Selected from 1,500+ credit cards for January 2024
Updated Dec 15, 2023
Fact checked
Written by John Kiernan
Credit Card Editor
Reviewed by Alina Comoreanu
Senior Researcher
The most popular credit cards are the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card andIndigo® Mastercard® for Less than Perfect Credit. Out of 1,500+ offers, more people search for those popular credit cards online than any other general-purpose credit cards. Credit cards affiliated with major retailers such as Best Buy, Apple and Amazon also tend to be among the most popular credit cards because the brands themselves already have a loyal following.
11Most Popular Credit Cards
- Best Buy® Credit Card
- Apple Card
- Indigo® Mastercard® for Less than Perfect Credit
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
- Shell Credit Card
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
- Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card
Likecoolness, popularity can be pretty subjective. But WalletHub’s editors took a scientific approach to identify the most popular credit cards on the market. We analyzed user search patterns and application statistics to cut through marketing bluster and misplaced perceptions. And this led us to the most liked offers out there.
There are other ways of looking at this topic, too. The most popular credit card company is Chase, with 149.3 million cards in circulation. And Visa is the most popular credit card network, with 353 million cards in circulation (vs. Mastercard’s 319 million).
Just remember that the prom queen doesn’t usually end up being elected president. In other words, popularity isn’t always substantial, and the most popular credit cards aren’t always thebest credit cards. With that being said, you can learn more about the most popular cards in the most popular categories below.
WalletHub tracks 1,500+ credit cards (other sites only consider a much smaller number of cards, so they naturally miss a lot of great cards)
WalletHub picks the best credit cards overall (other sites pick the best cards from their advertising partners)
WalletHub uses a sophisticated card rating system to objectively find the best cards (other sites’ picks are influenced by their own biases)
WalletHub has 100% editorial independence (other sites just provide a billboard for advertisers)
WalletHub does not have a conflict of interest (other sites are biased due to promoting their own lending and banking offers)
WalletHub has 15+ years of credit card experience (other sites simply don’t have the same expertise)
WalletHub's best credit card picks and ratings are completely independent and not provided, commissioned, or endorsed by any issuer. Some offers may come from WalletHub's advertising partners. WalletHub independently collected information for some of the cards on this page.
14 Most Popular Credit Cards
Most Popular Credit Card for Travel Rewards
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.9
Market Comparison
4.0
fees: 3.3
rewards: 4.0
cost: 4.0
Other Features: 5.0
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Min Credit Needed
Good
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Chase Sapphire Preferred is the most popular credit card for travel rewards because of its valuable bonus rewards. New cardholders who spend $4,000 within 3 months of opening an account get an initial bonus of 60,000 points. Sapphire Preferred also gives 1 - 5 points per $1 normally. Those perks more than offset the cost of the card’s $95 annual fee for frequent travelers.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- 60,000 points - initial bonus
- Up to 6.25% back when redeeming for travel
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- $95 Annual fee
- 1 point per $1 base earn rate
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Elite Rewards
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
User Reviews
3.3
Market Comparison
4.1
fees: 1.3
rewards: 4.8
cost: 4.8
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Min Credit Needed
Excellent
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Chase Sapphire Reserve is the most popular credit card for luxury perks and rewards. New cardholders get an initial bonus of 60,000 bonus points for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months - worth $900 in travel through Chase. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® also gives 1 - 10 points per $1 spent on purchases, up to $300 in annual travel credits, and airport lounge access. Those perks can easily offset its $550 annual fee for big-spenders.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Initial Bonus: 60,000 points
- $300 Annual Travel Credit
- Up To 15% Back On Hotels and Car Rentals
Cons
- High Annual Fee
- High APR
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Cash Rewards
4.2WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.2
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.6
