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Best credit cards for first-year value in the US for 2026

Verified Oct 16, 2026USD

Ranked by year 1 value on a big spender's spending, with what each card is worth after that. Each card shows Year 1 against every year after, so a card that's mostly its welcome bonus is easy to spot.

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

Spending: Big spender · $7,960/moRank these on my own spending

  1. #1Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    Chase

    Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    $195 feeGroceries 2xFlights 3x
    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 $3,681, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $2,071, based on 1.4 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $7,823, based on 1.4 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $3,681, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $2,071, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,610 / $0Rewards on spending$2,211 / $2,211Credits$55 / $55Fees (taken off the end)−$195 / −$195
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #1 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $7,823 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $3,681 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,610 + rewards $2,211 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    3. Each year after. about $2,071 (estimated) = rewards $2,211 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    4. Against #2. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards Premier by $662 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$548).

    Points valued at 1.40¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  2. #2Chase IHG One Rewards Premier

    Chase

    IHG One Rewards Premier

    $150 feeGroceries 5xDining 5x
    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 $3,340, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $2,573, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $8,485, based on 0.59 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $3,340, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $2,573, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,062 / $295Rewards on spending$2,293 / $2,293Credits$135 / $135Fees (taken off the end)−$150 / −$150
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5x
    Groc
    Groceries
    5x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    5x
    Air
    Flights
    10x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    3x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    3x
    Online
    Online shopping
    3x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    3x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #2 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $8,485 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $3,340 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,062 + rewards $2,293 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    3. Each year after. about $2,573 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $295 + rewards $2,293 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    4. Against #1. Beats Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card by $662 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$548).
    5. Against #3. Beats Discover it Miles by $2,753 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,146).
    6. Not counted. The anniversary free night is valued at the most points it can cover.

    Points valued at 0.59¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Not counted: The anniversary free night is valued at the most points it can cover.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  3. #3Discover it Miles

    Discover

    it Miles

    No annual fee
    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$2,866
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $5,731 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,866
    Year 2+$1,433
    Rewards on spending$2,866 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #3 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,731 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,866 = rewards $2,866.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #2. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards Premier by $2,753 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,146).
    5. Against #4. Trails Chase Sapphire Reserve by $573 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,664).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  4. #4Chase Sapphire Reserve

    Chase

    Sapphire Reserve

    $795 feeFlights 4xDining 3x
    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$2,768
    Year 2+$1,768

    3 years $6,305 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,768
    Year 2+$1,768
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,000 / $0Rewards on spending$1,675 / $1,675Credits$888 / $888Fees (taken off the end)−$795 / −$795
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    4x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #4 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $6,305 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,768 = welcome bonus $1,000 + rewards $1,675 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    3. Each year after. $1,768 = rewards $1,675 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    4. Against #3. Beats Discover it Miles by $573 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,664).
    5. Against #5. Beats Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $303 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,614).

    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
  5. #5Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    Chase

    Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    $95 feeGroceries 3xHotels 6x
    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 $2,594, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,704, based on 0.73 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $6,002, based on 0.73 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,594, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,704, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,095 / $256Rewards on spending$1,544 / $1,544Credits$50 / $0Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    6x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #5 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $6,002 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,594 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,095 + rewards $1,544 + credits $50 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $1,704 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $256 + rewards $1,544 − fee $95.
    4. Against #4. Trails Chase Sapphire Reserve by $303 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,614).
    5. Against #6. Beats Chase United Quest by $223 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$928).
    6. Not counted. Free Night Awards are valued at the most points each night can cover.

    Points valued at 0.73¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  6. #6Chase United Quest

    Chase

    United Quest

    $350 feeFlights 4xDining 2x
    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 $2,566, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,606, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $5,778, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,566, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,606, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$960 / $0Rewards on spending$1,630 / $1,630Credits$326 / $326Fees (taken off the end)−$350 / −$350
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #6 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $5,778 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,566 (estimated) = welcome bonus $960 + rewards $1,630 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    3. Each year after. about $1,606 (estimated) = rewards $1,630 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    4. Against #5. Trails Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $223 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$928).
    5. Against #7. Trails Chase World of Hyatt by $422 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$978).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  7. #7Chase World of Hyatt

    Chase

    World of Hyatt

    $95 feeDining 2xFlights 2x
    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 $2,517, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,842, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $6,200, based on 1.5 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,517, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,842, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$675 / $0Rewards on spending$1,937 / $1,937Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    4x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #7 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $6,200 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,517 (estimated) = welcome bonus $675 + rewards $1,937 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $1,842 (estimated) = rewards $1,937 − fee $95.
    4. Against #6. Beats Chase United Quest by $422 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$978).
    5. Against #8. Beats Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $379 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$454).
    6. Not counted. The anniversary Category 1–4 free night isn't valued: Chase doesn't state its points value.

