The Ultimate Guide to Credit Cards
Saturday, July 18, 2026

4 Credit Card Comparison Charts: Rewards, Fees, Rates & Scores (July 2026)

Credit Card Comparison Chart
Brittney Mayer

Writer: Brittney Mayer

Brittney Mayer

Brittney Mayer, Credit Analyst

Brittney is a Credit Strategist and Finance Expert who has spent years honing her knowledge of the credit industry both personally and professionally. Brittney applies her more than a decade of research experience to crafting in-depth consumer guides designed to help CardRates readers make better, more informed financial decisions.

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Lillian Guevara-Castro

Editor: Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro, Senior Editor

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of editing and journalism experience to the CardRates team. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, Gwinnett Daily News, Gainesville Sun, and The New York Times, where she covered demographics, consumer issues, and the business and financial sectors. Lillian has a degree in journalism and communications from Georgia State University and brings her fact-checking expertise to ensure Digital Brands content is accurate and engaging.

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Ashley Fricker

Reviewer: Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker

Ashley Fricker, Senior Editor

Ashley Fricker has more than a decade of experience as a finance contributor and editor, and has specialized in the credit card industry since 2015. Her credit card commentary is featured on national media outlets that include CNBC, MarketWatch, Investopedia, and Reader's Digest, among many others. She has worked closely with the world’s largest banks and financial institutions, up-and-coming fintech companies, and press and news outlets to curate comprehensive content and media. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in multimedia journalism from Florida Atlantic University.

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A credit card comparison chart can be an extremely valuable took when exploring the numerous cards that are available to consumers these days — hopefully saving both time and money. Once upon a time, credit cards were simple devices, used to conveniently make purchases at your favorite store or restaurant that you paid off when your bill came due. Today, however, credit cards are a much more complicated beast.

The huge number of features and functions offered by the modern-day credit card can be a complex mess to even the most well-versed cardholder — and a sheer nightmare for the novice to navigate. Something so seemingly simple as selecting the right card can mean comparing everything from rewards and rates to fees and credit score requirements.

To help put it all into perspective, we’ve laid out many of the most common credit card features, complete with comparison charts, so you can get the big-picture view of what’s really going on with your card options.

Compare: Reward Type | APR Range | Fees | Credit Score Needed

Credit Card Rewards Comparison Chart

For many, one of the driving reasons to use a credit card for purchases is to take advantage of the rewards. In fact, whole legions of cardholders have turned maximizing credit card rewards into a way of life, with stories of these so-called churners’ amazing rewards feats abounding across the web.

And credit card issuers seem to be enjoying the rewards craze, too, using their rewards offerings to set themselves apart from the copious companies competing in the credit card marketplace. But with so many rewards out there, how are you supposed to choose one over another? Thankfully, when you boil rewards down to the basics, you have three types: cash back, points, and miles.

Credit Card Rewards Comparison Chart

Each of the three main rewards formats has its ups and downs. Cash back rewards are generally simpler to keep track of and redeem, while points and miles can offer a better value with specific redemption types. To make matters even muddier, the types of rewards can have their own variations, like branded versus generic travel miles rewards.

The way you earn those rewards can also vary, with two main earnings formats: unlimited flat-rate rewards and bonus category rewards. Unlimited flat-rate rewards are what they sound like, a single flat rewards rate for all card purchases, with no limit on how much you can earn. Cards with bonus rewards categories will offer a higher rewards rate for qualifying category purchases but will typically come with quarterly or annual purchase maximums.

Cash Back | Miles | Points

Best Cash Back Credit Cards

Simple and straightforward, cash back rewards offer a percentage of your purchase back as a rebate, typically redeemable as a statement credit or deposit into a qualifying bank account (generally accounts open with the issuing bank). Cash back rewards tend to have a set value at redemption that is true to their advertised rate; for example, spending $100 with a 2% cash back card will earn $2 in cash back rewards.

