15 Top Credit Cards in 2021
Which One is Perfect for You?
Looking for a card that will improve your financial life? Or are you simply looking to pay off your balance without paying any interest whatsoever? There always comes the point in life when we’re no longer satisfied with our current card issuer and are looking to switch. Luckily for you, we might just have a solution as we have analyzed the top credit cards of 2021.
On this page, we’ll be reviewing the best ones, their features, pros and cons, and pricing plans.
Moreover, we’ll provide genuine insight into our methodology, which cards we recommend, and tips on how to choose the credit card that best aligns with your objectives.
Depending on your financial situation and credit score, you can compare the finest offers available to pick the ideal option.
Last Updated: February 5, 2021
Top 15 Credit Cards in 2021

Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Annual Fee: $0
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn unlimited 1.5% cashback + Refer a friend

Bank of America® Cash Rewards
- Annual Fee: $0
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 23.99% (variable)

Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 12.99% to 21.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair – Good – Very Good – Excellent
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the best Visa card — no annual fee, 0% intro APR, and a sign-up bonus. There is also a simple rewards system of 1.5% cash back on all purchases for those that don’t want to bother activating this feature each quarter. Full Review
- Annual Fee: $0
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn unlimited 1.5% cashback + Refer a friend
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the best Visa card — no annual fee, 0% intro APR, and a sign-up bonus. There is also a simple rewards system of 1.5% cash back on all purchases for those that don’t want to bother activating this feature each quarter. Full Review
2. Bank of America® Cash Rewards
The Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card has no annual fee and is one of the best credit cards for rewards for online shopping. Cardholders have the option to earn 3% cash back in a category of their choice, and online shopping is one of those. The other categories are gas, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishing. There is also an online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening. Full Review
- Annual Fee: $0
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 23.99% (variable)
The Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card has no annual fee and is one of the best credit cards for rewards for online shopping. Cardholders have the option to earn 3% cash back in a category of their choice, and online shopping is one of those. The other categories are gas, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishing. There is also an online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening. Full Review
3. Discover it® Student Cash Back
Students have little to no credit history, which is why they should consider credit cards for students. The Discover it® Student Cash Back card even has a good grade reward! It also offers one of the highest cash back rates, making it the perfect choice for students. With a 0% foreign transaction fees and a $0 annual fee, it is probably the best credit card cash bonus aimed at students. Full Review
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 12.99% to 21.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair – Good – Very Good – Excellent
Students have little to no credit history, which is why they should consider credit cards for students. The Discover it® Student Cash Back card even has a good grade reward! It also offers one of the highest cash back rates, making it the perfect choice for students. With a 0% foreign transaction fees and a $0 annual fee, it is probably the best credit card cash bonus aimed at students. Full Review
4. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
With the Blue Cash Preferred® Card you get 6% cash back at US supermarkets. Add the 3% cash back on gas and the 1% cash back on other purchases. We can all agree that the Blue Cash Preferred® Card is one of the best credit cards to get, especially for rewards and cash backs. Full Review
- Intro Offer: 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 12.99% to 23.99% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: 6% cash back at US supermarkets, 1-3% on other purchases
With the Blue Cash Preferred® Card you get 6% cash back at US supermarkets. Add the 3% cash back on gas and the 1% cash back on other purchases. We can all agree that the Blue Cash Preferred® Card is one of the best credit cards to get, especially for rewards and cash backs. Full Review
5. Wells Fargo Propel American Express® Card
With a 3x points rewards rate on eating out, ordering in, gas stations, rideshares, and transit, the Wells Fargo Propel American Express is possibly the best credit card to get for gas. And overall spending on going out too! There is no annual fee, but there is a tempting sign-up bonus. Full Review
- Earn 1x points on other purchases
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 25.99% (variable)
With a 3x points rewards rate on eating out, ordering in, gas stations, rideshares, and transit, the Wells Fargo Propel American Express is possibly the best credit card to get for gas. And overall spending on going out too! There is no annual fee, but there is a tempting sign-up bonus. Full Review
6. Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard
If you are going to be shopping at Walmart on a regular basis, you might as well earn some cash back by using the Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard. Loyal shoppers using the Walmart Pay app can earn 5% cash back. With a Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard, you might even get the best credit card deals if you make a purchase using their card. Full Review
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 17.99%, 23.24% or 26.99% (variable)
If you are going to be shopping at Walmart on a regular basis, you might as well earn some cash back by using the Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard. Loyal shoppers using the Walmart Pay app can earn 5% cash back. With a Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard, you might even get the best credit card deals if you make a purchase using their card. Full Review
7. Citi Simplicity®
The Citi Simplicity credit card is among the best credit cards to apply for if you have some debt to consolidate! There is a 0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for 12 months on purchases! Full Review
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 14.74% to 24.74% (variable)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
The Citi Simplicity credit card is among the best credit cards to apply for if you have some debt to consolidate! There is a 0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for 12 months on purchases! Full Review
8. Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card has a simple reward system — you can get 2% on each purchase with unlimited 1% cash back, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. If you are looking for a simple, no-hassle card, then this is definitely one of the top 10 credit cards to own. Full Review
- Annual Fee: $0
- Recommended Credit Score: Excellent
- Intro Offer: 0% introductory APR for balance transfers for 18 months
The Citi® Double Cash Card has a simple reward system — you can get 2% on each purchase with unlimited 1% cash back, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. If you are looking for a simple, no-hassle card, then this is definitely one of the top 10 credit cards to own. Full Review
