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BEST CREDIT CARDSBEST CREDIT CARDSCREDIT CARD AWARD WINNERS OF 2025
BEST OF

Credit Card Award Winners of 2025

Updated: Feb 17, 2025
Caitlin Mims
Written by
Editor & Content Strategist
Paul Soucy
Reviewed by
Director of Content
Kenley Young
Edited by
Fact Checked
Managing Editor
Fact Checked
Caitlin Mims
Written by
Editor & Content Strategist
Paul Soucy
Reviewed by
Director of Content
Kenley Young
Edited by
Fact Checked
Managing Editor
Fact Checked
+ 2 more
+ 2 more
Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this does not influence our evaluations or ratings. Our opinions are our own.

For a good bit of 2024, inflation remained stubbornly high, and interest rates refused to budge. But by the end of that year, the picture was looking a little better on both counts, with the potential for even more rate cuts in 2025 — all of which could mean a big spending year for consumers. We kept all of that in mind when we chose the winners for NerdWallet’s Best-Of Awards for 2025.

Thankfully, no matter the economic picture, credit cards continue to offer valuable perks and rewards that can help you meet your 2025 goals, whether you’re planning on finally taking that big trip or just aiming to defray everyday household expenses.

Here are our top credit card offers for 2025.

  • 400+ credit cards reviewed by our team of experts (See our top picks)

  • 80+ years of combined experience covering credit cards and personal finance

  • 27,000+ hours spent researching and reviewing financial products in the last 12 months

  • Objective comprehensive ratings rubrics (Methodology)

NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity.

  • 400+ credit cards reviewed by our team of experts (See our top picks)

  • 80+ years of combined experience covering credit cards and personal finance

  • 27,000+ hours spent researching and reviewing financial products in the last 12 months

  • Objective comprehensive ratings rubrics (Methodology)

NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity.

NerdWallet's Credit Card Award Winners of 2025

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Credit Card Award Winners

Credit card
NerdWallet rating
Annual feeRewards rateIntro offerLearn more
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card ImageWells Fargo Autograph® Card
Best for No-annual-fee travel card

$0

1x-3x

Points
20,000
points
Citi Custom Cash® Card ImageCiti Custom Cash® Card
Best for Gas

$0

1%-5%

Cashback
$200
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card ImageInk Business Unlimited® Credit Card
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Best for Small business

$0

1.5%

Cashback
$750
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express ImageBlue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Best for Groceries and for streaming

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

1%-6%

Cashback
$250
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ImageCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Best for Premium travel card

$395

2x-10x

Miles
75,000
miles
Discover it® Student Chrome ImageDiscover it® Student Chrome
Best for College students

$0

1%-2%

Cashback
Cashback Match™
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express ImageBlue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Best for 0% APR for purchases and for online shopping

$0

1%-3%

Cashback
$200
Citi Simplicity® Card ImageCiti Simplicity® Card
Best for Balance transfer

$0

N/A

N/A
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card ImageChase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Best for All-purpose travel rewards

$95

1x-5x

Points
60,000
points
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card ImageMarriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Best for Hotel card

$95

2x-17x

Points
100,000 Points + $150 Statement Credit
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Discover it® Secured Credit Card ImageDiscover it® Secured Credit Card
Best for Building credit

$0

1%-2%

Cashback
Cashback Match™
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card ImageWells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Best for Simple cash back

$0

2%

Cashback
$200
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card ImageCapital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
Best for Bonus cash back and for dining

$0

1%-8%

Cashback
$200
United℠ Explorer Card ImageUnited℠ Explorer Card
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Best for Airline card

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

1x-2x

Miles
50,000
miles
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card ImageWells Fargo Attune℠ Card
Best for Entertainment

$0

1%-4%

Cashback
$100
save money

Find the right credit card for you.

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

Find the right credit card for you.

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

Our pick for: No-annual-fee travel card

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1x-3x
Points
Intro offer
20,000
points
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1x-3x
Points
Intro offer
20,000
points
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR

3x
Unlimited Points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans.
1x
Unlimited Points on other purchases.

