7 Best Rewards Credit Cards: Comparison and Review
- Written by:
- Arin Baghermian
7 Best Rewards Credit Cards: Comparison and Review
- Written by:
- Arin Baghermian
Dive into the world of rewards credit cards with us as we unveil their benefits and guide you in selecting the perfect card to enhance your purchasing power. Our comparison aims to ease your decision-making, ensuring you maximize the features tailored to your lifestyle. Let’s explore how rewards credit cards can elevate your spending experience.
BENEFITS OF REWARDS CREDIT CARDS
Rewards credit cards offer a variety of benefits that can enrich your shopping and spending habits. Some of these benefits include:
- Cashback rewards: Earn a percentage of your spending back as cash, allowing you to save money on everyday purchases.
- Points or miles: Accumulate points or miles for every dollar spent, redeemable for various rewards such as travel, merchandise, or gift cards.
- Sign-up bonuses: Many rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, providing a head start in earning valuable rewards.
- Perks and discounts: Enjoy exclusive perks and discounts on dining, entertainment, and shopping with select rewards credit cards.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT REWARDS CREDIT CARD
With countless rewards credit cards available, finding the ideal one can be daunting. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a rewards credit card:
- Rewards structure: Look for a card that offers rewards that align with your spending habits and preferences.
- Annual fee: Evaluate whether the rewards and benefits justify any annual fees associated with the card.
- Redemption options: Consider the flexibility and variety of redemption options, ensuring they suit your interests.
- Terms and conditions: Review the terms and conditions, including any caps on rewards and expiration dates, to confirm the card meets your expectations.
Editor's Note:
The financial institution, credit card provider, or other promotional partner did not supply or sponsor this material. The views shared in this article are exclusively those of the author and have not undergone review, approval, or endorsement by the advertising party. This website may receive financial compensation from the bank, credit card issuer, or another advertiser.
What's New
Dive into the world of rewards credit cards with us as we unveil their benefits and guide you in selecting the perfect card to enhance your purchasing power. Our comparison aims to ease your decision-making, ensuring you maximize the features tailored to your lifestyle. Let’s explore how rewards credit cards can elevate your spending experience.
BENEFITS OF REWARDS CREDIT CARDS
Rewards credit cards offer a variety of benefits that can enrich your shopping and spending habits. Some of these benefits include:
Cashback rewards
Earn a percentage of your spending back as cash, allowing you to save money on everyday purchases.
Points or miles
Accumulate points or miles for every dollar spent, redeemable for various rewards such as travel, merchandise, or gift cards.
Sign-up bonuses
Many rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, providing a head start in earning valuable rewards.
Perks and discounts
Enjoy exclusive perks and discounts on dining, entertainment, and shopping with select rewards credit cards.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT REWARDS CREDIT CARD
With countless rewards credit cards available, finding the ideal one can be daunting. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a rewards credit card:
Rewards structure
Look for a card that offers rewards that align with your spending habits and preferences.
Annual fee
Evaluate whether the rewards and benefits justify any annual fees associated with the card.
Redemption options
Consider the flexibility and variety of redemption options, ensuring they suit your interests.
Terms and conditions
Review the terms and conditions, including any caps on rewards and expiration dates, to confirm the card meets your expectations.
Editor's Note:
The financial institution, credit card provider, or other promotional partner did not supply or sponsor this material. The views shared in this article are exclusively those of the author and have not undergone review, approval, or endorsement by the advertising party. This website may receive financial compensation from the bank, credit card issuer, or another advertiser.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Key Features
Lucrative rewards program Generous welcome offer Travel benefits and rewards No foreign transaction fees
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is popular among travelers due to its big sign-up bonus, versatile rewards program, and travel perks.
| Intro Offer | 60,000 points |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.74% to 27.74% |
| Annual Fee | $95 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
5x Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
3x Earn 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services and takeout.
2x Earn 2x points on all other travel purchases.
Features
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a travel rewards credit card designed for individuals who enjoy traveling and dining out. The card offers a generous sign-up bonus, a rewards program, and additional travel benefits.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers a sign-up bonus of 100,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. This bonus is worth $1,250 in travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Annual Fee
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has an annual fee of $95.
Additional Features
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 2X points on dining and travel purchases, and 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Flexible redemption options: Points can be redeemed for travel, cashback, gift cards, and more, with no blackout dates or travel restrictions.
- Travel benefits: The card offers additional travel benefits, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, and baggage delay insurance.