9. Discover it® Secured
The Discover it® Secured is one of the few secured cards that offer the option to upgrade to an unsecured one. It is also one of the few secured cards that offer cash back. All in all, it is one of the finest and is probably among the 10 best credit cards for everyone looking to build or rebuild their credit. Full Review
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 22.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: $0
The Discover it® Secured is one of the few secured cards that offer the option to upgrade to an unsecured one. It is also one of the few secured cards that offer cash back. All in all, it is one of the finest and is probably among the 10 best credit cards for everyone looking to build or rebuild their credit. Full Review
10. Wells Fargo Platinum Visa
If you have some debt to erase, then this may just be the right card for you. There is a 0.00% introductory APR for 18 months, as well as no annual fee. Full Review
- Intro Offer: 0.00% introductory APR for 18 months
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.49% to 24.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: $0
If you have some debt to erase, then this may just be the right card for you. There is a 0.00% introductory APR for 18 months, as well as no annual fee. Full Review
11. Chase Sapphire Preferred®
No foreign transaction fee, a large bonus, cash back on travel and dining... Chase Sapphire Preferred® is among the top choices for travel. Full Review
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.99% to 22.99% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants
No foreign transaction fee, a large bonus, cash back on travel and dining... Chase Sapphire Preferred® is among the top choices for travel. Full Review
12. Capital One® Platinum Credit Card
The reason why the Capital One® Platinum Credit Card is among the best credit cards for beginners is the option to check if you are prequalified on their website without any impact on your score. It is also geared towards people with a fair credit score on the FICO scale (580 or higher). And you will also have a good chance to build your credit. Full Review
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 26.99% (variable)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
The reason why the Capital One® Platinum Credit Card is among the best credit cards for beginners is the option to check if you are prequalified on their website without any impact on your score. It is also geared towards people with a fair credit score on the FICO scale (580 or higher). And you will also have a good chance to build your credit. Full Review
13. UnitedSM Explorer Card
The UnitedSM Explorer Card is the perfect card for frequent flyers who want to earn cash back during their travels. If you fly with United regularly, this is one of the top reward credit cards for you. Full Review
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Rewards Earning Rate: 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, 2 miles
The UnitedSM Explorer Card is the perfect card for frequent flyers who want to earn cash back during their travels. If you fly with United regularly, this is one of the top reward credit cards for you. Full Review
14. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
The main perk of the OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card is that no credit check is required. While applicants do need to meet some requirements, it is the best place to get a credit card for those with bad credit. Full Review
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 18.89% (variable)
The main perk of the OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card is that no credit check is required. While applicants do need to meet some requirements, it is the best place to get a credit card for those with bad credit. Full Review
15. CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard®
The CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard® is one of the best credit card deals right now for business travelers. There is a big sign-up bonus, as well as extra perks when flying with American Airlines, such as preferred boarding. Full Review
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.99% to 24.99% (variable)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Recommended Credit Score: Excellent
The CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard® is one of the best credit card deals right now for business travelers. There is a big sign-up bonus, as well as extra perks when flying with American Airlines, such as preferred boarding. Full Review
Best Credit Cards for 2021
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Best Visa card
- Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for online shoppers
- Discover it® Student Cash Back: Best for students
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best for cashback
- Wells Fargo Propel American Express® Card: Best for rewards & travel perks
- Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard: Best for shoppers
- Citi Simplicity®: Best for balance transfers
- Citi® Double Cash Card: Best for cashback & simplicity
- Discover it® Secured: Best for credit builders
- Wells Fargo Platinum Visa: Best for people with debt
- Chase Sapphire Preferred®: Best for travelers
- Capital One® Platinum Credit Card: Best for first-time credit cardholders
- UnitedSM Explorer Card: Best for frequent flyers
- OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card: Best for people with bad credit
- CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage®: Best for business travelers
Detailed Reviews
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 14.99% to 23.74% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0% Intro APR for the first 15 months that your account is open
- Sign-up Bonus: $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn unlimited 1.5% cashback + Refer a friend
- Recommended Credit Score: Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
(Image Source: Chase)
An Overall Top Credit Card Option
Pros | Cons |
No annual fee | Foreign transaction fee |
Sign-up bonus | High APR (based on your credit score) |
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back | |
0% intro APR for the first 15 months that your account is open | |
Contactless pay | |
Cashback rewards do not expire | |
$100 friend referral cashback |
(Image Source: Chase)
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Pricing and Fees
- Purchase Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 0% for the first 15 months – 14.99% to 23.74% afterward (variable)
- Balance Transfer APR: 0% for first 15 months – 14.99% to 23.74% afterward (variable)
- Cash Advance APR: 24.99% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: None
- Annual Membership Fee: None
- Balance Transfers: $5 or 3% of the amount for each transfer within 60 days of account opening – $5 or 5% of the amount for each transfer afterward
- Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount for each transaction
- Foreign Transactions: 3% of the amount of every transaction in US dollars
- Late Payment: Up to $39
- Over-the-Credit-Limit: None
- Return Payment: Up to $39
- Return Check: None
Support
Customers can contact support or schedule a meeting with a banker.
Our Verdict
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® Visa-branded card is one of the top rated credit cards. There is no annual fee, and the rewards system is simple: 1.5% cash back on all purchases. There is also a decent sign-up bonus and a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months.
