7 Best Credit Cards with Great Rewards for 2024

What are the best credit cards that come with great rewards?

If you’re asking that, you’re probably asking how to make the most of your spending in 2024. 

From cash back to travel perks, we’ve handpicked the top credit card picks to help you maximize your rewards.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to select the best credit cards, compare different rewards credit cards, explore cash back options, and provide insights into how to make the most of your rewards. 

Best Credit Cards with Great Rewards for 2024

The best credit cards offer lucrative cash back, rewards, and bonuses on various purchases, all while considering factors such as annual fees and spending categories.

When looking at the top credit cards, it’s important to consider the perks each card provides. 

Some include exclusive access to airport lounges, travel insurance, purchase protection, and even concierge services.

For those who prioritize earning travel rewards, certain cards offer bonus points for airfare, hotels, and dining, while others cater to everyday spendings like groceries, gas, and entertainment. 

Overview of the Top Credit Card Picks

The top credit card picks for 2024 are cards that provide exceptional rewards, cash back opportunities, and exclusive bonuses tailored to different spending categories and credit needs.

These credit cards are for any number of consumer, from travel enthusiasts seeking airline miles and hotel benefits to shoppers looking for generous cash back on everyday purchases.

One standout option is the Platinum Rewards Card, renowned for its various rewards structure that offers bonus points on dining, grocery shopping, and entertainment expenditures.

Another top card, the Preferred Cashback Card, specializes in high cash back percentages on gas, groceries, and streaming services. It’s a favorite among budget-conscious individuals. 

Check out the 7 Best Credit Cards with Great Rewards for 2024 to find even more options.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Credit Cards

Understanding the criteria for selecting the best credit cards involves evaluating factors such as rewards programs, cash back percentages, annual fees, bonus offers, and spending categories to align with individual financial goals and preferences.

Rewards programs are what you should look at when choosing a credit card as they determine the benefits you earn from your spending. 

It’s not worth using a credit card if you don’t also get some rewards. So look for cards that offer rewards relevant to your lifestyle, such as travel points or cash back options.

Consider the cash back percentages that the card offers on different purchases. This can significantly impact your overall savings. 

When assessing the card’s value, don’t forget to factor in the annual fees, as these can vary widely and affect the card’s cost-effectiveness.

Some rewards will make an annual fee worth it, but don’t choose a credit card just for the sake of having a credit card and not take advantage of the rewards to compensate for the fees. 

Because of my low-key lifestyle, I always choose credit cards without annual fees. But do what works for your lifestyle.

Also consider the card’s eligibility for higher rewards in specific spending categories, such as groceries, gas, or dining, to make the most of your everyday expenses.

Understanding Different Types of Credit Cards

Exploring the different types of credit cards reveals a diverse landscape of financial products that cater to specific needs, including 

• cash back cards
• rewards cards
• credit-building cards
• cards with unique perks tailored to consumer preferences

Cash back cards provide users with a percentage of their spending back in cash, offering a straightforward way to earn as you spend. 

On the other hand, rewards cards offer points, miles, or cash back rewards that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or statement credits, appealing to frequent travelers or those looking to maximize their purchases. 

Credit-building cards are designed for individuals looking to establish or rebuild their credit history, often with lower credit score requirements and tools to track progress.

Benefits of Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards offer a multitude of benefits, including cash back incentives, rewards programs for everyday purchases, exclusive bonuses, and statement credits that provide financial value and an overall positive experience.

One significant advantage of rewards credit cards is the opportunity to earn cash back on eligible transactions.

This feature enables cardholders to receive a percentage of their spending back as a rebate, effectively reducing the overall cost of purchases. 

Rewards credit cards often come with rewards programs that allow users to accumulate points or miles for every dollar spent, which can later be redeemed for various perks such as travel, merchandise, or gift cards.

Many cards will offer different bonuses as sign-up bonuses or introductory 0% APR periods. 

0% APR periods are usually within the range of 6-18 months, though I have seen some for 24 months. 

If this is a reward or bonus you’re interested in, make sure you factor in the length of the period to all the other options out there.

Top Cash Back Credit Cards

There are a number of credit cards that provide lucrative cash back rewards on various purchases, with features such as bonus categories, statement credits, and enhanced customer experiences to maximize savings and benefits.

So when choosing the right card for you, be aware this is not an exhaustive list. There are other options out there that might fit your needs, too.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Though I’m not a big fan of Wells Fargo, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is an option you can choose that gives cash back rewards, offering competitive rates, various bonus categories, and exclusive benefits that cater to diverse spending preferences and financial needs.

Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card stands out for its cash back rewards structure, bonus offerings, and flexible redemption options, making it a popular choice for consumers seeking versatile rewards and value.

Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

The Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card is a versatile option with cash back rewards, bonus categories, and unique perks, catering to diverse spending habits and providing value through its rewards program.

Capital One SavorOne Rewards

The Capital One SavorOne Rewards card offers excellent cash back rewards on dining and entertainment purchases, making it an ideal choice for food enthusiasts and individuals who enjoy entertainment outings.

Chase Freedom Rise SM credit card

The Chase Freedom Rise SM credit card offers cash back rewards tailored to specific spending categories, providing elevated benefits and bonus opportunities for consumers looking to maximize their rewards potential.

Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card

The Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card stands out for its rotating bonus categories, generous cash back rates, and unique perks that offer cardholders substantial rewards and value on their purchases.

US Bank Cash+ ® Visa Signature ® Card

The US Bank Cash+ ® Visa Signature ® Card offers customizable cash back rewards on select categories, giving the power toing cardholders to optimize their rewards based on their unique spending preferences and priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a credit card one of the ‘7 Best Credit Cards with Great Rewards for 2024’?

These credit cards stand out from the rest due to their exceptional rewards programs, competitive interest rates, and overall value for cardholders.

What types of rewards can I expect from the 7 best credit cards for 2024?

The rewards vary depending on the credit card, but some common types include cash back, travel points, miles, and discounts on purchases.

Are there any annual fees associated with the top 7 credit cards for 2024?

Some credit cards may have an annual fee, but the majority of the best credit cards do not. 

It’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully before applying for a credit card, but you can find a great credit card that doesn’t have an annual fee.

Can I apply for one of the ‘7 Best Credit Cards with Great Rewards for 2024’ if I have bad credit?

It may be difficult to be approved for these top credit cards with bad credit, but there are still options available. 

You can work on improving your credit score and apply for a secured credit card or a card specifically designed for individuals with less-than-perfect credit.

Check out my article The 7 Best Ways to Increase Credit Score Quickly.

In a Nutshell

The best credit cards aim to incentivize spending by offering a percentage of the amount spent as cash back and other rewards. 

Be sure when using a credit card you optimize its rewards, including maximizing cash back earnings, leveraging bonus categories, and managing credit card spending effectively for enhanced rewards.

If you don’t know what the rewards and bonuses are for a credit card you already have, reach out to your financial institution and ask. 

That way you can start using your credit card to your advantage and significantly boost your overall rewards.