Since almost every major issuer has at least one or two cash back offerings, plenty of options are out there for nearly any spending type. Look for cash back bonus categories that best match your spending habits, such as choosing a card that offers bonus rewards for gas purchases if you spend a lot of time on the road. For non-category purchases or a rewards card that doesn’t require remembering categories, go with a flat-rate unlimited cash back card.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
  • Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
  • No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

Citi Double Cash® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) 0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.49% - 26.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

+See More Cash Back Cards

Best Air Miles Credit Cards

While frequent flyer programs require you to actually travel to earn miles, credit cards with miles rewards allow you to earn miles with every purchase, making them an easy way to earn free travel. Air miles credit cards come in two flavors, airline co-branded and issuer-branded, and the per-mile value you get at redemption will vary depending on the nature of the miles, as well as how you redeem them.

Co-branded air miles cards allow you to directly earn airline-branded frequent flyer miles, which automatically accrue in your frequent flyer account. On the other hand, generic miles cards allow you to earn flexible travel miles that can typically be redeemed directly as credit for travel-related expenses or transferred to a partner airline loyalty program.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Excellent, Good

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $395
Credit Needed Excellent

Capital One Venture Business

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn a one-time welcome bonus of 100,000 miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
  • Receive up to $220 in credits: Receive an annual $50 travel credit for bookings through Capital One Business Travel, up to an annual $50 statement credit for purchases at qualifying advertising or software merchants, plus up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® every four years. Terms and conditions apply
  • Unlimited 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Business Travel
  • Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
  • $95 annual fee
  • Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 24.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Excellent

+See More Air Miles Cards

Best Points Credit Cards

Credit card rewards points programs can vary significantly in utility and value, based mostly on whether the points you earn are generic issuer-branded points or co-branded with a specific brand partner. For instance, hotel co-branded points are often only redeemable for expenses at that particular hotel brand.

In contrast, generic issuer-branded rewards points often provide significantly more redemption flexibility, with the per-point value dependent on how you choose to redeem. For most programs, cash back redemption will provide the lowest per-point value, while redeeming for travel or transferring points to an airline or hotel partner can provide great per-point value.

Citi Strata Premier® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
  • Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $95
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Citi Strata℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
  • Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
  • No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases) 0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com and 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com
  • Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights℠ purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time
  • Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
  • Up to $300 Annual Hotel Benefit: Each calendar year, enjoy up to $300 off a hotel stay of two nights or more when booked through cititravel.com.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 20.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $595
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

+See More Rewards Points Cards

Credit Card APR Comparison Chart

Though it can be easy to forget sometimes, credit cards are a form of debt — and that debt isn’t free. Every time you make a purchase with your card, you borrow that money from your issuer, and if you don’t pay it back, you’ll be charged interest to continue borrowing those funds. The annual percentage rate, or APR, listed in your cardholder agreement tells you how much that debt will cost you to borrow.

But your new purchase APR isn’t the only interest rate about which you may need to worry. Balances from other transaction types, including balance transfers and cash advances, will often have their own individual APRs. Late payments can also cause a fourth type of APR to go into effect: the penalty APR, which can replace your new purchase APR until you meet specified conditions (or last indefinitely).

Credit Card Interest Rate Comparison Chart

On the bright side, the fees from all four types of interest rates can generally be avoided with a little work. For example, paying your balance off before the end of your grace period is a simple way to avoid paying interest fees on new purchases, and you can avoid cash advances to side-step that APR. And, you guessed it, paying on time each month can keep you free from penalty APRs.

If you can’t avoid carrying a balance from a new purchase or really need a balance transfer, you can still find ways to eliminate — or, at least, reduce — the interest you’ll have to pay. Introductory 0% APR offers can be found by those with good credit to cut the rate on new purchases and balance transfer alike. For a longer-term solution, try a card with a low ongoing APR to save year-round.

0% New Purchases | 0% Balance Transfers | Low Ongoing APRs

Best Cards with Introductory 0% APR on New Purchases

Interest-free offers have long been a part of consumer credit, but the modern credit card has taken it to a level all its own. Promotional 0% APR offers, usually offered as an introductory deal to new applicants, can give you 12 months or more of interest-free new purchases.