  • Apply Now to take advantage of this offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
  • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable APR thereafter.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Bonus categories

  • No reward caps

  • Cell phone insurance

  • New cardholder bonus offer

Cons
  • No free checked bags

  • No free anniversary night

  • No luxury perks

  • Requires good/excellent credit

Read full review

Our pick for: Gas

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-5%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
18.24%-28.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-5%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
18.24%-28.24% Variable APR

5%
Cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
1%
Cash back on all other purchases.

  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 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.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% - 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026.
  • No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • 5% bonus categories

  • Intro APR Period

Cons
  • Low rate outside bonus categories

Read full review

Our pick for: Small business

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1.5%
Cashback
Intro offer
$750
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
17.49%-23.49% Variable APR
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1.5%
Cashback
Intro offer
$750
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
17.49%-23.49% Variable APR

1.5%
Cash back on every purchase made for your business.

  • Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
  • No Annual Fee
  • Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
  • Member FDIC

Pros
  • High rewards rate

  • Intro APR period

  • No reward caps

  • New cardholder bonus offer

Cons
  • No bonus categories

Read full review

Our pick for: Groceries and for streaming

Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards rate
1%-6%
Cashback
Intro offer
$250
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on on balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening
APR
18.24%-29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Rewards rate
1%-6%
Cashback
Intro offer
$250
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on on balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening
APR
18.24%-29.24% Variable APR

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 at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
1%
Cash Back on other purchases.

  • Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
  • Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%.
  • 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 at U.S. gas stations.
  • 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
  • $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • High rewards rate

  • Bonus categories

  • Intro APR period

  • Cash rewards

Cons
  • Has annual fee

  • Requires good/excellent credit

  • Spending caps on bonus rewards

Read full review

Our pick for: Premium travel card

Annual fee
$395
Rewards rate
2x-10x
Miles
Intro offer
75,000
miles
Regular APR
19.99%-29.24% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
720-850(Excellent)
Annual fee
$395
Rewards rate
2x-10x
Miles
Intro offer
75,000
miles
Regular APR
19.99%-29.24% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
720-850(Excellent)

10x
Miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
5x
Miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
2x
Miles on all other purchases.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • High rewards rate

  • New cardholder bonus offer

  • Lounge membership

  • Anniversary perk

  • Flexible rewards redemption

Cons
  • High annual fee

  • Requires excellent credit

Read full review

Our pick for: College students

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-2%
Cashback
Intro offer
Cashback Match™
Recommended credit score
630-689(Fair)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months
Balance transfer intro APR
10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for 6 months
Regular APR
17.24%-26.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-2%
Cashback
Intro offer
Cashback Match™
Recommended credit score
630-689(Fair)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months
Balance transfer intro APR
10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for 6 months
Regular APR
17.24%-26.24% Variable APR

2%
Cash back at Gas stations on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
2%
Cash back at Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
1%
Cash back on all other purchases.

  • 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. So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
  • Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. Activate by mobile app for free.
  • No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 17.24% - 26.24% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Intro APR period

  • Qualify with average credit

  • Bonus categories

Cons
  • Complicated rewards

Read full review

Our pick for: 0% APR for purchases and for online shopping

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-3%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months from the date of account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on on balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening
APR
18.24%-29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-3%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months from the date of account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on on balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening
APR
18.24%-29.24% Variable APR

3%
Cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%).
3%
Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%).
3%
Cash Back at U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%).
1%
Cash Back on other purchases.

  • Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 18.24% to 29.24% variable APR.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
  • Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
  • Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
  • Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
  • Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
  • Terms Apply.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • High rewards rate

  • Intro APR period

  • Bonus categories

Cons
  • Requires good/excellent credit

  • Spending caps on bonus rewards

Read full review

Our pick for: Balance transfer

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
N/A
Intro offer
N/A
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months
Regular APR
18.24%-28.99% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
N/A
Intro offer
N/A
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months
Regular APR
18.24%-28.99% Variable APR

  • No Late Fees, No Penalty Rate, and No Annual Fee... Ever
  • 0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for 12 months on purchases; after that, the variable APR will be 18.24% - 28.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Stay protected with Citi® Quick Lock
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Intro APR period

Cons
  • No rewards

  • No new cardholder bonus offer

  • Requires good/excellent credit

Read full review

Our pick for: All-purpose travel rewards

Annual fee
$95
Rewards rate
1x-5x
Points
Intro offer
60,000
points
Regular APR
20.49%-27.49% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Annual fee
$95
Rewards rate
1x-5x
Points
Intro offer
60,000
points
Regular APR
20.49%-27.49% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)

5x
Points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3x
Points on dining.
3x
Points on select streaming services.
3x
Points on online groceries.
2x
Points on all other travel purchases.
1x
Point on all other purchases.