    Points valued at 1.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Not counted: The anniversary Category 1–4 free night isn't valued: Chase doesn't state its points value.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  8. #8Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent

    Bank of America

    Atmos Rewards Ascent

    $95 feeFlights 3xBills 2x
    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 $2,441, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,691, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $5,822, based on 1.5 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,441, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,691, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$1,786 / $1,786Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #8 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $5,822 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,441 (estimated) = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $1,786 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $1,691 (estimated) = rewards $1,786 − fee $95.
    4. Against #7. Trails Chase World of Hyatt by $379 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$454).
    5. Against #9. Beats Chase United Explorer by $540 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$924).

    Points valued at 1.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  9. #9Chase United Explorer

    Chase

    United Explorer

    $150 fee · yr 1 freeDining 2xFlights 3x
    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 $2,420, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,430, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $5,281, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,420, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,430, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$840 / $0Rewards on spending$1,477 / $1,477Credits$103 / $103Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$150
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #9 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $5,281 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,420 (estimated) = welcome bonus $840 + rewards $1,477 + credits $103.
    3. Each year after. about $1,430 (estimated) = rewards $1,477 + credits $103 − fee $150.
    4. Against #8. Trails Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $540 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$924).
    5. Against #10. Trails Citi Strata Premier by $755 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,169).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  10. #10Citi Strata Premier

    Citi

    Strata Premier

    $95 feeGroceries 3xDining 3x
    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$2,412
    Year 2+$1,812

    3 years $6,037 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,412
    Year 2+$1,812
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$1,867 / $1,867Credits$40 / $40Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #10 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $6,037 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,412 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $1,867 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $1,812 = rewards $1,867 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    4. Against #9. Beats Chase United Explorer by $755 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,169).
    5. Against #11. Beats Discover it Cash Back by $1,256 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$821).

    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
  11. #11Discover it Cash Back

    Discover

    it Cash Back

    No annual feeDining 5%Groceries 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$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195

    3 years $4,781 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195
    Rewards on spending$2,390 / $1,195Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #11 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,781 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,390 = rewards $2,390.
    3. Each year after. $1,195 = rewards $1,195.
    4. Against #10. Trails Citi Strata Premier by $1,256 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$821).
    5. Against #12. Discover it Secured is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  12. #12Discover it Secured

    Discover

    it Secured

    No annual feeDining 5%Groceries 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$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195

    3 years $4,781 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195
    Rewards on spending$2,390 / $1,195Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #12 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,781 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,390 = rewards $2,390.
    3. Each year after. $1,195 = rewards $1,195.
    4. Against #11. Discover it Cash Back is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #13. Discover it Student Cash Back is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  13. #13Discover it Student Cash Back

    Discover

    it Student Cash Back

    No annual feeDining 5%Groceries 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$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195

    3 years $4,781 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,390
    Year 2+$1,195
    Rewards on spending$2,390 / $1,195Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #13 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,781 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,390 = rewards $2,390.
    3. Each year after. $1,195 = rewards $1,195.
    4. Against #12. Discover it Secured is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #14. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph Journey by $939 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$600).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  14. #14Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

    Wells Fargo

    Autograph Journey

    $95 feeFlights 4xHotels 5x
    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$2,307
    Year 2+$1,707

    3 years $5,720 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,307
    Year 2+$1,707
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$1,762 / $1,762Credits$40 / $40Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #14 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,720 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,307 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $1,762 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $1,707 = rewards $1,762 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    4. Against #13. Beats Discover it Student Cash Back by $939 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$600).
    5. Against #15. Beats Chase Sapphire Preferred by $654 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$936).

    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. #15Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase

    Sapphire Preferred

    $95 feeDining 3xFlights 2x
    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$2,189
    Year 2+$1,439

    3 years $5,066 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,189
    Year 2+$1,439
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$1,450 / $1,450Credits$84 / $84Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #15 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,066 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,189 = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $1,450 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $1,439 = rewards $1,450 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    4. Against #14. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph Journey by $654 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$936).
    5. Against #16. Trails Bank of America Premium Rewards by $185 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$400).