The downsides are the foreign transaction fee and the potentially high ongoing APR, depending on your creditworthiness.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 23.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0% Introductory APR for the first 15 statement closing dates following the account opening.
- Rewards Earning Rate: 3% cashback in the category of your choice, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Sign-up Bonus: Online $200 cash rewards bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
(Image Source: Bank of America)
Top Credit Card for Rewards
Pros | Cons |
3% cashback in your selected category: online shopping, dining, travel, gas, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishing | You’ll earn 3% and 2% cashback on the first $2,500 spent in the selected choice category – grocery shopping/wholesale club purchases each quarter, then earn 1%. |
$200 online cash rewards bonus offer | High fees |
Paperless Statement Option | |
Account Alerts | |
Access to FICO Score | |
Online banking and mobile banking | |
Digital Wallet Technology |
Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for purchases: 0% for the first 15 statement closing dates following the opening of your account – 13.99% to 23.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for Balance Transfers: 0% for the first 15 statement closing dates following the opening of your account for transactions made within 60 days of opening your account – 13.99% to 23.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 16.99% to 26.99%, based on your creditworthiness when you open your account, for direct deposit and check cash advances, and 27.24% for bank cash advances
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99%
- Minimum Interest Charge: $1.50
- Annual Fee: None
- Purchase Fee: $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction
- Balance Transfer: $10 or 3% of the amount of each transaction
- Direct Deposit and Check Cash Advances: $10 or 3% of the amount of each transaction
- ATM, Over-the-Counter, Same-Day Online, and Cash Equivalent Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction
- Overdraft Protection Cash Advance (if enrolled): $12 for each transaction
- Foreign Transaction fee: 3% of the US dollar amount of every transaction either in a foreign currency or in US dollars if it was made or processed outside of the USA. This is in addition to any other charges that may apply.
- Late Payment: Up to $40
- Returned Payment : Up to $29
Support
You have the option to schedule an appointment with a credit card specialist. You can also contact a credit card customer service representative 24/7.
Our Verdict
Bank of America® Cash Rewards users have the option to get 3% cash back in the category of their choice: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drug stores, or home improvement/furnishings. Frequent online shoppers can take advantage of this offer and earn their 3% cash back. This makes the Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card one of the top rewards credit cards for shoppers.
Another perk for online shoppers is the paperless credit card statement option, and to top it all off — online and mobile banking.
What we didn’t like about this card is the high penalty APR of up to 29.99%, as well as the late payment fee and the returned payment fee.
Nonetheless, if you are a responsible credit card holder, this is one of the top cash back credit cards for online shopping.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 12.99% to 21.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months from the date of account opening + 10.99% intro APR for 6 months for balance transfers.
- Rewards Earning Rate: 5% cash back on everyday purchases, 1% on all other purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair – Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
One of the Best Credit Cards for Students
Pros | Cons |
Cash back (doesn’t expire, redeem rewards at any time) | Discover cards are not widely accepted worldwide |
Good Grade Rewards (GPA of 3.0 or higher) | Cash Back Bonus needs to be activated each quarter and the Discover Bonus categories are different each quarter |
Freeze it Option | Social security number is required |
Identity Alerts (Social Security Number Alerts, New Inquiry Alerts, New Account Alerts) | An inquiry will be placed on your credit file which can affect your credit score score |
Free overnight card replacement | |
No annual fee | |
No foreign transaction fee | |
No overlimit fee | |
$0 Fraud Liability | |
Access to your credit score |
(Image Source: Discover Card)
Discover it® Student Cash Back Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for purchases: 0% for 6 months – 12.99% to 21.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for balance transfers: 10.99% for 6 months from the date of first transfer – 12.99% to 21.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for cash advances: 24.99%
- Penalty APR: None
- Minimum interest charge: If you are charged interest, the charge will be no less than $0.50
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer: a fee of 3% with the 10.99% intro APR balance transfer – 5% afterward
- Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Late payment: None the first time you pay late – up to $40 afterward
- Returned payment: Up to $40
- Foreign transaction fee: None
- Overlimit fee: None
Support
You can either call or chat with a Discover agent. They are available 24 hours a day. We tried contacting support via chat and received a reply within a few minutes.
Our Verdict
The Discover it® Student Cash Back is one of those top credit cards for students, but only for — American students.
What we liked about this card are the $0 annual fee and the good grades reward. Another big plus is that students can earn cash back.
What we didn’t like is the quarterly rotation of the Discover card bonus categories. Users also need to activate the cash back each quarter. Another downside is that a social security number is required to apply, so this isn’t the right card for international students. The cards also aren’t as accepted worldwide as Visa and Mastercard.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 12.99% to 23.99% (variable).
- Intro Offer: 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months.
- Rewards Earning Rate: 6% cash back at US supermarkets, 1-3% on other purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn $250 statement credit after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
(Image Source: American Express)
Top Credit Cards for Cash Back Purposes
Pros | Cons |
6% Cash back at U.S. supermarkets | Annual fee |
6% Cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions | Not as accepted as Visa and Mastercard |
3% Cash back on transit | $25 minimum redemption amount |
3% Cash back on gas at U.S. gas stations | Penalty APR |
1% Cash back on other purchases | |
Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance | |
Global Assist Hotline | |
Return Protection | |
Exclusive access to ticket presales and card member-only events | |
Fraud protection | |
Online account management | |
Year-End Summary |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for purchases: 0% for the first 12 months – 12.99% to 23.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for balance transfers: 0% for the first 12 months on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening – 12.99% to 23.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for cash advances: 25.24% (variable)
- Penalty APR: 29.24% (variable)
- Plan Fee (Fixed Finance Charge): 0% fee on each purchase moved into a plan during the first 12 months – up to 1.17% of each purchase moved into a plan based on the plan duration. The APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase and other factors.
