Credit Card Comparison

Verified Oct 16, 2026USD

60 US cards ranked on your own spending, each showing Year 1 against every year after. Terms are read from each issuer's page, and points count at their conservative cash value unless you choose otherwise.

Advertiser disclosure: we may earn a commission when you apply through some links on this page. It never affects rank: cards are ordered by the value worked out from your spending. How we make money · Methodology

Your spend $3,350/mo

CashMax value

Each point at what it's worth as cash or a statement credit (the default). Slide right if you transfer points to airlines or hotels. e.g. Chase Ultimate Rewards: 1.00¢ a point.

Use my numbers: monthly spending by category
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Eligibility, travel and balance
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Checked against published minimums only.

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59 cards ranked by 3-year value. First: Chase IHG One Rewards Premier.

  1. #1Chase 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 $2,010, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,243, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,496, 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 $2,010, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,243, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,062 / $295Rewards on spending$963 / $963Credits$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 #1 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,496 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,010 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,062 + rewards $963 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    3. Each year after. about $1,243 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $295 + rewards $963 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    4. Against #2. Beats Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card by $634 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$548).
    5. 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
  2. #2Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    Chase

    Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    $195 feeGroceries 2xDining 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 $2,360, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $750, based on 1.4 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,861, based on 1.4 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 2Mostly first-year value

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,360, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $750, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,610 / $0Rewards on spending$890 / $890Credits$55 / $55Fees (taken off the end)−$195 / −$195
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 #2 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,861 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,360 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,610 + rewards $890 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    3. Each year after. about $750 (estimated) = rewards $890 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    4. Against #1. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards Premier by $634 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$548).
    5. Against #3. Beats Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $545 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$726).

    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
  3. #3Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    Chase

    Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    $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 1estimated value, about $1,698, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $809, based on 0.73 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,316, 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 $1,698, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $809, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,095 / $256Rewards on spending$648 / $648Credits$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 #3 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,316 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,698 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,095 + rewards $648 + credits $50 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $809 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $256 + rewards $648 − fee $95.
    4. Against #2. Trails Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card by $545 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$726).
    5. Against #4. Beats Chase Sapphire Reserve by $273 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,614).
    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
  4. #4Chase Sapphire Reserve

    Chase

    Sapphire Reserve

    $795 feeDining 3xFlights 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$1,681
    Year 2+$681

    3 years $3,043 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,681
    Year 2+$681
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,000 / $0Rewards on spending$588 / $588Credits$888 / $888Fees (taken off the end)−$795 / −$795
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,043 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,681 = welcome bonus $1,000 + rewards $588 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    3. Each year after. $681 = rewards $588 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    4. Against #3. Trails Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $273 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,614).
    5. Against #5. Beats Citi Strata Premier by $178 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,544).

    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. #5Citi 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$1,355
    Year 2+$755

    3 years $2,865 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,355
    Year 2+$755
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$810 / $810Credits$40 / $40Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 #5 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,865 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,355 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $810 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $755 = rewards $810 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    4. Against #4. Trails Chase Sapphire Reserve by $178 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,544).
    5. Against #6. Beats Wells Fargo One Key Card by $23 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$350).

    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
  6. #6Wells 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$1,114
    Year 2+$864

    3 years $2,842 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,114
    Year 2+$864
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$864 / $864Fees (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 #6 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,842 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,114 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $864.
    3. Each year after. $864 = rewards $864.
    4. Against #5. Trails Citi Strata Premier by $23 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$350).
    5. Against #7. Beats Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $87 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$500).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  7. #7Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent

    Bank of America

    Atmos Rewards Ascent

    $95 feeBills 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 $1,418, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $668, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,755, 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 $1,418, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $668, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$763 / $763Fees (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 #7 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,755 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,418 (estimated) = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $763 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $668 (estimated) = rewards $763 − fee $95.
    4. Against #6. Trails Wells Fargo One Key Card by $87 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$500).
    5. Against #8. Beats Chase United Quest by $35 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$978).