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 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, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
  • Member FDIC

Pros
  • New cardholder bonus offer

  • Bonus categories

  • Primary rental car coverage

  • Flexible rewards redemption

  • Transfer partners

Cons
  • Has annual fee

  • Requires good/excellent credit

  • Complicated rewards

Read full review

Our pick for: Hotel card

Annual fee
$95
Rewards rate
2x-17x
Points
Intro offer
100,000 Points + $150 Statement Credit
Regular APR
20.49%-27.49% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Annual fee
$95
Rewards rate
2x-17x
Points
Intro offer
100,000 Points + $150 Statement Credit
Regular APR
20.49%-27.49% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)

17x
Points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
2x
Points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

  • Limited time offer! Earn a $150 Statement Credit after you make your first purchase in 12 months, and earn 100,000 Bonus Points after qualifying purchases.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
  • Member FDIC

Pros
  • Anniversary perk

  • High rewards rate

  • Automatic elite status

Cons
  • Has annual fee

  • Rewards have limited flexibility

Read full review

Our pick for: Building credit

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-2%
Cashback
Intro offer
Cashback Match™
Recommended credit score
300-629(Poor)
Balance transfer intro APR
10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for 6 months
Regular APR
27.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-2%
Cashback
Intro offer
Cashback Match™
Recommended credit score
300-629(Poor)
Balance transfer intro APR
10.99% intro APR on balance transfers for 6 months
Regular APR
27.24% Variable APR

2%
Cash back at Gas stations on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
2%
Cash back at Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
1%
Cash back on all other purchases.

  • No credit score required to apply. No Annual Fee.
  • Your secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit, and your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200. Bank information must be provided when submitting your deposit.
  • Raise your credit score by 30+ points.
  • Automatic reviews starting at 7 months to see if we can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit.
  • Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. Activate by mobile app for free.
  • Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites. Activate for free.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Reports to the three major credit bureaus

  • Qualify with limited/bad credit

  • Earns rewards

  • New cardholder bonus offer

Cons
  • Requires minimum deposit

  • High APR

Read full review

Our pick for: Simple cash back

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
2%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
2%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR

2%
Unlimited Cash rewards on purchases.

  • Apply Now to take advantage of this offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • High rewards rate

  • No annual fee

  • Intro APR period

Cons
  • No bonus categories

Read full review

Our pick for: Bonus cash back and for dining

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-8%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro on purchases for 15 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months; balance transfer fee applies
Regular APR
19.24%-29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-8%
Cashback
Intro offer
$200
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro on purchases for 15 months
Balance transfer intro APR
0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months; balance transfer fee applies
Regular APR
19.24%-29.24% Variable APR

8%
Cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.
5%
Cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
3%
Cash back on dining.
3%
Cash back on entertainment.
3%
Cash back on popular streaming services.
3%
Cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®).
1%
Cash back on all other purchases.

  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
  • Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
  • 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
  • No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • No annual fee
  • View Rates & Fees

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Intro APR period

  • Bonus categories

  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons
  • Requires good/excellent credit

Read full review

Our pick for: Airline card

Annual fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Rewards rate
1x-2x
Miles
Intro offer
50,000
miles
Regular APR
20.99%-27.99% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Apply Now
on Chase's website
on Chase's website
Annual fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Rewards rate
1x-2x
Miles
Intro offer
50,000
miles
Regular APR
20.99%-27.99% Variable APR
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)

2x
Miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays and United® purchases.
1x
Mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
  • 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays
  • Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
  • Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
  • Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
  • Member FDIC

Pros
  • Bonus categories

  • Luxury perks

  • New cardholder bonus offer

  • Free checked bag

Cons
  • Has annual fee

  • Rewards have limited flexibility

Read full review

Our pick for: Entertainment

Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-4%
Cashback
Intro offer
$100
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR
Annual fee
$0
Rewards rate
1%-4%
Cashback
Intro offer
$100
Recommended credit score
690-850(Good - Excellent)
Purchase intro APR
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months
Regular APR
19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR

4%
Cash rewards on self-care like gym memberships, spas, and salons.
4%
Cash rewards on select sports, recreation, and entertainment.
4%
Cash rewards on planet-friendly purchases like EV-charging stations, public transportation, and select thrift stores.
1%
Cash rewards on other purchases.