- Annual membership fee: $95
- Balance transfer: $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer
- Cash advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Foreign transaction: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars
- Late payment: Up to $40
- Returned payment: Up to $40
- Overlimit: None
Support
We contacted the support team via chat and received an answer immediately. The customer service team is available 24/7 via phone or chat.
Our Verdict
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is one of the best credit cards for cash back.
Users get 6% cash back from supermarket purchases in the US. While there is a $6,000 annual cap, you still get 1% cash back after that. Then there is the 3% cash back on gas and transit, such as ride-sharing. And let’s not forget the cash sign-up bonus.
The only downsides are the annual fee and late payment fee, however, if you use the card frequently, the annual fee will be offset.
If you are part of a family of four, then this is one of the best credit cards to have for shopping groceries.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 25.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0.00% introductory APR for 12 months. After that, your APR will be 13.99% to 25.99% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn 3x points on eating out and ordering in, gas stations, rideshares, transit, flights, hotels, homestays, car rentals
- Earn 1x points on other purchases.
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus rewards points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – a $200 cash redemption value
- Recommended Credit Score: Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
(Image Source: Wells Fargo)
One of the Best Credit Cards for Travel
Pros | Cons |
No annual fee | High fees |
No limit to the points you can earn | High credit score requirements |
Points will not expire while your account is open | Amex cards aren’t as accepted as Visa and Mastercard |
Earn points when eating out and ordering in, gas stations, rideshares, transit, flights, hotels, homestays, and car rentals | |
Earn points on other purchases | |
24/7 Fraud Monitoring | |
Alerts | |
Zero liability protection | |
Advance access to tickets | |
Purchase and travel protections | |
Retail protection | |
Lost luggage reimbursement | |
Car rental loss and damage insurance | |
Roadside assistance | |
24/7 travel and emergency assistance, and emergency cash advances | |
(Image Source: Wells Fargo)
Wells Fargo Propel American Express® Card Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on purchases: 0.00% for 12 months – 13.99% to 25.99% afterward (variable)
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on balance transfers: 0.00% for 12 months – 13.99% to 25.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances and Overdraft Protection Advances: 23.99% to 25.99% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: $1
- Annual Fee: None
- Balance Transfers: $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer for 120 days from account opening – up to 5% for each balance transfer afterward, with a minimum of $5
- Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Overdraft Protection Advances: $12.50 if the total of overdraft protection advances for the day is $50 or less; $20 if the total of overdraft protection advances for the day is greater than $50
- Foreign Currency Conversion Fee: None
- Late payment: Up to $37
- Returned Check or Returned Payment: Up to $37
Support
Customer support can be contacted 24/7.
Our Verdict
The Wells Fargo Propel American Express® has some top credit card offers, with no annual fee and a good rewards system. It is one of the best looking cards too, on account of its vibrant colors.
Cardholders can earn 3x points on gas stations, as well as on other categories such as eating out and ordering in, rideshares, and transit. So, besides being a good card for gas rewards, it is also good for travelers and is perhaps the best credit card in the world for restaurants.
What we didn’t like were the high fees, such as the 5% for each balance transfer. And Amex cards are not as accepted as Visa and Mastercard.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 17.99%, 23.24% or 26.99% (variable)
- Sign-Up Bonus: 5% back in Walmart stores for the first 12 months after approval when you use your Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Card with Walmart Pay
- Rewards Earning Rate: 5% at Walmart.com including Grocery Pickup and Delivery. Earn unlimited 2% back at restaurants and on travel, as well as 2% back in Walmart stores and at Walmart and Murphy USA Fuel Stations. You can also get 1% back everywhere else Mastercard® is accepted.
- Recommended Credit Score: Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
(Image Source: Capital One)
Best Credit Cards to Get for Shopping at Walmart
Pros | Cons |
Earning 5% at Walmart.com including grocery pickup and delivery | No intro APR |
Earning 2% back at restaurants and on travel | High APR |
Earning 2% back in Walmart stores and at Walmart and Murphy USA Fuel Stations | |
Earning 1% back everywhere else Mastercard® is accepted | |
Earning 5% back in Walmart stores for the first 12 months after approval when you use your Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Card with Walmart Pay | |
No annual fee | |
Mobile App | |
Fraud Coverage | |
No foreign transaction fees | |
Rewards don’t expire |
(Image Source: Capital One)
Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases and Quick Cash: 17.99%, 23.24% or 26.99% (variable)
- APR for Transfers: 17.99%, 23.24% or 26.99% (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 26.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: None
- Transfer fee: 3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR. None for balances transferred at the Transfer APR.
- Cash Advance: $10 or 3% of the amount of each advance
- Penalty Fee: Up to $39
Support
Cardholders have access to 24/7 support.
Our Verdict
With a reward earning rate of 1% to 5%, the Capital One® Walmart Rewards Mastercard is one of the best credit cards for in-store buying.