What’s more, most open-loop credit cards with intro-APR offers don’t use deferred interest, so you won’t be charged interest for the whole balance if you have some left over when your terms expire. Plus, if your card also offers purchase rewards, you can earn cash back, points, or miles all while paying no interest on your purchases.

BankAmericard® credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.6/5.0
BankAmericard® credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • No annual fee.
  • No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR 14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
  • Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
  • No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

Citi Strata℠ Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn 20,000 bonus Points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months; after that, the variable APR will be 18.49% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 3 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent in an eligible Self-Select Category of your choice (Fitness Clubs, Select Streaming Services, Live Entertainment, Cosmetic Stores/Barber Shops/Hair Salons, or Pet Supply Stores). Choose your eligible Self-Select Category on Citi Online or by calling customer service. The default Self-Select Category is Select Streaming Services.
  • Earn 5 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals and Attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com; earn 3 ThankYou Points for each $1 spent at Supermarkets, on Select Transit purchases, and at Gas & EV Charging Stations.
  • Earn 2 ThankYou® Points for each $1 spent at Restaurants; earn 1 ThankYou® Point for each $1 spent on All Other Purchases.
  • No Annual Fee
Intro (Purchases) 0% 15 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% 15 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

+See More Cards with 0% on New Purchases

Best Cards with Introductory 0% APR on Balance Transfers

Balance transfers are used by many balance-carrying cardholders as a way to move a high-interest credit card balance to a card with a lower interest rate, thus reducing the cost of carrying the balance each month. And the best way to ensure you get the lowest possible rate for your transferred balance is by using an introductory balance transfer 0% APR deal to pay no interest on your balance for 12 months or more.

Be aware of the potential balance transfer fees, however. Ranging from 3% to 5% of the transfer amount, balance transfer fees can be costly depending on the size of your balance. To avoid the fee, you should look for a credit card that not only provides a 0% APR offer for balance transfers, but also won’t charge a balance transfer fee for the service.

BankAmericard® credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.6/5.0
BankAmericard® credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • No annual fee.
  • No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR 14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening. After that the variable APR will be 16.49% - 27.24%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • No Annual Fee - our low intro rates and all the benefits don't come with a yearly charge.
  • Buy now and pay later. Split your payment for eligible purchases of $75 or more into a fixed payment with Citi® Flex Pay.
  • Get free access to your FICO® Score online.
Intro (Purchases) 0% 12 months on Purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% 21 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 16.49% - 27.24% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

BankAmericard® credit card for Students

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
BankAmericard® credit card for Students Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • No annual fee.
  • No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
  • When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR 14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

+See More Cards with 0% on Balance Transfers

Best Cards with Low Ongoing APRs

Although promotional offers that lower your interest rates can be a great way to save on costly fees, these offers are always temporary promotions that will expire after the period ends. Since any remaining balance you have will start accruing interest at the default new purchase or balance transfer APR, the utility of these offers lasts only as long as their terms.

If you tend to carry a balance on a regular basis and a temporary offer won’t cut the cake, a better option may be to find a card with a low ongoing APR that won’t expire. Each card has a predetermined APR range, with the exact APR you receive dependent upon your credit, so choosing a card with a lower APR range will help ensure you wind up with a lower overall APR.

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.49% - 26.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

USAA Rate Advantage Visa® Platinum Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.4/5.0
USAA Rate Advantage Visa® Platinum Credit Card Review

at Usaa Savings'ssecure website

  • Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on Balance Transfers and Convenience Checks that post to your account within 90 days of account opening. After this time, the Variable Regular APR will apply to your balance.
  • Our lowest-rate card: Pay less in interest if you carry a balance from month to month
  • Travel benefits include Auto Rental Coverage, Travel Accident Insurance, Baggage Delay and Reimbursement, and Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage
  • No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
  • This offer is only open to members of military-affiliated groups and their families
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) 0% for 15 Months
Regular APR 9.15% - 26.15% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good to Excellent