    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. #16Bank of America Premium Rewards

    Bank of America

    Premium Rewards

    $95 feeDining 2%Flights 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$2,150
    Year 2+$1,550

    3 years $5,251 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,150
    Year 2+$1,550
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$1,583 / $1,583Credits$63 / $63Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #16 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,251 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,150 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $1,583 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $1,550 = rewards $1,583 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    4. Against #15. Beats Chase Sapphire Preferred by $185 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$400).
    5. Against #17. Beats Chase IHG One Rewards by $341 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$666).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  17. #17Chase IHG One Rewards

    Chase

    IHG One Rewards

    No annual feeGroceries 3xDining 3x
    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 $2,128, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,391, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,910, based on 0.59 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,128, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,391, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$738 / $0Rewards on spending$1,361 / $1,361Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #17 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,910 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,128 (estimated) = welcome bonus $738 + rewards $1,361 + credits $30.
    3. Each year after. about $1,391 (estimated) = rewards $1,361 + credits $30.
    4. Against #16. Trails Bank of America Premium Rewards by $341 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$666).
    5. Against #18. Trails Wells Fargo One Key Card by $935 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,512).

    Points valued at 0.59¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  18. #18Wells Fargo One Key Card

    Wells Fargo

    One Key Card

    No annual feeGroceries 3%Dining 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$2,115
    Year 2+$1,865

    3 years $5,844 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,115
    Year 2+$1,865
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$1,865 / $1,865Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3%
    Groc
    Groceries
    3%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #18 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,844 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,115 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $1,865.
    3. Each year after. $1,865 = rewards $1,865.
    4. Against #17. Beats Chase IHG One Rewards by $935 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,512).
    5. Against #19. Trails Citi Double Cash by $87 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$137).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  19. #19Citi Double Cash

    Citi

    Double Cash

    No annual fee
    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$2,110
    Year 2+$1,910

    3 years $5,931 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,110
    Year 2+$1,910
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,910 / $1,910Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2%
    Stream
    Streaming
    2%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2%
    Online
    Online shopping
    2%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #19 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,931 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,110 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,910.
    3. Each year after. $1,910 = rewards $1,910.
    4. Against #18. Beats Wells Fargo One Key Card by $87 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$137).
    5. Against #20. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority by $929 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,069).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  20. #20Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority

    $229 feeFlights 4xDining 2x
    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 $2,105, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,449, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $5,003, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,105, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,449, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $94Rewards on spending$1,554 / $1,554Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$229 / −$229
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #20 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $5,003 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,105 (estimated) = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $1,554 + credits $30 − fee $229.
    3. Each year after. about $1,449 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $94 + rewards $1,554 + credits $30 − fee $229.
    4. Against #19. Trails Citi Double Cash by $929 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,069).
    5. Against #21. Trails Wells Fargo Active Cash by $829 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,069).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  21. #21Wells Fargo Active Cash

    Wells Fargo

    Active Cash

    No annual fee
    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$2,010
    Year 2+$1,910

    3 years $5,831 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,010
    Year 2+$1,910
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$1,910 / $1,910Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2%
    Stream
    Streaming
    2%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2%
    Online
    Online shopping
    2%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #21 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,831 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,010 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $1,910.
    3. Each year after. $1,910 = rewards $1,910.
    4. Against #20. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority by $829 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,069).
    5. Against #22. Beats Discover it Chrome by $1,850 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,750).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  22. #22Discover it Chrome

    Discover

    it Chrome

    No annual feeDining 2%Gas 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$1,990
    Year 2+$995

    3 years $3,981 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,990
    Year 2+$995
    Rewards on spending$1,990 / $995Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #22 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,981 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,990 = rewards $1,990.
    3. Each year after. $995 = rewards $995.
    4. Against #21. Trails Wells Fargo Active Cash by $1,850 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,750).
    5. Against #23. Trails Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier by $742 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$688).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  23. #23Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier

    $149 feeFlights 3xGroceries 2x
    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 $1,983, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,370, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,723, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,983, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,370, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$688 / $75Rewards on spending$1,414 / $1,414Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$149 / −$149
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #23 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,723 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,983 (estimated) = welcome bonus $688 + rewards $1,414 + credits $30 − fee $149.
    3. Each year after. about $1,370 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $75 + rewards $1,414 + credits $30 − fee $149.
    4. Against #22. Beats Discover it Chrome by $742 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$688).
    5. Against #24. Beats Chase British Airways Visa Signature by $421 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$535).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  24. #24Chase British Airways Visa Signature

