Best credit cards of January 2026
To help you find the best credit cards for your needs, our top credit cards list recognizes the most exceptional cards on the market for 2026, as determined by our expert editors. Each year, our team meticulously evaluates credit cards across various categories, crowning a winner for each based on evolving 2026 consumer needs.
To ensure a well-rounded assessment, our editors consider a range of key metrics, including updated APR ranges, revised annual fee structures, and current rewards structures. Closely considering these metrics helps ensure that the best credit cards are objectively represented for today’s market.
OUR FEATURED CARD LIST
CardRatings’ top picks for the best credit cards
Our team of credit card experts regularly analyzes the wide range of credit card offerings to ensure this list accurately reflects the best credit card offers available. We consider various factors including reward programs, annual fees, interest rates and additional card benefits and perks. By carefully analyzing these factors, we’ve selected top credit cards that offer exceptional value and benefits tailored to various consumer needs.
Why we like it
Cardholders have the power here. You choose where you can earn the most cash back from among a list of popular categories. That makes this an incredibly flexible (and possibly lucrative!) card for a wide range of card users.
Cardholders have the power here. You choose where you can earn the most cash back from among a list of popular categories. That makes this an incredibly flexible (and possibly lucrative!) card for a wide range of card users.
- The freedom to choose the category in which to earn the highest rewards makes this customizable card an excellent option for many people's spending habits.
- If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client, you can earn even more: 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase.
- Take advantage of intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration, and balance transfers made in the first 60 days (then, reg_apr,reg_apr_type). Keep in mind though that balance transfer fees apply: balance_transfer_fees.
- The cash-back opportunities are good, but they're great for Bank of America Preferred Rewards clients. If that's not you, you might want to look elsewhere for higher cash-back earning.
- Be aware that this card charges foreign transaction fees, so you'll want to carry another option along when you travel abroad or when you shop in foreign currency from home.
- You can only adjust your cash-back earning category once per calendar month. If an unexpected expense comes up in a different category after you've already made your choice, you won't be able to switch that category until the following month rolls around.
Why we like it
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases with no categories to track or quarterly activations - it's as simple as that.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases with no categories to track or quarterly activations - it's as simple as that.
- Cardholders can enjoy up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft (subject to a $25 deductible) which is a great perk for a no-annual-fee card.
- The card offers an intro APR period on purchases and eligible balance transfers, which is nice for those looking for some extra time to pay off purchases interest free.
- Savvy shoppers willing to employ a little more strategy might prefer cards with rotating bonus categories.
Why we like it
A lucrative signup bonus, excellent ongoing rewards and flexibility with redemptions make this an excellent starter card for people who want to start racking up travel rewards.
A lucrative signup bonus, excellent ongoing rewards and flexibility with redemptions make this an excellent starter card for people who want to start racking up travel rewards.
- This card's welcome bonus has the potential to go a really long way thanks to the boost in the value of points when redeemed through Chase Travel℠.
- Points earned with this card stand to be even more valuable when transferred to one of Chase's numerous travel partners.
- This card is an excellent complement to other Ultimate Rewards-earning cards, such as card_name or even business cards like the card_name. Combine all your points into a single pot and, depending on which card you group them under, they may be worth even more. Learn more in our Guide to Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
- This card's rewards earning works well for a certain type of spender, but not everyone. Remember you'll only earn bonus rewards in select categories. If these categories aren't among your regular spending categories, you'd likely be better off with a different card.
- There is the annual_fees annual fee to consider, so make sure you'll earn (and redeem!) enough rewards to more than offset the fee.
Why we like it
The card stands out for providing a massive suite of statement credits that can easily offset its annual fee, including a versatile travel credit and new luxury hotel benefits. We also like it for its comprehensive travel protections and access to an expanding network of premium airport lounges. Ultimately, it is our top choice for travelers who want a premium card that delivers significant value through both high-end perks and simple, rewarding points.
The card stands out for providing a massive suite of statement credits that can easily offset its annual fee, including a versatile travel credit and new luxury hotel benefits. We also like it for its comprehensive travel protections and access to an expanding network of premium airport lounges. Ultimately, it is our top choice for travelers who want a premium card that delivers significant value through both high-end perks and simple, rewarding points.
