
The Ten Most Beneficial Credit Cards
Reward-based credit cards come in all shapes and sizes, offering different reward rates, perks, and rules for how you earn and redeem points. Picking the right one can be tough, but choosing wisely can snag you some great benefits, and yes, real money. Here’s a look at our top 10 recommended reward credit cards:
**Chase Sapphire Preferred Card**
A solid pick if you travel and dine out a lot, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card gives you high reward rates and flexible redemption options. With a nice sign-up bonus and travel perks, it comes with a reasonable annual fee to boot.
**Pros:**
– High rewards for various spending categories
– Travel and shopping protections
**Cons:**
– Annual fee
– No introductory APR offer
**American Express Platinum Card**
This card is for the luxury-loving traveler, offering perks like airport lounge access. You can earn a variety of rewards, mainly through Membership Rewards points.
**Pros:**
– High reward categories
– Transfer partners available
– Luxury rewards
**Cons:**
– High annual fee of $695
– Complicated rewards program
– Requires good/excellent credit
**Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card**
The Capital One Venture Card is a top-notch travel card. You can earn 2–5 miles per dollar and enjoy a significant sign-up bonus, all with a straightforward rewards system.
**Pros:**
– Lower annual fee compared to similar cards
– Easy-to-earn and redeem miles
**Cons:**
– Limited domestic airline and luxury hotel partners
– No hotel status benefits
**Citi Premier Card**
Great for non-travel purchases, the Citi Premier Card offers 3X points on everyday expenses like dining and groceries.
**Pros:**
– Strong reward categories
– Points don’t expire
**Cons:**
– Annual fee
– Requires good/excellent credit
**Discover It Cash Back**
This card is a good choice for moderate spenders who utilize the 5% rotating bonus categories and keep track of quarterly spending caps.
**Pros:**
– Cashback match at the end of the first year
– No minimum cashback redemption
**Cons:**
– $1,500 quarterly cap on 5% cashback
– Bonus categories need activation each quarter
– Low rewards on other purchases
**Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card**
This card is great for travelers who want flexible rewards, particularly those with a strong banking relationship with Bank of America.
**Pros:**
– High sign-up bonus
– Attractive travel and dining rewards
– Quality travel protections
**Cons:**
– Annual fee
– Requires good/excellent credit
**Wells Fargo Active Cash Card**
With no annual fee, the Wells Fargo Active Cash offers a strong flat-rate cash reward, making it one of the best in its category.
**Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card**
This card shines for those loyal to Hilton, providing high points on Hilton purchases along with extra perks.
**Chase Freedom Unlimited**
For simple cash-back rewards with no annual fee, the Chase Freedom Unlimited is a standout option.
**Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card**
Tailored for frequent Southwest flyers, this card offers numerous incentives for loyal customers.
Before choosing a credit card, assess your spending habits and what benefits matter most to you. Always check the latest details on each card’s website since reward programs and terms can change.