99, waived for first 12 months
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
Rewards
1x to 2x Miles
Annual Fee
$99, waived for first 12 months
Welcome Offer
65,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
Rewards
1x to 5x points
Annual Fee
No Annual Fee
Welcome Offer
15,000 Points
Rating
4.5
15,000 Bonus Points when you spend $1,500 in first 90 days
Earn 15,000 Bonus Points when you spend $1,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Rewards
1.5% or 1x points
Annual Fee
$0 first year, and then $125
Welcome Offer
$1000
Rating
4.5
Earn a one-time $1,000 cash back bonus or 100,000 bonus points when you spend $25,000 in the first three months after account open date.
Rewards
1.5% to 6% cash back
Annual Fee
$0 for the first year, then $95
Welcome Offer
$250
Rating
4.5
Get a$250 bonus after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express® Green Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Rewards
1x to 5x points
Annual Fee
$400
Welcome Offer
50,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 50,000 bonus points worth $750 in travel when you spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Rewards
1x to 5x points
Annual Fee
$0 for the first year, $95 per year thereafter
Welcome Offer
60,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 60,000 points if you spend $6,000 in the first 180 days.
Rewards
1.5x to 2x points
Annual Fee
$550
Welcome Offer
75,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 75,000 online bonus points — a $750 value — after you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Rewards
1.5x points
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
30,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 30,000 online bonus points after you made at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening, which can be redeemed for a $300 statement credit towards travel or dining purchases.
Rewards
1x to 3x miles
Annual Fee
$70 per company, $25 per card
Welcome Offer
50,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Get 50,000 bonus miles and Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
Rewards
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$650
Welcome Offer
100,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Rewards
1%-6%
Annual Fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Welcome Offer
$250
Rating
4.5
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
Rewards
2x - 5x miles
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
75,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Rewards
1x - 5x points
Annual Fee
$695
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.
$200 Cash Back after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Rewards
1x - 4x points
Annual Fee
$375
Welcome Offer
70,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Rewards
1x - 2x
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Welcome Offer
15,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Rewards
1x to 5x Points
Annual Fee
$695
Welcome Offer
120,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Rewards
3x to 12x points
Annual Fee
$150
Welcome Offer
130,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Rewards
1x to 2x miles
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.
Welcome Offer
70,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Rewards
1.5X - 2X Points
Annual Fee
$95
Welcome Offer
60000 Points
Rating
4.5
Get 60,000 online bonus points — a $600 value — after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Rewards
1x - 3x miles
Annual Fee
$350
Welcome Offer
90,000 Miles
Rating
4.5
Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Rewards
1% - 3% cash back
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
$200
Rating
4.5
Online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
N/A
Earn $200 bonus when you open a Rewards Checking account and make 3 debit card transactions
N/A
Earn 35,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Rewards
2x - 3x Points
Annual Fee
$99
Welcome Offer
174 Points
Rating
4.5
Limited-time offer: earn Companion Pass® good through 2/28/25 plus 30,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Rewards
1.5% to 5%
Annual Fee
$0
Welcome Offer
None
Rating
4.5
N/A
Rewards
1X to 4X points
Annual Fee
$199
Welcome Offer
80,000 Points
Rating
4.5
Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You
Finding the best credit card for you is both an art and a science. To some extent, it's about the numbers. You can look for cards with the lowest interest rates and fees or the highest rewards. But it's also about matching the best credit card with your specific financial needs.
As a result, the top card will vary from one person to the next. You should consider your financial goals, such as earning rewards, paying down debt with a 0% offer, or just having an everyday card you can use. Also, consider your credit score. If you don't know your score, there are plenty of ways to access your score for free.
Cash Back Credit Cards
For cash back cards, there are two approaches. You either carry one card with excellent rewards or multiple cards to get the most out of every purchase. The one-card approach is simple but doesn't maximize your rewards. The multiple-card approach is a bit of a hassle, but you get the most cash back.
To maximize your cash, the Chase Freedom Flex(SM) and Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express mentioned above are two excellent options.
Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Finding the best 0% card for balance transfers is primarily about the numbers. You want a 0% offer that lasts as long as possible. And to the extent available, you'd prefer not to pay a transfer fee. That has become impossible today, as many balance transfer offers have left the market. Still, paying even a 3% balance transfer fee is better than paying a 15% interest rate if you're carrying a balance on another credit card.
Travel Credit Cards
Travel cards represent a diverse universe of rewards. They include general travel rewards independent of a specific company, airline miles cards, hotel rewards cards, and even specialty cards. The “best” travel card depends on how you use the card and how you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many credit cards should I have?
There's no “right” answer here. The amount of cards you should have depends on what you use them for and your ability to pay them off monthly.
If you travel by plane often throughout the year, a travel rewards card can get you great air miles. If you also travel by car or have a long commute, you might also choose a credit card offering high cash back for gas station spending.
If you don't want to keep track of multiple cards and remember which one to use to get the most rewards, a basic everyday spending card might be your best option.
When is it time to get a new credit card?
If you have good or excellent credit, check if the card you're currently using offers the same or better rewards and perks as the ones listed above. If you find another credit card that can beat yours and you haven't applied for credit in the last six months, it might be time for a new credit card. Choose carefully though, applying for too many cards in a short period can be a reason to deny your application.
Are credit cards with annual fees worth it?
If you can get your money back in the form of cash back, paying an annual fee for a credit card is worth it. These cards usually come with additional perks including airport lounge access or travel credits. Before you commit to applying for the card, do the math and be sure you can easily earn that annual fee back by using the card.
Final Thoughts
I've monitored credit card offers since 2007 and gathered this information from a database of hundreds of cards. This article contains what I think are the overall best credit cards available today.
Please note this list is updated monthly, and offers are subject to change. If you're just as keen about using the best credit cards as I am, be sure to revisit this page. I'm confident you'll find one that works for you.