Market Comparison
4.1
fees: 3.8
rewards: 3.4
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days (5%, min $5 after)
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 5% Cash Back
Min Credit Needed
Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days (5%, min $5 after)
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Chase Freedom Unlimited is one of the most popular credit cards on the market because of its $0 annual fee, generous rewards and 0% introductory APRs. Chase Freedom Unlimited also piggybacks on the popularity of its predecessor, Chase Freedom®, which is currently unavailable to new applicants. The "Freedom" brand name has long been the calling card for Chase, the nation’s largest credit card issuer by purchase volume, so it is no surprise that it still carries a lot of weight with "Unlimited" tacked onto the end.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Earn rate: 1.5 - 5% cash back
- 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- $0 annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee
- Foreign transaction fee
- Potential for a high regular APR
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Students
3.9WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.9
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Build Credit by Paying in Full Each Month (Students)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.7
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
3.8
fees: 5.0
rewards: 3.4
cost: 3.5
Other Features: 5.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 months
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
18.24% - 27.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 5% Cash Back
Min Credit Needed
Limited History
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 months
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
18.24% - 27.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Fair, Limited History
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Discover it® Student Cash Back has a $0 annual fee, gives 1 - 5% cash back on purchases, and doubles the rewards you earn the first year as an anniversary bonus. Besides, Discover is one of only a few major issuers that offer credit cards to users across the credit spectrum, from people with bad credit to students to those with excellent credit and loads of disposable income, so it makes sense that the company’s flagship student card is quite popular.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- First-year rewards doubled
- No annual fee
- No foreign-transaction fee
- Intro APR on purchases
Cons
- High regular APR
- No initial bonus
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Warehouse Club Rewards
2.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
2.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.7
User Reviews
3.7
Market Comparison
2.4
fees: 5.0
rewards: 0.0
cost: 3.6
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
20.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 4% Cash Back
Min Credit Needed
Excellent
Regular APR
20.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 4% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Costco is an extremely popular brand, and the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is the only Costco-branded credit card for consumers. You can use other Visa credit cards at Costco, too, but the Costco Credit Card is uniquely rewarding. It gives 2% cash back on Costco purchases, both in store and online, in addition to 1 - 4% cash back on other types of purchases. It also has a $0 annual fee.
However, one downside is that rewards are only paid out once per year. You also need excellent credit to get approved.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- $0 Annual Fee
- 1 - 4% Cash Back on Purchases
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
Cons
- No Initial Rewards Bonus
- In-Store Rewards Redemption Only
- High Regular APR
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Airline Credit Card
3.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Airline Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.3
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
3.7
fees: 2.9
rewards: 3.8
cost: 4.1
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$99
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Min Credit Needed
Good
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$99
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Southwest Airlines credit cards are the most popular airline credit cards on the market, in large part due to Southwest’s budget-friendly fares and the valuable rewards offered by the airline’s credit cards. And the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card is the most popular Southwest credit card, given it’s reasonable annual fee ($99), solid initial bonus (50,000 points), and respectable ongoing rewards (1 - 3 points / $1).
