The Best Credit Cards for Building Both Rewards and Credit

7 December 2025

Let’s talk plastic — not the kind wrapping your leftovers, but the shiny, swipe-able kind that can change your financial future. Whether you're just starting out with credit or trying to bounce back from the past, choosing the right credit card can be a game changer. And guess what? You don't have to give up rewards just because you're building credit.

Yeah, you read that right.

There are actually several credit cards out there that are generous with points, cashback, or miles, and help you build or rebuild your credit score. So if you're looking to kill two birds with one swipe (figuratively, of course), you're in the right place.

This post breaks down the best credit cards that help you grow your credit and earn sweet rewards while doing it. So grab a coffee or your favorite drink, and let’s dive into this credit-boosting, reward-earning journey together.

Why It's Smart to Build Credit and Earn Rewards at the Same Time

Think of your credit score like your adult “report card.” It’s what banks, landlords, and even cell phone companies check to see if you’re reliable. If you've got a good score, you're golden. If it's low? Well, things get a little tougher (and pricier).

But why stop at just building credit when you could also be earning for your spending?

Using a credit card responsibly — paying on time, keeping your balance low — shows lenders you're trustworthy. And while you're doing that, a good rewards card can pay you back: cashback, miles, points. It's like getting loyalty points just for adulting.

Getting the right card lets you do both: build that score and earn perks for your everyday purchases.

What to Look For in a Credit Card That Builds Credit and Rewards

Before we dive into specific cards, let's lay down some ground rules. When looking for a card that builds credit and offers rewards:

- No Annual Fees (if possible): Especially when starting out, you don’t want extra costs.
- Reports to All 3 Credit Bureaus: Building credit means your good behavior needs visibility.
- Solid Rewards Program: Look for cashback, points, or miles that actually benefit your lifestyle.
- Low or No Security Deposit (for secured cards): If it's secured, make sure it’s refundable.
- Easy Upgrade Path: Some cards grow with you — offering credit limit increases or upgrades.

Alright, now that we know what to watch for, let’s break down the best of the best.

1. Discover it® Secured Credit Card – Best Secured Card with Rewards

You might be thinking, “Hold up, a secured card? Aren’t those for people down bad?” Hear me out — this one’s a gem.

Why it’s awesome:

- 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 per quarter)
- 1% cashback on everything else
- No annual fee
- Cashback Match™: Discover matches all the cashback you earn in your first year — dollar for dollar
- Reports to all 3 bureaus
- Automatically reviewed for an unsecured upgrade after 7 months

If you’re new to credit or rebuilding, this card lets you earn while learning. Think of it as the training wheels of rewards cards.

2. Capital One QuicksilverOne Rewards – Best for Fair Credit with Flat-Rate Rewards

Got average credit? You’re not at the bottom, but not quite prime-time either? The QuicksilverOne might be your move.

Why it’s worth it:

- Flat 1.5% cashback on everything
- Access to a higher credit line after 6 months of on-time payments
- $39 annual fee (but the rewards can easily offset this)
- CreditWise® tools to monitor your score

It’s simple. No rotating categories, no hoops. If you want to build credit and earn solid rewards without overthinking it, this is your go-to.

3. Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa Credit Card – Best for No Credit History

No credit history? That’s not a deal-breaker anymore. The Petal® 2 card is built for people just like you — and it doesn’t ask for a security deposit either.

Why it stands out:

- 1%–1.5% cashback on all purchases, depending on how long you've had the card
- 2%–10% cashback at select merchants
- No fees – seriously, no late fees, annual fees, or foreign transaction fees
- Uses alternative data (like bank accounts) to assess creditworthiness
- Reports to all major bureaus

This is the kind of card that trusts you, even when other banks give you side-eye.

4. Capital One SavorOne Rewards – Best for Foodies with Growing Credit

If you love dining out or streaming your favorite shows (who doesn’t?), the SavorOne is a delicious pick — and it’s accessible if you have good or improving credit.

Highlight reel:

- 3% cashback on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart/Target)
- 1% on everything else
- No annual fee
- Credit line increases with responsible use

It's perfect if you're moving up the credit ladder and want to be rewarded generously for your lifestyle.

5. Chase Freedom Rise℠ – Best Starter Option from a Big Bank

This is Chase saying, "Hey, we see you starting out, and we’ve got your back."

Why it’s solid:

- 1.5% unlimited cashback on all purchases
- No annual fee
- $25 bonus after first purchase or payment on time in the first 3 months
- Designed for newcomers — even those without credit
- Can graduate to higher-tier Chase cards later

Using this card is like being drafted into Team Chase — one of the big leagues. It gets you in the door.

6. Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa® – Best Hybrid Between Credit and Loans

Feeling torn between a credit card and a personal loan? The Upgrade card is kind of both — and it works surprisingly well.

Perks include:

- 1.5% cashback on all purchases
- Turns purchases into fixed monthly payments, like a loan
- Helps you manage credit more predictably
- Reports to all major credit bureaus

This one's for folks who want structure. Think of it as your financially responsible friend who helps you stick to a plan.

7. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured – Best for Personalized Categories

If you want to be a bit choosy with how you earn rewards, this card lets you pick your fave spending category.

Cool features:

- 3% cashback in a category of your choice (gas, online shopping, dining, travel, etc.)
- 2% cashback at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
- 1% on other purchases
- Refundable security deposit
- Reports to all bureaus

Great for folks who want to keep earning while having the flexibility to personalize.

How to Use These Cards to Build Credit Like a Pro

Alright, having the right card is only half the battle. You’ve gotta know how to use it right. Otherwise, you’re just floating in debtville with some shiny plastic.

Here’s your playbook:

1. Pay On Time, Every Time

This is the biggest factor in your credit score. Even one late payment can mess things up. Set up auto-pay or reminders if you’re forgetful (don’t worry, we’ve all been there).

2. Keep Your Utilization Low

Try to use less than 30% of your available credit. Got a $500 limit? Don’t carry more than $150 as a balance.

3. Use It Regularly

Don’t let it collect dust. Use your card to buy things you’d normally pay cash for — like gas, coffee, or Netflix. Then, pay it off.

4. Don’t Apply for Too Many Cards at Once

Each application dings your credit a bit. Focus on one solid card, then build from there.

5. Check Your Credit Reports

Use sites like AnnualCreditReport.com to make sure everything looks right. Mistakes happen — and they can cost you.

Watch Out for These Red Flags

While we’re focused on the good stuff, let’s not ignore the not-so-good. Avoid cards that:

- Charge sky-high fees
- Don’t report to all three credit bureaus
- Have interest rates that could bankrupt a small country
- Offer rewards but trap you in debt

If a card feels shady or too good to be true, trust your gut.

Final Thoughts: Your Credit + Rewards = A Win-Win

Let’s be real — credit cards can feel a little intimidating, especially when you’re just getting started or trying to bounce back from past mistakes. But the truth? With the right tools and habits, they can be your secret weapon.

The best credit cards for building both rewards and credit don’t just help you get by — they help you level up. They reward you for everyday spending, teach you good habits, and open doors to even better cards and financial opportunities in the future.

So go ahead — pick a card that fits your lifestyle, swipe smarter, and let your rewards and credit score grow side by side. You’ve got this.