8 Best Chase Credit Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated September 15, 2025

Choosing the right Chase credit card can help someone earn rewards, save money, and enjoy useful perks on everyday spending and travel. From travel-focused options to flexible cash back choices, the best Chase credit cards offer strong rewards programs, valuable welcome bonuses, and benefits that fit a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a travel rewards credit card that earns points through everyday spending. It is designed for people who want flexible redemption options and valuable travel perks.

    It works well for people who want to earn rewards on both travel and dining purchases and also offers strong protections for purchases and trips.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services
    • 2x points on other travel purchases
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 19.99%–28.24% variable
    • Other perks: Up to $50 in annual hotel statement credits through Chase Travel℠, 10% anniversary points boost, Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance, Complimentary DashPass with a $10 monthly promo on non-restaurant orders (activation by 12/31/27)

    Key Benefits:

    • 25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Travel℠
    • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
    • Primary rental car insurance
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or transfers to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically requires good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher).

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The highest rewards rates apply only to select bonus categories, so general spending earns fewer points.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It offers simple earning categories and flexible redemption choices, making it easy for new rewards card users to maximize value.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited®

    The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a versatile cash back credit card that works well for everyday spending. It offers a flat rewards rate on most purchases, plus higher rates in select categories.

    It is part of the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program, which allows users to redeem points in several ways, useful for both cash back seekers and those who want travel rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
    • 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery)
    • 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then 18.99%–28.49% variable
    • Rewards do not expire as long as the account remains open
    • No minimum redemption amount for cash back
    • Free credit monitoring via Chase Credit Journey

    Key Benefits:

    • Simple flat-rate cash back on most purchases
    • Bonus categories for travel, dining, and drugstores
    • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage

    Redemption Options:
    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, travel bookings, gift cards, or purchases with select merchants.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Foreign transaction fees make it less ideal for international travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    The straightforward earning structure and no annual fee make it easy to manage and understand.

  • Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is designed for small business owners who want to earn rewards on common expenses. It works well for those who spend regularly in categories like office supplies and telecommunications.

    This card offers a straightforward way to earn cash back without a complicated rewards system. It can also be paired with other Chase business cards for more flexible redemption options.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent each year at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services
    • 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent each year at gas stations and restaurants
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn $350 after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months and an additional $400 after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases, then 17.49%–25.49% variable
    • Zero Liability protection for unauthorized charges
    • Redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards, and more via Chase Ultimate Rewards®

    Key Benefits:

    • High cash back rates in select business categories
    • No annual fee
    • Employee cards at no extra cost
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage

    Redemption Options:
    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, gift cards, or purchases with select merchants.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The 5% and 2% reward categories have annual spending caps.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Its simple earning structure and no annual fee make it easy to manage for those new to business credit cards.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel rewards credit card designed for frequent travelers who want strong earning potential and flexible redemption options. It offers valuable travel protections and access to exclusive perks.

    Cardholders can earn points on travel and dining purchases at a higher rate than many standard cards. It also includes benefits that can help offset travel costs through statement credits and partner programs.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠
    • 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly with the airline or hotel
    • 3x points on dining worldwide
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 100,000 bonus points plus a $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $795
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 20.24%–28.74% variable
    • Complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership and access to Chase Sapphire Lounges® by The Club (with two guests)

    Key Benefits:

    • $300 annual travel credit
    • Priority Pass™ Select airport lounge access
    • Comprehensive travel insurance coverage
    • TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry fee credit
    • Luxury hotel benefits through The Edit by Chase Travel

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠, transferred to airline and hotel partners, or used for statement credits via Pay Yourself Back.

    Credit Requirements:
    Typically requires excellent credit (FICO score of 740 or higher).

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The high annual fee may outweigh the benefits for those who travel infrequently.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It offers straightforward earning categories and flexible redemption choices, making it easier for new rewards users to get value.

  • Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card is designed for small-business owners who want simple rewards without tracking categories. It offers a flat cash back rate on all purchases, making it easy to earn rewards on everyday business expenses.

    It works well for those who prefer predictable earning rather than rotating bonus categories. The card also integrates with other Chase business cards for added flexibility in redeeming rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • Unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn a $750 bonus cash back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases, then 17.49%–23.49% variable
    • Employee cards at no extra cost with customizable spending limits
    • Zero Liability protection and 24/7 fraud monitoring
    • Redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards, and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®

    Key Benefits:

    • Simple flat-rate rewards on all purchases
    • No annual fee
    • Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage
    • Free employee cards with individual spending limits
    • Integration with Chase Ultimate Rewards® for flexible redemptions

    Redemption Options:
    Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, travel bookings, gift cards, or purchases with select merchants.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    It does not offer higher rewards for specific categories, which may limit earnings for certain businesses.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Its flat-rate rewards and no annual fee simplify management and benefits for new business owners.

