Capital One is one of the largest credit card issuers in the United States, with a strong reputation among its customers.
The company offers a large variety of cards for people with excellent to less-than-stellar credit histories– each with its own perks, and with something to suit just about anyone!
Whether you’re looking to build credit, enjoy a generous initial offer, or earn rewards for travel or entertainment, we’ll help you find the Capital One credit card that’s best for you.
Best Capital One Credit Cards
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: 75,000 bonus miles
- Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: $200 bonus
- Capital One Spark Cash Select - $500 Cash Bonus: $500 bonus
- Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: $200 bonus
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 75,000 bonus miles
- Capital One Spark Cash Plus: up to $1000 bonus
- Capital One Spark Miles for Business: 50,000 bonus miles
- Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: 40,000 bonus miles
1. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card comes with a 75,000 mile welcome bonus. All you need to do to qualify is make $4,000 worth of purchases within three months of opening the account.
The card has small annual fee; however, on par compared to other similar premium cards. Cardholders also enjoy many perks such as up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, no foreign transaction fees and travel accident insurance.
The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is an advantageous travel rewards card if you’re looking for straightforward flat-rate miles on all purchases, rather than just travel or other bonus categories. It also offers the option to earn higher rewards when you book trips through Capital One Travel and provides some rewarding travel benefits.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card - 75,000 bonus miles
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 75,000 bonus miles. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $4,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited to your rewards balance within 2 billing cycles.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card 75,000 bonus miles offer
2. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card comes with a $200 welcome bonus. All you need to do to qualify is make $500 worth of purchases within three months of opening the account.
The card has no annual fee, and cardholders also enjoy experiences such as VIP tickets and 5-star meals, among other perks.
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a straightforward option, with a decent flat interest rate across all spending categories. While some cards offer more cash back and perks, it's a good choice if you don’t want to worry about tracking your spending in bonus categories.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card - $200 bonus
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $500 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited to your rewards balance within 2 billing cycles.
Learn more about the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card $200 bonus offer
3. Capital One Spark Cash Select - $500 Cash Bonus
If you're in the market for a zero-annual-fee business credit card that offers solid cash back on all purchases and elevated earnings on hotel and rental car purchases, check out Capital One Spark Select from Capital One.
This offer lets new cardholders earn a one-time $500 bonus, in addition to earning unlimited 1.5% cash back for your business on every purchase with no limits or category restrictions and unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
To earn the bonus, you'll need to spend $4,500 using your new card – and you'll have 3 months to meet that requirement.
Like most credit card promotions from Capital One, you'll also need to be a completely new cardholder – previous account holders aren't eligible.
The Capital One Spark Cash Select Card is a good fit for small business owners who want a straightforward hassle-free rewards card with no cost and some nice bookkeeping benefits. It isn't the best pick for big spenders, who could earn higher rewards in bonus categories—with an annual fee—elsewhere.
Capital One Spark Cash Select - $500 Cash Bonus - $500 bonus
The Capital One Spark Cash Select - $500 Cash Bonus offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $500 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Spark Select credit card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $4,500 using your new card.
- Bonus will be applied to your rewards balance within two billing cycles after meeting the requirements.
Learn more about the Capital One Spark Cash Select - $500 Cash Bonus $500 bonus offer
4. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
If you're in the market for a zero-annual-fee credit card that offers solid cash back on food and experiences, check out the SavorOne Rewards from Capital One.
In addition to an introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months, Capital One is offering new cardholders a one-time $200 bonus.
To earn the cash, you'll need to spend just $500 using your new card – and you'll have 3 months to meet that requirement. Like most credit card promotions from Capital One, you'll also need to be a completely new cardholder – previous account holders aren't eligible.
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards card is a favorite for foodies and entertainment seekers. With generous uncapped cash back and a wealth of other benefits, it’s worth adding to your wallet if you spend big in these categories.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card - $200 bonus
The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new SavorOne Rewards from Capital One using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $500 using your new card.
- Bonus will be applied to your rewards balance within two billing cycles after meeting the requirements.
Learn more about the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card $200 bonus offer
5. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a 75,000 mile welcome bonus. All you need to do to qualify is make $4,000 worth of purchases within three months of opening the account.