    Chase

    British Airways Visa Signature

    $95 feeFlights 3xHotels 2x
    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 $1,966, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,168, based on 1.1 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,302, based on 1.1 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,966, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,168, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$825 / $28Rewards on spending$1,236 / $1,236Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #24 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,302 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,966 (estimated) = welcome bonus $825 + rewards $1,236 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $1,168 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $28 + rewards $1,236 − fee $95.
    4. Against #23. Trails Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier by $421 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$535).
    5. Against #25. Trails U.S. Bank Smartly Visa Signature by $1,430 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$2,025).

    Points valued at 1.10¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  25. #25U.S. Bank Smartly Visa Signature

    U.S. Bank

    Smartly Visa Signature

    No annual fee
    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$1,910
    Year 2+$1,910

    3 years $5,731 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,910
    Year 2+$1,910
    Rewards on spending$1,910 / $1,910Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2%
    Stream
    Streaming
    2%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2%
    Online
    Online shopping
    2%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #25 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,731 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,910 = rewards $1,910.
    3. Each year after. $1,910 = rewards $1,910.
    4. Against #24. Beats Chase British Airways Visa Signature by $1,430 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$2,025).
    5. Against #26. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus by $1,289 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,782).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  26. #26Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

    $99 feeGroceries 2xFlights 2x
    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 $1,873, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,285, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,443, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,873, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,285, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$625 / $38Rewards on spending$1,317 / $1,317Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$99 / −$99
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #26 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,443 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,873 (estimated) = welcome bonus $625 + rewards $1,317 + credits $30 − fee $99.
    3. Each year after. about $1,285 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $38 + rewards $1,317 + credits $30 − fee $99.
    4. Against #25. Trails U.S. Bank Smartly Visa Signature by $1,289 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,782).
    5. Against #27. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph by $682 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$975).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  27. #27Wells Fargo Autograph

    Wells Fargo

    Autograph

    No annual feeDining 3xFlights 3x
    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$1,842
    Year 2+$1,642

    3 years $5,125 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,842
    Year 2+$1,642
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,642 / $1,642Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #27 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,125 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,842 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,642.
    3. Each year after. $1,642 = rewards $1,642.
    4. Against #26. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus by $682 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$975).
    5. Against #28. Beats Chase Freedom Unlimited by $86 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$86).

    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
  28. #28Chase Freedom Unlimited

    Chase

    Freedom Unlimited

    No annual feeDining 3xDrugstores 3x
    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$1,813
    Year 2+$1,613

    3 years $5,038 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,813
    Year 2+$1,613
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,613 / $1,613Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5x
    Air
    Flights
    1.5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5x
    Stream
    Streaming
    3x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #28 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $5,038 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,813 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,613.
    3. Each year after. $1,613 = rewards $1,613.
    4. Against #27. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph by $86 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$86).
    5. Against #29. Beats Chase United Gateway by $731 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,011).

    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
  29. #29Chase United Gateway

    Chase

    United Gateway

    No annual feeFlights 2xGas 2x
    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 $1,756, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,276, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,308, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,756, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,276, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$480 / $0Rewards on spending$1,276 / $1,276Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #29 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,308 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,756 (estimated) = welcome bonus $480 + rewards $1,276.
    3. Each year after. about $1,276 (estimated) = rewards $1,276.
    4. Against #28. Trails Chase Freedom Unlimited by $731 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,011).
    5. Against #30. Trails American Express Blue Cash Preferred by $130 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$406).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  30. #30American Express Blue Cash Preferred

    American Express

    Blue Cash Preferred

    $95 fee · yr 1 freeGroceries 6%Gas 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$1,709
    Year 2+$1,364

    3 years $4,438 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,709
    Year 2+$1,364
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$1,411 / $1,411Credits$48 / $48Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    6%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    6%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #30 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,438 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,709 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $1,411 + credits $48.
    3. Each year after. $1,364 = rewards $1,411 + credits $48 − fee $95.
    4. Against #29. Beats Chase United Gateway by $130 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$406).
    5. Against #31. Trails Bank of America Travel Rewards by $111 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$190).

    Not counted: Some visitors are offered $300; the lowest offer seen is counted (up to $50 more).