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Attainable initial bonus
- 6,000-point annual anniversary bonus
- Strong earning rates for people who fly often and always with Southwest
Cons
- $99 annual fee
- High regular APR
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Secured Credit Card
3.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Rebuild Damaged Credit"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.0
User Reviews
3.5
Market Comparison
3.0
fees: 3.0
rewards: 0.0
cost: 2.0
APR: 2.5
Other Features: 4.3
Regular APR
25.64% (V)
Annual Fee
$35
Min Credit Needed
Bad
Regular APR
25.64% (V)
Annual Fee
$35
Accepted Credit
Limited History, Bad
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The OpenSky Card is the most popular secured credit card because there is no credit check when you apply. That, combined with a low annual fee ($35), makes this card an excellent choice for rebuilding your credit, no matter how damaged it may be.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Reasonable $35 annual fee
- As low as $200 minimum deposit
Cons
- 3% foreign transaction fee
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Bad Credit
2.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
2.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Rebuild Damaged Credit"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
3.0
User Reviews
3.4
Market Comparison
2.6
fees: 3.0
rewards: 0.0
cost: 1.9
APR: 2.5
Other Features: 4.7
Regular APR
24.9%
Annual Fee
$0 - $99
Min Credit Needed
Bad
Regular APR
24.9%
Annual Fee
$0 - $99
Accepted Credit
Bad
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The Indigo Card is the most popular credit card for bad credit because it is a rare unsecured card for people with damaged credit that has an annual fee that could be as low as $0 ($0 - $99, depending on creditworthiness). Even though secured credit cards tend to be cheaper in the long run, many people would rather avoid having to place a refundable security deposit.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Qualify with bad credit
- Does not require security deposit
Cons
- Membership fees
- High regular APR
- Foreign fee
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Mastercard
2.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
2.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
3.5
User Reviews
3.4
Market Comparison
2.7
fees: 5.0
rewards: 1.8
cost: 2.7
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 - 24 months
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3% Cash Back
Min Credit Needed
Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 - 24 months
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The Apple Card is one of the most popular credit cards available because it’s affiliated with one of the most popular brands in the world. The Apple Card also has a $0 annual fee and good rewards on purchases: 1 - 3% cash back, depending on where you make the purchase and how you pay. Applicants need at least good credit for approval.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- No membership fees
- 0% intro APR on purchases
- High rewards rate
- No foreign fee
Cons
- No initial rewards bonus
- No balance transfers allowed
- High regular APR
- Requires good/excellent credit
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card For Newcomers
4.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Improve Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.2
Market Comparison
4.9
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 4.5
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Min Credit Needed
Limited History
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair, Limited History
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The Petal 2 Visa Card is the most popular starter credit card because it has a $0 annual fee and gives rewards equal to 1 - 1.5% cash back on eligible purchases. That’s a tough combination for other credit cards for people with no credit to compete with.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- No membership fees
- No foreign fee
- Qualify with limited or no credit history
- Does not require security deposit
Cons
- No rewards bonus
- No balance transfers allowed
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Credit Card for Small Business
2.3WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
2.3
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Business - Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
Market Comparison
1.9
fees: 5.0
rewards: 0.0
cost: 2.6
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
19.49% - 27.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
$100
Min Credit Needed
Good
Regular APR
19.49% - 27.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
$100
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The Amazon Business American Express Card is the most popular business credit card in large part because of the retailer it’s affiliated with. The card also offers solid rewards, starting with an initial bonus offer of $100 Amazon.com gift card upon approval. In addition, cardholders earn 1 - 3 points per $1 on purchases normally.
Just make sure to use this card for its initial bonus offer and attractive ongoing rewards, not for financing purposes. Small business credit cards are subject to arbitrary interest rate increases, as they arenot governed by the CARD Act.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- No annual fee
- High rewards rate
- $100 initial rewards bonus
- No foreign fee
Cons
- Spending caps on rewards
- No intro APR on purchases
- No balance transfers allowed
- Requires good/excellent credit
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Hotel Credit Card
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Hotel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
User Reviews
3.6
Market Comparison
4.2
fees: 3.3
rewards: 4.4
cost: 4.5
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
2 - 6 points / $1
Bonus Offer
3 Free Nights
Min Credit Needed
Good
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
