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The Best Credit Cards According to Brian Kelly of The Points Guy

As travelers and cardholders seek to maximize their rewards, Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy (TPG), has compiled a list of the best credit cards on the market. Since the inception of TPG in 2010, Brian has harnessed a wealth of experience and insider knowledge to help millions make informed financial decisions. Today, TPG attracts over 11 million unique monthly visitors and boasts over 3 million social media followers.

Top Picks for Credit Cards

In his recent guide, Kelly highlights several credit cards that cater to different user needs, from beginners to seasoned travelers. Here’s a breakdown of his top choices:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Best for: Beginner travelers
Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.
Earning rates: 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining and select streaming services, 2 points on other travel purchases, and 1 point on all other purchases.
Annual fee: $95

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is praised for its valuable earning rates and versatile redemption options. According to Kelly, it serves as an excellent entry point for those new to the world of travel rewards.

2. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best for: Premium travel
Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Earning rates: 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through the same, and 2 miles on all other purchases.
Annual fee: $395

This card is ideal for maximizing rewards across all spending categories, with an impressive base earning rate of 2 miles per dollar regardless of purchase type.

3. American Express® Gold Card

Best for: Groceries and dining
Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
Earning rates: 4 points per dollar at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, 3 points on flights, and 1 point on other purchases.
Annual fee: $325

For those who frequently dine out or shop for groceries, the American Express Gold Card offers significant rewards in these categories.

4. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Best for: Non-bonus spending
Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Earning rates: 5 miles on hotels, rentals, and vacations booked through Capital One Travel, and 2 miles on all other purchases.
Annual fee: $95

This card provides substantial rewards and is especially advantageous for cardholders who prefer straightforward earning.

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

Best for: Luxury benefits
Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first six months.
Earning rates: 5 points on flights and prepaid hotels, 1 point on all other purchases.
Annual fee: $695

Designed for high-spending travelers, this card features a range of luxury perks that justify its high annual fee.

6. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Best for: Small business owners
Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 points after spending $20,000 in the first three months and an additional statement credit with qualifying purchases.
Earning rates: 5 points on flights, hotels, and more.
Annual fee: $695

This card suits entrepreneurs who spend heavily on travel-related businesses.

7. Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Best for: Bonus-earning
Welcome offer: Earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first three months.
Earning rates: 3 points on travel and select business categories, and 1 point on all other purchases.
Annual fee: $95

Geared towards business owners, this card allows for substantial points accumulation in key categories.

8. Bilt Mastercard®

Best for: Renters
Earning rates: 3 points on dining, 2 points on travel, and 1 point on rent.
Annual fee: $0

The Bilt Mastercard stands out by allowing renters to earn rewards without transaction fees while paying rent.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to rack up travel points or earn shopping rewards, Brian Kelly’s selections provide options tailored to various financial lifestyles and preferences. Each card offers unique perks designed to enhance users’ earning potential, making it easier than ever to maximize rewards. For more details, including application links and specific rates, interested individuals can visit The Points Guy website.