- Chase Ultimate Rewards: Cardholders have access to Chase Ultimate Rewards, which offers exclusive benefits and redemption options.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
Drawbacks
While the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has an annual fee of $95, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- High spending requirement for sign-up bonus: To earn the sign-up bonus, cardholders must spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, which may be a challenge for some individuals.
- Higher interest rate: The card has a higher interest rate compared to some other credit cards, which can be a downside for individuals who carry a balance.
Overall, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card can be a good option for individuals who enjoy traveling and dining out and want to earn valuable rewards and travel benefits. However, the annual fee and high spending requirement for the sign-up bonus may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is popular among travelers due to its big sign-up bonus, versatile rewards program, and travel perks.
Key Features
Lucrative rewards program Generous welcome offer Travel benefits and rewards No foreign transaction fees
| Intro Offer | 60,000 miles |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.74%-27.49% |
| Annual Fee | $95 |
| Credit Requirement | Good - Excellent |
Rewards
5x
Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
3x
Earn 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services and takeout.
2x
Earn 2x points on all other travel purchases.
Features
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a travel rewards credit card designed for individuals who enjoy traveling and dining out. The card offers a generous sign-up bonus, a rewards program, and additional travel benefits.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. This bonus is worth $1,250 in travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Annual Fee
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has an annual fee of $95.
Additional Features
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 2X points on dining and travel purchases, and 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Flexible redemption options: Points can be redeemed for travel, cashback, gift cards, and more, with no blackout dates or travel restrictions.
- Travel benefits: The card offers additional travel benefits, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, and baggage delay insurance.
- Chase Ultimate Rewards: Cardholders have access to Chase Ultimate Rewards, which offers exclusive benefits and redemption options.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
Drawbacks
While the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has an annual fee of $95, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- High spending requirement for sign-up bonus: To earn the sign-up bonus, cardholders must spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, which may be a challenge for some individuals.
- Higher interest rate: The card has a higher interest rate compared to some other credit cards, which can be a downside for individuals who carry a balance.
Overall, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card can be a good option for individuals who enjoy traveling and dining out and want to earn valuable rewards and travel benefits. However, the annual fee and high spending requirement for the sign-up bonus may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
CAPITAL ONE VENTURE REWARDS
Key Features
Generous welcome offer No foreign transaction fees High rewards on every purchase Flexible redemption options
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel or cashback. It also comes with a generous sign-up bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
| Intro Offer | 75,000 points |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.49%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $95 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
5x Earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
2x Earn 2x miles on all other purchases.
Features
The Capital One Venture Rewards credit card is a travel rewards credit card designed for individuals who want to earn rewards on their everyday spending. The card offers a generous sign-up bonus, a rewards program, and additional travel benefits.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Capital One Venture Rewards credit card offers a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. This bonus is worth $600 in travel when redeemed through Capital One’s travel portal.
Annual Fee
The Capital One Venture Rewards credit card has an annual fee of $95.
Additional Features
The Capital One Venture Rewards credit card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases.
- Flexible redemption options: Miles can be redeemed for travel, cashback, gift cards, and more, with no blackout dates or travel restrictions.
- Travel benefits: The card offers additional travel benefits, including travel accident insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, and 24-hour travel assistance services.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
- CreditWise: Cardholders have access to CreditWise, which is a credit monitoring tool that can help individuals monitor their credit score and credit report for changes.
Drawbacks
While the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has an annual fee of $95, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- Higher interest rate: The card has a higher interest rate compared to some other credit cards, which can be a downside for individuals who carry a balance.
- Limited travel benefits: The travel benefits offered by the card are not as comprehensive as some other travel rewards credit cards.
Overall, the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn rewards on their everyday spending and enjoy travel benefits. However, the annual fee and higher interest rate may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
Capital One Venture REwards
Key Features
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel or cashback. It also comes with a generous sign-up bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
Generous welcome offer No foreign transaction fees High rewards on every purchase Flexible redemption options
| Intro Offer | 75,000 points |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.49%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $95 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
Rewards
5x
Earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
2x
Earn 2x miles on all other purchases.
Rewards and Earning Rates
The Chase Freedom Unlimited Card offers 1.5% cashback on all purchases with no earning caps or category restrictions. This straightforward rewards structure makes it easy for cardholders to earn cashback on a wide range of spending categories without needing to track specific bonus categories.