2 - 6 points / $1
Bonus Offer
3 Free Nights
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: Marriott credit cards are the most popular hotel credit cards overall, and the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card figures to appeal to the most people. Among the card’s many perks are an initial bonus of 3 Free Nights for spending $3,000 in the first 3 months, 2 - 6 points per $1 in ongoing rewards, automatic Silver Elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, and a free night after each account anniversary. The Bonvoy Card has an annual fee of $95.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- Good initial bonus
- 1 free night per year
- Automatic Silver Elite status
- 6 points per $1 spent at Marriott
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- $95 annual fee
- Must redeem points for free nights to get full value
- High regular APR
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Gas Credit Card
2.0WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
2.0
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Gas Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
2.9
User Reviews
3.5
Market Comparison
1.7
fees: 3.8
rewards: 1.2
cost: 1.5
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
31.74% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
10 ¢ / gallon
Min Credit Needed
Good
Regular APR
31.74% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
10 ¢ / gallon
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it’s one of the most popular credit cards: The Shell Credit Card is the most popular gas credit card because it offers relatively good rewards at one of the country’s largest and most popular gas station chains. It gives a discount of $0.10 - $0.30 per gallon of Shell gas charged to the card, along with rewards equal to 1% - 10% back on other purchases. The Shell Credit Card has a $0 annual fee and requires at least good credit for approval.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- No membership fees
- High rewards rate
- Bonus rewards categories
Cons
- Spending caps on rewards
- No initial rewards bonus
- No intro APR on purchases
- No balance transfers allowed
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Most Popular Store Credit Card
3.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.0
User Reviews
3.3
Market Comparison
3.3
fees: 5.0
rewards: 2.7
cost: 3.3
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 24 months
Regular APR
31.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
0.5 - 2.5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
10% back in rewards
Min Credit Needed
Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 24 months
Regular APR
31.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
0.5 - 2.5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
10% back in rewards
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why it's one of the most popular credit cards: The Best Buy Credit Card is the most popular store credit card because it offers great rewards on purchases from one of the most popular retail chains. Those rewards include at least 5% back on Best Buy purchases, and there is no annual fee.
Applicants will first be considered for the Best Buy Visa Card, which requires good credit at a minimum and can be used wherever Visa is accepted. If you are not approved for the Visa, you will be automatically considered for the Best Buy Store Card, which requires fair credit and can only be used at Best Buy.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros
- No membership fees
- High rewards rate
- 10% back in rewards initial rewards bonus
- No foreign fee
Cons
- No intro APR on balance transfers
- Balance transfer fee
- Requires good/excellent credit
Editors' Thoughts and More Details Pros, Cons & Details
Were the editor’s picks helpful?
WalletHub's Research
- Most Popular credit cards compared
- 10 largest credit card companies (2024 List)
- Methodology
- Sources
- About the author
- User questions & answers
Most Popular Credit Cards Compared
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Most Popular For |
| Apple Card | $0 | Mastercard |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | $0 | Cash Rewards |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card | $95 | Travel Rewards |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® | $550 | Elite Rewards |
| Best Buy® Credit Card | $0 | Store Card |
| Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi | $0 | Warehouse Clubs |
| Discover it® Student Cash Back | $0 | Students |
| OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card | $35 | Secured Card |
| Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card | $95 | Hotel Points |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card | $99 | Airline Rewards |
| Indigo® Mastercard® for Less than Perfect Credit | $0 - $99 | Bad Credit |
| Amazon Business American Express Card | $0 | Small Business |
10 Largest Credit Card Companies (2024 List)
1. Chase – 149.3M cards in circulation
2. Capital One – 106.9M cards in circulation
3. Citi – 78.7M cards in circulation
4. Discover – 61M cards in circulation
5. Bank of America – 55.4M cards in circulation
6. American Express – 48.4M cards in circulation
7. Synchrony – 28.9M cards in circulation
8. Wells Fargo – 23.6M cards in circulation
9. U.S. Bank – 22.4M cards in circulation
10. Credit One Bank – 17.5M cards in circulation
Note: Cardholder data are from Nilson Report and card network annual reports. Co-branded cards and store cards were excluded, except in the case of Synchrony, which primarily issues store cards.
Methodology for Identifying the Most Popular Credit Cards
To find the most popular credit card offers, and then maintain the list over time, WalletHub’s editors regularly analyze search engine data to determine which credit cards people are most interested in learning about and applying for. We monitor more than 1,500 credit card offers for this purpose. We also update our database whenever new credit cards launch or existing cards stop accepting applications.
