Best Visa Credit Cards [December 2024]

Visa partners with the world’s largest credit card companies to provide consumers and businesses with a vast array of quality credit cards. Browse through Visa credit cards and you’ll find many of the best cashback credit cards and best balance transfer cards available.

Here are some of the best Visa credit cards and who they’d benefit the most.

The best Visa credit cards

• Best for travel: Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card
• Best for luxury travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve^®
• Best for air travel: Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card
• Best for hotel stays: The World of Hyatt Credit Card
• Best for gas and dining: Costco Anywhere Visa^® Card by Citi
• Best for adjustable cash back: U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card
• Best for balance transfers: U.S. Bank Visa^® Platinum Card
• Best for business owners: Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

Card name	Best for	Why it’s special
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  4.9 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Travel	Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening; points transfer to travel partners; travel insurance; purchase protection; extended warranty protection; travel redemptions worth 25% more; 10% anniversary point bonus each year; $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through Chase Travel℠
Chase Sapphire Reserve®  5.0 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Luxury travel	Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening; $300 annual travel credit; airport lounge access; Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit; travel insurance; purchase protection; extended warranty protection; travel redemptions worth 50% more
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card  4.8 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Air travel	Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening; $75 annual Southwest travel credit; 7,500 anniversary points each year; upgraded boardings (when available); 25% back on in-flight drinks and Wi-Fi
The World of Hyatt Credit Card  4.8 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Hotel stays	Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points: earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening, plus up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent; free anniversary night each year; automatic elite status
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi  4.5 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Gas and dining	4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter; 3% on restaurants and eligible travel purchases; 2% on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com; and 1% on all other purchases
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card  4.5 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Adjustable cash back	Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening; earn 5% cash back on two categories you choose (up to $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter) and on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center; 2% cash back on one everyday category, like gas stations/EV charging stations, grocery stores, or restaurants; and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card  4.9 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Balance transfers	0% introductory APR for 21 billing cycles on new purchases (then 17.99% to 28.99% (Variable)); 0% intro APR for 21 billing cycles on balance transfers (then 17.99% to 28.99% (Variable))
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card  4.8 FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	Business owners	Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening; earn 3X points on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year; and 1X points per $1 on all other purchases

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card: Best for travel

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card provides cardholders with 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries; 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases.

You can also earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.

Each year on your card anniversary, you will also earn bonus points equal to 10% of the total purchases you made in the previous year. And you will receive a $50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel℠.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a $95 annual fee.

Why this is best for travel: Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable and flexible travel rewards available. Redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal or transfer them to over 10 Chase Travel℠ transfer partners. Even better, your points are worth 25% more if you redeem them for travel through Chase Travel℠. Plus, if you also hold a card like the Chase Freedom Unlimited^® you can earn even more rewards on your purchases and pool your points together.

Great for Flexible Travel Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

4.9

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries; 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Generous welcome offer valued at $750 when redeemed via Chase Travel
• High rewards on dining and bookings via Chase Travel
• 25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Travel
• Up to $50 in annual statement credits for hotel stays booked through Chase Travel
• Receive valuable travel protections like trip delay reimbursement and primary rental car insurance

Drawbacks

• Has a $95 annual fee
• Doesn’t offer airport lounge access or premium travel perks like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Doesn't offer bonus points on gas or in-person groceries purchases

Card Details

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• 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, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®: Best for luxury travel

The Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is the older brother of the Sapphire Preferred, and it comes loaded with perks and benefits. 5X points on flights and 10X points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually; 3X points on other travel and dining & 1X points per dollar on all other purchases. 

You can also earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve has a $550 annual fee.

Why this is best for luxury travel: Every year, you receive a $300 travel credit with this card, which immediately cuts out a large portion of its $550 annual fee. You also receive a Priority Pass membership, up to $100 in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee reimbursement every four years, and exclusive benefits from The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection. And that’s not even mentioning up to $120 in DoorDash credits, a free DashPass subscription (activate by Dec 31, 2027), complimentary Lyft Pink All Access membership for two years (activate by Dec. 31, 2024), and plenty of travel and purchase coverages.

