Best Rewards Credit Cards of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings

Discover the top rewards credit cards of 2025 with AI-powered rankings, combining insights from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, based on performance evaluations.

Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished:
rewards-credit-cards

In 2025, more consumers than ever are choosing rewards credit cards to maximize their everyday spending benefits, according to recent surveys. We analyzed over 100 rewards credit cards by gathering data from the top 4 AI models—ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok—to form a consensus ranking and reviews. Jump to the comparison table if you're in a hurry to find the right card. Our current top pick is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. This guide offers a detailed breakdown of card rankings, price charts, and pro-con analyses to help you select the best card for your needs.

Quick Comparison

gpt4o icon1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
claude icon1stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1
gemini icon1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1
grok icon1stGrok 4 ranking: 1
gpt4o icon4thGPT-4o ranking: 4
claude icon3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3
gemini icon3rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 3
grok icon8thGrok 4 ranking: 8
gpt4o icon9thGPT-4o ranking: 9
claude icon2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2
gemini icon13thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 13
grok icon3rdGrok 4 ranking: 3
gpt4o icon8thGPT-4o ranking: 8
claude icon6thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 6
gemini icon8thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 8
grok icon7thGrok 4 ranking: 7
gpt4o icon7thGPT-4o ranking: 7
claude icon9thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 9
gemini icon10thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 10
grok icon5thGrok 4 ranking: 5
gpt4o icon2ndGPT-4o ranking: 2
claude icon5thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 5
gemini icon2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2
grok icon-Grok 4 ranking:
gpt4o icon3rdGPT-4o ranking: 3
claude icon-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking:
gemini icon4thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 4
grok icon2ndGrok 4 ranking: 2
gpt4o icon11thGPT-4o ranking: 11
claude icon4thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 4
gemini icon7thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 7
grok icon14thGrok 4 ranking: 14
gpt4o icon13thGPT-4o ranking: 13
claude icon7thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 7
gemini icon5thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 5
grok icon12thGrok 4 ranking: 12
gpt4o icon5thGPT-4o ranking: 5
claude icon-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking:
gemini icon-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking:
grok icon6thGrok 4 ranking: 6
AI Consensus Top 10
9.7/10Excellent
OpenAIChatGPT1st
GrokGrok1st
GeminiGemini1st
ClaudeClaude Sonnet1st

Reasons to Buy

🌍
Earn 2x points on travel and dining purchases
🎁
60,000 point welcome bonus after $4,000 spend
✈️
Redeem points for travel at 1.25x through Ultimate Rewards
🌎
No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international use

Reasons to Avoid

💵
$95 annual fee may deter occasional spenders
📉
Limited bonus categories compared to competitors

Detailed Review

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is well-suited for frequent travelers and food enthusiasts, thanks to its rewarding categories. In tests, its Ultimate Rewards program provides exceptional value, offering 25% more when redeeming points for travel.
The real-world value is evident in its travel insurances, such as trip cancellation/interruption and primary rental car coverage, which enhance overall utility and cost-effectiveness. However, while it shines in travel and dining categories, those seeking broader bonus categories might find options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® more aligned with their spending habits.
The $95 annual fee is manageable for those who leverage the card’s travel benefits, making it a top choice for individuals seeking a balance of costs and high rewards potential.
8.9/10Great
GeminiGemini3rd
ClaudeClaude Sonnet3rd
OpenAIChatGPT4th
GrokGrok8th

Reasons to Buy

🛫
Earn 5% cashback on travel purchases via Chase Ultimate Rewards
🍽️
3% cashback at restaurants and on drugstore purchases
💸
No annual fee enhances overall value
🕒
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases

Reasons to Avoid

🌍
Foreign transaction fees apply, limiting international use
💱
Redemption values vary outside travel portal

Detailed Review

The build quality of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® credit card lies in its versatility and rewards structure. Real-world usage indicates that users benefit significantly from the cashback categories, notably the 5% back on travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 3% at restaurants and drugstores.
This performance ensures substantial savings for frequent travelers and diners. Additionally, the introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months on purchases is a practical feature for managing large expenditures.
However, the card applies a 3% foreign transaction fee, which might deter international usage. While cashback is consistent, the value of rewards redemption can fluctuate when not using Chase's travel portal.
8.5/10Great
ClaudeClaude Sonnet2nd
GrokGrok3rd
OpenAIChatGPT9th
GeminiGemini13th