It is also a Mastercard branded card, which means it can be used at all merchants accepting Mastercard and not just in Walmart.
The card offers 5% cash back if you order groceries online and 2% cash back if you shop in the store.
What we didn’t like is the high ARP and the fact that there is no intro APR. Nevertheless, it is still one of the best credit card deals right now for grocery shopping.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 14.74% to 24.74% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0% Intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for 12 months on purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
(Image Source: Citi)
Top Balance Transfer Credit Card
Pros | Cons |
0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and for 12 months on purchases | High fees |
0% introductory APR for purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening. | High APR after the intro ends |
Identity theft protection | No rewards program |
Purchase protection | |
Digital wallet | |
Account alerts | |
Contactless pay | |
No annual fee | |
No late fee |
(Image Source: Citi)
Citi Simplicity® Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases: 0% for 12 months from the date of account opening – 14.74% to 24.74% afterward (variable)
- APR for Balance Transfers: 0% for 21 months from the date of first transfer when transfers are completed within 4 months from the date of account opening – 14.74% to 24.74% afterward (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 25.24% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: $0.50
- Annual Fee: None
- Balance Transfer: $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer
- Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Foreign Purchase Transaction: 3% of each purchase transaction after its conversion into US dollars
- Returned Payment: Up to $40
Support
Cardholders have access to 24/7 customer support service by phone.
Our Verdict
The 0% introductory APR promotions make it one of the top credit cards for balance transfers. This makes Citi Simplicity the perfect card for those who want to consolidate their debt.
What we didn’t like was the high balance transfer fee of 5% and the high ongoing APR. After the intro ends, you should either avoid carrying a balance altogether or switch to a different card if you have the chance.
While the no cash back option is a definite downside, it’s maybe a good thing that it doesn’t give cardholders the incentive to spend more. Since this is a card intended to help people pay off their debt, it is placed among the top balance transfer credit cards out there.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 13.99% to 23.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0% introductory APR for balance transfers for 18 months
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn 2% cash back on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
(Image Source: Citi)
Top Credit Cards for Cash Back
Pros | Cons |
No annual fee | Penalty APR |
0% Intro APR for balance transfers | Penalty fees |
Earn 2% cash back on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases | Has a foreign transaction fee |
No cash back caps | High credit score requirements |
No cash back category restrictions | |
24-hour fraud protection | |
Citi® identity theft solutions | |
$0 liability for unauthorized charges | |
Contactless pay |
(Image Source: Citi)
Citi® Double Cash Card Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for purchases: 13.99% to 23.99%, based on your creditworthiness (variable)
- APR for Balance Transfers: 0% for 18 months from the date of first transfer when transfers are completed within 4 months from the date of account opening – 13.99% to 23.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for cash advances: 25.24%
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99%. This APR may be applied to your account if you make a late payment or a payment that is returned.
- Minimum Interest Charge: $0.50
- Annual Fee: None
- Balance Transfer: $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer
- Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Foreign Purchase Transaction: 3% of each purchase transaction in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment: None for the first late payment; up to $40 after that
- Returned Payment: Up to $40
Support
Cardholders have access to 24/7 customer service.
Our Verdict
The Citi® Double Cash Card is among the best credit cards in USA for those who value simplicity and don’t want to bother with figuring out which purchases bring the most rewards.
This card makes it simple, offering a flat earnings rate.
On the flip side, a flat-rate cash back card means a lack of a sign-up bonus or high rewards.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Minimum Deposit: $200
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 22.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 10.99% APR for Balance Transfers
- Rewards Earning Rate: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Poor – Fair – Good
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Best Credit Card Offers for Building/Rebuilding Credit
Pros | Cons |
No annual fee | An inquiry will be placed on your credit file which can affect your credit score |
Reports to the three major credit bureaus | $200 minimum deposit |
Cash back | Discover cards are not widely accepted worldwide |
Refundable security deposit | High APR |
No late fee on your first late payment | You need a U.S. bank account to apply |
No foreign transaction fee | |
Paying late won’t raise your APR | |
Automatic monthly reviews after 8 months to see if you can upgrade to an unsecured credit card | |
Freeze It option | |
Identity Alerts (Social Security Number Alerts, New Inquiry Alerts, New Account Alerts) |
(Image Source: Discover Card)
Discover it® Secured Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases: 22.99% (variable)
- APR for Balance Transfers: 10.99% for the first 6 months – 22.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 24.99%
- Penalty APR: None
- Minimum Interest Charge: $0.50
- Annual Fee: None
- Balance Transfer: 3% (with 10.99% intro APR) – 5% afterward
- Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Late Payment: None the first time you pay late – up to $40 afterward
- Returned Payment: Up to $40
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Support
You can either call a Discover agent or chat with one. They are available 24 hours a day.
We tried contacting support via chat and received a reply within a few minutes.
Our Verdict
The Discover It Secured Card is definitely one of the best credit cards to build credit.
What we liked most about this card is that it has no annual fee and the fact that it is one of the few secured cards that offer cash back.
After you have had the card for 8 months, Discover will regularly report to the three major credit bureaus. This also makes it one of the finest cards for short credit history.
What we didn’t like was the Discover card interest rate. Even though Discover has other top credit card offers, if you are someone that will only be making the minimum payment, we suggest looking into low-interest credit cards.
Another thing we didn’t like is the fact that after you apply, Discover will place an inquiry on your credit file. And if you don’t have good credit, this can further hurt your score.
