A decent hedge for occasional United flyers—with little upside

Why we love this powerful card

Great value if you work for it; no longer a lazy gem.

A great option for your mortgage

Incredible perks, if you can afford them

The easiest and cheapest way to airline upgrades.

The best role-playing card on the market.

The best card for big spenders on dining and groceries has just enough credits to make its high fee palatable.

A great way to pick up a lot of extra Alaska miles (yes, Alaska)

A useful card, but not one of the best

Some decent premium perks, but you’ll pay for them

An excellent entry-level, no-fee Amex card.