The card has a somewhat high annual fee; however, lower compared to other similar premium cards. Cardholders also enjoy perks such as a up to $300 in statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® and access to select airport lounges.
If you’re looking for a travel card with generous bonus category rewards, travel credits, and bonuses, take a look at the Capital One Venture X Rewards Card. It's a happy medium for road warriors who spend enough to offset an annual fee but don't quite want to commit to an elite card.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - 75,000 bonus miles
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 75,000 bonus miles. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $4,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited to your rewards balance within 2 billing cycles.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card 75,000 bonus miles offer
6. Capital One Spark Cash Plus
If you're in the market for a low-annual-fee business credit card that offers solid cash back on all purchases and elevated earnings on hotel and rental car purchases, check out Capital One Spark Cash Plus from Capital One.
This offer lets new cardholders earn a one-time bonus of either $500 or $1,000 (depending on how much you can spend), in addition to earning unlimited 2.0% cash back for your business on every purchase with no limits or category restrictions and unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
What's more? As if that isn't enough, this card will keep rewarding you with a $200 cash bonus every year you spend $200,000, which is more than enough to cover the annual fee!
Like most credit card promotions from Capital One, you'll also need to be a completely new cardholder – previous account holders aren't eligible.
The Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card is a good fit for small business owners who want a straightforward hassle-free rewards card and some nice bookkeeping benefits. It isn’t the best pick for big spenders, who could earn higher rewards in bonus categories—with an annual fee—elsewhere.
Capital One Spark Cash Plus - up to $1000 bonus
The Capital One Spark Cash Plus offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $1000 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Capital One Spark Cash Plus credit card using the link below.
- Within the first 3 months, spend $5,000, earn $500.
- Within the first 6 months, spend a total of $50,000, earn an additional $500.
- Going forward, in any calendar year that you spend a total of $200,000 or more, earn $200.
Learn more about the Capital One Spark Cash Plus $1000 bonus offer
7. Capital One Spark Miles for Business
If you're in the market for a low-annual-fee business credit card that offers solid reward miles on all purchases and elevated earnings on hotel and rental car purchases, check out Capital One Spark Miles business card from Capital One.
This offer lets new cardholders earn a one-time 50,000 miles bonus, in addition to earning unlimited 2X miles for your business on every purchase with no limits or category restrictions and unlimited 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
To earn the bonus, you'll need to spend $4,500 using your new card – and you'll have 3 months to meet that requirement. They have another offer on the same card that's only 20,000 bonus miles if a no-annual fee card and an introductory 0% APR for the first 9 months is more appealing to you.
Like most credit card promotions from Capital One, you'll also need to be a completely new cardholder – previous account holders aren't eligible.
With the Capital One Spark Miles for Business card, small business owners who don't want to worry about bonus categories can earn straightforward travel rewards, getting the same amount of miles on every purchase.
Capital One Spark Miles for Business - 50,000 bonus miles
The Capital One Spark Miles for Business offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 50,000 bonus miles. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Spark Miles business credit card via the link below.
- In the first 3 months, spend $4,500
- Bonus will be applied to your rewards balance within two billing cycles after meeting the requirements.
Learn more about the Capital One Spark Miles for Business 50,000 bonus miles offer
8. Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card comes with a 40,000 mile welcome bonus. All you need to do to qualify is make $1,000 worth of purchases within three months of opening the account.
The card has no annual fee, and cardholders also enjoy experiences such as VIP tickets and 5-star meals, among other perks.
The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card is worth considering if you want a fee-free card that earns flat-rate miles on all your purchases with a handful of perks. But if you don't mind paying an annual fee and have solid credit, there are cards with more lucrative benefits.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - 40,000 bonus miles
The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 40,000 bonus miles. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $1,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited to your rewards balance within 2 billing cycles.
Learn more about the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card 40,000 bonus miles offer
How to Choose the Best Capital One Credit Card for You
If you’ve decided to apply for a Capital One credit card, whether due to its market reputation or for benefits associated with international travel, you’ll have dozens of cards to choose from. Capital One does a great job covering the market for all types of credit users.