    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
  8. #8Chase United Quest

    Chase

    United Quest

    $350 feeDining 2xFlights 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 1estimated value, about $1,547, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $587, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,720, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,547, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $587, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$960 / $0Rewards on spending$611 / $611Credits$326 / $326Fees (taken off the end)−$350 / −$350
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 #8 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,720 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,547 (estimated) = welcome bonus $960 + rewards $611 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    3. Each year after. about $587 (estimated) = rewards $611 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    4. Against #7. Trails Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $35 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$978).
    5. Against #9. Beats Citi Double Cash by $108 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$1,050).

    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
  9. #9Citi 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$1,004
    Year 2+$804

    3 years $2,612 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,004
    Year 2+$804
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$804 / $804Fees (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 #9 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,612 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,004 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $804.
    3. Each year after. $804 = rewards $804.
    4. Against #8. Trails Chase United Quest by $108 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$1,050).
    5. Against #10. Beats Chase World of Hyatt by $8 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$475).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  10. #10Chase 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 $1,318, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $643, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,604, 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 $1,318, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $643, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$675 / $0Rewards on spending$738 / $738Fees (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 #10 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,604 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,318 (estimated) = welcome bonus $675 + rewards $738 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $643 (estimated) = rewards $738 − fee $95.
    4. Against #9. Trails Citi Double Cash by $8 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$475).
    5. Against #11. Beats American Express Blue Cash Preferred by $6 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$425).
    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
  11. #11American 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$1,096
    Year 2+$751

    3 years $2,598 after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,096
    Year 2+$751
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$798 / $798Credits$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 #11 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,598 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,096 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $798 + credits $48.
    3. Each year after. $751 = rewards $798 + credits $48 − fee $95.
    4. Against #10. Trails Chase World of Hyatt by $6 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$425).
    5. Against #12. Beats Chase IHG One Rewards by $8 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$631).

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

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  12. #12Chase 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 $1,355, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $618, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,590, 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 $1,355, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $618, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$738 / $0Rewards on spending$588 / $588Credits$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 #12 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,590 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,355 (estimated) = welcome bonus $738 + rewards $588 + credits $30.
    3. Each year after. about $618 (estimated) = rewards $588 + credits $30.
    4. Against #11. Trails American Express Blue Cash Preferred by $8 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$631).
    5. Against #13. Beats Chase United Explorer by $13 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$300).

    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
  13. #13Chase 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 $1,519, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $529, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,577, 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 $1,519, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $529, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$840 / $0Rewards on spending$576 / $576Credits$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 #13 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,577 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,519 (estimated) = welcome bonus $840 + rewards $576 + credits $103.
    3. Each year after. about $529 (estimated) = rewards $576 + credits $103 − fee $150.
    4. Against #12. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards by $13 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$300).
    5. Against #14. Beats Chase Sapphire Preferred by $49 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$90).

    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
  14. #14Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase

    Sapphire Preferred

    $95 feeDining 3xGas 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$1,343
    Year 2+$593

    3 years $2,528 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,343
    Year 2+$593
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$604 / $604Credits$84 / $84Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 #14 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,528 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,343 = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $604 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $593 = rewards $604 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    4. Against #13. Trails Chase United Explorer by $49 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$90).
    5. Against #15. Beats Wells Fargo Active Cash by $16 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$650).

    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. #15Wells 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$904
    Year 2+$804

    3 years $2,512 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$904
    Year 2+$804
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$804 / $804Fees (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 #15 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,512 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $904 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $804.
    3. Each year after. $804 = rewards $804.
    4. Against #14. Trails Chase Sapphire Preferred by $16 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$650).
    5. Against #16. Beats Discover it Cash Back by $59 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$100).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  16. #16Discover it Cash Back

    Discover

    it Cash Back

    No annual feeGroceries 5%Dining 5%
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613

    3 years $2,453 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613
    Rewards on spending$1,226 / $613Fees (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 #16 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,453 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,226 = rewards $1,226.
    3. Each year after. $613 = rewards $613.
    4. Against #15. Trails Wells Fargo Active Cash by $59 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$100).
    5. Against #17. 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
  17. #17Discover it Secured

    Discover

    it Secured

    No annual feeGroceries 5%Dining 5%
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613

