The Best Rewards Credit Cards in January 2025 Ranked by Value
With the new year comes a fresh batch of credit cards offering rewarding benefits for savvy consumers. Whether you’re looking to earn travel rewards, cash back, or points for purchases, these credit cards are ranked by value in January 2025. We’ve evaluated the top choices based on rewards rates, sign-up bonuses, and overall benefits, so you can choose the best card that suits your needs.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best for Travel Rewards
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains one of the top contenders for travel enthusiasts. It offers a great combination of rewards and benefits for dining, travel, and more. You can earn 2x points on travel and dining and 1x point on all other purchases. The points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards or transferred to over 13 travel partners for extra value.
- Sign-Up Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
- Rewards Rate: 2x points on travel and dining, 1x point on other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $95
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for Luxury Travel Rewards
For those looking for premium travel benefits, The Platinum Card® from American Express is unmatched. It offers a 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, along with access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. The card also provides comprehensive travel protections, including trip cancellation and baggage insurance.
- Sign-Up Bonus: 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months.
- Rewards Rate: 5x points on flights, 1x point on other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $695
3. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Best for Cash Back on Everyday Purchases
If you prefer cash back, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an excellent option. You’ll earn 6% cash back on select purchases, including U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually), 3% on transit, and 1% on other purchases. It’s ideal for those looking to maximize everyday expenses.
- Sign-Up Bonus: $300 after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months.
- Rewards Rate: 6% cash back on U.S. supermarkets, 3% on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% on other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $95
4. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back
For those who want simplicity in earning rewards, the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 1.5% cash back on every purchase. This flat-rate card doesn’t require spending in rotating categories, making it easy to earn consistent rewards.
- Sign-Up Bonus: None (but unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase).
- Rewards Rate: 1.5% cash back on every purchase.
- Annual Fee: $39
5. Citi® Double Cash Card
Best for Unlimited Cash Back
The Citi® Double Cash Card offers a straightforward approach to earning cash back, with 2% back on all purchases—1% when you make a purchase and 1% when you pay it off. There’s no limit on how much cash back you can earn, and there’s no annual fee.
- Sign-Up Bonus: None.
- Rewards Rate: 2% cash back on every purchase.
- Annual Fee: $0
6. Discover it® Cash Back
Best for Rotating Categories
The Discover it® Cash Back card is a standout for earning 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (up to a $1,500 spend). Categories include dining, grocery stores, and online shopping, offering plenty of flexibility. Plus, Discover matches all the cash back you’ve earned in the first year, which is a unique benefit.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Dollar-for-dollar match of all cash back earned in the first year.
- Rewards Rate: 5% cash back on rotating categories, 1% on other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0
7. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Best for Unlimited 2% Cash Back
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a no-fuss option for those who want unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, with no rotating categories or spending restrictions. It’s a solid all-around card for people looking for simplicity and ease of use.
- Sign-Up Bonus: $200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
- Rewards Rate: 2% cash back on every purchase.
- Annual Fee: $0
Conclusion
Choosing the best rewards credit card depends on your spending habits. If you prefer travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express are top picks. For straightforward cash back, the Citi® Double Cash Card and Capital One QuicksilverOne are excellent choices. Whatever your preference, these cards provide great value for everyday purchases, travel, and more.