They’ve got something for those just starting out or looking to build back their credit, as well as for experienced users with stellar histories looking to make the most of rewards.
Your credit score is what will dictate your options. Here’s what you should look for at every level of credit:
Poor Credit or No Credit Card History
Having a low credit score (or even a nonexistent one) can hinder you from becoming approved for a credit card. So, how do you build or repair your credit history?
Secured cards are an excellent way to build your credit score.
Becoming approved for a secured card is a different process than a standard credit card, as the bank will require a security deposit before issuing one. The bank will then retain this deposit, just like a landlord holds onto a bond payment. The deposit may either be equal to or less than the line of credit.
While the total amount of the deposit is often required upfront, sometimes the bank will allow you to build up the deposit over time. This is essentially a way for the bank to give credit to someone with less risk involved.
It’s imperative when using a secured credit card to keep track of your spending and to make payments on time. When used properly, a secured card is a powerful tool for those needing to build their credit. It will enable you to eventually apply for traditional credit cards that offer higher limits or rewards, as well as for car loans or a mortgage in the future!
Capital One offers secured cards in their range, such as their Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card.
Capital One works with the three major credit bureaus so your usage will be reported, automatically raising your credit score. You can also receive an increase in your credit limit in as little as six months, as well as pay no annual fees.
Fair Credit History
Those with a decent (but not yet great) credit history can still have a traditional credit card. However, there may be lower credit limits, lesser rewards, and higher interest rates.
An example of a potential applicant could be a college student just starting out who may have built some credit with a card linked to a parent.
A lower-level credit card could be a great stepping stone to a card requiring a good credit score. Just be sure not to exceed the credit limit and to make all payments on time, so you can enjoy a higher limit and greater rewards sooner.
A good option for this category is the Capital One Platinum Card. There are no annual fees, and it has automatic credit line reviews so that your limit will increase, rewarding responsible use.
For students, Journey Student Rewards also has no annual fees, plus a 1% cash back on all purchases.
Good Credit History
If you’ve been a responsible credit user in the past and have achieved good credit as a result, you’ll be able to unlock more cards with even better rewards and offers! These cards will allow you to continue building excellent credit.
Consider Capital One’s Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card, for instance. Packed with rewards, cashback on purchases and a signup bonus.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is another top option for travelers.
Excellent Credit History
If you already have an excellent credit score– great work! You now have access to the best options for credit cards with the most lucrative reward programs.
From here, all you need to do is to maintain good habits and not let the excessive credit lines tempt you into spending irresponsibly.
You could consider the Savor Rewards Credit Card if entertainment and dining are your thing. You’ll receive a massive cashback bonus of 4% when you dine, go to a show, or pay for streaming.
For keen home cooks, you’ll also get cash back on all grocery purchases and have the ability to earn a cash signup bonus.
This is a great option for those who spend a lot. However, there is an annual fee of $95, though the rewards more than make up for it.
For travelers, the Venture Rewards card is a worthwhile option. It’s essentially an upgraded version of the VentureOne card– earning 2x miles per dollar with no limit and a possible signup bonus when you complete qualifying activities!
The Venture X Card offers even more added perks like global entry and lounge access.
About Capital One
Capital One Financial Corporation is one of the largest banks in the US with more than 750 branches. The bank focuses on technology, and they specialize in credit cards, car loans, and savings accounts.
Capital One was one of the leading companies that helped to make credit cards more accessible in the 1990s.
The fifth-largest issuer of credit cards in 2016– just behind American Express, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Citigroup– approximately 62% of the company’s profit is derived from credit cards.
The bank’s reputation is excellent, being ranked as the 10th best place to work in the US and 108th on the Fortune 500 list. Capital One was also rated the 6th best credit card issuer based on customer satisfaction, with a score of 812 out of 1,000.
Learn more:
Types of Credit Cards Capital One Offers
Most Capital One card offers fall into the below categories, though some will have more than one of these benefits. Let’s break it down:
Cash Back Reward Cards
Cash back credit cards allow you to earn money back on your purchases. The percentage you can earn back (and from what type of purchases) will depend on the card.
Some will focus on travel and entertainment with a high cash-back percentage, while others will have lower rates but cover all purchases.