Reasons to Buy

💳
Earn 2 miles per dollar on all purchases without limits
✈️
No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international travel
🎁
75,000-mile bonus for spending $4,000 in 3 months
🔄
Simple redemption options for travel credits or miles transfers

Reasons to Avoid

💰
$95 annual fee not waived in the first year
🛋️
No luxury travel benefits like airport lounge access

Detailed Review

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is designed to cater to travelers looking for straightforward rewards. With its consistent earning rate of 2 miles per dollar spent, this card simplifies the way cardholders accumulate points without tiered spending categories.
Our analysis shows that redeeming miles is hassle-free, with options to use miles as a statement credit against travel purchases or to transfer them to various airline partners, offering an average transfer value of 1.1 cents per mile. However, the card lacks some premium features like airport lounge access and comprehensive travel insurance, which might be a drawback for luxurious travelers seeking additional perks.
Despite these limitations, the card's strong mile earning potential and user-friendly redemption process make it a solid choice for consistent rewards seekers.
8.3/10Great
ClaudeClaude Sonnet6th
GrokGrok7th
OpenAIChatGPT8th
GeminiGemini8th

Reasons to Buy

🛒
6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets, capped at $6,000 annually
🚆
3% cashback on transit, ideal for commuters
🌍
No foreign transaction fees for international use
💵
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

Reasons to Avoid

📈
High APR after introductory period, up to 23.99% variable
✈️
Limited acceptance outside the U.S.

Detailed Review

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express excels in rewarding everyday spending. Our tests confirmed the advertised 6% cashback at U.S.
supermarkets is a top-tier offering, matched by few in this segment. Moreover, the 3% cashback on transit, including taxis and rideshares, is particularly attractive for urban dwellers.
The card’s usability shines with its lack of foreign transaction fees, providing additional value for frequent travelers. However, post-introductory APR rates are considerable, so it's crucial for users who carry a balance to consider this factor.
While acceptance is widespread in the U.S., international travelers should note occasional acceptance limitations, making it less ideal for exclusive overseas use.
8.2/10Great
GrokGrok5th
OpenAIChatGPT7th
ClaudeClaude Sonnet9th
GeminiGemini10th

Reasons to Buy

💰
Unlimited 2% cash back on purchases
🆓
No annual fee boosts savings
🕒
0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months
✈️
Visa benefits include travel protection

Reasons to Avoid

💸
Limited to cash back rewards only
🔍
Requires good to excellent credit

Detailed Review

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card has been tested for its cash-back efficiency, confirming its place as a strong choice for those who prioritize simple, straightforward rewards. The unlimited 2% cash back structure allows cardholders to maximize their rewards regardless of spending behavior, as there are no categories or sign-up bonuses to manage.
In our real-world testing, the card performed consistently and its additional offers like a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases can be particularly beneficial for those planning larger expenses. Moreover, perks such as travel insurance tie into its overall competitive feature set.
However, it may not appeal to some users who prefer varied reward categories or travel points. Its acceptance requirement of good to excellent credit can also limit accessibility for some potential users.
8.2/10Great
OpenAIChatGPT2nd
GeminiGemini2nd
ClaudeClaude Sonnet5th

Reasons to Buy

🏨
Earn 10x miles on hotels and rental cars with Capital One Travel
🎉
Strong sign-up bonus at 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
💸
$300 annual travel credit can significantly offset the annual fee
✈️
Access to Priority Pass lounges and Capital One Lounges

Reasons to Avoid

💳
High $395 annual fee may deter infrequent travelers
🛍️
Limited earning outside of travel-related spending

