The best credit cards, according to TPG founder Brian Kelly

Since launching The Points Guy in 2010, one of the highlights has been connecting with readers who share their remarkable stories of earning and maximizing points. These anecdotes truly highlight the value of the information we provide, showing how it can create unforgettable experiences.

A significant aspect of this journey includes utilizing premium travel rewards credit cards.

Whether you’re aiming to boost your earning strategy before a major trip, exploring new summer perks, or seeking a sizable welcome bonus, there’s something for everyone.

Here are my recommendations for the top credit cards of 2025.

The Best Credit Cards

*I am an adviser and investor for Bilt.

Comparing Top Credit Cards

Here are my top suggestions for the leading credit cards.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Welcome offer: Earn 125,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

Annual fee: $795.

Standout benefits: The Sapphire Reserve offers an impressive welcome bonus and various credits to help offset its $795 annual fee, including a $300 travel credit. It provides tremendous value for frequent travelers with perks like access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and annual credits for services like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

Beyond being a premium travel card, the Sapphire Reserve also comes with lifestyle benefits, including complimentary Apple TV+ and Apple Music memberships, and a $300 StubHub credit.

For further details, check out our review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: The Chase Sapphire Preferred provides attractive earning rates, including 3 points per dollar on dining and a $50 annual hotel credit, making it an ideal card for both newbies and experienced travelers. I capitalize on my points by transferring them to Chase’s travel partners for greater value.

This card’s travel protections ensure that your trip is secure, even if you only pay tax and fees with it.

For more information, check out our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.

Annual fee: $395.

Standout benefits: Aiming to earn more than 1 point per dollar spent is crucial, and the Capital One Venture X card provides a base rate of 2 miles per dollar. With compelling annual credits and benefits, including a $300 Capital One Travel credit, this card can yield substantial value for frequent spenders.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture X.

Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

American Express Gold Card

Welcome offer: Eligibility for up to 100,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $6,000 in the first six months. Offers vary.

Annual fee: $325.

Standout benefits: The Amex Gold card is ideal for those who frequently dine out or shop for groceries, earning up to 4 points per dollar. With various statement credits, you can significantly offset the card’s annual fee and maximize points through transfer bonuses with travel partners.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Gold Card.

Apply here: Amex Gold

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: This versatile card is perfect whether you are new to points or are looking for a straightforward earning structure. Earning 2 miles per dollar on all purchases means it’s a great option for transactions outside of bonus categories.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.

Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Eligibility for up to 175,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 in the first six months. Offers vary.

Annual fee: $695.

Standout benefits: The Amex Platinum remains a favorite despite its high annual fee, offering valuable perks like 5 points per dollar on airfare. Access to exclusive lounges and statement credits for travel make it worthwhile for frequent flyers.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Platinum Card.

Apply here: Amex Platinum

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months.

Annual fee: $695.

Standout benefits: The Business Platinum offers substantial perks for business owners, including a 35% bonus on point redemptions for first-class bookings through Amex Travel and multiple statement credits that effectively offset the annual fee.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Business Platinum.

Apply here: Amex Business Platinum

Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first three months.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: The Ink Business Preferred card is excellent for those with significant online advertising spending, earning 3 points per dollar. This flexibility makes it easy to redeem points through Chase Travel for maximum value.

For more information, check out our review of the Ink Business Preferred.

Apply here: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Bilt Mastercard

Welcome offer: N/A.

Annual fee: $0.

Standout benefits: The Bilt Mastercard allows renters to earn points on their largest monthly expense—rent. With no fees, this card transforms rent payments into a tool for building credit and earning rewards.

For more information, check out our review of the Bilt Mastercard.

Apply here: Bilt Mastercard

Choosing the Right Card

Finding the perfect credit card isn’t one-size-fits-all. Consider these factors before making a decision.

Preferred Rewards

Decide what type of rewards you wish to earn. If you prefer simplicity, a cash-back card might suit you best; for those seeking travel benefits, transferable rewards could be more valuable.

Welcome Bonus

A generous welcome bonus is a great way to kickstart your rewards balance. Be aware of eligibility criteria and check your credit score before applying.

Spending Habits

Analyze your spending patterns to choose a card that maximizes your rewards. For instance, choose a card that offers bonus points for dining if that’s your primary expense.

Annual Fee

Consider the cost of any new card. While some have no annual fees, others can be pricey. Ensure you can maximize the benefits relative to the fee.

How We Select the Best Cards

Our selection process considers earning rates, bonuses, benefits, and personal experience, resulting in cards that provide significant rewards.

Redemption Options

The cards highlighted above all earn transferable points, offering flexibility for travelers. This means you’re not restricted to one airline or hotel program, allowing you to maximize your rewards.

For example, using points strategically can lead to significant savings in travel costs by taking advantage of different redemption strategies with partner airlines.

Conclusion

Credit cards can greatly enhance your spending by unlocking rewards. It’s essential to choose a card that aligns with your financial habits and goals. Always keep within your means and pay balances in full to avoid debt.

Related: Best travel credit cards of 2025

For rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click here.
For the rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, click here.
For rates and fees of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.
For rewards and benefits of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.