Premium Travel Benefits

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

5.0

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

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Current Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$550

Rewards Rate

5X points on flights and 10X points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually; 3X points on other travel and dining & 1X points per dollar on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Up to $300 in annual travel credits
• Great rewards on travel purchases and dining
• Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership
• Comprehensive travel protections, including trip delay and cancellation insurance
• 50% point redemption bonus when booking through Chase Travel

Drawbacks

• $550 annual fee
• High spending requirement for the welcome offer
• $75 annual fee for each authorized user

Card Details

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card: Best for air travel

For Southwest travelers, there’s no card better than the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card. With this card, you can earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening. Plus, earn 3X points on Southwest purchases; 2X points on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners; local transit and commuting, including rideshare; and on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming; plus 1X points on all other purchases. Use your points to book airfare to Southwest destinations all over the U.S., Caribbean, and Central America. The best part? There aren’t any blackout dates on Southwest award flights, so you can book whenever you want. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card has a $149 annual fee.

Why this is best for Southwest travel: The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority allows you to earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening. The welcome offer and earning potential should be enough to offset its $149 annual fee, but this card also comes with fantastic benefits. Each year, you get $75 Southwest travel credit and 7,500 anniversary points, making it easy to fly for free on Southwest. You also get four upgraded boardings each year (when available) and 25% savings on in-flight purchases. And of course, all Southwest passengers get two free checked bags.

Generous Welcome Bonus

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

4.8

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

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Current Offer

Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$149

Rewards Rate

3X points on Southwest purchases; 2X points on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners; local transit and commuting, including rideshare; and on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming; plus 1X points on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Great rewards rate on Southwest flights
• Large welcome offer can help you earn a Companion Pass
• 7,500 rewards points added on cardmember anniversary

Drawbacks

• Best reward earnings are limited to Southwest purchases
• Best redemptions limited to Southwest flights

Card Details

• Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

The World of Hyatt Credit Card: Best for hotel stays

For stays at Hyatt properties, The World of Hyatt Credit Card has you covered. Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points: earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening, plus up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent. Also, you’ll earn up to 9X points at Hyatt (4 bonus points per $1 on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels plus up to 5 base points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member); 2X points on restaurants, airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships; and 1X points on all other purchases. The World of Hyatt Credit Card has a $95 annual fee.

Why this is best for Hyatt hotel stays: The amount of points you can earn with the World of Hyatt card is enough to offset its $95 annual fee, but you can also get plenty of value from its other card benefits coupled with the hotel's loyalty program. For instance, a free anniversary night each year can be worth a lot, depending on where you use it. Also, the automatic Discoverist elite status can get you room upgrades, late checkout, premium internet, and waived resort fees.

Big bonus points on Hyatt stays

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

4.8

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

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Current Offer

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points: earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening, plus up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

up to 9X points at Hyatt (4 bonus points per $1 on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels plus up to 5 base points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member); 2X points on restaurants, airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships; and 1X points on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Annual free night award
• Automatic Discoverist status
• Comprehensive travel and purchase coverage
• No foreign transaction fees

Drawbacks

• Has an annual fee
• Hyatt has a smaller footprint than its competitors

Card Details

• Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points: earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening, plus up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent
• up to 9X points at Hyatt (4 bonus points per $1 on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels plus up to 5 base points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member); 2X points on restaurants, airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships; and 1X points on all other purchases

Costco Anywhere Visa^® Card by Citi: Best for gas and dining

For rewards on gas and dining purchases, consider the Costco Anywhere Visa^® Card by Citi. With this card, you can earn 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter; 3% on restaurants and eligible travel purchases; 2% on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com; and 1% on all other purchases. Cashback rewards can be redeemed for cash or merchandise at any U.S. Costco Warehouse. The Costco Anywhere Visa Card has a $0 annual fee.

Why this is best for gas and dining: If you’re visiting the gas station frequently enough, the purchases can begin to pile up. With the Costco Anywhere Visa card, you get to put some of that money back into your wallet. There aren’t many cards that can match the 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter or the 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases, which is why this card can be so beneficial.

Earn up to 4% cash back

Costco Anywhere Visa^® Card by Citi

4.5

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Costco Anywhere Visa^® Card by Citi

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Rates and fees

Current Offer

Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter; 3% on restaurants and eligible travel purchases; 2% on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com; and 1% on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees

Drawbacks

• Must be a Costco member
• Cash back is only redeemed once a year
• No welcome bonus

Card Details

• Discover one of Citi's best cash back rewards cards designed exclusively for Costco members
• 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
• 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% cash back on all other purchases
• No annual fee with your paid Costco membership and enjoy no foreign transaction fees on purchases
• Receive an annual credit card reward certificate, which is redeemable for cash or merchandise at U.S. Costco warehouses, including Puerto Rico

U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card: Best for adjustable cash back

With the U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card, cardmembers can earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. For everyday spending, you can also earn 5% cash back on two categories you choose (up to $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter) and on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center; 2% cash back on one everyday category, like gas stations/EV charging stations, grocery stores, or restaurants; and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. Cash back can be redeemed as a deposit into your U.S. Bank account, a statement credit, or a rewards card. The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card has a $0 annual fee.

