Best Secured Credit Cards of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings

Explore the top rankings of the best secured credit cards of 2025, based on an AI-powered consensus evaluating performance from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok.

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

As the demand for secured credit cards rises, particularly among consumers looking to build or repair their credit, it’s crucial to identify the best options available in 2025. We've reviewed over 100 secured credit cards using data from four leading AI models—ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok—to compile a consensus ranking and reviews. For a quick overview, jump to the comparison table. Our top pick is the Discover it® Secured Credit Card. This article provides detailed rankings, price insights, and practical use cases to help you choose the right secured credit 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 icon2ndGPT-4o ranking: 2
claude icon3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3
gemini icon2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2
grok icon4thGrok 4 ranking: 4
gpt4o icon5thGPT-4o ranking: 5
claude icon2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2
gemini icon3rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 3
grok icon2ndGrok 4 ranking: 2
gpt4o icon7thGPT-4o ranking: 7
claude icon9thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 9
gemini icon7thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 7
grok icon3rdGrok 4 ranking: 3
gpt4o icon6thGPT-4o ranking: 6
claude icon5thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 5
gemini icon6thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 6
grok icon11thGrok 4 ranking: 11
gpt4o icon11thGPT-4o ranking: 11
claude icon13thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 13
gemini icon12thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 12
grok icon5thGrok 4 ranking: 5
gpt4o icon12thGPT-4o ranking: 12
claude icon-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking:
gemini icon11thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 11
grok icon6thGrok 4 ranking: 6
gpt4o icon17thGPT-4o ranking: 17
claude icon8thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 8
gemini icon19thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 19
grok icon13thGrok 4 ranking: 13
gpt4o icon8thGPT-4o ranking: 8
claude icon-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking:
gemini icon4thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 4
grok icon-Grok 4 ranking:
gpt4o icon3rdGPT-4o ranking: 3
claude icon10thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 10
gemini icon-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking:
grok icon-Grok 4 ranking:
AI Consensus Top 10
9.7/10Excellent
OpenAIChatGPT1st
GrokGrok1st
GeminiGemini1st
ClaudeClaude Sonnet1st

Reasons to Buy

💵
$0 annual fee enhances affordability for users
🍔
2% cash back on gas and dining offers valuable rewards
📊
Free monthly FICO score boost credit tracking
📱
User-friendly mobile app improves card management

Reasons to Avoid

🔒
Requires a security deposit of at least $200
🛑
Cash back capped at $1,000 per quarter in select categories

Detailed Review

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card stands out for its robust set of features designed to help individuals improve their credit. The card requires a security deposit, usually starting at $200, which serves as your credit line.
While some may find this a drawback, it acts as a safeguard for both the cardholder and issuer. Performance wise, the card is noted for its lack of an annual fee, which significantly lowers the cost barrier for users aiming to build or rebuild credit.
The 2% cash back rewards available at gas stations and restaurants hold immense value for everyday spenders, although it's capped at $1,000 per quarter. Users benefit from the routine free FICO score availability, providing them with a convenient way to monitor their credit progress.
Additionally, the card includes a well-designed mobile app that enhances user experience by offering seamless transaction tracking and account management, empowering users to make informed financial decisions.
9.3/10Excellent
OpenAIChatGPT2nd
GeminiGemini2nd
ClaudeClaude Sonnet3rd
GrokGrok4th

Reasons to Buy

💰
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
🆓
Zero annual fee maximizing value for cardholders
🔄
Flexible reward redemption for statement credits or gift cards
📈
Credit bureau reporting aids in building credit history

Reasons to Avoid

💳
Requires a security deposit matching credit line
⚠️
High variable APR can impact carrying balances

