Canadian Credit Card Comparison
Verified Oct 16, 2026CAD
40 Canadian cards ranked on your own spending, each showing Year 1 against every year after. Terms are read from each issuer's page, and points count at their conservative cash value unless you choose otherwise.
Advertiser disclosure: we may earn a commission when you apply through some links on this page. It never affects rank: cards are ordered by the value worked out from your spending. How we make money · Methodology
Your spend $3,350/mo
CashMax value
Each point at what it's worth as cash or a statement credit (the default). Slide right if you transfer points to airlines or hotels. e.g. American Express Membership Rewards: 1.00¢ a point.
Use my numbers: monthly spending by category
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40 cards ranked by 3-year value. First: Scotiabank Gold American Express.
- #1
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,240Year 2+$9403 years $3,119 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,240Year 2+$940Welcome or anniversary bonus$300 / $0Rewards on spending$1,060 / $1,060Fees (taken off the end)−$120 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
5xGrocGroceries5xDineDining and takeout3xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1xHotelHotels and car rentals3xTransitTransit and rideshare3xStreamStreaming1xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #1 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,119 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,240 = welcome bonus $300 + rewards $1,060 − fee $120.
- Each year after. $940 = rewards $1,060 − fee $120.
- Against #2. Beats American Express SimplyCash Preferred by $60 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$100).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #2
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,136Year 2+$9363 years $3,058 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,136Year 2+$936Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,056 / $1,056Fees (taken off the end)−$120 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
4%GrocGroceries2%DineDining and takeout4%GasGas and EV charging2%AirFlights2%HotelHotels and car rentals2%TransitTransit and rideshare2%StreamStreaming2%DrugDrugstores2%OnlineOnline shopping2%BillsPhone, internet and utilities2%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #2 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,058 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,136 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,056 − fee $120.
- Each year after. $936 = rewards $1,056 − fee $120.
- Against #1. Trails Scotiabank Gold American Express by $60 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$100).
- Against #3. Beats TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite by $92 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$904).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #3
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,615Year 2+$6763 years $2,966 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,615Year 2+$676Welcome or anniversary bonus$800 / $0Rewards on spending$755 / $755Credits$60 / $60Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$139 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
6xGrocGroceries6xDineDining and takeout2xGasGas and EV charging2xAirFlights2xHotelHotels and car rentals6xTransitTransit and rideshare4xStreamStreaming2xDrugDrugstores2xOnlineOnline shopping4xBillsPhone, internet and utilities2xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #3 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,966 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,615 = welcome bonus $800 + rewards $755 + credits $60.
- Each year after. $676 = rewards $755 + credits $60 − fee $139.
- Against #2. Trails American Express SimplyCash Preferred by $92 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$904).
- Against #4. Beats Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite by $253 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$500).
Points valued at 0.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #4
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,184Year 2+$7643 years $2,713 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,184Year 2+$764Welcome or anniversary bonus$300 / $0Rewards on spending$884 / $884Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
4%GrocGroceries1%DineDining and takeout2%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals2%TransitTransit and rideshare4%StreamStreaming1%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping4%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #4 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,713 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,184 = welcome bonus $300 + rewards $884.
- Each year after. $764 = rewards $884 − fee $120.
- Against #3. Trails TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite by $253 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$500).
- Against #5. Beats CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite by $93 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$100).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #5
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,087Year 2+$7673 years $2,620 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,087Year 2+$767Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$887 / $887Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
4%GrocGroceries2%DineDining and takeout4%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals2%TransitTransit and rideshare2%StreamStreaming1%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping2%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #5 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,620 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,087 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $887.
- Each year after. $767 = rewards $887 − fee $120.
- Against #4. Trails Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite by $93 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$100).
- Against #6. Beats BMO eclipse Visa Infinite by $156 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$695).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #6
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,294Year 2+$5853 years $2,465 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,294Year 2+$585Welcome or anniversary bonus$469 / $0Rewards on spending$655 / $655Credits$170 / $50Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
5xGrocGroceries5xDineDining and takeout5xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1xHotelHotels and car rentals5xTransitTransit and rideshare1xStreamStreaming1xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #6 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,465 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,294 = welcome bonus $469 + rewards $655 + credits $170.
- Each year after. $585 = rewards $655 + credits $50 − fee $120.
- Against #5. Trails CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite by $156 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$695).
- Against #7. Beats TD Cash Back Visa Infinite by $78 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$349).
