Best Credit CardsShopping
Selected from 1,500+ credit cards for September 2024
Updated Sep 6, 2024Fact checked
By:John Kiernan, Credit Card Editor
|Sep 6, 2024
Reviewed by:Alina Comoreanu, Senior Researcher
Fact checked
The best credit cards for shopping offer initial bonuses worth $300+, savings of up to 5% on every purchase made at your favorite stores, 0% introductory interest rates, or sometimes a combination of low rates and great rewards. Many also provide price matching, extended warranties, and insurance for damaged or stolen items.... show more
WalletHub tracks 1,500+ credit cards (other sites only consider a much smaller number of cards, so they naturally miss a lot of great cards)
WalletHub picks the best credit cards overall (other sites pick the best cards from their advertising partners)
WalletHub uses a sophisticated card rating system to objectively find the best cards (other sites’ picks are influenced by their own biases)
WalletHub has 100% editorial independence (other sites just provide a billboard for advertisers)
WalletHub does not have a conflict of interest (other sites are biased due to promoting their own lending and banking offers)
WalletHub has 15+ years of credit card experience (other sites simply don’t have the same expertise)
WalletHub's best credit card picks and ratings are completely independent and not provided, commissioned, or endorsed by any issuer. In addition, our editors follow a strict editorial policy. Some offers may come from WalletHub's advertising partners. WalletHub independently collected information forsome of the cards on this page.
Overall
Best Credit Card for Shopping
4.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.2
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 3.8
rewards: 4.7
cost: 4.7
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Transfer Fee: 3% intro for 120 days, then up to 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$200 Cash Rewards
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Transfer Fee: 3% intro for 120 days, then up to 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$200 Cash Rewards
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is the best credit card for shopping because it offers a $0 annual fee, an introductory APR of 0% for 12 months from account opening, and above-average rewards wherever you shop. You’ll earn 2% in cash rewards on purchases, with no limit to how much you can earn. Wells Fargo Active Cash also has an initial bonus of $200 cash rewards after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
What We Don’t Like: There is a high regular interest rate after the low-interest promotion ends.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Wells Fargo Active Cash if you want generous rewards without much hassle. You also need good credit or better.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Store Credit Card for Shopping Overall
4.3WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.3
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.8
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
4.3
fees: 5.0
rewards: 4.2
cost: 4.5
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
31.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
7.5% in Rewards
Bonus Offer
35% discount
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Regular APR
31.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
7.5% in Rewards
Bonus Offer
35% discount
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Kohl's Credit Card is the best store credit card available right now because it offers great rewards and does not charge an annual fee. For starters, you can get an initial bonus of 35% discount on your first purchase. You will also earn 7.5% back in rewards on every qualifying purchase made at Kohl's.
What We Don’t Like: The card has a high APR, and it can only be used at Kohl’s.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have fair credit or better and regularly shop at Kohl’s.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
BEST CREDIT CARDS FOR SHOPPING AT ANY STORE
Best Credit Card for Shopping with Initial Bonus Rewards
4.0WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.0
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.7
User Reviews
3.9
Market Comparison
3.9
fees: 2.1
rewards: 4.3
cost: 4.6
Other Features: 0.0
Terms Apply|
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer Fee: 3% (min $5)
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 6% Cash Back
Bonus Offer
$250
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer Fee: 3% (min $5)
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 6% Cash Back
Bonus Offer
$250
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The American Express Blue Cash Preferred Card can make costly shopping trips pay off big time, thanks to its initial rewards bonus offer of $250 statement credit for spending $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months of opening an account. Cardholders also earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 spent per year), 6% back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% back at U.S. gas stations and on transit, and 1% back on all other purchases, received as rewards dollars (which can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout).
In addition, new cardholders can enjoy an introductory APR of 0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.Plus, there is a $0 intro annual fee the first year.
What We Don’t Like: Blue Cash Preferred has an annual fee of $95 from the second year on, as well asa high regular interest rate.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Amex Blue Cash Preferred if you have good credit or better, can comfortably qualify for the initial bonus offer, and plan to use the card mostly at U.S. supermarkets, for U.S. streaming subscriptions, and at U.S. gas stations.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Credit Card for Everyday Shopping Rewards
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.6
Market Comparison
4.0
fees: 3.8
rewards: 3.4
cost: 4.7
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days (5%, min $5 after)
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer intro APR
0% for 15 months
Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater in the first 60 days (5%, min $5 after)
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card is great to have when you’re shopping for travel accommodations, places to dine, and items from drugstores. Chase Freedom Unlimited has a $0 annual fee and gives 1.5 - 5% cash back on purchases: 5% cash back on travel through Chase, 3% back at restaurants and drugstores, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.