Why this is best for adjustable cash back: The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa is unique in that cashback credit cards don’t typically have the option to choose which categories you get to earn bonus cash back on, but this benefit is perfect for getting the most out of your rewards. Since you can pick and choose your categories each quarter, you get to adjust your cash back according to your spending habits and maximize your rewards.

Cash Back in Categories You Choose!

U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card

4.5

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

U.S. Bank Cash+^® Visa Signature^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

5% cash back on two categories you choose (up to $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter) and on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center; 2% cash back on one everyday category, like gas stations/EV charging stations, grocery stores, or restaurants; and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Earn a $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
• No annual fee
• Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
• Up to 5% cash back on eligible purchases

Drawbacks

• Has foreign transaction fee

Card Details

• $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.
• 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter on two categories you choose
• 5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center
• 2% cash back on one everyday category, like Gas Stations/EV Charging Stations, Grocery Stores or Restaurants
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
• 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 18.99% - 29.24%
• No Annual Fee
• Terms and conditions apply.

U.S. Bank Visa^® Platinum Card: Best for balance transfers

The U.S. Bank Visa^® Platinum Card doesn’t offer any rewards because its value lies in its benefits. Cardholders can take advantage of the 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 billing cycles (then 17.99% to 28.99% (Variable)). You also get a 0% intro APR on purchases for 21 billing cycles (then 17.99% to 28.99% (Variable)). 

The U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card has a $0 annual fee, although there is a balance transfer fee of 5% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater.

Why this is best for balance transfers: Credit cards with low interest rates, like the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum, can help you manage your debt if you use them correctly. With a balance transfer, you can transfer existing debt onto this card and avoid interest on the balance for 21 billing cycles. This can provide you with the time you need to pay down your debt, instead of watching interest accrue and seeing your debt begin to snowball.

0% introductory APR

U.S. Bank Visa^® Platinum Card

4.9

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

U.S. Bank Visa^® Platinum Card

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Current Offer

0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.99% to 28.99%

Annual Fee

$0

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
• Cell phone protection
• No annual fee

Drawbacks

• No rewards program
• Balance transfer fee applies

Card Details

• 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 21 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.99% to 28.99%.
• Get up to $600 protection on your cell phone (subject to $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cellular telephone bill with your U.S.Bank Visa® Platinum Credit Card. Certain terms, conditions, and exclusions apply.
• Choose a payment due date that fits your schedule
• No Annual Fee
• Terms and conditions apply.

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card: Best for business owners

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is one of the best business credit cards available. With this card, earn 3X points on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year; and 1X points per $1 on all other purchases. Cardholders can also earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months. The Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card has a $95 annual fee.

Why this is best for business owners: This card offers a huge 90,000-point welcome offer and gives small business owners the opportunity to earn rewards on common business expenses. Additionally, you also receive employee cards at no added cost, and your points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel through Chase Travel℠.

Hot Welcome Bonus

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

4.8

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

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Current Offer

Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

3X points on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year; and 1X points per $1 on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Generous welcome offer
• High rewards rate on common business expenses
• Flexible Ultimate Rewards points
• No foreign transaction fees
• Cell phone, purchase, and travel protections

Drawbacks

• Annual fee of $95
• $150,000 annual cap on bonus category spending
• No intro APR offer

Card Details

• Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Member FDIC

Methodology

Visa has a wide variety of credit cards available that are issued by numerous credit card companies. It’s not easy to narrow down the best Visa credit cards, but it makes a lot more sense when you separate them into different categories.

For instance, there may be multiple rewards Visa cards, but certain ones might offer benefits that others don’t or one card could have a better rewards rate or a larger sign-up bonus. As we compared the sign-up bonuses, rewards, and benefits across travel cards, cashback cards, and others, it became a lot simpler to see which cards rose to the top.

What is Visa?