Points valued at 0.67¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #7
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,122Year 2+$6333 years $2,387 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,122Year 2+$633Welcome or anniversary bonus$350 / $0Rewards on spending$772 / $772Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$139 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
3%GrocGroceries1%DineDining and takeout3%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals3%TransitTransit and rideshare3%StreamStreaming1%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping3%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #7 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,387 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,122 = welcome bonus $350 + rewards $772.
- Each year after. $633 = rewards $772 − fee $139.
- Against #6. Trails BMO eclipse Visa Infinite by $78 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$349).
- Against #8. Beats RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard by $132 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$82).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #8
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$952Year 2+$6523 years $2,255 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$952Year 2+$652Welcome or anniversary bonus$300 / $0Rewards on spending$772 / $772Fees (taken off the end)−$120 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
3%GrocGroceries3%DineDining and takeout3%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals3%TransitTransit and rideshare3%StreamStreaming1%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping1%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #8 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,255 after fees.
- Year 1. $952 = welcome bonus $300 + rewards $772 − fee $120.
- Each year after. $652 = rewards $772 − fee $120.
- Against #7. Trails TD Cash Back Visa Infinite by $132 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$82).
- Against #9. Beats Scotiabank Platinum American Express by $40 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$837).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #9
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,205Year 2+$4053 years $2,215 after fees· pays for itself in month 2
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,205Year 2+$405Welcome or anniversary bonus$800 / $0Rewards on spending$804 / $804Fees (taken off the end)−$399 / −$399 Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
2xGrocGroceries2xDineDining and takeout2xGasGas and EV charging2xAirFlights2xHotelHotels and car rentals2xTransitTransit and rideshare2xStreamStreaming2xDrugDrugstores2xOnlineOnline shopping2xBillsPhone, internet and utilities2xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #9 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,215 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,205 = welcome bonus $800 + rewards $804 − fee $399.
- Each year after. $405 = rewards $804 − fee $399.
- Against #8. Trails RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard by $40 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$837).
- Against #10. Beats Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard by $121 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$897).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #10
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$698Year 2+$6983 years $2,094 after fees· pays for itself in month 2
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$698Year 2+$698Rewards on spending$798 / $798Fees (taken off the end)−$100 / −$100 Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
4%GrocGroceries3%DineDining and takeout1%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals3%TransitTransit and rideshare1%StreamStreaming1%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping1%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #10 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,094 after fees.
- Year 1. $698 = rewards $798 − fee $100.
- Each year after. $698 = rewards $798 − fee $100.
- Against #9. Trails Scotiabank Platinum American Express by $121 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$897).
- Against #11. Beats Scotiabank American Express Card by $90 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$490).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #11
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$735Year 2+$6353 years $2,004 after fees· no fee to cover
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$735Year 2+$635Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$635 / $635Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0 No annual fee Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
3xGrocGroceries2xDineDining and takeout2xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1xHotelHotels and car rentals2xTransitTransit and rideshare2xStreamStreaming1xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #11 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,004 after fees.
- Year 1. $735 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $635.
- Each year after. $635 = rewards $635.
- Against #10. Trails Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard by $90 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$490).
- Against #12. Beats PC Financial PC World Elite Mastercard by $97 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$50).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #12
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$669Year 2+$6193 years $1,908 after fees· no fee to cover
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$669Year 2+$619Welcome or anniversary bonus$50 / $0Rewards on spending$619 / $619Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0 No annual fee Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
30xGrocGroceries10xDineDining and takeout10xGasGas and EV charging10xAirFlights10xHotelHotels and car rentals10xTransitTransit and rideshare10xStreamStreaming45xDrugDrugstores10xOnlineOnline shopping10xBillsPhone, internet and utilities10xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #12 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,908 after fees.
- Year 1. $669 = welcome bonus $50 + rewards $619.
- Each year after. $619 = rewards $619.
- Against #11. Trails Scotiabank American Express Card by $97 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$50).
- Against #13. Beats Rogers Bank Red World Elite Mastercard by $99 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$50).
Points valued at 0.10¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #13
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$603Year 2+$6033 years $1,809 after fees· no fee to cover
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$603Year 2+$603Rewards on spending$603 / $603Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0 No annual fee Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
1.5%GrocGroceries1.5%DineDining and takeout1.5%GasGas and EV charging1.5%AirFlights1.5%HotelHotels and car rentals1.5%TransitTransit and rideshare1.5%StreamStreaming1.5%DrugDrugstores1.5%OnlineOnline shopping1.5%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1.5%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #13 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,809 after fees.
- Year 1. $603 = rewards $603.