In addition to identifying the most popular credit cards overall, our editors select the most popular credit cards in major categories, such as cash back and travel rewards. We also highlight popular credit card offers by credit level and from each of the most popular credit card companies. In the event two cards are equally popular for a particular category, we use two-year cost as a tiebreaker.
Cardholder Spending Profiles
Given that different users have different goals and are likely to use their credit cards differently, we identified spending profiles that are representative of different users’ financial priorities and behaviors. For each cardholder type, we have assumed a specific amount of monthly spending by purchase type (e.g., groceries, gas, etc.), as well as an average balance, balance transfer amount, amount spent on large purchases and average monthly payment. Spending assumptions are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for consumers and PEX data for businesses.
Sources
WalletHub actively maintains a database of 1,500+ credit card offers, from which we select the most popular credit cards for different applicants as well as derive market-wide takeaways and trends. The underlying data is compiled from credit card company websites or provided directly by the credit card issuers. We also leverage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to develop cardholder profiles, used to estimate cards’ potential savings.
About the Author
John S Kiernan
John Kiernan has covered the credit card industry for more than 10 years as a writer and editor for WalletHub. His work has been featured by major media outlets such as The Washington Post and The New York Times and has been cited by industry regulators such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Most Popular Credit Cards FAQ
Finding the best credit card can be tough. But you’ve got the knowledgeable WalletHub community on your side. We encourage everyone to share their knowledge while respecting our content guidelines. Please keep in mind that editorial and user-generated content on this page is not reviewed or otherwise endorsed by any financial institution. In addition, it is not the financial institution’s responsibility to ensure all posts and questions are answered. WalletHub independently collected information for some of the cards on this page.
What is the most widely accepted credit card?
18
Upvotes
Reply
18
WalletHub
@WalletHub
VisaandMastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards. Visa credit cards can be used at 44 million merchant locations in more than 200 countries and territories. Mastercard credit cards are accepted at 37 million merchant locations in more than 210 countries and territories.
Mastercard is accepted in more countries than Visa, yet roughly 7 million more merchants worldwide take Visa. Both have a claim to the title of most widely accepted credit...
8
What is considered a "major credit card"?
6
Upvotes
Reply
6
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Major credit cards are any cards that belong to one of the big four credit card networks: Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. That's what stores mean by “we accept all major credit cards.” A major credit card will almost always show the logo of its network on the front. In some cases it'll be on the back. If a card doesn't have such a logo, it's likely a store card that can only be used at a...
5
2
View more answers
Why is Chase Sapphire Preferred so popular?
38
Upvotes
Reply
38
Theresa Chalfant, Writer
@theresa_chalfant
Chase Sapphire Preferred is so popular because of its generous bonus rewards, travel benefits and numerous transfer partners. The average person could earn roughly $2,000 in net rewards from the Chase Sapphire Preferred card in two years, factoring in the $95 annual fee.
Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
Potential drawbacks include the annual fee and an APR of 21.49% to 28.49% (V), which is higher than average among cards for good to excellent credit. However, if you pay off your...
What are the safest credit card companies?
2
Upvotes
Reply
2
Why is Amex so popular?
2
Upvotes
Reply
2
Chip Lupo, Credit Card Writer
@CLoop
Amex is so popular because it offers high-end credit cards with great rewards and luxury perks, which have become status symbols in popular culture over time. For example, the American Express Platinum card and the invitation-only Centurion® Card from American Express are among the most prestigious credit cards available. Amex cards aren't exactly easy to get, but that has only made them more popular with consumers who are looking for a sense of exclusivity and prestige.
In addition, nearly all Amex cards have...
1
What is a reliable credit card?
1
Upvote
Reply
1
What is the most common credit card?
Upvotes
Reply
Theresa Chalfant, Writer
@theresa_chalfant
The most common credit cards are Visa cards, followed closely by Mastercard, based on the number of cards each network has in circulation. Both networks have hundreds of millions of cards from a variety of issuers and are the most widely accepted both in the U.S. and worldwide.
