Rewards
How to compare credit card rewards
Compare earn rates, category caps, redemption rules and fees without relying on an inflated headline value.
Reviewed and updated August 12, 2026
Start with your spending, not the multiplier
Apply each earn rate only to spending that qualifies. Category caps, merchant coding and portal requirements can reduce the rewards you actually receive.
Value depends on redemption
One point does not have a universal value. Cash back is generally easier to compare, while points and miles can vary by redemption method, availability and transfer rules.
Subtract the costs
Estimate one year of rewards, then subtract annual fees and any extra costs you would incur. Interest can quickly outweigh rewards, so cards used for borrowing should be compared on rate before earn rate.