- Each year after. $603 = rewards $603.
- Against #12. Trails PC Financial PC World Elite Mastercard by $99 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$50).
- Against #14. Beats CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite by $21 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$600).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #14
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$1,089Year 2+$3503 years $1,788 after fees· pays for itself in month 1Mostly first-year value
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$1,089Year 2+$350Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$469 / $469Credits$20 / $20Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$139 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
1.5xGrocGroceries1xDineDining and takeout1.5xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1xHotelHotels and car rentals1xTransitTransit and rideshare1xStreamStreaming1.5xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #14 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,788 after fees.
- Year 1. $1,089 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $469 + credits $20.
- Each year after. $350 = rewards $469 + credits $20 − fee $139.
- Against #13. Trails Rogers Bank Red World Elite Mastercard by $21 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$600).
- Against #15. Beats American Express Gold Rewards Card by $2 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$472).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #15
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$995Year 2+$3953 years $1,786 after fees· pays for itself in month 2
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$995Year 2+$395Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$565 / $565Credits$80 / $80Fees (taken off the end)−$250 / −$250 Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
2xGrocGroceries1xDineDining and takeout2xGasGas and EV charging2xAirFlights2xHotelHotels and car rentals1xTransitTransit and rideshare1xStreamStreaming2xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #15 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,786 after fees.
- Year 1. $995 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $565 + credits $80 − fee $250.
- Each year after. $395 = rewards $565 + credits $80 − fee $250.
- Against #14. Trails CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite by $2 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$472).
- Against #16. Beats TD Platinum Travel Visa by $15 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$572).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #16
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$816Year 2+$4773 years $1,770 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$816Year 2+$477Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$566 / $566Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$89 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
4.5xGrocGroceries4.5xDineDining and takeout1.5xGasGas and EV charging1.5xAirFlights1.5xHotelHotels and car rentals4.5xTransitTransit and rideshare3xStreamStreaming1.5xDrugDrugstores1.5xOnlineOnline shopping3xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1.5xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #16 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,770 after fees.
- Year 1. $816 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $566.
- Each year after. $477 = rewards $566 − fee $89.
- Against #15. Trails American Express Gold Rewards Card by $15 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$572).
- Against #17. Beats Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa by $113 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$178).
Points valued at 0.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #17
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$619Year 2+$5193 years $1,657 after fees· no fee to cover
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$619Year 2+$519Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$519 / $519Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0 No annual fee Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
1.5%GrocGroceries4%DineDining and takeout1.5%GasGas and EV charging0.5%AirFlights0.5%HotelHotels and car rentals0.5%TransitTransit and rideshare0.5%StreamStreaming1.5%DrugDrugstores0.5%OnlineOnline shopping1.5%BillsPhone, internet and utilities0.5%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #17 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,657 after fees.
- Year 1. $619 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $519.
- Each year after. $519 = rewards $519.
- Against #16. Trails TD Platinum Travel Visa by $113 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$178).
- Against #18. Beats TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite by $3 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$400).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #18
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1estimated value, about $978, based on 1 cents per pointYear 2+estimated value, about $339, based on 1 cents per point3 years estimated value, about $1,655, based on 1 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1estimated value, about $978, based on 1 cents per pointYear 2+estimated value, about $339, based on 1 cents per pointWelcome or anniversary bonus$500 / $0Rewards on spending$465 / $465Credits$13 / $13Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$139 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
1.5xGrocGroceries1xDineDining and takeout1.5xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1xHotelHotels and car rentals1xTransitTransit and rideshare1xStreamStreaming1xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #18 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $1,655 (estimated) after fees.
- Year 1. about $978 (estimated) = welcome bonus $500 + rewards $465 + credits $13.
- Each year after. about $339 (estimated) = rewards $465 + credits $13 − fee $139.
- Against #17. Trails Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa by $3 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$400).
- Against #19. Beats Scotiabank Momentum Visa by $20 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$500).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #19
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$545Year 2+$5453 years $1,635 after fees· pays for itself in month 1
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$545Year 2+$545Rewards on spending$594 / $594Fees (taken off the end)−$49 / −$49 Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
2%GrocGroceries1%DineDining and takeout2%GasGas and EV charging1%AirFlights1%HotelHotels and car rentals2%TransitTransit and rideshare2%StreamStreaming2%DrugDrugstores1%OnlineOnline shopping2%BillsPhone, internet and utilities1%OtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #19 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,635 after fees.
- Year 1. $545 = rewards $594 − fee $49.