DCU Visa® Platinum Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.0/5.0
DCU Visa® Platinum Credit Card Review

at the issuer'ssecure website

  • Extended Warranty With Warranty Manager Service
  • No annual fee, foreign transaction fee, balance transfer fee, or cash advance fees
  • Must meet eligibility criteria to join Digital Federal Credit Union
  • Fraud notifications and the ability to freeze/unfreeze your credit card
  • When you add your DCU credit or debit card to your Mobile Wallet and make a purchase, your personal information is encrypted – so even if retailer is hacked, your cards won’t be compromised
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR As low as 12.75%
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Average/Good

+See More Cards with Low Ongoing APRs

Credit Card Fee Comparison Chart

Outside of interest rate charges, your credit card can come with a range of other fees depending on the benefits and services it offers. These fees come in a variety of guises, with annual or monthly maintenance fees being the most common. Other fees are generally charged for specific services, like completing transactions in foreign currencies, transferring a credit card balance, or making a cash advance.

In some cases, these fees can be worth paying. For example, a high annual fee for a rewards credit card can often be offset by the rewards earned with the card, or by the value of the associated benefits, like airport lounge access or elite status with a particular brand.

Credit Card Fees Comparison Chart

If you’re less inclined to pay costly credit card fees, of course, there are ways to avoid most of them. The easiest to avoid are the various service fees, such as cash advance fees; if you don’t make any cash advances (or cash-equivalent transactions, like buying lotto tickets or money orders), you won’t be charged any cash advance fees.

Other credit card fees may be avoided by simply selecting a credit card that doesn’t charge them. A wide range of credit cards come without annual fees, for instance, and many quality credit card options are out there that don’t charge foreign transaction fees. A little research can even reveal a handful of solid balance transfer credit cards that don’t charge balance transfer fees for the service.

No Annual Fee | No Foreign Transaction Fee | No Balance Transfer Fee

Best Cards with No Annual Fee

Credit card annual fees are one of the few fees that can often tell you a lot about the card itself. For example, if a credit card has a three-digit annual fee, it’s typically either a high-end rewards card for those with good to excellent credit — or a pricey subprime card for those with poor credit.

Outside the subprime cards, however, annual fees aren’t generally necessary to find a quality credit card, not even one that offers solid rewards. These days, eliminating the annual fee is yet another way for credit card issuers to help their product stand out from the massive, massive crowd of contenders. While this can be a bummer for issuers, it’s a definite win for cardholders.

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.49% - 26.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Chase Freedom Flex℠

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
  • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
  • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.24% - 27.99%.
  • No annual fee - You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex℠ card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health - Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR 19.24% - 27.99% Variable
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Flex℠ was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.99% - 28.49%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR on Purchases 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months
Regular APR 18.99% - 28.49% Variable
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Freedom Unlimited® was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.

+See More Cards with No Annual Fee

Best Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fee

Nearly every time you make a credit card purchase in another currency, whether in the US or abroad, your payment must be converted from US dollars to the native currency (or vice versa, for visitors to the US). These purchases are called foreign transactions by the card companies and can be charged a 2% to 4% fee for the bother of converting the currency to the appropriate form.

Besides simply avoiding transactions in foreign currencies, which isn’t always an option, the easiest way to skip the foreign transaction fees is to choose a card that doesn’t charge them in the first place. Thankfully, a wide range of cards come sans-fees, including many travel-centered credit cards that can also reward you for things like dining and airfare as you venture abroad.

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.49% - 26.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) 0% for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% for 15 months
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent, Good

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
  • Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
  • Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
  • Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
  • Member FDIC
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
Annual Fee $795
Credit Needed Good/Excellent

Additional Disclosure: Non-Monetized. The information related to Chase Sapphire Reserve® was collected by CardRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see issuer website for current information. CardRates does not receive commission for this product.

+See More Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fee

Best Cards with No Balance Transfer Fee

Given the average credit card APR lies around 16.8%, according to Bankrate, and can top 30% for those with particularly poor credit — carrying a balance on your cards from month to month can get pretty pricey pretty quickly. One way many people avoid paying high interest fees is by transferring their balance from a high-APR card to one with a lower APR (or a 0% intro-APR deal) to reduce their fees.