Sign-Up Bonus
Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee
The Chase Freedom Unlimited Card has no annual fee, which makes it an attractive option for those seeking a cashback credit card without the added cost of an annual fee.
Travel Benefits
While the card is primarily a cashback card, it does offer some basic travel benefits, including:
- Travel and emergency assistance services, providing help with medical and legal referrals, as well as other travel-related emergencies.
- Roadside assistance, which offers services such as towing, jump-starts, and tire changes for a flat fee per service call.
Additional Perks
The Chase Freedom Unlimited Card also offers several additional benefits, such as:
- Purchase protection, which covers eligible purchases against damage or theft for up to 120 days from the date of purchase.
- Extended warranty, which adds up to one additional year to the original manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases.
Drawbacks
The main drawbacks of the Chase Freedom Unlimited Card include the lack of bonus categories that offer higher cashback rates and the absence of some premium travel benefits found on higher-tier credit cards. Additionally, the card charges foreign transaction fees, making it less suitable for international travel.
AMERICAN EXPRESS GOLD CARD
Key Features
Lucrative rewards program Generous welcome offer Travel benefits Flexible Redemption Options
The American Express Gold Card provides rewards for dining and grocery shopping, along with travel perks and a substantial sign-up bonus.
| Intro Offer | 60,000 points |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.49%-27.49% |
| Annual Fee | $250 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
4x Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus delivery and takeout.
4x Earn 4x points on groceries at U.S. supermarkets.
3x Earn 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines on amextravel.com.
Features
The American Express Gold Card is a rewards credit card designed for individuals who want to earn rewards on their dining, grocery, and travel purchases. The card offers a generous rewards program, travel benefits, and additional perks.
Sign-Up Bonus
The American Express Gold Card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening.
Annual Fee
The American Express Gold Card has an annual fee of $250.
Additional Features
The American Express Gold Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 4X Membership Rewards points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide, 4X points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X), 3X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, and 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Airline fee credit: Cardholders receive up to $100 in airline fee credit each calendar year for incidental fees at one selected airline.
- Hotel credit: Cardholders receive up to $100 in hotel credit on qualifying charges at participating hotels when they book through the American Express Travel website.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
- Personalized travel service: Cardholders have access to the American Express Travel service, which offers personalized travel planning and booking services.
Drawbacks
While the American Express Gold Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has an annual fee of $250, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- Limited redemption options: Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and gift cards, but the redemption options are not as flexible as some other rewards programs.
- Not accepted everywhere: American Express is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the American Express Gold Card can be a good option for individuals who spend a lot on dining, groceries, and travel and want to earn valuable rewards and additional benefits. However, the annual fee and limited redemption options may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
AmeX Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card provides rewards for dining and grocery shopping, along with travel perks and a substantial sign-up bonus.
Key Features
Lucrative rewards program Generous welcome offer Travel benefits Flexible Redemption Options
| Intro Offer | 60,000 miles |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 20.49%-28.49% |
| Annual Fee | $250 |
| Credit Requirement | Good - Excellent |
Rewards
4x
Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus delivery and takeout.
4x
Earn 4x points on groceries at U.S. supermarkets.
3x
Earn 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines on amextravel.com.
Features
The American Express Gold Card is a rewards credit card designed for individuals who want to earn rewards on their dining, grocery, and travel purchases. The card offers a generous rewards program, travel benefits, and additional perks.
Sign-Up Bonus
The American Express Gold Card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening.
Annual Fee
The American Express Gold Card has an annual fee of $250.
Additional Features
The American Express Gold Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 4X Membership Rewards points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide, 4X points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X), 3X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, and 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Airline fee credit: Cardholders receive up to $100 in airline fee credit each calendar year for incidental fees at one selected airline.
- Hotel credit: Cardholders receive up to $100 in hotel credit on qualifying charges at participating hotels when they book through the American Express Travel website.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
- Personalized travel service: Cardholders have access to the American Express Travel service, which offers personalized travel planning and booking services.
Drawbacks
While the American Express Gold Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has an annual fee of $250, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- Limited redemption options: Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and gift cards, but the redemption options are not as flexible as some other rewards programs.