Factors that can prevent your application from being approved are: income, bankruptcy, debt or recent delinquency, and not providing a security deposit.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.49% to 24.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: 0.00% introductory APR for 18 months.
- Rewards Earning Rate: No rewards
- Recommended Credit Score: Good – Very Good – Excellent
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
Top Secured Credit Cards for People With Debt
Pros | Cons |
0.00 % introductory APR for 18 months. | High fees after the intro period ends |
No annual fee | No cash back |
Access to your FICO Credit Score | Late payment and returned payment fees |
Account protection features | |
Budget tools | |
Emergency card replacement | |
Cell phone protection |
Wells Fargo Platinum Visa Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases: 0.00% for 18 months – 15.49% to 24.99% afterward (variable)
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Balance Transfers: 0.00% for 18 months – 15.49% to 24.99% afterward (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances and Overdraft Protection Advances: 23.99% to 25.99% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: $1.00
- Balance Transfers: $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer for 120 days from account opening – up to 5% for each balance transfer afterward, with a minimum of $5
- Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Overdraft Protection Advances: $12.50 if the total of overdraft protection advances for the day is $50 or less; $20 if the total of overdraft protection advances for the day is greater than $50
- Foreign Currency Conversion Fee: 3% of each transaction converted to U.S. dollars
- Late payment: Up to $37
- Returned Check or Returned Payment: Up to $37
Support
Customer support is available via phone and email. You also have the option to make an appointment with a banker.
Our Verdict
With an intro period of 18 months, the Wells Fargo Platinum card is among the top 10 best credit cards with 0% interest rates. If you have some debt to pay out, then you can take advantage of the lengthy 0% APR period and $0 annual fee.
Wells Fargo cardholders also have access to some additional features, such as cell phone protection, travel accident insurance, etc.
What we didn’t like is that the card offers no rewards. There is also a balance transfer fee of 3%.
After the promo period ends and you have paid out your loans and debt, there is no incentive to use the card. You can then look at some other credit card offers and pick the best credit card for your current needs.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.99% to 22.99% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: Earn 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Sign-up Bonus: 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months after account opening
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Top Travel Credit Cards
Pros | Cons |
No foreign transaction fees | Annual fee |
2X points on travel and dining at restaurants | High credit score requirement |
1 point per each dollar spent on all other purchases | |
25% more value for airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards. | |
1:1 point transfer to frequent travel programs | |
Travel & purchase coverage | |
5X points on Lyft rides through March 2022 | |
Friend referral program |
(Image Source: Chase)
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Pricing and Fees
- Purchase Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.99% to 22.99% (variable)
- Balance Transfer APR: 15.99% to 22.99% (variable)
- Cash Advance APR: 24.99% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: None
- Annual Membership Fee: $95
- Balance Transfers: $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer
- Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Late Payment: Up to $39
- Return Payment: Up to $39
- Return Check: None
(Image Source: Chase)
Support
Chase Sapphire Preferred® credit card users have access to a customer service specialist 24/7.
Our Verdict
Due to its numerous travel perks, we consider Chase Sapphire Preferred® to be among the top credit cards for travel.
You earn points on airfare, hotels, dining, and cafes. It also has one of the best sign-up bonuses — 60,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months.
And every traveler can agree that a $0 foreign transaction fee is what you should look for in a card.
The only downside is the annual fee of $95 and the high credit score requirements on all Chase credit cards. It is recommended that applicants have a very good or excellent credit score.
Capital One® Platinum Credit Card

BEST FOR
First-Time Credit Card Holders, Credit Builders, People with Fair Credit
Visit Website- Annual Fee: $0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 26.99% (variable)
- Intro Offer: None
- Rewards Earning Rate: None
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair – Good
- Sign-up Bonus : None
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
(Image Source: Capital One)
Top Credit Cards for First-Timers
Pros | Cons |
No annual fee | High APR |
No foreign transaction fee | No cash back |
Automatic credit line reviews | |
Fraud coverage | |
Access to your credit score | |
Online banking | |
Account Alerts | |
Autopay | |
Card lock | |
Touch ID | |
Reports to all three credit bureaus | |
Travel accident insurance | |
An option to see if you’re pre-qualified for Capital One credit card offers, with no impact to your credit score |
(Image Source: Capital One)
Capital One® Platinum Credit Card Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases and Transfers: 26.99% (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 26.99% (variable)
- Annual Fee: None
- Transfer Fee: None
- Cash Advance: $10 or 3% of the amount of each advance
- Late Payment: Up to $39
Support
Capital One credit card holders have access to 24/7 customer service.
Our Verdict
The Platinum Credit Card from Capital One is among the best credit cards to get if you’re just starting out, as well as one of the best cards for fair credit.
For starters, you can check if you are prequalified without any impact on your credit score. There is no annual fee, and you will also automatically be considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months.
The downside is that there is no cash back and the APR is high.
That said, if you pay your balance on time and avoid overspending, you will be able to build your credit in no time. It is probably the best credit card to get with bad or fair credit. You will also be able to take advantage of all of the benefits offered to users of Capital One credit cards, such as fraud coverage, travel accident insurance, autopay, etc.