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  31. #31Bank of America Travel Rewards

    Bank of America

    Travel Rewards

    No annual fee
    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$1,683
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,548 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,683
    Year 2+$1,433
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #31 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,548 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,683 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #30. Beats American Express Blue Cash Preferred by $111 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$190).
    5. Against #32. Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  32. #32Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards

    Bank of America

    Unlimited Cash Rewards

    No annual fee
    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$1,683
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,548 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,683
    Year 2+$1,433
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #32 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,548 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,683 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #31. Bank of America Travel Rewards is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #33. Trails Capital One Savor by $72 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$122).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  33. #33Capital One Savor

    Capital One

    Savor

    No annual feeGroceries 3%Dining 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$1,674
    Year 2+$1,474

    3 years $4,621 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,674
    Year 2+$1,474
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,474 / $1,474Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3%
    Groc
    Groceries
    3%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #33 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,621 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,674 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,474.
    3. Each year after. $1,474 = rewards $1,474.
    4. Against #32. Beats Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards by $72 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$122).
    5. Against #34. Beats Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards by $655 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$655).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  34. #34Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards

    Bank of America

    Customized Cash Rewards

    No annual feeDining 3%Groceries 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$1,655
    Year 2+$1,155

    3 years $3,966 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,655
    Year 2+$1,155
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,455 / $1,155Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    3%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    3%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    3%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #34 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,966 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,655 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,455.
    3. Each year after. $1,155 = rewards $1,155.
    4. Against #33. Trails Capital One Savor by $655 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$655).
    5. Against #35. Trails Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard by $92 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$250).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  35. #35Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard

    Wells Fargo

    Choice Privileges Mastercard

    No annual feeGroceries 3xHotels 5x
    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 $1,652, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,202, based on 0.75 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,057, based on 0.75 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,652, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,202, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$450 / $0Rewards on spending$1,202 / $1,202Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    3x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #35 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,057 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,652 (estimated) = welcome bonus $450 + rewards $1,202.
    3. Each year after. about $1,202 (estimated) = rewards $1,202.
    4. Against #34. Beats Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards by $92 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$250).
    5. Against #36. Trails Chase Freedom Flex by $370 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$570).

    Points valued at 0.75¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  36. #36Chase Freedom Flex

    Chase

    Freedom Flex

    No annual feeDining 5xGroceries 5x
    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$1,642
    Year 2+$1,392

    3 years $4,427 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,642
    Year 2+$1,392
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$1,392 / $1,392Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5x
    Groc
    Groceries
    5x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    5x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    3x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    5x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #36 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,427 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,642 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $1,392.
    3. Each year after. $1,392 = rewards $1,392.
    4. Against #35. Beats Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard by $370 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$570).
    5. Against #37. Trails Capital One Quicksilver by $71 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$121).

    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
  37. #37Capital One Quicksilver

    Capital One

    Quicksilver

    No annual fee
    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$1,633
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,498 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,633
    Year 2+$1,433
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #37 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,498 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,633 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #36. Beats Chase Freedom Flex by $71 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$121).
    5. Against #38. Beats U.S. Bank Cash+ by $41 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$41).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  38. #38U.S. Bank Cash+

    U.S. Bank

    Cash+

    No annual feeBills 5%Groceries 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$1,619
    Year 2+$1,419

    3 years $4,458 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,619
    Year 2+$1,419
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$1,419 / $1,419Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #38 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,458 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,619 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $1,419.
    3. Each year after. $1,419 = rewards $1,419.
    4. Against #37. Trails Capital One Quicksilver by $41 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$41).
    5. Against #39. Trails Citi Costco Anywhere Visa by $388 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$588).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  39. #39Citi Costco Anywhere Visa

    Citi

    Costco Anywhere Visa

    No annual feeDining 3%Flights 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$1,615
    Year 2+$1,615

    3 years $4,846 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,615
    Year 2+$1,615
    Rewards on spending$1,615 / $1,615Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1%
    Groc
    Groceries
    3%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    4%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3%
    Air
    Flights
    3%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #39 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,846 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,615 = rewards $1,615.
    3. Each year after. $1,615 = rewards $1,615.
    4. Against #38. Beats U.S. Bank Cash+ by $388 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$588).
    5. Against #40. Beats Citi Strata by $389 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$389).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  40. #40Citi Strata

    Citi

    Strata

    No annual feeGroceries 3xDining 2x
    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$1,486
    Year 2+$1,486

    3 years $4,457 after fees· no fee to coverBonus not counted

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,486
    Year 2+$1,486
    Rewards on spending$1,486 / $1,486Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #40 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,457 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,486 = rewards $1,486.
    3. Each year after. $1,486 = rewards $1,486.
    4. Against #39. Trails Citi Costco Anywhere Visa by $389 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$389).
    5. Against #41. Beats Chase Freedom Rise by $133 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$158).
    6. Not counted. Welcome offer not counted: Bonus points after a spending requirement; the amounts don't load on Citi's page.