- You receive a flexible annual credit that automatically offsets a wide variety of travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to transit and parking.
- Cardholders enjoy entry into a vast global network of airport lounges, including the growing number of exclusive Sapphire Lounges.
- Your points can be worth significantly more when used for travel through the issuer's portal, or they can be transferred to several major airline and hotel partners.
- The card carries a very high yearly cost that may be difficult to justify for those who do not travel or spend frequently.
- Many of the newer benefits and statement credits are split into specific timeframes, requiring more active management to fully maximize their value.
- While travel and dining purchases earn points quickly, all other everyday spending earns at a much lower rate compared to simpler cards.
Why we like it
This is a standout choice for anyone whose primary spending happens around the kitchen table or out on the town. We love that it offers high-tier rewards on dining and groceries without the burden of an annual fee, making it easy to earn significant cash back on your daily essentials and entertainment. With its straightforward rewards structure and a generous, attainable welcome bonus, this card is a simple yet powerful tool for foodies to maximize their spending.
This is a standout choice for anyone whose primary spending happens around the kitchen table or out on the town. We love that it offers high-tier rewards on dining and groceries without the burden of an annual fee, making it easy to earn significant cash back on your daily essentials and entertainment. With its straightforward rewards structure and a generous, attainable welcome bonus, this card is a simple yet powerful tool for foodies to maximize their spending.
- You earn a high, unlimited rate of cash back on daily essentials like groceries and popular lifestyle categories like dining, streaming, and entertainment.
- This card is ideal for international use as it does not charge extra fees for foreign transactions.
- You get access to premium rewards and benefits without having to pay a yearly fee to keep the card in your wallet.
- You will only earn the minimum base rate on groceries if you shop at massive retail chains like Walmart or Target, which are excluded from the higher bonus category.
- For any purchases that fall outside of the specific food and entertainment categories, you earn a much lower rate of return compared to some flat-rate cards.
Why we like it
This is the only card we know of that offers 6% back (up to $6,000 spent annually) in a category that just about every family spends in with some regularity: U.S. supermarkets. American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
This is the only card we know of that offers 6% back (up to $6,000 spent annually) in a category that just about every family spends in with some regularity: U.S. supermarkets. American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
- This is among the highest reward rates out there for U.S. supermarket purchases, meaning it could be a very lucrative card for someone who regularly spends there.
- Low intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for intro_apr_duration from the date of account opening, then reg_apr,reg_apr_type. Balance transfer fee applies: balance_transfer_fees
- We love this card for families since it rewards purchases with U.S. supermarkets (6% cash back up to $6,000 spent in a year, then 1%), on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (6% cash back), at U.S. gas stations (3% cash back), and on transit (3% cash back); all categories that many families find themselves spending in with some frequency.
- As an American Express card, it isn't as widely accepted as cards issued by Visa or Mastercard, but the American Express network is ever-expanding both in the U.S. and abroad.
- Speaking of using this card while abroad, that's not the best idea as it charges foreign transaction fees, something you can avoid with many cards.
- There's also the annual fee to consider; you'll want to go through your budget carefully to determine whether you'll earn enough rewards to more than offset the annual fee.
Why we like it
Thanks to no annual fee and strong rewards rates for popular everyday categories, this card is great for both gas and routine purchases alike! If you like the sound of its sister card_name, but aren't interested in paying an annual fee, this may be the card for you.
Thanks to no annual fee and strong rewards rates for popular everyday categories, this card is great for both gas and routine purchases alike! If you like the sound of its sister card_name, but aren't interested in paying an annual fee, this may be the card for you.
- This card could be considered a winner in so many categories. It's great for gas purchases, yes, but it's also good for U.S. supermarket purchases, online retail purchases, and more.
- Need extra time to pay off a new purchase, or have an existing balance you'd like to transfer? Good news. This card offers 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for intro_apr_duration from the date of account opening. After that, reg_apr,reg_apr_type APR applies.