- Annual Fee: $0 Intro fee for the first year. After that, $95
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 16.49% to 23.49% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, 2 miles
- per $1 spent at restaurants and on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel, 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Recommended Credit Score: Very Good – Excellent
- Sign-up Bonus: 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
(Image Source: Chase)
Top Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Pros | Cons |
60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months after your account is open | Miles can only be used on United airline flights and its partners |
No foreign transaction fee | Annual fee |
2 United Club one-time passes after account opening and on each anniversary | Late payment and return payment fee |
Free first checked bag | |
Priority boarding | |
25% back on food, beverage and Wi-Fi purchases onboard United- and United Express-operated flights | |
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Application Fee Statement Credit |
UnitedSM Explorer Card Pricing and Fees
- Purchase Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 16.49% to 23.49% (variable)
- Balance Transfer APR: 16.49% to 23.49% (variable)
- Cash Advance APR: 24.99% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: None
- Annual Membership Fee: $0 Intro fee for the first year – $95 afterward
- Balance Transfers: $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer
- Cash Advances: $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction
- Foreign Transactions: None
- Late Payment: Up to $39
- Return Payment: Up to $39
- Return Check: None
(Image Source: The Explorer Card)
Support
Customer support can be contacted via phone.
Our Verdict
The United Explorer card has some of the finest and top airline credit card offers for frequent flyers. You have the option to get 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months after your account is open. And there is no annual fee during the first year. That’s what we call a warm welcome.
While this is one of the greatest cards for frequent flyers, the miles earned can only be used on flights from United Airlines and its partners. If you aren’t flying frequently with United, you should probably check out some other top airline credit cards for flyers.
- Annual Fee: $35
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 18.89% (variable)
- Minimum deposit: $200
- Intro Offer: None
- Rewards Earning Rate: None
- Recommended Credit Score: Fair
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
(Image Source: Open Sky)
Capital Bank is the Best Bank to get a Credit Card for Those with Bad Credit
Pros | Cons |
No credit check required | Doesn’t offer the option to upgrade to an unsecured card |
Refundable deposit | Annual fee |
Paperless statements | Paper statement fee |
Recurring online payments | |
Reports to credit bureaus once a month | |
Doesn’t require a checking account to apply |
OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases: 18.89% (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 18.89% (variable)
- Minimum Interest Charge: $1.00
- Annual Fee: $35
- Cash Advance: $6 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Foreign Transaction: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment: Up to $38
- Returned Payment: Up to $25
Support
As stated on the official website, OpenSky can be contacted by mail or by phone.
Our Verdict
OpenSky has one of the top secured credit cards to build credit with. They don’t check your credit when you apply, which means you can do it even with a bad credit profile, and your credit score won’t be affected. While the minimum refundable deposit is $200, you can request a line of credit increase.
The only downsides are the annual fee and the lack of an intro APR offer. However, if you pay your balance on time and never miss a monthly payment, you will be able to improve your credit score. That is what makes the OpenSky® Secured Visa® one of the top credit card companies to have if you are trying to rebuild your credit.
CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard®

BEST FOR
Business Travelers
Visit Website- Annual Fee: $99 (Fee waived for the first 12 months)
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 15.99% to 24.99% (variable)
- Rewards Earning Rate: 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations. 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases.
- Recommended Credit Score: Excellent
- Sign-up Bonus: 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
(Image Source: Citi Cards)
Top Business Credit Cards
Pros | Cons |
First checked bag free on domestic itineraries | Has an annual fee after the first year |
Preferred boarding | High credit score requirement |
25% savings on American Airlines inflight Wi-Fi when you use your card. | Miles can only be redeemed with American Airlines |
Get an American Airlines Companion Certificate for domestic main cabin travel after you spend $30,000 or more in purchases each card membership year and card membership is renewed. | No lounge access |
Get 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible purchases with American Airlines | |
Get 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations | |
Get 1 AAdvantage® mile for each $1 spent on other purchases | |
24/7 Personal Business Assistant for help with travel, hotel, and dining arrangements | |
Online Account Summaries | |
Digital Wallets | |
Contactless Pay | |
No foreign transaction fee |
(Image Source: Citi)
CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard® Pricing and Fees
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for Purchases: 15.99% to 24.99% (variable)
- APR for Cash Advances: 25.24% (variable)
- Penalty APR and When it Applies: Up to 29.99% (variable). This APR may be applied to your account if you make a late payment or make a payment that is returned.
- Minimum Interest Charge: $0.50
- Annual Fee: $99. It, however, is waived for the first 12-month period.
- Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance
- Foreign Purchase Transaction: None
- Late Payment: $39
- Returned Payment: $39
Support
Citi business credit cardholders can contact Customer Support via phone.
Our Verdict
The Citi credit card is one of the top 5 credit cards for business professionals that travel domestically frequently.
This company’s offers are mostly geared towards professionals that go on business trips. Cardholders get preferred boarding and 25% savings on in-flight purchases. They can also earn miles on American Airlines, gas, and rental cars, etc.
The drawbacks are that cardholders need to fly frequently with American Airlines to get the advantage of the miles earned.
If you do fly with American Airlines regularly, it is one of the finest cards to have.
SpendMeNot Credit Card Reviews Methodology
To review all of the credit cards, we followed these steps in our process:
First, we looked up various reviews. Then, we made a list of the top cards for 2021. We compared those cards based on pricing, offers, cash back, and other perks offered.
After that, we divided them by credit card category and made a pros and cons list. Next step was to pick out the winners or the best credit cards with the highest scores and create a new, shorter list.
