Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping in 2025: Earn More on Every Click

Discover the top credit cards that reward your online purchases with cash back, points, or miles. We break down the best options for everyday shoppers to maximize value without the hype.

Introduction

Online shopping has become a staple for many Americans, with the average household spending over $5,000 a year on everything from groceries to gadgets. If you're clicking "add to cart" regularly, why not let your credit card work harder for you? The right card can turn those everyday buys into cash back, travel miles, or other perks that add up over time.

In this guide, we'll explore the best credit cards for online shopping based on current offers as of December 2025. We focus on US-issued cards that offer strong rewards for broad online purchases, not just specific retailers. Our picks consider factors like rewards rates, annual fees, welcome bonuses, and real-user feedback from communities like Reddit and X. Whether you're a frequent Amazon shopper or prefer general e-commerce sites, these cards can help you get more value without complicating your wallet.

Remember, rewards credit cards are most beneficial if you pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. We'll highlight pros, cons, and tips to help you decide.

How We Selected These Cards

To find the best options, we looked at cards that provide at least 2% back on online purchases, with higher rates for broad categories. We prioritized no-annual-fee cards for accessibility, but included a few with fees if the perks justify them. Data came from official issuer websites, ensuring accuracy on rates and terms.

We cross-checked user experiences via community discussions, where people share real-world wins like stacking rewards during sales or pitfalls like category exclusions. For example, Reddit users often praise cards with flexible online categories for covering unexpected buys, while X posts highlight frustrations with caps or changes in programs.

Key criteria:

Rewards rate on online shopping (at least 2%, uncapped where possible)
Welcome bonus value
Annual fee and overall cost
Additional benefits like purchase protection or extended warranties
Flexibility for US travelers (e.g., miles redeemable for flights)

We avoided cards tied to single stores unless they offer standout value for common online habits, like Amazon's dominance in e-commerce.

Top Credit Cards for Online Shopping

1. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

This no-fee card shines for broad online retail purchases, making it ideal for everyday shoppers who buy from various sites.

Key Features:

Rewards: 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). This includes sites like Amazon, Walmart.com, and Target.com, but excludes superstores like Costco if not coded as online retail. Also 3% at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations (same cap).
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months.
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months (then 19.74%-28.74% variable). Purchase protection up to $1,000 per item against damage or theft (120 days). Up to $7 monthly credit for Disney Bundle subscriptions.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High rate on online buys without quarterly activation. Cash back as Reward Dollars, redeemable as statement credits. Strong for families with grocery and gas spending.
Cons: $6,000 annual cap limits heavy spenders. Excludes some categories like streaming (unless bundled). American Express acceptance isn't universal online.

Real-User Insights: On Reddit, users in r/CreditCards note it's great for stacking with Amex Offers, which add extra deals at retailers. One poster shared earning over $300 back in a year on online holiday shopping alone. However, some complain about the cap kicking in mid-year.

Who It's For: Beginners or moderate online shoppers looking for simplicity.

2. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Customize your rewards to fit online shopping, perfect for those who want control over categories.

Key Features:

Rewards: 3% cash back in a choice category (up to $2,500 in combined choice/grocery/wholesale purchases per quarter, then 1%). Online shopping is an eligible choice, covering most e-commerce but excluding some like insurance or utilities. 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (same cap), 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles (then 17.74%-27.74% variable). Preferred Rewards members (with Bank of America accounts) can boost rates up to 75% (e.g., 5.25% on choice category).

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Flexible category selection each month via app. No foreign transaction fees, good for international online buys. Integrates with Bank of America banking for easy redemptions.
Cons: Quarterly cap combines categories, so heavy grocery spend might eat into online rewards. Must remember to change categories.

Real-User Insights: Community feedback on X and Reddit highlights its broad "online shopping" definition, including tickets and apps. A user reported 5.25% effective rate with Preferred Rewards, calling it a "game-changer" for online-heavy budgets. Drawbacks include occasional miscoding of purchases.

Who It's For: Bank of America customers or those who switch categories often.

3. Chase Freedom Flex®

Rotating categories can supercharge online shopping when it aligns, with solid base rewards.

Key Features:

Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in rotating quarterly categories (activation required; e.g., past quarters included Amazon and streaming). 5% on Chase Travel, 3% on dining and drugstores, 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $500 in 3 months (not if you had it in last 24 months).
Other Perks: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Cell phone protection ($800/claim), purchase protection (120 days, $500/item), extended warranty. Complimentary DashPass for 6 months.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High 5% when online shopping rotates in (common in Q2/Q4). Rewards as Ultimate Rewards points, transferable to airlines/hotels for travel value.
Cons: Requires activation and tracking quarters. Cap limits big spenders.

Real-User Insights: Reddit threads praise stacking with Chase ecosystem for travel redemptions, like turning online rewards into flights. Users share earning 5% on holiday shopping during bonus quarters, but note frustration if online isn't featured.