  • Earn a $100 cash rewards bonus when you spend $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Wells Fargo will donate $50 to Capital Link when you qualify for the $100 cash rewards bonus.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • Earn unlimited 4% cash rewards on self-care, select sports, recreation, entertainment and impact purchases including public transportation, and EV charging.
  • Earn 1% cash rewards on other purchases.
  • The information related to the Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

Pros
  • No annual fee

  • Bonus categories

  • New cardholder bonus

Cons
  • Requires good/excellent credit

Read full review

TO RECAP OUR EDITORIAL SELECTIONS

TOP CREDIT CARD OFFERS FOR 2025

2025's BEST CARDS FOR SPECIFIC NEEDS

Best card for simple cash back Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Best small-business card Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

Best card for bonus cash back Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best card for groceries Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Best all-purpose travel rewards card Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Best card for dining Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best premium travel card Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best card for entertainment Wells Fargo Attune℠ Card

Best travel card with no annual fee Wells Fargo Autograph® Card

Best card for gas Citi Custom Cash® Card

Best balance transfer card Citi Simplicity® Card

Best card for streaming Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Best 0% APR card for purchases Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Best card for online shopping Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Best airline card United℠ Explorer Card

Best hotel card Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Best card for college students Discover it® Student Chrome

Best card for building credit Discover it® Secured Credit Card

PAST YEARS

Top 11 credit card offers of 2024

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best for simple cash back

  • Chase Freedom Flex®: Best for bonus cash back

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for all-purpose travel rewards

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best premium travel card

  • Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card: Best no-annual-fee travel card

  • Citi Simplicity® Card: Best balance transfer card

  • U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card: Best 0% APR card for purchases

  • United℠ Explorer Card: Best airline card

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card: Best hotel card

  • Discover it® Student Chrome: Best card for college students

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best card for building credit

2024's best credit cards for specific needs

  • The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card: Best small-business cash-back card

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best card for groceries

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card: Best card for dining

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best card for entertainment

  • Citi Custom Cash® Card: Best card for gas

Top 10 credit offers of 2023

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best for simple cash back

  • Chase Freedom Flex®: Best for bonus cash back

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for all-purpose travel rewards

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel perks

  • BankAmericard® credit card: Best for balance transfers

  • Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card: Best for 0% intro apr on new purchases

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Best airline card

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card: Best hotel card

  • Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for students (at the time this card was chosen, it was known as the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card)

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best for building credit

2023's best credit cards for specific needs

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for entertainment (at the time this card was chosen, it was known as the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card)

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card: Best for dining

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for groceries

  • Citi Custom Cash® Card: Best for gas

  • The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card: Best for small business

Top 9 credit card offers of 2022

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best for simple cash back

  • Chase Freedom Flex®: Best for bonus cash back

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for basic travel rewards

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel perks

  • Wells Fargo Reflect® Card : Best for intro 0% APR and balance transfer

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card : Best airline card

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best hotel card

  • Discover it® Chrome : Best for students

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card : Best for building credit

2022's best credit cards for specific needs

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card (no longer available): Best for entertainment (this was the annual-fee version of the Savor card, which has since been discontinued; the no-annual fee card formerly known as SavorOne now bears the "Savor" name)

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card : Best for dining

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express : Best for groceries

  • The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card : Best for small business

Top 10 credit card offers of 2021

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best for flat-rate cash back

  • Chase Freedom Flex®: Best for bonus cash back

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for flat-rate travel rewards

  • American Express® Gold Card: Best for bonus travel rewards

  • Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card: Best for no-annual-fee travel rewards

  • U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: Best for 0% intro APR and balance transfer

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Best airline card

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card: Best hotel card

  • Discover it® Student Chrome: Best for college students

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best for building credit

2021's best credit cards for specific needs

  • Capital One Spark Cash: Best for small-business cash back

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for groceries

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card: Best for dining out or ordering in

  • Prime Visa: Best for staying at home

Top 10 credit card offers of 2020

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best for flat-rate cash back

  • Discover it® Cash Back: Best for bonus category cash back

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for flat-rate travel rewards