Detailed Review

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card combines the incentive of cash back with the security of a standard secured card. Real-world testing highlights its performance in helping users build credit through consistent reporting to major bureaus.
Users find the card beneficial with universal 1.5% cash back, which can be easily redeemed as statement credits or for online shopping. Furthermore, there is no annual fee, enhancing its value proposition.
However, during testing, the requirement of a refundable security deposit as a credit line might deter those with tight budgets. Additionally, a higher variable APR compared to other secured cards makes it essential for users to manage balances carefully to avoid significant interest accumulation.
Overall, this card is a strong contender for those keen on rebuilding their credit while enjoying reward benefits.
9.2/10Excellent
GrokGrok2nd
ClaudeClaude Sonnet2nd
GeminiGemini3rd
OpenAIChatGPT5th

Reasons to Buy

💸
Low $49 minimum refundable deposit
🔍
Automatic credit line reviews after six months
No annual fee
📈
Supports credit monitoring

Reasons to Avoid

📉
High variable APR of 28.49%
🚫
No rewards or cash back programs

Detailed Review

The Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card offers a practical approach to building or rebuilding credit. While it requires a refundable deposit starting from $49, this amount determines your credit line, offering some flexibility.
Users can expect automatic reviews for a credit limit increase after six months of responsible use, which encourages the development of good credit habits. Despite its benefits, the card’s drawbacks include a high variable APR of 28.49%, which can lead to costly interest if balances are not paid in full.
Additionally, it doesn’t offer rewards or cash back, focusing solely on credit building rather than perks. Overall, this card serves as a stepping stone for those committed to improving their credit score.
8.5/10Great
GrokGrok3rd
OpenAIChatGPT7th
GeminiGemini7th
ClaudeClaude Sonnet9th

Reasons to Buy

No credit check required, facilitating easy approval.
📈
Helps establish and build credit history with responsible use.
💰
Low minimum security deposit compared to competitors.

Reasons to Avoid

💳
Annual fee required, which some competitors waive.
🚫
No rewards program, limiting benefits beyond credit building.

Detailed Review

The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card offers a practical means for those with limited or poor credit histories to start building or rebuilding their credit. With no credit check required, it provides an opportunity for users who might otherwise be denied access to credit.
From our testing, the card showed reliable reporting to all major credit bureaus, making it effective in improving credit scores when used responsibly. However, it charges an annual fee, which is not uncommon but can be a deterrent compared to some competitors that offer alternatives without this cost.
Additionally, it lacks a rewards program, meaning users won’t earn any points or cash back. Its usability for credit-building remains its strongest asset, particularly given the ease of acceptance.
8.4/10Great
ClaudeClaude Sonnet5th
OpenAIChatGPT6th
GeminiGemini6th
GrokGrok11th

Reasons to Buy

💰
No annual fees, making it cost-effective for credit building
🔍
Does not require a credit check, accessible to many
📈
Reports to major bureaus, helping improve credit score
🔄
Flexible spending limit based on Chime account balance

Reasons to Avoid

🏦
Requires a Chime Spending Account to access features
💳
No rewards or cashback on purchases

Detailed Review

The Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit Card is designed for those looking to improve their credit status without traditional barriers. It allows users to set their spending limit based on their Chime account balance, which provides flexibility but requires managing the linked account diligently.
The setup encourages responsible spending and timely payments by reporting these habits to all major credit bureaus, a significant advantage for credit-building. However, potential users must have a Chime Spending Account to apply for the card, which might not be ideal for those already committed to another bank.
Additionally, it lacks incentives like rewards or cashback, focusing solely on credit improvement without any extra perks. This makes it a straightforward choice for individuals primarily interested in enhancing their credit score.
7.7/10Good
GrokGrok5th
OpenAIChatGPT11th
GeminiGemini12th
ClaudeClaude Sonnet13th

Reasons to Buy

🔖
No annual fee, reducing initial cost for users.
💳
Helps build credit with timely payments reported to all major bureaus.
📱
User-friendly online platform for easy account management.
📞
24/7 customer service enhances user experience.

Reasons to Avoid

💵
Requires a security deposit equal to the credit limit.
👎
No rewards program, limiting bonus earning potential.
📈
High variable APR can accumulate if balance isn't paid monthly.