Unfortunately, this isn’t exactly a fool-proof plan, primarily because many credit cards charge a balance transfer fee of 3% to 5% of the transferred balance. Worse, this fee can reduce the total amount you can transfer. Instead, you can choose a credit card that doesn’t charge a balance transfer fee, just keep in mind that most of these exclusions apply to balances transferred during specific time periods.

BankAmericard® credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.6/5.0
BankAmericard® credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • New! 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 14.99% - 25.99% will apply. A 5% fee applies to all balance transfers. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • No annual fee.
  • No penalty APR. Paying late won't automatically raise your interest rate (APR). Other account pricing and terms apply.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 21 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 5% of the amount of each transaction)
Regular APR 14.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

+See More Cards with No Balance Transfer Fee

Credit Card Credit Score Comparison Chart

While it’s true that a variety of factors influence whether your credit card application is accepted, your creditworthiness will definitely carry the most weight. One of the key ways most people (and many lenders) categorize creditworthiness is through credit scores, the most common of which is the FICO Score (or, more specifically, the FICO Score 8).

But it’s important to remember that your credit score is based on your credit reports — reports that creditors will likely investigate themselves, rather than simply relying on your score. So you’ll need more than just a high credit score to qualify for most credit cards; you’ll also need clean credit reports, too.

Credit Card Credit Score Comparison Chart

When giving your credit reports a going-over, it can be helpful to keep in mind the five factors that go into calculating your credit score. Making up 35% of your score is your payment history, where late payments and defaults are reported. Your total debt and credit utilization will show up under your amounts owed, worth 30% of your score.

The length of your credit history will also play a big role, sometimes more so than its 15% credit score value may let on. The same can also be said about your new accounts factor that, while worth only 10% of your FICO score, can get you rejected on its own if you have too many new accounts. Lastly, your credit mix makes up the final 10%, with a healthy mix of revolving and installment loans receiving the highest marks.

Excellent | Good | Fair | Bad | No/Limited

Best Cards for Excellent Credit

To those with excellent credit, few credit cards are out of reach. And with good reason. To obtain excellent credit scores, namely a FICO Score of 740 or higher, one must demonstrate many of the positive credit behaviors that creditors look for in the ideal candidate.

Specifically, to have excellent credit, you’ll generally need an established credit history of at least one year that is free from any negatives, including delinquent payments. You should also maintain a low credit utilization rate — i.e., low credit card balances — and low debt-to-income ratio. In return, you’ll receive the lowest interest rates and easily qualify for many of the best rewards cards.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn 6% cash back for the first year in the category of your choice. You’ll automatically earn 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. After the first year from account opening, you’ll earn 3% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
  • Earn 6% and 2% cash back on the first $2,500 in combined purchases each quarter in the choice category, and at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, then earn unlimited 1% thereafter. After the 3% first-year bonus offer ends, you will earn 3% and 2% cash back on these purchases up to the quarterly maximum.
  • No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Select your card design option when you apply – the Customized Cash Rewards design, or the limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ design.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $395
Credit Needed Excellent

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card Review

at Bank Of America'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on everyday purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants, including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 17.49% - 27.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 5%. Balance transfers may not be used to pay any account provided by Bank of America.
  • This offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days (Balance Transfer Fee 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 5%)
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Bank of America is a CardRates advertiser.

+See More Cards for Excellent Credit

Best Cards for Good Credit

Just down the rung from excellent credit lie those with good credit, or FICO Scores between 670 and 739. While good-credit consumers will show many of the same responsible credit behaviors as those with excellent credit, they may have shorter credit histories, higher utilization rates, or a reported late payment in the (moderately distant) credit past.

Happily, those with good credit can still qualify for most of the prime credit cards that are available to those with excellent credit, including quality rewards cards and intro-APR offers. That being said, the interest rates offered to those with good credit may be a bit higher and credit limits a bit lower than those given to higher credit scores.

Discover it® Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount. No annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.49% - 26.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% Intro APR for 15 months
Regular APR 17.49% - 26.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Citi Double Cash® Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.8/5.0
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked with Citi Travel.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.49% - 27.49%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) 0% 18 months on Balance Transfers
Regular APR 17.49% - 27.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent/Good

Additional Disclosure: Citi is a CardRates advertiser.