Travel Cards
Travel cards allow you to earn miles on purchases, as well as bonuses and extra miles when you book travel expenses from the Capital One Travel portal.
In addition, you can pass on your miles easily to a travel partner without losing anything in the transfer!
0% APR Credit Cards
Capital One cards offer an introductory 0% APR term from when you sign up.
Some cards will allow for 0% APR on new purchases, while others will also include a 0% APR on balance transfers.
This could be helpful for those looking to make a large purchase who may require extra time to pay it off.
Alternatively, those with existing credit card debt and looking for a reprieve from compounding interest may benefit from being able to pay off the debt faster with this type of card.
Credit-Building Credit Cards
Capital One offers options for those with little to poor credit histories. These include secured cards or starter cards.
These are no-frill cards that can help to build up credit scores in order to secure better options later on– or even to qualify for a home loan in the future!
Pros and Cons of Capital One Credit Cards
Pros
- Good Reputation
- Variety of cards for people with all levels of credit
- Variety of rewards programs and offers
- No foreign transaction fees on any card
- A free service to allow you to check your credit history at any time
- Linked to the three main credit bureaus, which enables you to build a good credit history
- No fraud liability
- Access to sports, dining, and entertainment deals
- The Eno personal assistant helps to protect your account and sends messages for suspicious activity
- Automatic credit line reviews
- Instant card locking from the app
- Online account management.
Cons
- Not much variety in high-end cards for those with excellent credit
- Annual fees on many of their cards
- Relatively high APR, for those that carry a high balance
- Credit limits may be low compared to other banks.
Capital One Rewards Program
Capital One offers rewards through either cash back or miles.
If you are using a cash back reward card, you will earn a percentage of the money you spend back into your account.
Some cards will offer a high percentage on certain purchases, such as 4% on dining and entertainment. Other cards will offer a lower percentage (e.g. 1.5%), but this will cover all spending on the card.
Travel cards allow you to accumulate miles toward a future trip. These are typically earned through purchases, as well as potentially receiving a large number of bonus miles during the initial sign-up period.
Once you’ve earned those miles, you do not need to use them towards travel alone! There are a variety of ways to spend your miles, including:
- Booking a trip through the Capital One Travel portal
- Transfer to 15+ airline and hotel partner programs (my favorite!)
- Cashing them in as a check or statement credit
- Purchasing a gift card for select brands
- Using the Capital One Entertainment Portal to purchase event tickets
- Making purchases through PayPal or Amazon
- Transferring your miles to another person.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Capital One cards can you have?
An individual is typically permitted to hold up to two Capital One credit cards. However, certain cards (such as secured cards) are excluded from this limit.
What Capital One card offers the highest credit limit?
The credit limit is not set by the card type but is instead a personalized amount that the bank works out based on your credit history and income.
Higher-end cards and more exclusive cards tend to have higher credit limits solely because their users are required to have excellent credit scores.
How do I get a limit increase on a Capital One card?
Capital One has an automatic system that will check your history with the card approximately every six months. They will then increase your limit if you’ve made all payments on time, and haven’t exceeded your current limit.
Alternatively, if you have secured a new job or a raise, they may grant you an increase as well. In this situation, call them directly for more help.
What’s the easiest Capital One card to get?
The card you are most likely to get approval for is a secured card. Capital One has a few different versions of secured cards like the Platinum Secured Credit Card. You can check on their website to see if you’re pre-approved.
Students with no credit history can apply for a student card but may need to prove an independent income source if they’re under 21. Younger users wanting to build their credit in order to get a card once they’re independent can get a card jointly with a parent first.
Are Capital One Credit Cards Worth It?
When looking for a credit card, it’s essential to figure out what options will serve your needs best.
Is your primary goal to get approved for a mortgage on a house in the future? Perhaps you’re a rewards junkie and want to earn cash back on all purchases or have dreams of traveling the world and earning miles as you go.
Maybe you’re planning to make a big purchase and want time to pay it off or have existing debt you’d like to pay down without adding interest.
Capital One has a great selection for all these situations– but so can other credit card companies.
Doing your research, comparing similar cards side-by-side, and ensuring you’re getting the best deal for you is what’s going to help the most in the long run!