Cardholders also get an extra 1.5% cash back on everything they buy, up to $20,000 spent in the first year.Chase Freedom Unlimited can even help you save on interest after a big-ticket shopping trip, offering an introductory APR of 0% for 15 months.
What We Don’t Like: The regular APR can be pretty high, and you have to book travel through Chase to get bonus rewards on travel purchases.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Chase Freedom Unlimited if you have good credit and regularly make purchases in the card’s bonus rewards categories.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Credit Card for Shopping with Flat-Rate Rewards
4.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.2
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 3.8
rewards: 4.7
cost: 4.7
Other Features: 0.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Transfer Fee: 3% intro for 120 days, then up to 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$200 Cash Rewards
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers
Transfer Fee: 3% intro for 120 days, then up to 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$200 Cash Rewards
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is the best credit card for shopping because it offers a $0 annual fee, an introductory APR of 0% for 12 months from account opening, and above-average rewards wherever you shop. You’ll earn 2% in cash rewards on purchases, with no limit to how much you can earn. Wells Fargo Active Cash also has an initial bonus of $200 cash rewards after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
What We Don’t Like: There is a high regular interest rate after the low-interest promotion ends.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Wells Fargo Active Cash if you want generous rewards without much hassle. You also need good credit or better.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
BEST CREDIT CARDS FOR SHOPPING AT SPECIFIC STORES
Best Store Credit Card for Online Shopping
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.2
Market Comparison
4.1
fees: 5.0
rewards: 4.0
cost: 4.1
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 5% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$100 Amazon gift card
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 5% Cash Rewards
Bonus Offer
$100 Amazon gift card
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: ThePrime Visa has a $0 annual fee and offers a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval. Most importantly, you will also get 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership, 5% back on Chase Travel purchases, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), as well as 1% back on all other purchases.
What We Don’t Like: This card has a high APR, and Prime membership is required but not included.
Who Should Get It: Apply for the Prime Visa if you’re a frequent Amazon shopper who has good credit or better and a Prime membership. If you don’t have Prime, consider the Amazon Credit Card instead.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Store Credit Card for Shopping Overall
4.3WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.3
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.8
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
4.3
fees: 5.0
rewards: 4.2
cost: 4.5
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
31.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
7.5% in Rewards
Bonus Offer
35% discount
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Regular APR
31.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
7.5% in Rewards
Bonus Offer
35% discount
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Kohl's Credit Card is the best store credit card available right now because it offers great rewards and does not charge an annual fee. For starters, you can get an initial bonus of 35% discount on your first purchase. You will also earn 7.5% back in rewards on every qualifying purchase made at Kohl's.
What We Don’t Like: The card has a high APR, and it can only be used at Kohl’s.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have fair credit or better and regularly shop at Kohl’s.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Store Credit Card for Target Purchases
3.7WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.7
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.7
Market Comparison
3.5
fees: 5.0
rewards: 3.4
cost: 3.3
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
29.95% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
5% discount
Bonus Offer
$50
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Regular APR
29.95% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
5% discount
Bonus Offer
$50
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Target Credit Card offers 5% discount at Target and Target.com. Plus, you can get an initial bonus of $50 off a future qualifying purchase over $50. The card also gets you free two-day shipping for online orders and 30 extra days to return items purchased either online or in store.
What We Don’t Like: You can only use this card for Target purchases, and interest charges will prove very costly if you don’t pay your bill in full monthly.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have fair credit or better and regularly shop at Target.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
BEST CREDIT CARDS FOR SHOPPING BENEFITS
Best Purchase Protection
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
User Reviews
3.3
Market Comparison
4.1
fees: 1.3
rewards: 4.8
cost: 4.8
Other Features: 0.0
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers top-notch purchase protection as well as attractive travel rewards. New cardholders can get 60,000 bonus points for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus ongoing rewards of 1 - 10 points per $1. As a result, a few big shopping trips can lead to free travel in the future, and you may be eligible for a refund if something you buy with this card gets lost or stolen.
