Choosing the best credit card can be confusing with so many options out there, each with different earning rates, redemption options, and rules. Picking the wrong one might mean missing out on big rewards and possibly significant cashback. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 reward cards you should consider.
CHASE SAPPHIRE PREFERRED CARD
This card is great for people who spend a lot on travel and dining. It offers high reward rates and various ways to redeem points. Plus, it comes with a nice sign-up bonus and travel perks, all for a reasonable annual fee.
PROS & CONS OF CHASE SAPPHIRE PREFERRED CARD
Pros: High rewards in multiple categories, travel and shopping protections.
Cons: Annual fee, no introductory APR.
AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM CARD
If you travel often and enjoy luxury, the American Express Platinum Card is a must-have. It includes access to airport lounges and other premium travel benefits.
PROS & CONS OF AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM CARD
Pros: Bonus reward categories, ability to transfer points to partners, luxury perks.
Cons: High annual fee ($695), complex rewards program, requires good to excellent credit.
CAPITAL ONE VENTURE REWARDS CREDIT CARD
This card offers between 2-5 miles per dollar on purchases and a generous sign-up bonus. Its straightforward rewards system makes it a strong contender among travel cards.
PROS & CONS OF CAPITAL ONE VENTURE REWARDS CREDIT CARD
Pros: Lower annual fee compared to other premium travel cards.
Cons: Lacks domestic airline and hotel travel partners, no hotel status benefits.
CITI PREMIER CARD
Perfect for frequent spenders, the Citi Premier Card earns points on travel, restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.
DISCOVER IT CASH BACK
This card is great for those who like to maximize their cash back in rotating 5% categories each quarter.
PROS & CONS OF DISCOVER IT CASH BACK CARD
Pros: 5% cash back on rotating categories, no minimum for cash back redemption.
Cons: Bonus categories need to be activated each quarter, low base reward rate of 1%.
BANK OF AMERICA PREMIUM REWARDS CREDIT CARD
Ideal for frequent travelers who are also Bank of America customers, this card offers great rewards and travel perks.
PROS & CONS OF BANK OF AMERICA PREMIUM REWARDS CREDIT CARD
Pros: Sign-up bonus, premium travel protections.
Cons: Annual fee, requires good to excellent credit.
WELLS FARGO ACTIVE CASH CARD
This card stands out with its unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases and no annual fee.
PROS & CONS OF WELLS FARGO ACTIVE CASH CARD
Pros: High rewards rate, no annual fee.
Cons: No bonus categories.
HILTON HONORS AMERICAN EXPRESS SURPASS CARD
Best for those who often stay at Hilton hotels, offering substantial points and additional perks.
PROS & CONS OF HILTON HONORS AMERICAN EXPRESS SURPASS CARD
Pros: Over $600 in annual statement credits, free standard night awards.
Cons: High annual fee, points are of lower value compared to other rewards programs.
CHASE FREEDOM UNLIMITED
This card offers a simple cash-back program with a flat rate on all purchases and no annual fee.
PROS & CONS OF CHASE FREEDOM UNLIMITED CARD
Pros: High rewards rate, no annual fee.
Cons: Requires good to excellent credit.
SOUTHWEST RAPID REWARDS PREMIER CREDIT CARD
Best for frequent Southwest Airlines passengers, offering perks like bonus points and anniversary bonuses.
PROS & CONS OF SOUTHWEST RAPID REWARDS PREMIER CREDIT CARD
Pros: No foreign transaction fees, unlimited reward seats with no blackout dates.
Cons: High regular APR, no intro APR offer, annual fee.
Before choosing a credit card, judge your spending habits, travel needs, and financial goals, and look at the current terms and reward structures. Always check the latest details on the card issuer’s website.