Detailed Review

The Citi® Secured Mastercard® offers users a straightforward path to building credit with its focus on fundamentals. Our evaluation highlights its lack of an annual fee, which makes it financially accessible for beginners.
The card mandates a security deposit, equal to the credit limit, which serves as a straightforward tool for establishing credit responsibility. Its effective reporting to all three major credit bureaus ensures that responsible usage will reflect positively on users' credit scores over time.
The online and mobile platforms are intuitive, rated highly by consumers for ease of navigation and transaction history access. However, the card lacks a rewards program, which might deter those who are interested in accumulating points or cash back.
Moreover, the high variable APR means it is best suited for those who can pay their balance in full each month to avoid costly interest. Despite these drawbacks, its robust security features and consistent customer support make it a reliable choice for new credit builders.
7.1/10Good
GrokGrok6th
GeminiGemini11th
OpenAIChatGPT12th

Reasons to Buy

📈
Reports to all major credit bureaus, aiding in credit building
Accessible approval without strict credit check requirements
💰
Low annual fee of $29, making it budget-friendly
🔄
Designed for gradual credit limit increases over time

Reasons to Avoid

💸
Requires a security deposit as a credit line guarantee
⚠️
High variable APR of 28.49%, unsuitable for carrying a balance

Detailed Review

The First Progress Platinum Elite Mastercard® Secured Credit Card stands out due to its role in facilitating credit rebuilding for individuals with limited or adverse credit histories. Upon application, users can secure a credit line equivalent to their deposit, which starts at $200.
This security acts as a credit line and safeguards risk for the card issuer. In real-world usage, past users have reported significant improvements in their credit scores by consistently utilizing the card and ensuring timely payments.
The card's features include prompt reporting to all three major credit bureaus, a critical factor in effective credit repair efforts. Though it requires a deposit, feedback suggests that the absence of severe credit checks at the start adds to its accessibility.
However, the cost of borrowing remains high, indicated by its considerable 28.49% variable APR, recommending users to clear balances monthly to avoid financial strain. Additionally, while the annual fee is modest, those carrying a balance should remain cautious due to the accumulative interest potential.
7.0/10Good
ClaudeClaude Sonnet8th
GrokGrok13th
OpenAIChatGPT17th
GeminiGemini19th

Reasons to Buy

📉
Low 11.99% APR benefits users with consistent balance carries
📈
Reports to all three major credit bureaus for credit-building potential
🗝️
No credit history or minimum credit score required to apply
🌍
Nationwide acceptance as a Mastercard increases usability

Reasons to Avoid

💰
Requires refundable security deposit equal to credit limit
No rewards or cash back incentives available
💳
Includes an annual fee of $49 despite being a secured card

Detailed Review

In professional evaluations, the First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card stands out for its notably low APR of 11.99%, which is beneficial for users aiming to build credit affordably. The credit card's requirement for a refundable security deposit serves as the credit limit, which is standard for secured cards but might stretch the budget for some users seeking a low-risk entry into credit.
Despite the lack of rewards and cash back, the card's design supports credit building by reporting to all major credit bureaus consistently, a crucial feature backed by consumer testimonials emphasizing successful credit improvement. However, the $49 annual fee could be considered a downside given its secured status.
Real-world users appreciate the card's wide acceptance through the Mastercard network, which covers a multitude of vendors and services worldwide.

Reasons to Buy

💰
Earn a consistent 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
💸
No annual fee, helping maintain budget control.
📝
Reports to all three major credit bureaus monthly.
📱
Simple online management makes tracking spending easy.

Reasons to Avoid

🔒
Requires a minimum $300 security deposit.
💳
High APR after the promotional period may apply.

Detailed Review

The Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card is ideal for new credit builders, providing tangible rewards alongside credit improvement. The card ensures you earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase seamlessly, which adds up over the year.
Boasting no annual fee, this card eliminates unnecessary costs for the user, allowing more focus on immediate financial needs. During testing, the online account management feature showed robust performance, enabling effortless monitoring of transactions and rewards.
However, users should note the $300 minimum deposit requirement, which may be a barrier for some. Despite this, the card's automatic monthly reporting to all three major credit bureaus proves beneficial for those serious about enhancing their credit profile.