What We Don’t Like: Chase Sapphire Reserve® has a high annual fee ($550). If you don't want to pay an annual fee, Chase Freedom Unlimited® also offers Chase's top-ranked purchase protection.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Chase Sapphire Reserve if you’re a big spender with excellent credit who likes to travel.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
BEST CREDIT CARDS FOR SHOPPING WITH BELOW-AVERAGE CREDIT
Best for Bad Credit
4.5WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.5
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Rebuild Damaged Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.7
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 4.6
Other Features: 3.0
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
28.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 2% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Limited History, Bad
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
28.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 2% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Limited History, Bad
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is the best rewards credit card for people with damaged credit. The Discover it Secured Credit Card offers at least 1% cash back on all purchases, with the first $1,000 spent per quarter at gas stations and restaurants yielding 2% back. Plus, after the first year, Discover provides a bonus equal to your total rewards earnings from the first 12 months as a new cardmember. That’s a great deal, making shopping just about as rewarding as it can be with a low credit score, especially since there’s no annual fee.
What We Don’t Like: You will need to place a refundable security deposit of at least $200, the amount of which will be the account’s spending limit.
Who Should Get It: Apply for the Discover it Secured Credit Card if you have bad credit or limited credit and want to earn rewards on purchases while you improve your credit score.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for Fair Credit
4.9WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.9
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Improve Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.4
Market Comparison
5.0
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 5.0
Other Features: 5.0
Transfer intro APR
0% for 18 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee ($5 min) for each transfer in first 4 months, after that 5% ($5 min) for each transfer
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Back
Bonus Offer
$200
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Transfer intro APR
0% for 18 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro fee ($5 min) for each transfer in first 4 months, after that 5% ($5 min) for each transfer
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
2% Cash Back
Bonus Offer
$200
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Citi Double Cash® Card is the best credit card available to people with fair credit. The Citi Double Cash Card gives 2% cash back on every purchase (1% when you buy and 1% as you pay for those purchases), plus 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24, and it has a $0 annual fee.
Plus, cardholders can get an introductory APR of 0% for 18 months on balance transfers and aninitial bonus of $200 for spending $1,500 in the first 6 months.
What We Don’t Like: The Citi Double Cash Card has a balance transfer fee of 3% intro fee ($5 min) for each transfer in first 4 months, after that 5% ($5 min) for each transfer. It also has a high regular APR: 19.24% - 29.24% (V).
Who Should Get It: Apply for the Citi Double Cash Card if you have fair credit or better and you want to earn rewards at a flat rate on all purchases. You can check your credit score for free on WalletHub.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for No Credit
4.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Improve Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.1
Market Comparison
5.0
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 5.0
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair, Limited History
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair, Limited History
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card is the best unsecured rewards credit card available to people with limited credit who aren’t currently in college. The Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card gives 1% cash back on all eligible purchases, up to 1.25% back after 6 months of on-time payments, and 1.5% cash back after 12 consecutive months of paying on time. It also has a $0 annual fee.
What We Don’t Like: Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card has a high APR.
Who Should Get It: Apply for Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card if you have limited credit experience.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Online Shopping with Bad Credit
4.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Rebuild Damaged Credit (Store Cards)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.7
User Reviews
3.7
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 5.0
rewards: 0.0
cost: 5.0
APR: 3.8
Other Features: 5.0
Regular APR
5.75% - 25.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Accepted Credit
Fair, Limited History, Bad
Regular APR
5.75% - 25.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Accepted Credit
Fair, Limited History, Bad
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: Montgomery Ward sells a wide range of goods online. You can buy everything from clothing and electronics to furniture and small appliances. The Montgomery Ward Credit Account makes it easier to complete those purchases and gives people with damaged credit a chance to rebuild at a low cost. Montgomery Ward Credit Account accepts applicants with bad credit and does not charge an annual fee, a monthly fee, or any kind of one-time initial fee.
What We Don’t Like: You can only use this card for Montgomery Ward purchases, and the interest rate is high.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have bad credit, you don’t want to put a security deposit down for a secured credit card, and you don’t mind shopping at Montgomery Ward.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
WalletHub's Research
- 7 tips for saving on shopping
- Best shopping credit cards compared
- Methodology
- Sources
- About the author
- User questions & answers
- Budget Strategically. It’s hard to tell whether you’re overspending if you don’t know how much you can afford to spend as well as how much you actually spend. So you need to make a budget and stick to it. Start with your monthly take-home pay and subtract necessities such as rent, food, health insurance, credit card and loan payments, and retirement savings. Then figure out how you’d like to use the remaining amount. You may want to devote some to savings and earmark the rest for fun, such as shopping, for example. Once you know how much you can afford to spend on the various things you need and want to buy, you’ll be able to compare your credit card transactions to your plan to see if you’re overspending.