- Not accepted everywhere: American Express is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the American Express Gold Card can be a good option for individuals who spend a lot on dining, groceries, and travel and want to earn valuable rewards and additional benefits. However, the annual fee and limited redemption options may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
CITI DOUBLE CASH CARD
Key Features
2% cash back on all purchases No Annual Fee No Foreign Transaction Fees Flexible redemption options
| Intro Offer | N/A |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 18.49%-28.49% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
2% Earn 2% on purchases; 1% when you buy plus 1% as you pay
Features
The Citi Double Cash Card is a cashback credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on all of their purchases. The card offers a simple rewards program, no annual fee, and additional perks.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Citi Double Cash Card does not currently offer a sign-up bonus.
Annual Fee
The Citi Double Cash Card has no annual fee.
Additional Features
The Citi Double Cash Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Cashback rewards: Cardholders earn 2% cashback on all purchases, 1% when they make a purchase, and another 1% when they pay it off.
- No annual fee: The card has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to earn cashback rewards.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for 18 months (balance transfer fee applies).
- Citi Entertainment: Cardholders have access to special events and experiences through Citi Entertainment.
- Citi Private Pass: Cardholders have access to pre-sale tickets and VIP experiences through Citi Private Pass.
Drawbacks
While the Citi Double Cash Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- No sign-up bonus: The card does not currently offer a sign-up bonus for new cardholders.
- No bonus categories: The card does not offer bonus rewards for specific categories, which may be a downside for individuals who prefer a more targeted rewards program.
- Balance transfer fee: The card charges a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Overall, the Citi Double Cash Card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback rewards on all of their purchases and enjoy additional perks. However, the lack of a sign-up bonus and bonus categories may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
CITI Double Cash Card
Key Features
The Citi Double Cash Card is ideal for those seeking cashback on daily expenses, with no annual fee and a flat 2% cashback on all purchases.
No Annual Fee 2% cash back on all purchases No Foreign Transaction Fees Flexible redemption options
| Intro Offer | N/A |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 18.49%-28.49% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
Rewards
2%
Earn 2% on purchases; 1% when you buy plus 1% as you pay
Features
The Citi Double Cash Card is a cashback credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on all of their purchases. The card offers a simple rewards program, no annual fee, and additional perks.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Citi Double Cash Card does not currently offer a sign-up bonus.
Annual Fee
The Citi Double Cash Card has no annual fee.
Additional Features
The Citi Double Cash Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Cashback rewards: Cardholders earn 2% cashback on all purchases, 1% when they make a purchase, and another 1% when they pay it off.
- No annual fee: The card has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to earn cashback rewards.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for 18 months (balance transfer fee applies).
- Citi Entertainment: Cardholders have access to special events and experiences through Citi Entertainment.
- Citi Private Pass: Cardholders have access to pre-sale tickets and VIP experiences through Citi Private Pass.
Drawbacks
While the Citi Double Cash Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- No sign-up bonus: The card does not currently offer a sign-up bonus for new cardholders.
- No bonus categories: The card does not offer bonus rewards for specific categories, which may be a downside for individuals who prefer a more targeted rewards program.
- Balance transfer fee: The card charges a balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
Overall, the Citi Double Cash Card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback rewards on all of their purchases and enjoy additional perks. However, the lack of a sign-up bonus and bonus categories may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
Discover It
Key Features
No Annual Fee No foreign transaction fees High cash back rewards rate on rotating categories Matches all cashback earned in the first year
The Discover it Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories, such as gas, groceries, and restaurants. It also has a unique feature that matches all the cashback earned in the first year.
| Intro Offer | Cash Back Match |
| Intro APR | 0% for 15 months |
| Variable APR | 18.49%-28.49% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
5% Earn 5% on rotating categories each quarter
1% Earn 1% on all other purchases
Rewards and Earning Rates
The Discover It Card offers 5% cashback on up to $1,500 in purchases made in rotating quarterly categories, and 1% cashback on all other purchases. These categories typically include popular spending areas such as restaurants, gas stations, and online shopping. Cardholders must activate the bonus categories each quarter to earn the 5% cashback rate.Sign-Up Bonus
The card features a unique sign-up bonus called “Cashback Match.” Discover will match all cashback earned by the cardholder at the end of their first year of membership, effectively doubling their cashback rewards for that year.Annual Fee
The Discover It Card has no annual fee, making it an attractive option for those seeking a cashback credit card without the added cost of an annual fee.Travel Benefits
While the card is primarily a cashback card, it does offer some basic travel benefits, including:- No foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside the United States.
- Discover’s acceptance at over 190 countries and territories around the world.
Additional Perks
The Discover It Card also offers several additional benefits, such as:- Free access to your FICO credit score, allowing you to monitor your credit health.