- Each year after. $545 = rewards $594 − fee $49.
- Against #18. Trails TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite by $20 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$500).
- Against #20. Beats Tangerine Rewards World Elite Mastercard by $1 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$500).
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption - #20
after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.Year 1$878Year 2+$3783 years $1,634 after fees· pays for itself in month 2
Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
Year 1$878Year 2+$378Welcome or anniversary bonus$500 / $0Rewards on spending$498 / $498Fees (taken off the end)−$120 / −$120 Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far Year 1Year 2Year 3Earn rate by category
1.5xGrocGroceries1.5xDineDining and takeout1.5xGasGas and EV charging1xAirFlights1.5xHotelHotels and car rentals1.5xTransitTransit and rideshare1xStreamStreaming1.5xDrugDrugstores1xOnlineOnline shopping1.5xBillsPhone, internet and utilities1xOtherEverything elseWhy it's ranked here
- Ranked #20 of 40. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,634 after fees.
- Year 1. $878 = welcome bonus $500 + rewards $498 − fee $120.
- Each year after. $378 = rewards $498 − fee $120.
- Against #19. Trails Scotiabank Momentum Visa by $1 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$500).
- Against #21. Beats RBC WestJet World Elite Mastercard by $17 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$540).
Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.
Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
All values are after each card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees when you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime or Instacart+) aren't included.
Rates, fees and offers are set by the issuer and may change. Check the issuer's terms before you apply. We don't estimate approval odds.
Values for points and miles are estimates based on published redemption valuations; actual value depends on how you redeem.
Best cards by need
From the data
Top 10 on the family preset
$3,350 a month, family spending, points at their cash value, after fees. "~" marks estimates.
| Card | Year 1 | Year 2+ | 3 years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scotiabank Gold American Express | $1,240 | $940 | $3,119 |
| American Express SimplyCash Preferred | $1,136 | $936 | $3,058 |
| TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite | $1,615 | $676 | $2,966 |
| Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite | $1,184 | $764 | $2,713 |
| CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite | $1,087 | $767 | $2,620 |
| BMO eclipse Visa Infinite | $1,294 | $585 | $2,465 |
| TD Cash Back Visa Infinite | $1,122 | $633 | $2,387 |
| RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard | $952 | $652 | $2,255 |
| Scotiabank Platinum American Express | $1,205 | $405 | $2,215 |
| Desjardins Cash Back World Elite Mastercard | $698 | $698 | $2,094 |
Frequently asked questions
Why are Year 1 and Year 2+ so different?
Year 1 adds the welcome bonus, any first-year fee waiver, one-time credits and intro APR savings. From year 2 a card only has what it earns on your spending and its ongoing credits, minus the full annual fee, so a card that ranks first in year 1 can be an average card after that.
Which Canadian card is worth the most for a typical family?
On the family preset ($3,350 a month, points at each program's cash or statement-credit value), Scotiabank Gold American Express is worth the most over 3 years at $3,119. From year 2, Scotiabank Gold American Express earns the most: $940 a year after fees. Your own spending can change the order.
How are points and miles valued?
In dollars, using how you redeem: cash or statement credit by default (the conservative choice), the issuer's travel booking, or transfer partners at a published valuation (American Express Membership Rewards 1.7¢, RBC Avion 1.7¢). Every figure that depends on a valuation is marked "~ est.", and the "Value points as" slider runs from each program's cash value to its highest published value, for people who transfer points to airlines and hotels.
Which cards are mostly their welcome bonus?
On the family preset, 4 cards get more than 60% of their 3-year value in year 1, or nothing after it: CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite, TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege, American Express Platinum Card, RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege. They carry a "Mostly first-year value" flag.
Does a commission change the order?
No. Cards are ranked only by the value worked out from your spending, with published tie-breakers (lower annual fee, then no foreign transaction fee, then earlier break-even). Cards with no affiliate program are listed and ranked the same way.
Do you show approval odds?
No. Approval depends on your credit file and the issuer's rules, which we can't see. We show only requirements the issuer publishes, such as a minimum income, and values assume you're approved as advertised.
Sources
- Amex Cobalt card page
- Milesopedia points valuations, in effect since September 1, 2026
- Prince of Travel points valuations (cross-check, high end of range)
- CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite card page
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite card page
- PC World Elite Mastercard page
- WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard page (70,000 points = up to $700 off travel)
- National Bank World Elite Mastercard page (redemption examples)
Estimates for information only; not financial advice. See how cards are ranked.