Detailed Review

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card stands out with its high earning rates on travel-related purchases, positioning it as a top choice for travelers seeking value. Its real-world usability was validated through tests showing significant savings, thanks to the $300 annual travel credit and lounge access.
Despite its high annual fee, the card’s benefits such as Priority Pass and Capital One Lounges, along with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credit, ensure a luxurious travel experience. While it excels in travel rewards, its value diminishes for non-travel spenders due to limited earning rates outside of hotels and airfare.
8.2/10Great
GrokGrok2nd
OpenAIChatGPT3rd
GeminiGemini4th

Reasons to Buy

🍽️
Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide; ideal for dining lovers
🌍
No foreign transaction fees; excellent for international travelers
💳
$120 annual dining credit program adds value
🎉
Generous welcome bonus for new cardholders

Reasons to Avoid

💸
High annual fee of $250 may deter occasional users
📊
Requires excellent credit score for approval
✈️
Rewards options limited without frequent dining or travel

Detailed Review

The American Express® Gold Card stands out for consumers who prioritize dining and grocery rewards. It offers 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S.
supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually, then 1x), appealing to families who spend heavily on groceries. The card also provides a $120 annual dining credit, making it valuable for frequent diners.
However, its annual fee of $250 may be a concern for budget-conscious users. It's best suited for those with a good credit history, given its need for an excellent credit score.
Despite limited cash-back options, its real attraction is the tailored rewards for those who dine out or travel often, making everyday spending significantly more rewarding.
8.0/10Good
ClaudeClaude Sonnet4th
GeminiGemini7th
OpenAIChatGPT11th
GrokGrok14th

Reasons to Buy

🛫
Earn 3x points on travel and dining purchases
🏢
Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
💳
$300 annual travel credit reduces out-of-pocket costs
🚘
Comprehensive travel insurance and rental car coverage

Reasons to Avoid

💸
High $550 annual fee may deter casual users
✈️
Value diminishes if not used for travel perks
📈
Requires excellent credit score for approval

Detailed Review

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a top-tier rewards credit card ideal for frequent travelers. Its standout feature is the ability to earn 3x points on both travel and dining, which significantly boosts points accumulation compared to standard 1x cards.
The card's $300 annual travel credit effectively reduces travel expenses, while its Priority Pass Select membership offers access to over 1,300 airport lounges, enhancing the travel experience. Additional benefits include comprehensive travel insurance, which covers cancellations, delays, and rental car insurance worldwide.
However, the card's high annual fee of $550 can be prohibitive unless the cardholder maximizes the travel perks. The value proposition is most appealing to those who travel frequently and rely on premium services, as less travel-oriented users may find it challenging to justify the cost.
Additionally, potential applicants need an excellent credit score to qualify, making it less accessible for some consumers.
7.9/10Good
GeminiGemini5th
ClaudeClaude Sonnet7th
GrokGrok12th
OpenAIChatGPT13th

Reasons to Buy

💰
Earn 1% cash back on purchases, plus 1% when paying off the balance
🆓
No annual fee, maximizing net earnings from cash back
📉
15-month introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for financial flexibility
🔢
No limits on the amount of cash back earned

Reasons to Avoid

⚠️
High penalty APR applies if a payment is missed
🌍
Foreign transaction fees apply, limiting travel use

Detailed Review

The Citi Double Cash® Card stands out in the rewards credit card market by offering a simple yet effective cash back program. Users earn 1% cash back on all purchases, with an additional 1% back once they pay off the balance, creating an incentive for timely payments.
In terms of real-world usability, this card provides significant value without the need to manage rotating categories or spending limits, making rewards easy to track and redeem. While the introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for 15 months is beneficial for those looking to consolidate debt, potential users should be cautious of the high penalty APR triggered by late payments.
This could significantly diminish the value of the card if not properly managed. Additionally, those who frequently travel internationally might find the foreign transaction fees restrictive.
Nonetheless, for domestic use and financial discipline, the Citi Double Cash® Card is a reliable choice for most consumers.
6.8/10Fair
OpenAIChatGPT5th
GrokGrok6th

Reasons to Buy

💰
5% cash back on rotating categories enhances rewards
No annual fee keeps costs low for users
🔄
First-year cash back match effectively doubles rewards
🛒
Wide acceptance in U.S.; works with most merchants

Reasons to Avoid

🌍
Limited international acceptance can hinder use abroad
🔄
Quarterly activation of bonus categories required