    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
  41. #41Chase Freedom Rise

    Chase

    Freedom Rise

    No annual fee
    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$1,458
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,323 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,458
    Year 2+$1,433
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$25 / $0Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5x
    Air
    Flights
    1.5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #41 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,323 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,458 = welcome bonus $25 + rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #40. Trails Citi Strata by $133 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$158).
    5. Against #42. Beats American Express Blue Cash Everyday by $271 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$497).

    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
  42. #42American Express Blue Cash Everyday

    American Express

    Blue Cash Everyday

    No annual feeGroceries 3%Online 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$1,451
    Year 2+$1,301

    3 years $4,052 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,451
    Year 2+$1,301
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$150 / $0Rewards on spending$1,267 / $1,267Credits$34 / $34Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    3%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #42 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,052 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,451 = welcome bonus $150 + rewards $1,267 + credits $34.
    3. Each year after. $1,301 = rewards $1,267 + credits $34.
    4. Against #41. Trails Chase Freedom Rise by $271 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$497).
    5. Against #43. Beats Chase Prime Visa by $29 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$101).

    Not counted: Some visitors are offered $200; the lowest offer seen is counted (up to $50 more).

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  43. #43Chase Prime Visa

    Chase

    Prime Visa

    No annual feeOnline 5%Dining 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$1,441
    Year 2+$1,291

    3 years $4,024 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,441
    Year 2+$1,291
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$150 / $0Rewards on spending$1,291 / $1,291Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #43 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,024 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,441 = welcome bonus $150 + rewards $1,291.
    3. Each year after. $1,291 = rewards $1,291.
    4. Against #42. Trails American Express Blue Cash Everyday by $29 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$101).
    5. Against #44. Trails Capital One Quicksilver Secured by $275 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$425).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  44. #44Capital One Quicksilver Secured

    Capital One

    Quicksilver Secured

    No annual fee
    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$1,433
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,298 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,433
    Year 2+$1,433
    Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #44 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,298 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #43. Beats Chase Prime Visa by $275 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$425).
    5. Against #45. Goldman Sachs Apple Card is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  45. #45Goldman Sachs Apple Card

    Goldman Sachs

    Apple Card

    No annual feeGroceries 2%Dining 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$1,433
    Year 2+$1,433

    3 years $4,298 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,433
    Year 2+$1,433
    Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2%
    Stream
    Streaming
    2%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2%
    Online
    Online shopping
    2%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #45 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,298 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    3. Each year after. $1,433 = rewards $1,433.
    4. Against #44. Capital One Quicksilver Secured is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #46. Beats Capital One Venture by $1,121 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,433).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  46. #46Capital One Venture

    Capital One

    Venture

    $95 fee
    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$1,409
    Year 2+$884

    3 years $3,178 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,409
    Year 2+$884
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$375 / $0Rewards on spending$955 / $955Credits$174 / $24Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #46 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,178 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,409 = welcome bonus $375 + rewards $955 + credits $174 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $884 = rewards $955 + credits $24 − fee $95.
    4. Against #45. Trails Goldman Sachs Apple Card by $1,121 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,433).
    5. Against #47. Trails Capital One QuicksilverOne by $1,004 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,433).

    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
  47. #47Capital One QuicksilverOne

    Capital One

    QuicksilverOne

    $39 fee
    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$1,394
    Year 2+$1,394

    3 years $4,181 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,394
    Year 2+$1,394
    Rewards on spending$1,433 / $1,433Fees (taken off the end)−$39 / −$39
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #47 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,181 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,394 = rewards $1,433 − fee $39.
    3. Each year after. $1,394 = rewards $1,433 − fee $39.
    4. Against #46. Beats Capital One Venture by $1,004 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,433).
    5. Against #48. Beats Chase DoorDash Rewards Mastercard by $139 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$256).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  48. #48Chase DoorDash Rewards Mastercard

    Chase

    DoorDash Rewards Mastercard

    No annual feeDining 4%Groceries 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$1,348
    Year 2+$1,348