- This card is comparable to its sister card_name. It comes with many similar perks, but all for no annual fee.
- There's no annual fee, but there is a cap on the amount of rewards you can earn in bonus categories each year. If you think you'll spend beyond that rewards cap, it might be worth considering another option that has a higher, or no cap. Even if it has an annual fee, if you're spending heavily with the card, there's a good chance you might offset it.
- If you think you can offset the annual fee, you stand to earn more with the sister card_name. It still has a cap on rewards, but the rewards rates are higher.
Why we like it
The categories in which you can earn the highest amounts of cash back run the gamut from fairly typical to pretty unusual and the spending cap is high enough to make this a reasonable card choice for many small businesses. Plus, mobile phone protection is a nice added perk that could save just about any business some money.
The categories in which you can earn the highest amounts of cash back run the gamut from fairly typical to pretty unusual and the spending cap is high enough to make this a reasonable card choice for many small businesses. Plus, mobile phone protection is a nice added perk that could save just about any business some money.
- This card has one of the most lucrative sign-up bonuses on the market and has an incredible value when redeemed through Chase Travel.
- The spending cap in the bonus categories is high at $150,000, so it can meet the needs of a just-getting-started business as well as an already-on-the-move business.
- Pay your cellular bill on your card and you'll receive cellular phone insurance for the primary line as well as other phones on the account.
- There is an annual fee to consider, so make sure the rewards categories truly fit your businesses needs or else the fee might not be worth it.
- Remember that there is a spending cap in the bonus categories, so if you spend well above a combined $150,000 a year on travel and the other select business categories, you'll only earn 1% back on the additional spending.
- Frequent travelers are likely to get the most value out of this card, so if travel isn't a big part of your business' spending, you might want to consider another option as your small business credit card.
Why we like it
This is a powerhouse for high-revenue businesses, offering an exceptional welcome bonus for substantial spenders right out of the gate. We value how it rewards heavy business investments with high-tier points while providing elite travel utility through an extensive airport lounge network and significant annual statement credits. It remains a top-shelf choice for business owners who want to turn their professional overhead into luxury travel experiences.
This is a powerhouse for high-revenue businesses, offering an exceptional welcome bonus for substantial spenders right out of the gate. We value how it rewards heavy business investments with high-tier points while providing elite travel utility through an extensive airport lounge network and significant annual statement credits. It remains a top-shelf choice for business owners who want to turn their professional overhead into luxury travel experiences.
- You can unlock thousands of dollars in annual value through targeted statement credits for business essentials like Dell and Adobe, alongside premium travel perks for hotels and airlines.
- Cardholders gain entry to the industry's most extensive lounge network, including exclusive Centurion Lounges and over 1,550 locations worldwide.
- Beyond standard transfers, you get a significant portion of your points back when booking flights with your selected airline, making your rewards go much further.
- The card carries a very high annual fee that requires significant spending and benefit utilization to justify as a yearly expense.
- Many of the most valuable perks require manual enrollment or are split into monthly and quarterly increments, which can be tedious to manage.
- While travel and large purchases are well-rewarded, most everyday business expenses earn a much lower baseline rate compared to simpler cards.
Why we like it
This is a top-tier choice for those looking to manage existing debt or finance a major purchase without the immediate burden of interest. We especially like its exceptionally long introductory APR period for balance transfers, which stands out as one of the most competitive offers currently on the market.
This is a top-tier choice for those looking to manage existing debt or finance a major purchase without the immediate burden of interest. We especially like its exceptionally long introductory APR period for balance transfers, which stands out as one of the most competitive offers currently on the market.
- This card offers one of the longest introductory periods available for both new purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
- You can access the card’s debt-management tools and protective benefits without paying an annual fee.
- By paying your monthly bill with the card, you receive protection against covered damage or theft for your cell phone.
- Because this is not a traditional rewards card, you won't earn points or cash back on your daily spending categories.
- This card is less ideal for international use as it charges a fee for every purchase made outside of the country.
Why we like it
If you're paying this much of an annual fee, it better be worth it. And, trust us, this card is worth it in perks alone – and that's before you even talk about the rewards.