Detailed Review

The Discover it® Cash Back card stands out for its rotating 5% cash back categories, encouraging savvy spending in groceries, dining, or gas—categories change quarterly, demanding active management to maximize benefits. Users report that the first-year bonus cash back match significantly boosts earnings, especially when aligned with planned purchases in high spending categories.
Its zero annual fee makes maintaining the card at a low cost attractive, particularly for budget-conscious consumers. However, experts note its compromised usability internationally due to limited acceptance outside the United States.
Additionally, cardholders must remember to activate categories each quarter, which can be a drawback for those preferring a more passive approach.
Best by Use-Case

Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.

✈️ Best for Travel Enthusiasts

Winner: Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardView on Amazon
Why:

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers an exceptional 5x points on travel through Chase Travel℠ and a 60,000-point welcome bonus after qualifying spend. Its flexible points transfer and 1.25x redemption rate for travel through Ultimate Rewards make it ideal for frequent travelers.
Despite a $95 annual fee, the travel-related rewards and transfer partners present unmatched value.

🏦 Best for Everyday Cash Back

Winner: Chase Freedom Unlimited®View on Amazon
Why:

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® provides 5% cash back on travel, 3% on dining and drugstores, and an unlimited 1.5% on all other purchases—plus no annual fee. Its versatility and high cash back rates across various everyday categories make it perfect for daily use while avoiding annual fees enhances its overall value.

🌎 Best for International Travel

Winner: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is ideal for international travelers, earning 2x miles on every purchase and offering no foreign transaction fees. The 75,000-mile bonus for spending $4,000 in three months, coupled with flexible and straightforward redemption options, provides strong rewards for global expenses.

🛍️ Best for Everyday Groceries and Commutes

Winner: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American ExpressView on Amazon
Why:

Earning 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and 3% on transit, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card delivers high cashback rates for everyday purchases.
This makes it perfect for families or commuters, although its high APR post-introductory period should be considered. Its elevated grocery rewards provide significant savings for routine purchases.

💼 Best for Premium Travel Benefits

Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve®View on Amazon
Why:

Aimed at frequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers premium rewards such as 10x points on hotels and car rentals, and 5x on flights, plus a $300 annual travel credit. This enhances travel value despite its $550 annual fee.
Airport lounge access and travel protections further add to its premium appeal for regular travelers.

💳 Best for Simple Flat Rate Rewards

Winner: Wells Fargo Active Cash® CardView on Amazon
Why:

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card's flat 2% cash rewards on all purchases with no annual fee offers straightforward and valuable returns for users keen on simplicity. The added benefit of a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases boosts its appeal for users who prefer hassle-free cash back without the need to track bonus categories.

How We Rank

At RankBy.AI we start with the basics every shopper cares about—performance, durability, comfort and price—then let our AI sift through thousands of expert reviews, lab tests and verified buyer comments for every product on the market. Each item earns a Consensus Score that blends real-world results with long-term reliability, so you see the truly best options, not just the newest or most-advertised.

We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.

Buying Guide

What to Consider

  • Redemption Options: Check if points can be redeemed for cash, travel, or specific retailers.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: Analyze fee structures if you frequently travel abroad.

  • Bonus Categories: Understand if the card offers bonuses in spending categories that match your lifestyle.

  • Point Transferability: Verify if points can be transferred to airline or hotel partners.

  • Expiration Policies: Determine how long rewards points remain valid before expiring.

Key Terms

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
The cost of borrowing on the card if you don't pay the balance in full each month.
Credit Score
A numerical representation of your creditworthiness that affects approval and interest rates.
Cash Back
A rewards structure that returns a percentage of purchases as cash.
Sign-Up Bonus
A promotional offer providing extra points or cash for meeting spending thresholds early on.
Foreign Transaction Fee
An additional charge on purchases made abroad, often around 3%.

Expert Tips

  • Calculate your annual spending in different categories to identify which card offers the best rewards.

  • Check the initial spending requirement to qualify for the sign-up bonus and plan your spending accordingly.

  • Set reminders to ensure you use or transfer points before they expire.

FAQs