    3 years $4,043 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,348
    Year 2+$1,348
    Rewards on spending$1,348 / $1,348Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2%
    Groc
    Groceries
    4%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #48 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,043 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,348 = rewards $1,348.
    3. Each year after. $1,348 = rewards $1,348.
    4. Against #47. Trails Capital One QuicksilverOne by $139 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$256).
    5. Against #49. Beats Chase Amazon Visa by $371 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$421).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  49. #49Chase Amazon Visa

    Chase

    Amazon Visa

    No annual feeDining 2%Online 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$1,257
    Year 2+$1,207

    3 years $3,672 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,257
    Year 2+$1,207
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$50 / $0Rewards on spending$1,207 / $1,207Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1%
    Air
    Flights
    1%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    3%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #49 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,672 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,257 = welcome bonus $50 + rewards $1,207.
    3. Each year after. $1,207 = rewards $1,207.
    4. Against #48. Trails Chase DoorDash Rewards Mastercard by $371 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$421).
    5. Against #50. Beats Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold by $605 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$883).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  50. #50Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold

    Chase

    Marriott Bonvoy Bold

    No annual feeGroceries 2xHotels 3x
    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 $1,241, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $913, based on 0.73 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,067, based on 0.73 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,241, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $913, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$329 / $0Rewards on spending$913 / $913Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #50 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,067 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,241 (estimated) = welcome bonus $329 + rewards $913.
    3. Each year after. about $913 (estimated) = rewards $913.
    4. Against #49. Trails Chase Amazon Visa by $605 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$883).
    5. Against #51. Beats Capital One Venture X by $119 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$1,185).

    Points valued at 0.73¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  51. #51Capital One Venture X

    Capital One

    Venture X

    $395 fee
    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$1,199
    Year 2+$874

    3 years $2,948 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,199
    Year 2+$874
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$375 / $50Rewards on spending$955 / $955Credits$264 / $264Fees (taken off the end)−$395 / −$395
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #51 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,948 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,199 = welcome bonus $375 + rewards $955 + credits $264 − fee $395.
    3. Each year after. $874 = anniversary bonus $50 + rewards $955 + credits $264 − fee $395.
    4. Against #50. Trails Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold by $119 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$1,185).
    5. Against #52. Trails American Express Gold Card by $161 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$560).

    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
  52. #52American Express Gold Card

    American Express

    Gold Card

    $325 feeGroceries 4xDining 4x
    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$1,036
    Year 2+$1,036

    3 years $3,108 after fees· pays for itself in month 3Bonus not counted

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,036
    Year 2+$1,036
    Rewards on spending$1,142 / $1,142Credits$219 / $219Fees (taken off the end)−$325 / −$325
    Pays for itself in month 3 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    4x
    Groc
    Groceries
    4x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #52 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,108 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,036 = rewards $1,142 + credits $219 − fee $325.
    3. Each year after. $1,036 = rewards $1,142 + credits $219 − fee $325.
    4. Against #51. Beats Capital One Venture X by $161 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$560).
    5. Against #53. Beats American Express Platinum Card by $82 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,643).
    6. Not counted. Welcome offer not counted: American Express shows the welcome offer only after you apply.

    Points valued at 0.60¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  53. #53American Express Platinum Card

    American Express

    Platinum Card

    $895 feeFlights 5x
    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$1,009
    Year 2+$1,009

    3 years $3,026 after fees· pays for itself in month 6Bonus not counted

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,009
    Year 2+$1,009
    Rewards on spending$804 / $804Credits$1,100 / $1,100Fees (taken off the end)−$895 / −$895
    Pays for itself in month 6 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    5x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #53 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,026 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,009 = rewards $804 + credits $1,100 − fee $895.
    3. Each year after. $1,009 = rewards $804 + credits $1,100 − fee $895.
    4. Against #52. Trails American Express Gold Card by $82 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,643).
    5. Against #54. Beats Capital One VentureOne by $1,135 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$3,301).
    6. Not counted. Welcome offer not counted: American Express shows the welcome offer only after you apply.

    Points valued at 0.60¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  54. #54Capital One VentureOne

    Capital One

    VentureOne

    No annual fee
    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$697
    Year 2+$597

    3 years $1,891 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$697
    Year 2+$597
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$597 / $597Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.25x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.25x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.25x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.25x
    Air
    Flights
    1.25x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.25x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.25x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.25x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.25x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.25x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.25x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #54 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,891 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $697 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $597.
    3. Each year after. $597 = rewards $597.
    4. Against #53. Trails American Express Platinum Card by $1,135 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$3,301).
    5. Against #55. Beats Bank of America BankAmericard by $1,891 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$1,791).