Visa is a global payments company that helps credit card issuers process card transactions in over 200 countries and territories worldwide. Visa got its start in 1958 with BankAmericard, the first general-purpose consumer credit card, from Bank of America. In 1976, BankAmericard became Visa; and in 2007, Visa Inc. was formed as a global corporation.

Today, there are more than 3.3 billion Visa cards in use around the world, helping people process transactions in over 160 currencies. Also, more than 46 million merchants use the Visa payments network.

Visa isn’t a credit card issuer, so you won’t see any specific Visa-branded cards. Instead, you’ll typically see the Visa logo and a credit card issuer’s logo, like Chase or U.S. Bank, on a card. In these partnerships, both Visa and the partner offer benefits to the customers they serve. Visa employs over 18,000 individuals and had a net revenue of about $23 billion in 2019.

What are the different Visa credit card tiers?

Visa offers valuable benefits on each of its cards, which means that any Visa cardholder will get benefits from both the card issuer and Visa. For example, a Visa card issued by Chase provides benefits from both Chase and Visa.

Visa benefits are separated into three different credit card tiers, with the benefits increasing in value as you move up the tiers. These are the Visa credit card tiers and the benefits they offer:

Traditional

Visa Traditional cards are designed for everyday use, whether you’re shopping for groceries or ordering a gift online.

With a Visa Traditional card, you could receive these benefits:

• Zero liability: You aren’t liable for unauthorized transactions made with your card.
• Cardholder inquiry services: Get product and service information from the 24/7 global customer service team.
• Roadside dispatch: Access pay-per-use roadside assistance services.
• Auto rental collision damage waiver: Get built-in credit card rental car insurance when you pay for a rented vehicle with your card.
• Emergency card replacement: Get a replacement card shipped globally within 24 to 72 hours.
• Lost or stolen card reporting: Access toll-free, 24/7 phone numbers to report your card lost or stolen.
• Emergency cash disbursement: Get a wire cash transfer to a nearby Western Union within two hours of bank approval.
• Special offers: Access special offers and discounts from different retailers, like Fanatics.com, Fila, Godiva, and New Balance.

Signature

Visa Signature cards are designed to offer premium benefits and access to special experiences.

With a Visa Signature card, you could receive these benefits:

• Visa Traditional benefits: Receive all the benefits found on Visa Traditional cards.
• Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection: Receive exclusive benefits at more than 900 Visa Signature Luxury Hotel properties around the world.
• Rental car privileges: Save on Audi car rentals with Silvercar.
• Sonoma wine country: Access year-round benefits from over 50 Visa Signature wineries.
• Golf: Save on golf fees and merchandise with Troon Rewards.
• Concierge: Receive personal concierge service to help plan trips, buy tickets for entertainment venues, and more.
• Fine wine and dining: Access exclusive celebrity chef and winemaker experiences.
• Extended warranty protection: Extend the manufacturer’s warranty by up to one additional year on eligible purchases.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: Access 24/7 global and multilingual assistance wherever you are, whether at home or abroad. Get help with medical referrals, emergency transportation, prescription assistance, lost luggage, and more.

Infinite

Visa Infinite is the top-tier of Visa credit cards. This tier is designed to offer the utmost personalized service and unique benefits.

With a Visa Infinite card, you could receive these benefits:

• Visa Signature benefits: Receive all the benefits found on Visa Signature cards.
• Global Entry: Receive a $100 statement credit for your Global Entry application fee.
• Priority Pass: Receive complimentary Priority Pass membership and access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.
• Car rental privileges: Get exclusive amenities and discounts with Avis, Hertz, National, and Silvercar.
• Airline incidentals: Receive rebates for various travel-related fees, including baggage fees, in-flight food, and more.
• Purchase security: Get eligible items replaced, repaired, or the cost reimbursed if they’re stolen or damaged within 90 days of purchase.
• Return protection: Get return protection for eligible purchases you’re unhappy with and the merchant won’t accept back. This applies to the first 90 days after you’ve purchased an item.
• Lost luggage reimbursement: Receive reimbursement for stolen or lost baggage.
• Trip delay reimbursement: Receive up to $500 when your air travel is delayed more than six hours due to a covered reason.
• Trip cancellation / trip interruption reimbursement: Get help with reimbursement for non-refundable purchased transportation tickets if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip.
• Cell phone protection: Receive coverage against theft or damage of eligible cell phones.

How does Visa compare to other credit card companies?

Visa may be a well-known and respected company in the financial industry, but it still has to compete with other large companies, like American Express, Mastercard, and Discover. Each company has its own strengths and weaknesses, but how does Visa stack up against the competition?