These credit cards aren't issued by Visa and Mastercard themselves, however. Many different banks and credit unions handle that. The most common credit card issuer is...
What are the two most popular credit card companies?
Upvotes
Reply
Theresa Chalfant, Writer
@theresa_chalfant
The two most popular credit card companies in the U.S. are Chase and Capital One, based on the number of cards they have in circulation. These banks both offer a wide variety of credit cards with competitive rewards and benefits, making their cards popular choices among consumers. Both companies have over 100 million credit cards in circulation currently.
Both banks offer cards that are part of the Visa or Mastercard networks. Visa and Mastercard make up the majority of credit cards in the U.S., and are accepted virtually everywhere, but these networks don't issue credit cards themselves. Chase and Capital One are among the major banks that issue Mastercard and Visa cards.
Best Chase and Capital One Cards
Best Overall:Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardChase Sapphire Preferred® CardLearn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website- Rates & FeesTravel Rewards:Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardCapital One Venture Rewards Credit CardLearn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website
- Cash Back:Chase Freedom Unlimited®Chase Freedom Unlimited®Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website
- Beginners:Chase Freedom Rise℠ Credit CardChase Freedom Rise℠ Credit CardLearn MoreLearn More
- Rates & FeesStudents:Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit CardCapital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit CardLearn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website
- Business:Capital One Spark Cash PlusCapital One Spark Cash PlusLearn MoreLearn More
Chase in particular offers several of the most popular credit cards, though there are also popular cards that aren't issued by the major banks, and some that are affiliated with popular brands.
What are the most used credit cards?
Upvotes
Reply
Maria Adams, Credit Cards Moderator
@m_adams
The most used credit cards are Visa credit cards, with more than 312 million cards in circulation, according to the Nilson Report. Mastercard credit cards come in second, with more than 266 million cards in circulation. Credit cards on both these networks are accepted in 10.7 million locations in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.
Among credit card issuers, Chase comes first with more than 149 million credit cards in circulation. Narrowing it down...
What is the most popular bank credit card?
Upvotes
Reply
Expert Opinions
What do the most popular credit cards tells us about consumers, credit card companies and the right money moves to make? In search of insights into those issues and more, WalletHub posed the following questions to a panel of experts.
You can meet the panel below. Just click “Read More” below an expert’s bio to check out his or her comments.
- Is it fair for consumers to assume that the most popular credit cards are the best credit cards?
- What do you think are the biggest factors that affect the popularity of a credit card offer?
- Several of the most popular credit cards are co-branded; why do you think that is?
- Do you think credit cards will become more or less popular over the next 5-10 years?
- Is it necessarily a good thing for a credit card company to have a really popular card?
Matthew A. Gilbert
MBA, Lecturer of Marketing, Director of the Each One Teach One, Entrepreneurship Institute, Coastal Carolina University, Wall College of Business Administration
Read More
Parul Jain
Associate Professor of Professional Practice, Rutgers University – Business School Newark and New Brunswick
Read More
Betty Jean Hebel
Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Madonna University
Read More
Abhijit Roy
Professor of Marketing, Kania School of Management, University of Scranton
Read More
Donna Wertalik
M.S., Marketing, Director of Marketing Strategy & Analytics, Virginia Tech Pamplin College of Business, Professor of Practice, Marketing Department
Read More
Patricia Huddleston
Director, Information and Media Ph.D. Program, Professor of Retailing Advertising and Public Relations, Michigan State University, College of Communication Arts and Sciences
Read More
More Experts
WalletHub is committed to transparency and editorial independence. The information about the following cards has been independently collected by WalletHub: Apple Card, Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card, Amazon Business American Express Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, Shell Credit Card, Best Buy® Credit Card, Centurion® Card from American Express, Chase Freedom Rise℠ Credit Card, and Capital One Spark Cash Plus