  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is designed for small-business owners who want flexible rewards and strong travel perks. It earns points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program, which offers multiple redemption choices.

    It is well-suited for businesses that spend heavily in categories like travel, shipping, and online advertising. Cardholders can also benefit from business-friendly protections and tools.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
    • 1x point per $1 on all other purchases, with no limit

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months from account opening (worth $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel through Chase Travel℠).

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 20.24%–26.24% variable
    • Points worth more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠
    • Zero Liability protection and 24/7 fraud monitoring
    • Purchase Protection covers new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft (up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account)

    Key Benefits:

    • Cell phone protection when paying the bill with the card
    • Travel and purchase protections
    • Employee cards at no additional cost
    • Access to Chase’s Pay Yourself Back® feature with select redemption boosts through September 30, 2025

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or through Pay Yourself Back® for select categories.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    The 3x points rate is capped at $150,000 in combined category spending per year.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It offers straightforward bonus categories and flexible redemption options, making it easy for new business owners to maximize rewards.

  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

    The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. It helps cardholders earn points toward flights and other rewards through everyday spending.

    It is often considered a good entry-level option in the Southwest credit card lineup. The card offers a straightforward earning system and access to the Rapid Rewards program.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2x points on Southwest Airlines® purchases
    • 2x points at gas stations and grocery stores (first $5,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year)
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 5 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $99
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 19.99%–28.49% variable
    • 3,000 anniversary points each year
    • First checked bag free for the cardholder and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
    • Ability to select a Standard seat within 48 hours before departure when available

    Key Benefits:

    • Anniversary points bonus each year
    • Bags fly free on Southwest flights (airline policy)
    • No blackout dates for reward flights
    • Points do not expire with account in good standing

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for Southwest flights, hotel stays, rental cars, gift cards, and select merchandise.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Points are most valuable when redeemed for Southwest flights, limiting flexibility for those who prefer other airlines.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    It offers simple earning categories and easy reward redemption, making it approachable for new travel rewards users.

  • Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

    The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is designed for travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. It offers ongoing rewards on purchases and travel perks that can help make flying more convenient.

    It also provides benefits that can offset costs for regular Southwest customers. The card focuses on earning Rapid Rewards points, which can be redeemed for flights and other travel expenses.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4x points on Southwest Airlines® purchases (including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards)
    • 2x points at gas stations and restaurants
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:
    Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 5 months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $229
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: 19.99%–28.49% variable
    • Four upgraded boardings per year when available
    • First checked bag free for cardholder and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
    • Preferred seat selection at booking and Group 5 boarding when available

    Key Benefits:

    • Annual travel credit toward Southwest purchases
    • Bonus points each cardmember anniversary
    • Four upgraded boardings per year when available
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:
    Points can be redeemed for Southwest flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and select gift cards through the Rapid Rewards program.

    Credit Requirements:
    Good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670 or higher) is typically required.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:
    Benefits are most valuable for those who primarily fly Southwest, so it may not be as rewarding for other travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:
    Its simple earning structure and valuable travel perks make it easy for new rewards cardholders to understand and use effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a premium travel rewards card aimed at frequent travelers. It offers elevated earning rates on travel and dining, strong travel protections, and luxury perks like lounge access. Cardholders also get valuable annual credits and flexible point redemption options.

How does the Chase Freedom Unlimited card compare to other Chase cards?

The Chase Freedom Unlimited provides simple, consistent cash back earning with no rotating categories. It’s a good choice for those who want flat rewards plus higher rates on dining, drugstores, and Chase Travel℠ purchases. This makes it versatile for everyday spending while staying easy to manage.

Which Chase credit card offers the best rewards for travel?

For frequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve typically offers the highest rewards value with premium perks and high travel earning rates. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a strong lower-cost alternative with solid bonus categories and flexible redemptions. Both work well for maximizing travel spending.

What are the key differences between the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Sapphire Reserve?

The Sapphire Reserve has higher earning rates, luxury travel benefits, and a larger annual fee. The Sapphire Preferred offers lower costs while still delivering strong travel rewards and protections. Choosing between them depends on how often you travel and the perks you value most.

How can beginners choose the best Chase credit card for their needs?

Beginners should evaluate their spending habits, preferred reward type, and travel frequency. No-annual-fee cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited are easy to manage and earn consistent rewards. Frequent travelers might find the Chase Sapphire Preferred useful due to its flexible points and travel benefits.