Visa vs. American Express

Both Visa and American Express operate as payments networks, so they partner with credit card issuers to help process their transactions around the world. American Express, though, is also a credit card issuer while Visa is not.

Overall, Visa credit cards and American Express credit cards are widely accepted throughout the U.S., but Visa cards are more accepted worldwide. In terms of company size, Visa has over 18,000 employees while American Express has over 64,000.

Visa vs. Mastercard

Visa and Mastercard are the two powerhouse payments networks that most people are familiar with. The majority of credit card issuers use Visa and Mastercard to process their transactions, so their logos are a common sight. Both Mastercard and Visa are accepted virtually everywhere that accepts credit card payments.

The best Mastercard credit cards are issued by other credit card companies, like Chase or Citibank. Visa operates the same way, partnering with large credit card issuers to help facilitate their payments. Overall, Mastercard and Visa are similarly sized companies. Mastercard has about 19,000 employees while Visa has 18,600.

Visa vs. Discover

Discover is a payments network like Visa, but also offers banking services and issues credit cards. While Discover credit cards are accepted throughout the U.S., they aren’t as accepted worldwide as Visa credit cards. There also aren’t as many Discover cards available as there are Visa cards.

Visa and Discover are close in size. Discover has about 17,000 employees, while Visa has 18,600.

Which Visa credit card should you choose?

The right Visa credit card account for you is the one that best suits your lifestyle and meets your financial needs. Since Visa partners with many major credit card issuers, credit unions, and lenders, many of the best credit cards (and debit cards attached to checking accounts and savings accounts) available work on the Visa network.

Here are a few things to consider if choosing between different Visa credit cards:

• Rewards: Standard rewards include cash back, points, or miles. In some cases, you might also be able to earn a bonus offer as a new cardholder.
• Annual percentage rate (APR): Certain credit cards have intro APR offers on purchases and/or balance transfers.
• Benefits: Perks and benefits, such as travel accident insurance or purchase protection, could be useful depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.
• Contactless: Most credit, debit, and ATM cards are contactless these days, which is typically more convenient and secure.
• Redemption options: Common redemption options include cash back, travel, gift cards, online purchases, and more.

If you want a simple card you can use for everyday purchases, consider a cash back card. These cards earn cash back on every qualifying purchase, so you know you’ll earn rewards no matter what your spending habits are.

To travel more while spending less money, travel rewards cards make the most sense. These cards have rewards programs that allow you to earn valuable points or miles that you can redeem for airfare and hotel stays. Many travel cards are also easy to use on your daily purchases, while other cards may reward you more for getting takeout food from restaurants or picking up basic essentials at the drugstore.

Not all credit cards are about rewards. With a balance transfer credit card, you can avoid accruing interest for a while so you can pay down your credit card debt. These low-interest cards can help you with your existing debt, but just be aware of the balance transfer fees involved and how long the 0% APR introductory period is.

To choose the best Visa credit card for you, compare the benefits of the cards we’ve provided to see which ones would suit you the best. If the benefits align with what you’re looking for, you may have found the next addition to your wallet. 

Keep in mind that qualifying for a Visa credit card largely depends on your credit score and other creditworthiness factors. If you don't yet qualify for a certain card, consider applying for secured credit cards that have lower credit requirements and require a security deposit. Using this type of card could help you build credit through responsible credit usage, including making on-time payments.

FAQs about Visa credit cards

Bottom line on the best Visa credit card for your wallet

Visa credit cards are easily some of the best cards in the world, providing loads of different options and benefits to consumers and businesses. With these cards, it’s easy to find one that aligns with your financial goals.

If you’re interested in applying for a new Visa credit card, there are plenty of terrific options to choose from. Consider your spending habits and what you’re looking for in a credit card, then refer to our list of the best Visa credit cards to find the right one for you.

Great for Flexible Travel Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

4.9

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Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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Current Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rate

5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries; 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Generous welcome offer valued at $750 when redeemed via Chase Travel
• High rewards on dining and bookings via Chase Travel
• 25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Travel
• Up to $50 in annual statement credits for hotel stays booked through Chase Travel
• Receive valuable travel protections like trip delay reimbursement and primary rental car insurance

Drawbacks

• Has a $95 annual fee
• Doesn’t offer airport lounge access or premium travel perks like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Doesn't offer bonus points on gas or in-person groceries purchases

Card Details

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• 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, 2027.
• Member FDIC