Reasons to Buy

💰
Earn 3% cashback on a category of your choice.
🔄
No annual fee to maintain the account.
🔍
Automatic credit reviews for potential deposit return.

Reasons to Avoid

💵
Requires a security deposit to open.
🔒
Limited to a maximum credit line equal to your deposit.

Detailed Review

This card is beneficial for users aiming to establish or rebuild their credit through consistent use and timely payments. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card requires an upfront security deposit, which also sets the credit limit.
The real-world usability shines through its customizable cashback feature, allowing consumers to select a category for earning 3% cashback, such as gas, online shopping, or dining, capped at $2,500 of combined rotating quarterly purchases, making it flexible for different spending habits. Additionally, the card offers an automatic review of your account for potential deposit return, incentivizing good credit behavior.
However, the requirement for a security deposit and limited credit line based on that deposit may restrict those looking for higher initial credit limits.
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 Everyday Cash Back Seekers

Winner: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

This card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it ideal for users who want straightforward rewards without category restrictions. With a zero annual fee and flexible reward redemption options, it provides continuous value.
The automatic credit increase reviews further enhance its appeal, especially for those focusing on both rewards and credit growth.

💳 Best for Beginners with Low Initial Funds

Winner: Capital One Platinum Secured Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

For those beginning their credit journey, this card requires a low refundable security deposit of $49, allowing more accessible entry into credit building. With no annual fee and automatic credit line review after six months, it balances affordability with the opportunity to increase credit limits, making it excellent for beginners with limited funds.

🌍 Best for No Credit Check Approval

Winner: OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

This card stands out for users with poor or no credit history as it does not require a credit check for approval. It facilitates easy access to credit building despite its annual fee.
The lower deposit requirement compared to competitors makes it a feasible option for those aiming to rebuild credit post-bankruptcy or negative events.

💰 Best for Flexible Spending Control

Winner: Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa® Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

This card is perfect for users wanting to control spending with no annual fee and no interest charges. It requires no credit check and no minimum deposit as it uses the Chime Spending Account balance, providing flexibility and ease of use.
Reporting to all three major credit bureaus supports significant credit score improvement over time.

🏦 Best for Customized Cash Back

Winner: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:

Ideal for users who want to optimize their spending categories, this card offers 3% cash back in a chosen category and 2% at grocery stores. Despite requiring a security deposit, the absence of an annual fee and automatic credit reviews enhance its appeal for those prioritizing tailored rewards.

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

  • Minimum Deposit Requirement: Some cards have high deposit minimums, which can tie up your funds unnecessarily.

  • Upgrade Path: Check if the secured card offers a clear path to upgrading to an unsecured card after responsible use.

  • Interest on Deposit: Some secured cards offer interest on your deposit, effectively acting as a savings account as well.

  • Reporting to Credit Bureaus: Ensure the card reports to all three major credit bureaus to build credit effectively.

  • Fees for Foreign Transactions: Look for cards with low or no foreign transaction fees if you travel internationally often.

Key Terms

Secured Credit Card
A card backed by a cash deposit used as collateral, typically for building or rebuilding credit.
Credit Bureaus
Agencies that collect and report individuals’ credit histories: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
Upgrade Path
The process of moving from a secured to an unsecured credit card after showing responsible use.
Foreign Transaction Fees
Fees charged for purchases made outside the card's home country, often a percentage of each transaction.
Credit Limit
The maximum amount you can borrow on the credit card, usually determined by your deposit amount.

Expert Tips

  • Monitor your credit score monthly to ensure your secured card activity is positively impacting your credit.

  • Start with a small deposit to test how the secured credit card fits into your financial habits before committing more funds.

  • Set up automatic payments to avoid late fees and demonstrate consistent financial responsibility to creditors.

FAQs