If you're paying this much of an annual fee, it better be worth it. And, trust us, this card is worth it in perks alone – and that's before you even talk about the rewards.
- As a luxury card, this is another good travel option packed with useful benefits. Some of our favorites include: access to the Global Lounge Collection®, an airport lounge program with over 1,550 lounges worldwide; up to $200 airline fee credit (with one pre-selected airline); up to $200 Uber Cash and $120 Uber One Credit (terms apply); a credit of $120 or $85 for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, respectively, application fee; and much more!
- This card also offers a hefty welcome bonus to get card membership started off on the right foot.
- With 5X Membership Rewards points earned on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings booked directly through American Express Travel®, this card makes it easy to rack up rewards quickly.
- Terms apply. Enrollment required for select benefits.
- The annual_fees annual fee this card charges can’t be overlooked. It is a luxury card, however, and there are plenty of beneficial perks to help offset this cost.
- With that said, many of the perks of this card are travel related; if you don’t travel often, you’ll likely have trouble offsetting the annual fee and making the most of the card’s rewards.
- If you anticipate needing to carry a balance you’ll likely want to consider another option. Unlike typical credit cards, this card allows you to carry a balance for certain charges, but not all.
Why we like it
College is already tough enough to navigate; students don't need another thing on their plate to worry about. This card makes earning simple with 1.5% cash back earned on all purchases made. No caps, no spend categories; just simple and easy-to-earn rewards.
College is already tough enough to navigate; students don't need another thing on their plate to worry about. This card makes earning simple with 1.5% cash back earned on all purchases made. No caps, no spend categories; just simple and easy-to-earn rewards.
- This card has no annual fee making it an excellent starter option for those just diving into the world of credit cards.
- What college student doesn't want a little extra cash in their pocket? This card offers a nice welcome bonus that can be earned by new cardholders; a perk not always found with student credit cards.
- The rewards earning is nice, but isn't sky high. There are student cards out there that offer higher rewards-earning opportunities if you're willing to be strategic with your spending.
- The high APR of reg_apr,reg_apr_type can be alarming if you don't stay on top of paying your balance in full and on time.
Why we like it
This is the rare secured credit card that offers cardholders the chance to earn rewards. Racking up some cash back while you rebuild your credit is a nice option to have, though it shouldn't be the primary goal if you're looking at secured credit cards; that should be building your credit score and a positive credit history.
This is the rare secured credit card that offers cardholders the chance to earn rewards. Racking up some cash back while you rebuild your credit is a nice option to have, though it shouldn't be the primary goal if you're looking at secured credit cards; that should be building your credit score and a positive credit history.
- This is a unique secured credit card in that it offers cash-back rewards.
- Not only is this a secured credit card that offers ongoing rewards, but it also offers a nice welcome bonus – another unique feature to secured credit cards. Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year as a cardholder. So say you earn $100 cash back in your first year, you’ll actually pocket $200 that year.
- After seven months, Discover will automatically review your account monthly to determine whether you’re eligible to be transitioned to an unsecured credit card.
- Though there’s no annual fee, the minimum security deposit amount could be a stretch for some people at $200. If you can’t see yourself coming up with that deposit, there are other secured credit cards with lower security deposit requirements.
- Although the cash-back rewards associated with this card may entice potential users, the downside is that not every applicant will be approved. Approval depends on credit history and other financial variables. If you’re uncertain that you will be approved and don’t want a hard credit inquiry on your report, a different secured credit card might be a better fit for you.
Compare credit cards by perks and features
Want to see how our picks for the best credit cards stack up against each other? Our comparison tool makes it easy to compare up to threetwo cards at a time. Simply select the cards you’re interested in and we’ll automatically display their key perks and features side-by-side. With a quick glance, you can easily identify the card that best suits your needs and preferences.
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Ask CardRatings’ experts
What is the best type of credit card according to you and why?
Flexible travel credit cards are the most versatile and valuable overall, mostly because you can redeem points in so many different ways. For example, points in the Amex Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards programs can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise or travel through a portal. Flexible points also transfer to a range of airline and hotel programs, which gives them even more flexibility.
