Best Credit Cards of 2025
Expert-reviewed credit card recommendations for rewards, cash back, travel, and more. Compare the top cards and find your perfect match.
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Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Best for Travel Rewards
60,000 points
Terms and conditions apply
Key Features
- Earn 5X points on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3X points on dining and select streaming
- 2X points on all other travel
- 25% more value when redeemed for travel
Pros
- ✓Excellent travel rewards
- ✓Valuable sign-up bonus
- ✓No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- ✗$95 annual fee
- ✗Better options for non-travelers
Citi® Double Cash Card
Best Cash Back Card
$200 cash back
Terms and conditions apply
Key Features
- Earn 2% cash back on every purchase
- 1% when you buy + 1% when you pay
- No annual fee
- Balance transfer options
Pros
- ✓Flat 2% back on everything
- ✓No annual fee
- ✓Simple rewards structure
Cons
- ✗No sign-up bonus categories
- ✗Basic perks compared to premium cards
American Express® Gold Card
Best for Dining
60,000 points
Terms and conditions apply
Key Features
- 4X points at restaurants worldwide
- 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000/year)
- $120 Uber Cash annually
- $120 dining credit at select restaurants
Pros
- ✓Exceptional dining rewards
- ✓Great perks offset annual fee
- ✓Strong travel benefits
Cons
- ✗High annual fee
- ✗Limited acceptance abroad
Capital One Venture Rewards
Best for Simple Travel Rewards
75,000 miles
Terms and conditions apply
Key Features
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase
- Transfer miles to 15+ travel partners
- $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
- No foreign transaction fees
Pros
- ✓Straightforward earning structure
- ✓Flexible redemption
- ✓Global Entry credit
Cons
- ✗$95 annual fee
- ✗Better options for specific categories
Discover it® Cash Back
Best for Rotating Categories
Cashback Match™
Terms and conditions apply
Key Features
- 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories
- 1% back on all other purchases
- Discover matches all cash back your first year
- No annual fee ever
Pros
- ✓No annual fee
- ✓Cash back match doubles rewards year 1
- ✓Excellent customer service
Cons
- ✗Must activate quarterly categories
- ✗Limited acceptance outside US
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for You
Factors to consider when selecting a credit card
1. Consider Your Spending Habits
Choose a card that rewards your largest spending categories. If you travel frequently, a travel rewards card makes sense. If you dine out often, look for dining bonuses.
2. Annual Fee vs. Benefits
Premium cards often have annual fees but offer valuable perks. Calculate if the rewards and benefits exceed the cost. No-annual-fee cards are great for simple cash back.
3. Sign-Up Bonuses
Many cards offer substantial sign-up bonuses worth hundreds of dollars. Make sure you can meet the spending requirements naturally without overspending.
4. Interest Rates & Fees
If you carry a balance, look for low APR cards or 0% introductory offers. Always check for foreign transaction fees if you travel internationally.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers and terms are subject to change. Always review the current terms and conditions on the issuer's website before applying. We may receive compensation from card issuers when you click links and are approved for a card. Editorial opinions are our own and have not been reviewed or approved by the advertisers.
Last updated: October 2025
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