    3 years $2,453 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613
    Rewards on spending$1,226 / $613Fees (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 #17 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,453 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,226 = rewards $1,226.
    3. Each year after. $613 = rewards $613.
    4. Against #16. 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 #18. 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
  18. #18Discover it Student Cash Back

    Discover

    it Student Cash Back

    No annual feeGroceries 5%Dining 5%
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613

    3 years $2,453 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,226
    Year 2+$613
    Rewards on spending$1,226 / $613Fees (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 #18 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,453 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,226 = rewards $1,226.
    3. Each year after. $613 = rewards $613.
    4. Against #17. Discover it Secured is worth the same over 3 years; the tie-breakers (lower fee, no foreign fee, earlier break-even) decide.
    5. Against #19. Beats Bank of America Premium Rewards by $15 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$600).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  19. #19Bank 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$1,213
    Year 2+$613

    3 years $2,438 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,213
    Year 2+$613
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$645 / $645Credits$63 / $63Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · 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 #19 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,438 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,213 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $645 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $613 = rewards $645 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    4. Against #18. Trails Discover it Student Cash Back by $15 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$600).
    5. Against #20. Beats Discover it Miles by $26 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$600).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  20. #20Discover 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$1,206
    Year 2+$603

    3 years $2,412 after fees· no fee to cover

    Apply
    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,206
    Year 2+$603
    Rewards on spending$1,206 / $603Fees (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 #20 of 59. By 3-year value on the family preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,412 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,206 = rewards $1,206.
    3. Each year after. $603 = rewards $603.
    4. Against #19. Trails Bank of America Premium Rewards by $26 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$600).
    5. Against #21. U.S. Bank Smartly Visa Signature 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

Compare 0 cards

Year 1 vs every year after

Winner by year

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
3 years
Annual fee
Foreign fee
Income

Earn rates

Break-even

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.

Top 10 on the family preset

$3,350 a month, family spending, points at their cash value, after fees. "~" marks estimates.

CardYear 1Year 2+3 years
Chase IHG One Rewards Premier~$2,010~$1,243~$4,496
Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card~$2,360~$750~$3,861
Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless~$1,698~$809~$3,316
Chase Sapphire Reserve$1,681$681$3,043
Citi Strata Premier$1,355$755$2,865
Wells Fargo One Key Card$1,114$864$2,842
Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent~$1,418~$668~$2,755
Chase United Quest~$1,547~$587~$2,720
Citi Double Cash$1,004$804$2,612
Chase World of Hyatt~$1,318~$643~$2,604

Frequently asked questions

Why are Year 1 and Year 2+ so different?

Year 1 adds the welcome bonus, any first-year fee waiver, one-time credits and intro APR savings. From year 2 a card only has what it earns on your spending and its ongoing credits, minus the full annual fee, so a card that ranks first in year 1 can be an average card after that.

Which US card is worth the most for a typical family?

On the family preset ($3,350 a month, points at each program's cash or statement-credit value), Chase IHG One Rewards Premier is worth the most over 3 years at ~$4,496. From year 2, Chase IHG One Rewards Premier earns the most: ~$1,243 a year after fees. Your own spending can change the order.

How are points and miles valued?

In dollars, using how you redeem: cash or statement credit by default (the conservative choice), the issuer's travel booking, or transfer partners at a published valuation (Chase Ultimate Rewards 2.05¢, American Express Membership Rewards 2¢, Capital One miles 1.85¢, Citi ThankYou Points 1.9¢, Wells Fargo Rewards 1.75¢). Every figure that depends on a valuation is marked "~ est.", and the "Value points as" slider runs from each program's cash value to its highest published value, for people who transfer points to airlines and hotels.

Which cards are mostly their welcome bonus?

On the family preset, 1 card gets more than 60% of their 3-year value in year 1, or nothing after it: Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card. They carry a "Mostly first-year value" flag.

Does a commission change the order?

No. Cards are ranked only by the value worked out from your spending, with published tie-breakers (lower annual fee, then no foreign transaction fee, then earlier break-even). Cards with no affiliate program are listed and ranked the same way.

Do you show approval odds?

No. Approval depends on your credit file and the issuer's rules, which we can't see. We show only requirements the issuer publishes, such as a minimum income, and values assume you're approved as advertised.

Sources

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