    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
  55. #55Bank of America BankAmericard

    Bank of America

    BankAmericard

    No annual fee
    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$0
    Year 2+$0

    3 years $0 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$0
    Year 2+$0
    Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    0%
    Groc
    Groceries
    0%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    0%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    0%
    Air
    Flights
    0%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    0%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    0%
    Stream
    Streaming
    0%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    0%
    Online
    Online shopping
    0%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    0%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #55 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $0 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $0 = nothing.
    3. Each year after. $0 = nothing.
    4. Against #54. Trails Capital One VentureOne by $1,891 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$1,791).
    5. Against #56. Capital One Platinum is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  56. #56Capital One Platinum

    Capital One

    Platinum

    No annual fee
    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$0
    Year 2+$0

    3 years $0 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$0
    Year 2+$0
    Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    0%
    Groc
    Groceries
    0%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    0%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    0%
    Air
    Flights
    0%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    0%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    0%
    Stream
    Streaming
    0%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    0%
    Online
    Online shopping
    0%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    0%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #56 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $0 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $0 = nothing.
    3. Each year after. $0 = nothing.
    4. Against #55. Bank of America BankAmericard is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #57. Chase Slate is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  57. #57Chase Slate

    Chase

    Slate

    No annual fee
    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$0
    Year 2+$0

    3 years $0 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$0
    Year 2+$0
    Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    0%
    Groc
    Groceries
    0%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    0%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    0%
    Air
    Flights
    0%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    0%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    0%
    Stream
    Streaming
    0%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    0%
    Online
    Online shopping
    0%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    0%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #57 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $0 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $0 = nothing.
    3. Each year after. $0 = nothing.
    4. Against #56. Capital One Platinum is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #58. Chase Slate Edge is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  58. #58Chase Slate Edge

    Chase

    Slate Edge

    No annual fee
    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$0
    Year 2+$0

    3 years $0 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$0
    Year 2+$0
    Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    0%
    Groc
    Groceries
    0%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    0%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    0%
    Air
    Flights
    0%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    0%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    0%
    Stream
    Streaming
    0%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    0%
    Online
    Online shopping
    0%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    0%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #58 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $0 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $0 = nothing.
    3. Each year after. $0 = nothing.
    4. Against #57. Chase Slate is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #59. Wells Fargo Reflect is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  59. #59Wells Fargo Reflect

    Wells Fargo

    Reflect

    No annual fee
    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$0
    Year 2+$0

    3 years $0 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$0
    Year 2+$0
    Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    0%
    Groc
    Groceries
    0%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    0%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    0%
    Air
    Flights
    0%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    0%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    0%
    Stream
    Streaming
    0%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    0%
    Online
    Online shopping
    0%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    0%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #59 of 59. By Year 1 value on the big spender preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $0 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $0 = nothing.
    3. Each year after. $0 = nothing.
    4. Against #58. Chase Slate Edge is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    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.

More best-of lists

The ranking in numbers

Big spender preset, $7,960 a month, after fees. "~" marks estimates.

CardYear 1Year 2+3 years
Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card~$3,681~$2,071~$7,823
Chase IHG One Rewards Premier~$3,340~$2,573~$8,485
Discover it Miles$2,866$1,433$5,731
Chase Sapphire Reserve$2,768$1,768$6,305
Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless~$2,594~$1,704~$6,002
Chase United Quest~$2,566~$1,606~$5,778
Chase World of Hyatt~$2,517~$1,842~$6,200
Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent~$2,441~$1,691~$5,822
Chase United Explorer~$2,420~$1,430~$5,281
Citi Strata Premier$2,412$1,812$6,037

Frequently asked questions

What are the best credit cards for first-year value?

On big spender spending ($7,960 a month), Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card ranks first: ~$3,681 in year 1 and ~$2,071 a year after fees. From year 2, Chase IHG One Rewards Premier keeps the most: ~$2,573 a year.

How were these cards picked?

Ranked by year 1 value on a big spender's spending, with what each card is worth after that. The order comes from the same calculation as the comparison tool, with the same tie-breakers; commission never changes it.

Will the order be the same for me?

Only if you spend like the preset. Spending more in a card's bonus categories moves it up. Set your own numbers in the tool to see your order.

Sources

Estimates for information only; not financial advice. See how cards are ranked.