- Pick an Everyday Card. Using the Island Approach is another easy way to keep your spending in check. The idea is to use at least one credit card solely for everyday purchases that you should be able to pay for in full by your due date(s). If you ever see interest charges on your everyday account(s), you’ll know that you’re spending too much. And if you already have credit card debt or plan to make a big purchase that will take months to pay off, you can use a 0% credit card for that.
- Shop Around & Set Alerts. We all know that comparing costs among retailers is an easy way to identify savings opportunities. You can make this process easier by setting online news alerts for deals at your favorite stores or on particular items that you plan to buy.
- Limit Your Number of Transactions. From taxes to credit card processing to shipping fees, certain ancillary charges will accompany each individual purchase that you make. Planning out what you want to buy and determining how much you can get in one fell swoop can therefore enable you to maximize savings even more.
- Buy Gift Cards at a Discount. Most people don’t realize that you can save up to 15% on gift cards from most major retailers when you buy them online. Whether you’re buying them for personal use or as a gift for someone else, this strategy can put a lot of extra money in your pockets.
- Take Advantage of Credit Card Savings. Via lucrative initial rewards bonuses, 0% financing deals, and various other discounts, credit cards offer a number of different ways to save every time you shop.
- Avoid Deferred Interest Plans. Make sure to carefully read the fine print of any retailer-affiliated credit card that offers a 0% introductory rate. Many of these deals, according to WalletHub’s Deferred Interest Study, have a clause that allows the issuer to retroactively apply interest to your entire purchase amount if you don’t pay off your balance in full by the end of the introductory period.
With these tips in mind, you may want to take another look at the year’s best credit cards for shopping. For your convenience, we’ll summarize what the top cards bring to the table below.
Best Shopping Credit Cards Compared
Credit Card | Best For | Annual Fee | Best Feature |
---|---|---|---|
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Initial Bonus Offer | $0 intro 1st yr, $95 after | $250 statement credit for spending $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months |
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card | Flat-RateCash Back | $0 | 2% Cash Rewards |
Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Shopping Rewards Categories | $0 | 1.5 - 5% Cash Back |
Kohl's Credit Card* | Department Store Card | $0 | 7.5% in Rewards |
Prime Visa | Online Shopping | $0 | 1 - 5% Cash Rewards |
Knowing your credit score is critical to finding the right credit card for your shopping needs. If you’re not sure where you stand, you cancheck your latest credit score for free on WalletHub, the only site with free scores and reports that are updated on a daily basis.
Methodology for Selecting the Best Shopping Credit Cards
To identify the best credit cards for shopping, WalletHub’s editors regularly compare 1,500+ credit card offers, evaluating their approval requirements, ongoing rewards rates, 0% APR introductory periods, initial rewards bonuses, annual fees, and secondary features. For example, perks such as purchase protection and price protection are important to many shoppers. We then use the estimated two-year cost of each card to make final selections.
How Two-Year Cost Is Calculated
Two-year cost is used to approximate the monetary value of cards for better comparison and is calculated by combining annual and monthly membership fees over two years, adding any one-time fees or other fees (like balance transfer fees), adding any interest costs, and subtracting rewards. Negative amounts indicate savings. When fees or other terms are presented as a range, we use the midpoint for scoring purposes.
Rewards bonuses and credits have been taken into account for two-year cost calculations. However, bonuses applicable to only a very small portion of cardholders are not considered. For example, credits and bonuses awarded for spending or redeeming rewards through a company portal with non-co-branded cards have not been taken into account. Similarly, bonuses and credits related to spending with specific merchants using a non-co-branded card have not been taken into account (for example, if Card A offers credits with DoorDash, this feature would not be factored into calculations because it is hard to assess how many cardholders would use the benefit or exactly how much value they'd get from it).
Cardholder Spending Profiles
Given that different users have different goals and are likely to use their credit cards differently, we identified spending profiles that are representative of different users’ financial priorities and behaviors. For each cardholder type, we have assumed a specific amount of monthly spending by purchase type (e.g., groceries, gas, etc.), as well as an average balance, balance transfer amount, amount spent on large purchases and average monthly payment. Spending assumptions are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Sources
WalletHub actively maintains a database of 1,500+ credit card offers, from which we select the best shopping credit cards for different applicants as well as derive market-wide takeaways and trends. The underlying data is compiled from credit card company websites or provided directly by the credit card issuers. We also leverage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to develop cardholder profiles, used to estimate cards’ potential savings.