In my opinion, cash back credit cards are a no-brainer for anyone who wants to earn rewards from their credit card spending. The rewards are easy to understand, easy to redeem and cash is the most flexible reward of all.
Points-earning credit cards are best, in my opinion, as they provide considerable flexibility when you want to redeem rewards. Miles and cash-back cards are good, but they often limit you. Points-earning cards provide the flexibility of cashing out rewards, redeeming gift cards, or transferring points to a travel partner to enjoy reduced travel costs.
What is the best way to maximize credit card rewards?
Use your card for as many bills and discretionary expenses as you can, and you’ll earn considerably more in rewards over time. You can also maximize rewards by pairing different cards with different bonus categories to increase your point haul throughout the year. I do this by pairing a flat-rate cash back credit card with several cards that offer bonus rewards, then strategically using them for purchases and bills throughout the month.
The best way to maximize credit card rewards is to pick the points program and redemption option that you will use the most. I tend to travel several times a year so I’m partial to travel credit cards with programs that allow me to transfer my earnings to multiple airline and hotel partners.
In my experience using them, the best way to maximize rewards is to have a plan. You want to choose the right card and charge everything while paying off the balance monthly. I like to use multiple cards and take advantage of bonus categories to quickly amplify earning opportunities.
Our CardFinder tool is also a great way to find the right card for you!
Tired of searching for the right credit card? CardFinder makes it quick and easy. Simply tell us your preferences and we’ll do the heavy lifting. Our three-step process saves you time and effort, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the rewards. Get started today!
Frequently asked questions about the best credit cards
What criteria does CardRatings use to determine the "Best Credit Cards"?
How do credit cards work?
Credit cards are like loans. You can borrow up to a certain limit, but you must pay it back. If you don't pay it back on time, you'll be charged interest. A card's interest rate, or annual percentage rate (APR), is determined by an applicant's credit score and credit history.
When approved for a new credit card you'll be given a credit limit, which is the maximum amount you can borrow. If you try to spend more, you might be charged a fee. Cash advances (getting cash from your card) usually have a lower limit, and often charge interest immediately.
Credit cards have revolving debt. This means the amount you owe goes up and down as you spend and pay. It's different from a car loan or mortgage, which has a fixed amount. Your purchases and payments are shown on your monthly statement. It's best to pay your balance in full by the due date each month in order to avoid interest charges. Otherwise, you can pay at least the minimum balance due, but interest charges will apply.
Learn more about how credit cards work, and see answers to some of the most commonly asked credit card questions.
How to apply for a credit card
Here are the general steps when applying for a credit card:
- Determine your credit profile and needs. What is your credit score and history like? What is your budget and where do you spend your money? Why do you want a credit card? Can you afford an annual fee? Do you need a 0% introductory period? These are the questions you want to ask before you even begin researching the card to apply for.
- Research your options. Don't accept the first offer that arrives in the mail and don't let a flashy celebrity endorsement draw you in. Match your existing budget, lifestyle, needs and goals to the card rather than trying to adjust your life to fit the card. Of course, also take a look at the card's welcome offer, rewards and fee structure before making your decision.
- Name and contact information
- Social security number (or EIN if you're applying for a small business card)
- Income info, including your source of income and annual income amount (if you're over the age of 21, you can include your spouse or partners income that you reasonably expect to have access to)
- Apply for the card. Fill out the application materials honestly and submit your application. Applications can easily be accessed by clicking the "apply now" button next to your card choice for any of the cards above.
Learn more about how to apply for a credit card.
How does credit card interest work?
Credit card interest is a fee charged by the card issuer when you carry a balance from one billing cycle to the next. This means you're effectively borrowing money from the issuer, and they charge interest on that loan. The interest rate can vary depending on the card's terms and your creditworthiness.
Typically, there's a grace period between when you make a purchase and when the payment is due. If you pay the full balance within this grace period, you won't be charged interest. However, if you only pay the minimum payment, interest will accrue on the remaining balance.