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.9/5.0
  • Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
  • 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 18.49% - 28.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) 0% for 15 months
Intro (Transfers) 0% for 15 months
Regular APR 18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Excellent, Good

+See More Cards for Good Credit

Best Cards for Fair Credit

When your credit score is in the fair range, which is FICO Scores between 580 and 669, you are likely building — or rebuilding — your credit history and scores. Those with fair credit may have fairly short credit histories, a few fairly recent negative items (like delinquent payments), or a particularly high credit utilization rate.

Because your fair credit score could be due to any number of factors, those with fair credit tend to exist in a bit of a credit card limbo. While you’ll likely still qualify for some of the more basic or entry-level prime credit cards, depending on which end of the fair-credit spectrum you fall, you may also need to look into secured credit cards or subprime cards to build credit.

Capital One Platinum Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
  • Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
  • Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
  • Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Average, Fair, Limited

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.7/5.0
  • Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
  • No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and you can use your cash back for any amount–get gift cards, cover purchases or redeem for cash. Plus, rewards don’t expire for the life of the account
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card usage
  • Enjoy unlimited access to your credit score and tools to help you monitor your credit profile with CreditWise from Capital One
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases with your SavorOne Card and enjoy exclusive access and cardholder perks
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Capital One SavorOne cardholders can pay with their rewards via PayPal Pay with Rewards and at Amazon.com
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $39
Credit Needed Average, Fair, Limited

Discover it® Student Cash Back

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200.
  • Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Redeem cash back for any amount
  • No credit score required to apply.
  • No annual fee and build credit with responsible use.
  • 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 16.49% - 25.49% applies.
  • Terms and conditions apply.
Intro (Purchases) 0% Intro APR for 6 months
Intro (Transfers) 10.99% Intro APR for 6 months
Regular APR 16.49% - 25.49% Variable APR
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Fair/New to Credit

+See More Cards for Fair Credit

Best Cards for Bad Credit

At the bottom of the credit score totem pole lies those with bad credit, which are consumers with FICO Scores below 580. These consumers likely carry high credit card balances and have multiple recent negative marks on their credit reports — or, in the case of bankruptcy or default, a single, big negative mark.

To potential creditors, a low credit score indicates a high level of credit risk, meaning they see you as having a higher chance of defaulting on your debt. As a result, it’ll be very difficult to qualify for a regular prime credit card, making subprime and secured credit cards likely your only option until you can build a better credit score.

Surge® Platinum Mastercard®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.1/5.0
Surge® Platinum Mastercard® Review

at Continental Finance'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • Up to $1,000 Initial Credit Limit
  • See if you Pre-Qualify with No Impact to your Credit Score
  • Less than perfect credit? We understand. The Surge Mastercard is ideal for people looking to rebuild their credit.
  • Unsecured credit card requires No Security Deposit
  • Perfect card for everyday purchases and unexpected expenses
  • Monthly reporting to the three major credit bureaus
  • Use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted at millions of locations
  • Enjoy peace of mind with Mastercard Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized purchases (subject to Mastercard guidelines)
  • Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
Intro (Purchases) See website for Details
Intro (Transfers) See website for Details
Regular APR 35.90% Fixed
Annual Fee $75 - $125
Credit Needed Bad, Limited, Fair

PREMIER Bankcard® Mastercard® Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★ 3.0/5.0
PREMIER Bankcard® Mastercard® Credit Card Review

at PREMIER Bankcard®'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • PREMIER Bankcard credit cards are for building credit.
  • Start building credit by keeping your balances low and paying all your bills on time each month.
  • When you need assistance our award-winning US-based Customer Service agents are there to help.
  • Credit Limit Increase Eligible after 12 months of consistent responsible account management.
  • We report monthly to the Consumer Reporting Agencies to help you build your credit.
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR See Provider Website
Annual Fee See Provider Website
Credit Needed Fair/Poor