About the Author
John S Kiernan
John Kiernan has covered the credit card industry for more than 15 years as a writer and editor for WalletHub. His work has been featured by major media outlets such as The Washington Post, Fox News and The New York Times and has been cited by industry regulators such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Best Credit Cards For Shopping FAQ
Finding the best credit card can be tough. But you’ve got the knowledgeable WalletHub community on your side. We encourage everyone to share their knowledge while respecting our content guidelines. Please keep in mind that editorial and user-generated content on this page is not reviewed or otherwise endorsed by any financial institution. In addition, it is not the financial institution’s responsibility to ensure all posts and questions are answered. WalletHub independently collected information for some of the cards on this page.
Most Popular
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Upvotes
Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping
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John Kiernan, Credit Card Editor
@John
The best credit cards for online shopping can save cardholders hundreds of dollars per year, thanks to big initial bonuses, rewards of up to 6% back on purchases, annual fees as low as $0, and low-interest promotions. The very best credit cards for online shopping also require good or excellent credit for approval.
Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping Right Now
- Rates & FeesOverall:
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Rates & FeesTerms ApplyBig-Spenders:
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - No Annual Fee:
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Shopping on Amazon:
Prime Visa
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Department Store:
Target Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More - No Credit:
Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More
- Overall:
- Big-Spenders:
- No Annual Fee:
- Shopping on Amazon:
- Department Store:
- No Credit:
To choose the best credit card for your online-shopping needs, consider how much you plan to spend, where and when you plan to spend it, and how long it will take to pay off the resulting balance. This will help you decide whether to prioritize initial bonuses or regular rewards, as well as choose between store cards and general-purpose credit cards, plus rewards vs. low rates. The goal is to determine which of the credit cards you’re considering is likely to produce the most savings for you in particular.
WalletHub tracks 1,500+ credit cards (other sites only consider a much smaller number of cards, so they naturally miss a lot of great cards)
WalletHub picks the best credit cards overall (other sites pick the best cards from their advertising partners)
WalletHub uses a sophisticated card rating system to objectively find the best cards (other sites’ picks are influenced by their own biases)
WalletHub has 100% editorial independence (other sites just provide a billboard for advertisers)
WalletHub does not have a conflict of interest (other sites are biased due to promoting their own lending and banking offers)
WalletHub has 15+ years of credit card experience (other sites simply don’t have the same expertise)
WalletHub's best credit card picks and ratings are completely independent and not provided, commissioned, or endorsed by any issuer. In addition, our editors follow a strict editorial policy. Some offers may come from WalletHub's advertising partners. WalletHub independently collected information forsome of the cards on this page.
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Upvotes
What are the easiest credit cards to get approved for?
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John Kiernan, Credit Card Editor
@John
The easiest credit cards for you to get approved for with bad credit or no credit are secured credit cards because they require a refundable security deposit that protects the issuer. Secured cards can help you avoid annual fees, add to your credit history with the 3 major credit bureaus, and even earn rewards of 1% or more on your purchases. To help you maximize your odds of approval for a credit card, we compared the approval requirements for more than 1,500 credit card offers, along with their fees, rates and rewards.
It’s important for you to get a good credit card because credit cards are the best credit-building tools available to us. Nearly all of them report information to the major credit bureaus on a monthly basis, and unlike loans, they don’t require you to incur any debt. Some credit cards are much easier to get approved for than others, though. You can learn all about the best easy approval credit cards below, which include both secured cards and unsecured cards for bad or no credit. Using one of these cards responsibly can help you eventually transition to one of the best credit cards overall.
- OpenSky® Plus Secured Visa® Credit Card:Best Overall
- Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card:Best for No Annual Fee
- Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card:Best for After Bankruptcy
- Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card:Best for Students
- Capital One Platinum Credit Card: Best for No Credit
- Indigo® Mastercard® for Less than Perfect Credit:Best Unsecured Card
WalletHub's best credit card picks and ratings are completely independent and not provided, commissioned, or endorsed by any issuer. In addition, our editors follow a strict editorial policy. Some offers may come from WalletHub's advertising partners.WalletHub independently collected information forsome of the cards on this page.
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Upvotes
What are four types of credit cards?