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for bonus travel rewards

  • Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card: Best for no-annual-fee travel rewards

  • Amex EveryDay® Credit Card: Best for balance transfers

  • U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: Best for 0% intro APR

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best premium card

  • ABOC Platinum Rewards Mastercard® Credit Card: Best for fair credit

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best for building credit

2020's best credit cards for specific needs

  • Capital One Spark Cash: Best for small-business cash back

  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for small-business travel

  • Discover it® Student Chrome: Best for college students

  • Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students: Best for international students

  • United℠ Explorer Card: Best airline card

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card: Best hotel card

  • Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard®: Best store card

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for families

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card (no longer available): Best for dining and entertainment (this was the annual-fee version of the Savor card, which has since been discontinued; the no-annual fee card formerly known as SavorOne now bears the "Savor" name)

  • Ducks Unlimited Rewards Visa® Card: Best for gas

Top 10 credit card offers of 2019

  • Barclaycard Arrival Plus® World Elite Mastercard®: Best for flat-rate travel

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for bonus travel rewards

  • Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card: Best for no-annual-fee travel

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best for flat-rate cash back

  • Discover it® Cash Back: Best for bonus cash back

  • Amex EveryDay® Credit Card: Best for balance transfers

  • U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: Best for 0% interest

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best premium card

  • Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for fair credit

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best for building credit

2019's best credit cards for specific needs

  • Capital One Spark Cash: Best for small-business cash back

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for small-business travel

  • Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students: Best for college students

  • Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card: Best airline card

  • Marriott Rewards® Premier Plus Credit Card: Best hotel card

  • Prime Visa: Best store card

  • Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card: Best gas card

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for families

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for dining and entertainment (at the time this card was chosen, it was known as the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card)

Top 10 credit card offers of 2018

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best flat-rate travel rewards card

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best bonus category travel rewards card

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best flat-rate cash back card

  • Discover it® Cash Back: Best bonus category cash back card

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best family card

  • Citi Simplicity® Card: Best 0% Intro APR card

  • Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best card for fair/average credit

  • Discover it® Secured Credit Card: Best card for building credit

  • Discover it® Student Cash Back: Best card for college students

  • SimplyCash® Plus Business Credit Card from American Express: Best small business card

Top 10 credit card offers of 2017

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best flat-rate travel rewards card

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best bonus category travel rewards card

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best flat-rate cash back card

  • Chase Freedom®: Best bonus category cash back card

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best card for everyday spending

  • Chase Slate®: Best card for balance transfers

  • Citi Simplicity® Card: Longest 0% Intro APR period

  • Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best card for fair/average credit

  • Discover it® Student Cash Back: Best card for college students

  • Capital One Spark Cash: Best small business card

Top 10 credit card offers of 2016

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • : Best for travel

  • (TIE) — Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Barclaycard Arrival Plus® World Elite Mastercard®: Easiest travel redemption

  • Citi Double Cash® Card: Best for cash back

  • Chase Freedom®: Best for bonus categories

  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for everyday spending

  • Chase Slate®: Best for balance transfers

  • Citi Simplicity® Card: Longest 0% Intro APR period

  • Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card for College Students: Best for students

  • Ink Plus® Business Credit Card: Best for business

  • Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard®: Best for fair/average credit

To view rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, see this page. To view rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, see this page.

Last updated on February 17, 2025

Methodology

NerdWallet's credit cards team selects the best credit cards in each category based on overall consumer value. Factors in our evaluation include fees, promotional and ongoing APRs, and sign-up bonuses; for rewards cards, we consider earning and redemption rates, redemption options and redemption difficulty. A single card is eligible to be chosen as among the "best" in multiple categories. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

About the author

Portrait of author

Caitlin Mims

Editor & Content Strategist
Caitlin Mims is a content management specialist at NerdWallet covering credit cards. Previously, she was an editor at CreditCards.com.

About the reviewer

Portrait of author

Paul Soucy

Director of Content
Paul has been the lead editor for NerdWallet's credit cards team since 2015 and for the travel rewards team since 2023. Previously, he worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register, then built a freelance writing and editing business focused on personal finance topics. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA.

About the editor

Portrait of author

Kenley Young

Managing Editor
Kenley is an assigning editor at NerdWallet covering credit cards. He has worked for Yahoo and FoxSports.com as an editor and producer.
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