- Freeze It feature, which allows you to temporarily freeze your account in case of misplaced or stolen cards.
- 100% U.S.-based customer service, providing quick and helpful assistance.
Drawbacks
The main drawbacks of the Discover It Card include the need to activate bonus categories each quarter, which may be inconvenient for some cardholders, and the limited acceptance of Discover cards compared to Visa or Mastercard, particularly in some international locations. Additionally, the card does not offer some premium travel benefits found on higher-tier credit cards.DISCOVER IT
Key Features
The Discover it Cash Back card offers 5% cash back on rotating categories, such as gas, groceries, and restaurants. It also has a unique feature that matches all the cashback earned in the first year.
No Annual Fee No foreign transaction fees High cash back rewards rate on rotating categories Matches all cashback earned in the first year
| Intro Offer | Cash Back Match |
| Intro APR | 0% for 15 months |
| Variable APR | 18.49%-28.49% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Good to Excellent |
Rewards
5%
Earn 5% on rotating categories each quarter
1%
Earn 1% on all other purchases
Features
The Discover it credit card is a rewards credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on their everyday spending. The card offers a generous rewards program, no annual fee, and additional benefits.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Discover it credit card offers a unique sign-up bonus in which they match all the cashback you earn at the end of your first year.
Annual Fee
The Discover it credit card has no annual fee.
Additional Features
The Discover it credit card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Rewards program: Cardholders earn 5% cashback on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in rotating bonus categories each quarter, and 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 14 months.
- Free FICO credit score access: Discover provides free access to your FICO credit score, helping you track your progress as you work to improve your credit.
- No foreign transaction fees: The card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for international travel.
- Cash at Checkout: Cardholders can receive cashback during the checkout process at participating retailers, which can be an easy way to earn additional cashback.
Drawbacks
While the Discover it credit card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Rotating bonus categories: The 5% cashback bonus categories change each quarter, which may be a downside for individuals who prefer a more predictable rewards program.
- Lower cashback rate on non-bonus purchases: The 1% cashback rate on non-bonus purchases is lower than some other rewards credit cards.
- Not widely accepted: Discover is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the Discover it credit card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback on their everyday spending and enjoy additional benefits. However, the rotating bonus categories and lower cashback rate on non-bonus purchases may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
Bank of America Travel Rewards
Key Features
Intro APR of 0% No foreign transaction fees High rewards on every purchase No blackout on travel rewards
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card is a top choice for earning travel rewards without an annual fee. It provides unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases and has no foreign transaction fees.
| Intro Offer | 60,000 points |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 18.24%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
1.5x Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases
Rewards and Earning Rates
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card offers a straightforward earning structure, with 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases. This simplicity makes it easy for cardholders to accumulate points without worrying about bonus categories or spending caps. Additionally, Bank of America Preferred Rewards members can earn 25% to 75% more points on every purchase, depending on their tier in the program.
Sign-Up Bonus
25,000 online bonus points if you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening – which can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel and dining purchases
Annual Fee
One of the main attractions of the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card is its $0 annual fee. This feature makes it an appealing option for those who want travel rewards without the burden of an ongoing fee.
Travel Benefits
While the card doesn’t offer an extensive suite of travel benefits like some premium travel cards, it does provide some noteworthy features, including:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees – The card charges no foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside the United States, making it an excellent option for international travelers.
- Travel Redemption Flexibility – Points can be redeemed for travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and more, with no blackout dates or restrictions.
Additional Perks
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card also offers a few additional benefits, such as:
- 0% Introductory APR – The card features a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 billing cycles, after which a variable APR will apply.
- Purchase Security – The card offers protection on eligible purchases against damage or theft for up to 90 days from the date of purchase.
- Extended Warranty – Cardholders receive an extended warranty on eligible purchases, adding up to one additional year to the original manufacturer’s warranty.
Drawbacks
The primary drawbacks of the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card are its lack of premium travel benefits and its modest rewards earning rate. Cardholders who frequently travel or spend heavily in specific categories may find other travel rewards cards with higher earning potential and additional perks more suitable.
Bank of America Travel Rewards
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card is a top choice for earning travel rewards without an annual fee. It provides unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases and has no foreign transaction fees.