Reply
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Adam McCann, Financial Writer
@adam_mcan
The four major types of credit cards are Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. These are the major credit card networks, which most credit cards belong to, and they dictate where cards can be used as well as what secondary benefits cards offer.
4 Types of Credit Cards
- Visa credit cards
- Mastercard credit cards
- American Express credit cards
- Discover credit cards
Overall, Visa and Mastercard credit cards have the greatest worldwide acceptance, but American Express and Discover...
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30
Upvotes
What is a retail card?
Reply
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3
WalletHub
@WalletHub
A retail card is a card specific to a certain store or retailer, such as Amazon. Most retail cards have $0 annual fees, and many give 1% to 5%+ cash back in rewards for shopping at the stores they're affiliated with. Some retail credit cards also offer 0% deferred-interest financing on eligible purchases.
Retail cards are pretty easy to get, usually requiring only fair credit (640+ credit score) for approval. They can help you build credit...
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22
Upvotes
What are the best instant approval department store credit cards?
Reply
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2
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Some of the best instant approval department store cards include the Kohl's Credit Card and the Amazon Store Card. In addition to potentially offering instant approval, they give you lucrative rewards for making purchases at the retailers they're affiliated with.
Most store cards, including the ones affiliated with department stores, can offer instant approval. When you apply online, there's always a chance you will be instantly approved (or denied). Many stores also allow customers to apply in-store and receive a...
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Upvotes
What is the best credit card for a large purchase?
Reply
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John S Kiernan, Managing Editor
@John
The best credit card for large purchases is the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card card because it offers a credit limit of $1,000 - $5,000+ (as per the reports) and gives new cardholders an intro APR of 0% for 12 months from account opening. Plus, the card has a $0 annual fee and great rewards.
6 Best Credit Cards for Large Purchases in 2024
What we like: Wells Fargo Active Cash gives you $200 cash rewards after spending $500 in the first 3 months, as well as 2% cash rewards on purchases made with the card.
Wells Fargo Active Cash...
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Upvotes
What is the best credit card for Walmart?
Reply
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Sebi Mitchell, Credit Cards Moderator
@sebim
The best credit card for Walmart is the BMO Bank Cash Back Mastercard® because it offers 3% cash back on gas and grocery purchases (up to $2,500 in combined spend per quarter), and Walmart purchases are eligible.
The BMO Bank Cash Back Mastercard® has a $0 annual fee, and it requires at least excellent credit for approval.
Some of the Best Credit Cards for Walmart
- Overall:
- Rates & FeesFlat Rewards Rate:
- Rates & FeesExcellent Credit:
- Rates & FeesFair Credit:
- No Annual Fee:
- Rates & FeesBad Credit:
- Overall:
- Flat Rewards Rate:
- Excellent Credit:
- Fair Credit:
- No Annual Fee:
- Bad Credit:
In summary, the best Walmart credit card for you depends on your spending...
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Upvotes
What stores offer store credit cards?
Reply
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Chip Lupo, Credit Card Writer
@CLoop
Major stores that offer store credit cards include Target, Walmart, Amazon, Home Depot, Best Buy, and Costco, among many others. In fact, 12 of the top 25 retailers offer store credit cards, which are credit cards that can only be used at a particular store or group of affiliated retailers. Most store credit cards come with $0 annual fees, are available to people with fair credit or better, and offer discounts and rewards exclusively for...
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Upvotes
What is the hardest store credit card to get?
Reply
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Bianca Smith, WalletHub Credit Cards Analyst
@bianca_stoian
The hardest store-affiliated credit card to get is the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi because it requires excellent credit for approval, which means a credit score of 750 or higher. On top of that, the Costco Credit Card is only available to Costco members.
On the other hand, store-only credit cards generally require fair credit or better for approval. These cards are a good option for people loyal to a particular brand, since they can usually only be used at...
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6
Upvotes
What is the best credit card for electronics?
Reply
6
Alex Johnson, WalletHub Credit Card Consultant
@alex.johnson2
The best credit card for electronics is the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card because it has great rewards, a low introductory APR, a $0 annual fee, and valuable secondary benefits. For example, it gives purchase protection that covers eligible items for 120 days against damage or theft, up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account. Cardholders also get extended warranty protection.
When it comes to rewards, Chase Freedom Unlimited gives cardholders 5% cash back on travel through Chase, 3% back at restaurants and drugstores, and 1.5% back on all other purchases (plus an additional 1.5% cash back on everything, up to $20,000 spent the first year). Plus, the introductory APR offer includes...
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