It's important to note that interest rates can vary widely among different credit cards. Factors like your credit score, the type of card, and the issuer's promotions can influence the rate you'll be charged. To minimize interest charges, it's advisable to pay your balance in full each month whenever possible.
How to calculate credit card interest
Credit card interest is often calculated using the average daily balance method. The issuer calculates the average balance on your account each day of the billing cycle. The annual percentage rate (APR) is divided by 365 (or sometimes 360) to get the daily rate, which is then applied to the average daily balance to determine the interest charge for the cycle. Interest accrues daily and can compound. Paying your balance in full each month avoids interest charges by utilizing the grace period. Different calculation methods exist, so understanding your card's specific method is key to managing interest costs. You can utilize our credit card interest calculator to calculate your unique rate.
What is a good APR for a credit card?
A competitive APR for a credit card depends on your creditworthiness. The average credit card interest rate regularly fluctuates, depending on recent Fed decisions and other financial trends, but generally speaking, individuals with excellent credit scores may qualify for APRs as low as 15% or less; those with good credit may find APRs in the range of 15-20% to be favorable; and for those with fair credit, APRs typically land above 20%. It's important to keep in mind that APRs can vary significantly among issuers. Comparing offers from multiple lenders can help you secure the most advantageous terms.
Does applying for a credit card hurt your credit score?
Yes, applying for a credit card can have a minor impact on your credit score. This is because new credit card applications require a credit check, triggering a hard inquiry into your credit history. While hard inquiries can lower your score slightly, the effect is typically minimal, especially if you have a strong credit history. However, multiple inquiries within a short period can have a more significant impact. It's generally recommended to limit credit card applications to one or two at a time to minimize the potential damage to your credit score. Learn more about why credit checks hurt your credit score.
How long does it take to get a credit card?
When applying for a credit card online, you'll typically receive an immediate approval or denial. However, sometimes, your application may be pending. In such cases, credit card issuers are obligated to provide a decision within 30 days. While this is the legal requirement, many issuers will communicate their decision within seven to 14 days. Once you are approved for an account, you should receive your new card in the mail within seven to 10 days. You can also contact the issuer and request that they expedite your new card. If your request is approved, you could receive your new card as quickly as one to two days.
What is the best credit card to have?
The "best" credit card isn't universal; it depends on your unique financial situation, spending habits, and goals. Consider your credit score, where you spend the most, what you hope to achieve (rewards, low interest, building credit), and the fees and interest rates. Different types of cards cater to various needs, such as rewards, travel, cash back, low interest, and balance transfers. Instead of a single "best," the ideal card offers the most value and benefits for your specific circumstances. For specific card details and to find the best option for you, please refer to the list of cards above.
What are the pros and cons of having a credit card?
Credit cards offer convenience, emergency funds, credit building, rewards, and consumer protection. However, they also carry the risk of debt, interest charges, and fees. They can encourage overspending and applying for too many can hurt your credit score. While they offer protection, fraud is still a concern. Whether the benefits outweigh the risks depends on your ability to manage credit responsibly.
How can I compare the best credit card offers effectively?
Meet the editorial team
Rating methodology: CardRatings’ experts review the fine print, details, perks, rewards and features of hundreds of cards and compare them side-by-side with similar cards. A card that makes an excellent balance transfer card may not make a great cash-back rewards card, even though it offers those rewards. While the Best of the Year list is announced annually, that list—and all other “best of” lists on CardRatings—are regularly reviewed by CardRatings’ editors and updated as necessary, as issuers frequently change the terms and features of each card. Card issuers cannot pay or influence the cards on these lists, or the order that cards appear.
For rates and fees for American Express cards mentioned in this post, please see the following links: CardName (See Rates and Fees); CardName (See Rates and Fees); card_name (See Rates and Fees); card_name (See Rates and Fees)
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
The information in this article is believed to be accurate as of the date it was written. Please keep in mind that credit card offers change frequently. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this article. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. See the online credit card application for full terms and conditions on offers and rewards. Please verify all terms and conditions of any credit card prior to applying.
This content is not provided by any company mentioned in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed here are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any such company. CardRatings.com does not review every company or every offer available on the market.