Milestone® Mastercard®

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 3.8/5.0
Milestone® Mastercard® Review

at Milestone Mastercard®'ssecure website

Our Review »
  • Guaranteed $700 credit limit if approved.
  • Apply with Confidence! There is no impact to your credit score if you’re not approved. See terms.
  • Don't Have Perfect Credit? No Problem!
  • Join over a million consumers who are working on building their access to credit.
  • Zero Fraud Liability - Peace of mind that comes with having a Mastercard.
  • Get the credit you deserve, even with less-than-perfect history.
  • No security deposit, and a path to better credit.
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR See terms
Annual Fee See terms
Credit Needed Bad/Limited/Fair

+See More Cards for Bad Credit

Best Cards for No/Limited Credit

Somewhere in the nebulous area between bad credit and fair credit lives those with no or limited credit. In general, this means consumers who have less than six months of reported credit history and are thus unable to qualify for a FICO credit score.

Without a credit score and established history to give creditors an idea of your potential risk, most issuers will simply lump you into the high-risk category. Most — but not all. A number of cards on the market are aimed directly at those with no/limited credit, including some entry-level prime cards, which can be used (responsibly) to start building your credit.

Secured Self Visa® Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★ 4.2/5.0
Secured Self Visa® Credit Card Review

at the issuer'ssecure website

  • The secured Self Visa® Credit Card* requires no credit check or minimum score.
  • Reports to all 3 major credit bureaus to establish and build credit, with free access to your credit score.
  • Secure your credit line with a refundable security deposit as low as $100.**
  • Deposits are returned upon account closure after settling outstanding balances.
  • *The secured Self Visa® Credit Card is issued by Lead Bank, Sunrise Banks, N.A., or First Century Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC.
  • **Qualification for the secured Self Visa® Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements and establishment of security interest. Criteria subject to change.
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR Variable APR of 27.49%
Annual Fee $0 annual fee for the first year only, $25 annual fee thereafter
Credit Needed None, Limited, Poor, Fair

Capital One Platinum Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • No annual or hidden fees. See if you're approved in seconds
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
  • Help build your credit through responsible use of a card like this
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
  • Get access to your account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online banking from your desktop or smartphone, with Capital One's mobile app
  • Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set
  • Pay by check, online or at a local branch, all with no fee - and pick the monthly due date that works best for you
  • Top rated mobile app
Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR 28.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee $0
Credit Needed Average, Fair, Limited

The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card

CardRates Expert Rating ★★★★★ 4.5/5.0
  • No minimum balance requirements*
  • No credit check**
  • 2% cash back on category of choice with direct deposit***
  • The perks of credit building meet the best of banking****
  • Chime Checking Account required to apply for the Chime Visa® Credit Card
  • Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The secured Chime Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank.
    *Money added to Chime CardTM will be held in a secured deposit account as collateral for your Chime Card, and you can spend up to this amount. You can use money deposited in your Secured Deposit Account to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
    **Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over the counter advance fees may apply.
    ***With a qualifying direct deposit, earn 2% cash back on category of choice on eligible secured Chime Visa® Credit Card purchases.
    ****On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.

Intro (Purchases) N/A
Intro (Transfers) N/A
Regular APR N/A
Annual Fee No annual fees
Credit Needed Poor/Fair/Limited/Damaged

+See More Cards for No/Limited Credit

Which Card Reigns Supreme?

Looking at the vast field of credit card options, it’s amazing to think that just a few decades ago, things like cash back rewards were barely a twinkle in Discover’s eye. Today, the typical credit card has more features and functions than you can shake a stick at.

With such a wide array of offerings, it’s only natural to start wondering which credit card leads the pack. Well, the answer is: none. As with nearly everything in today’s world, credit cards have become a very personalized thing, with no one card fitting the exact needs of every consumer.

In the end, the very best credit card will be the best card for you, which means it suits your particular spending habits, rewards style, interest rate needs, fee exceptions, and credit range. The best card for you will likely vary greatly from the best card for your neighbor.

Furthermore, just as our financial needs can change over the years so, too, can the best card for those needs. As such, it’s a good idea to regularly audit your credit card collection for unnecessary cards, particularly those that card annual fees, to ensure they’re worth their cost.

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