We checked the official websites for the cards and looked for a live chat option. We contacted support and included screenshots in the cases where we received a reply from a customer service representative.
Lastly, we made a final review of top-tier cards for 2021 and came up with an even shorter list.
If our list didn’t help you pick a card that is *just right* for you, you can follow our review process or the steps from our buyer’s guide:
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You?
1. Know your credit score.
You are entitled to one free credit report each year from the three major credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, or Transunion. Once you find out your credit range, you will get a better idea of your chances to get your application approved.
2. Determine whether you will be paying your full balance each month.
If you know that you won’t be able to pay your balance in full, look for a card with lower rates. Or, if you know it won’t be a problem to cover what you owe, look for one with the most cash back.
3. Make a list of your spending habits.
There are different credit card types based on usage:
- miles card
- cash back card
- store card
- credit building card
- other top credit cards for rewards
So, let’s say you travel out of the country frequently. Look into credit cards with no foreign transaction fees and figure out which one is right for you. Or, if you are constantly staying at hotels, look for the best hotel credit card.
4. Determine what type of credit card is best for you.
A store credit card? A card with low intro APR? A miles card? A cash back card? An online cash back card?
Before you make a decision, consider the credit card features that matter the most for you. This depends entirely on your spending habits, current debt, credit score, etc.
5. Make a list of the top rated credit cards in the category you choose.
This will help you narrow down your choices. Compare the pricing, perks offered, acceptance rate, and any other factor that may influence your choice.
6. Check if you meet the qualifying requirements.
There is no point in applying if you don’t meet the requirements. Some companies may offer the option to check if you can prequalify.
If you’re a student, you might want to consider searching for top student credit cards instead. You can also try reading reviews about the acceptance rates. There is also no harm in contacting customer support to ask about all the requirements, in case you missed something.
7. Apply for the card that offers the most for its value.
Before applying, take a look at your list and compare card offers.
Is the annual fee offset by the rewards? Is the sign-up bonus worth it?
Once you find the answer to the question “what’s the best credit card to get”, it is time to apply. And if you get rejected, try to find out the reason why. It will help you with your next credit card application.
Conclusion
And there you have it — our review of the top 15 credit cards from different categories. Everyone can see their needs met as we have thoroughly researched and filtered the finest cards and card issuers.
And if by chance you haven’t still decided or if none of our picks are appealing, then you can use our tips and guides to help you make the right decision.
Choose wisely, and spend responsibly!
FAQ
As each financial situation is different, credit cards aren’t one-size-fits-all. For starters, applicants with the highest credit score can usually get approved for better rates and cards with better perks. On the other hand, getting a credit card is not an easy process for those with a low credit score.
With that in mind, some of the most respected credit cards include the following:
- Centurion® Card from American Express
- Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card
- J.P. Morgan Reserve Credit Card
Every card we mentioned in our review is hard to get. However, most people would agree that the Centurion® Card from American Express holds that title.
Some of the perks this card offers are the following:
- Elite status at major hotel chains, such as Marriott and Hilton.
- Elite status with Delta.
- Airport lounge access.
- Equinox membership.
- CLEAR membership (expedited security membership).
- 24/7 concierge service.
- International arrival service.
- No spending limit.
The best time to apply for a new credit card is when you’ll be able to afford all expenses and charges that come with opening up an account.
This means that the charges should not exceed the amounts you can pay, and you should always look to pay the monthly fees on time.
According to the latest credit card debt statistics, a lot of Americans can’t afford to pay their balance in full and on time. And it is not just credit card debt, as we can see from the latest student loan debt statistics and consumer debt statistics.
First-timers need to take into account various aspects of credit cards before venturing into getting them.
Some of them include the APRs, Annual Fees, as well as sign-up bonuses and cash back options.
With that in mind, here are some of the finest cards for beginners:
- Journey® Student Rewards from Capital One®
- Discover It® Student Cash Back
- Secured Mastercard® from Capital One®
- Open Sky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
There are various types of reward programs for credit cards that all people from various social circles can benefit.
These reward programs allow their users to accumulate various points, codes, and bonuses when making purchases.
Here’s a list of credit cards rewards programs:
- Cards with general reward points
- Cash back cards
- Cards with travel or hotel points
- Retail credit card rewards
- Cards with gas points or rebates
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single card that can hold all reward points when making purchases. In order to maximize your rewards, you’d need to carry multiple cards for items you buy the most.
Here are a couple of ways you can do that:
- Focus on applying for food reward cards
- Revise the gas rewards
- Re-evaluate telecommunications services and office supplies
- Pay attention to quarterly and annual limits
Here is a list of credit cards that we recommend:
- Chase Freedom Unlimited® — Best Visa Credit Card
- Bank of America® Cash Rewards Credit Card — Best for Online Shoppers
- Discover it® Student Cash Back — Best Credit Card for Students
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express — Best Cash Back Card
- Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card — Best Card for Gas
- Capital One® Walmart Rewards™ Mastercard — Best Store Card
- Citi Simplicity® — Best for Balance Transfers
- Citi® Double Cash Card — Best Mastercard Credit Card
- Wells Fargo Platinum Visa — Best Low-Interest Card
- Discover it® Secured — Best for Credit Builders
According to our experts, these are the top credit cards we reviewed, and we firmly believe you should heavily consider making a choice from this filtered list.