Key Features
Intro APR of 0% No foreign transaction fees High rewards on every purchase No blackout on travel rewards
| Intro Offer | 60,000 miles |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Variable APR | 18.24%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
Rewards
1.5x Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases
Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is a cashback credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on their everyday spending. The card offers a generous rewards program, additional benefits, and some shopping and travel protections.
Sign-Up Bonus
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers a sign-up bonus of $300 cashback when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.
Annual Fee
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has no annual fee.
Additional Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Cashback rewards: Cardholders earn 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cashback at U.S. gas stations and on transit purchases, and 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases for the first 12 months.
- Shopping and travel protections: The card includes extended warranty, purchase protection, and travel accident insurance.
- Amex Offers: Cardholders have access to exclusive discounts and offers through the Amex Offers program.
- Free ShopRunner membership: Cardholders receive a free membership to the ShopRunner program, which offers free two-day shipping at participating retailers.
Drawbacks
While the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases: The 1% cashback rate on non-bonus purchases is lower than some other rewards credit cards.
- Not widely accepted: American Express is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback rewards on their everyday spending and enjoy additional benefits. However, the annual fee and lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card
Key Features
Intro APR of 0% Generous welcome offer No Rotating Categories High rewards groceries and streaming services
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card offers generous cashback on groceries, gas, and streaming, along with a big sign-up bonus. It also has a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
| Intro Offer | $300 statement credit |
| Intro APR | 0% for 15 months |
| Variable APR | 18.24%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
6% Earn 6% ash back on groceries and streaming services.
3% Earn 3% cash back on transit and gas
1% Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is a cashback credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on their everyday spending. The card offers a generous rewards program, additional benefits, and some shopping and travel protections.
Sign-Up Bonus
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers a sign-up bonus of $300 cashback when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.
Annual Fee
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has no annual fee.
Additional Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Cashback rewards: Cardholders earn 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cashback at U.S. gas stations and on transit purchases, and 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases for the first 12 months.
- Shopping and travel protections: The card includes extended warranty, purchase protection, and travel accident insurance.
- Amex Offers: Cardholders have access to exclusive discounts and offers through the Amex Offers program.
- Free ShopRunner membership: Cardholders receive a free membership to the ShopRunner program, which offers free two-day shipping at participating retailers.
Drawbacks
While the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases: The 1% cashback rate on non-bonus purchases is lower than some other rewards credit cards.
- Not widely accepted: American Express is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback rewards on their everyday spending and enjoy additional benefits. However, the annual fee and lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
AMERICAN EXPRESS BLUE CASH PREFERRED
Key Features
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card offers generous cashback on groceries, gas, and streaming, along with a big sign-up bonus. It also has a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Intro APR of 0% Generous welcome offer No Rotating Categories High rewards groceries and streaming services
| Intro Offer | $300 statement credit |
| Intro APR | 0% for 15 months |
| Variable APR | 18.24%-28.24% |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Credit Requirement | Excellent |
Rewards
6%
Earn 6% ash back on groceries and streaming services.
3%
Earn 3% cash back on transit and gas.
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card is a cashback credit card designed for individuals who want to earn cashback on their everyday spending. The card offers a generous rewards program, additional benefits, and some shopping and travel protections.
Sign-Up Bonus
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card offers a sign-up bonus of $300 cashback when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.
Annual Fee
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has a $95 annual fee.
Additional Features
The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card comes with several additional features that add value for cardholders, including:
- Cashback rewards: Cardholders earn 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cashback at U.S. gas stations and on transit purchases, and 1% cashback on all other purchases.
- Introductory APR: The card offers an introductory 0% APR on purchases for the first 12 months.
- Shopping and travel protections: The card includes extended warranty, purchase protection, and travel accident insurance.
- Amex Offers: Cardholders have access to exclusive discounts and offers through the Amex Offers program.
- Free ShopRunner membership: Cardholders receive a free membership to the ShopRunner program, which offers free two-day shipping at participating retailers.
Drawbacks
While the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:
- Annual fee: The card has a $95 annual fee, which may be a downside for some individuals.
- Lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases: The 1% cashback rate on non-bonus purchases is lower than some other rewards credit cards.
- Not widely accepted: American Express is not accepted as widely as some other credit card networks, which may limit the card’s usefulness in some situations.
Overall, the American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card can be a good option for individuals who want to earn cashback rewards on their everyday spending and enjoy additional benefits. However, the annual fee and lower rewards rate on non-bonus purchases may be a downside for some, and potential cardholders should be aware of these factors before applying.