Who It's For: Savvy users who activate bonuses and pair with other Chase cards.

4. Citi® Double Cash Card

Simple flat-rate rewards make this a reliable pick for all online purchases without categories.

Key Features:

Rewards: 2% cash back on everything (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay). 5% on hotels, car rentals, and attractions via Citi Travel.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 cash back (20,000 ThankYou Points) after $1,500 spend in 6 months (not if bonus in last 48 months).
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (3-5% fee). Rewards as ThankYou Points, redeemable for travel or gift cards.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Unlimited 2% with no caps or activations—great for uncategorized online buys. Easy to earn full rate by paying on time.
Cons: No bonus categories, so lower than specialized cards for high-volume shopping.

Real-User Insights: On X, users appreciate its "set-it-and-forget-it" style, especially for international online sites without fees. Reddit discussions note it's a solid backup for when other cards' categories don't apply.

Who It's For: Minimalists who want consistent rewards.

5. U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card

Choose retailers for high rewards, ideal for loyal online shoppers at specific sites.

Key Features:

Rewards: 6% cash back at two chosen retailers (up to $1,500/quarter combined, then 1.5%). Options include Amazon.com, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, etc. 3% in one everyday category (up to $1,500/quarter), 1.5% elsewhere. 5.5% on travel via U.S. Bank.
Annual Fee: $0 first year, $95 after.
Welcome Bonus: $250 after $2,000 spend in 120 days.
Other Perks: Real-time redemptions via text. ExtendPay for interest-free installments.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Highest rate (6%) for picked retailers like Amazon. Flexible choices quarterly.
Cons: Fee after year one; caps and enrollment required.

Real-User Insights: Community feedback values retailer customization, with users reporting big savings on Amazon. Some note the fee is worth it for heavy spend.

Who It's For: Shoppers loyal to 1-2 online retailers.

6. Prime Visa (Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card)

For Amazon addicts, this offers unbeatable returns on the giant.

Key Features:

Rewards: 5% back at Amazon.com, Whole Foods, and Chase Travel (with Prime). 2% on dining, gas, transit; 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0 (but requires Amazon Prime, $139/year).
Welcome Bonus: $100 Amazon gift card upon approval.
Other Perks: No foreign fees. Purchase protection, extended warranty.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Top rate for Amazon buys. Instant gift card bonus.
Cons: Tied to Prime membership; lower outside Amazon.

Real-User Insights: X users rave about Prime Day stacking, while Reddit warns of devaluations if not a heavy Amazon user.

Who It's For: Prime members.

Comparison Table

Card Name	Online Rewards Rate	Annual Fee	Welcome Bonus	Key Benefit	Best For
Blue Cash Everyday® (Amex)	3% up to $6,000/year	$0	$200 after $2,000	Broad online retail	Everyday variety
Customized Cash Rewards (BoA)	3% in choice category (up to $2,500/quarter)	$0	$200 after $1,000	Customizable	Flexible spenders
Freedom Flex® (Chase)	5% rotating (up to $1,500/quarter)	$0	$200 after $500	Transferable points	Bonus trackers
Double Cash (Citi)	2% unlimited	$0	$200 after $1,500	Simple flat rate	Consistency
Shopper Cash Rewards (U.S. Bank)	6% at 2 retailers (up to $1,500/quarter)	$0 intro, $95 after	$250 after $2,000	Retailer-specific	Loyal shoppers
Prime Visa (Chase)	5% at Amazon	$0 (+Prime $139)	$100 gift card	Amazon focus	Prime users

How to Choose the Right Card for You

Consider your habits: If online shopping is 20% of your budget, prioritize high-rate cards. Check credit score (most need good/excellent, 670+). Factor in bonuses—$200 can offset early spending.

For travelers, opt for miles cards like Chase for airline transfers. Test with pre-qualification tools on issuer sites to avoid hard inquiries.

Recent industry changes, like the Visa/Mastercard settlement, might let merchants surcharge rewards cards, potentially affecting value. Monitor your statements.

Tips to Maximize Rewards on Online Shopping

Stack deals: Use portals like Rakuten for extra cash back.
Pay attention to codes: Ensure purchases code as "online" (e.g., via app vs. in-store pickup).
Rotate cards: Use category bonuses seasonally.
Redeem wisely: Cash back for bills, points for travel (often 1.25-2 cents/point value).
Avoid debt: Pay full to dodge 20%+ APRs.
Track with apps: Many issuers have tools to monitor earnings.

Example: A $5,000 annual online spender on Amex Blue Cash could earn $150 back (3%), vs. $100 on Citi Double Cash (2%).

Conclusion

The best credit card for online shopping depends on your habits—whether it's broad cash back like Amex or retailer-specific like U.S. Bank. Start with no-fee options to test the waters, and always read terms for exclusions. With smart use, these cards can fund your next trip or simply pad your wallet. As programs evolve, check official sites for updates to keep earning optimally.

Introduction

Remember, rewards credit cards are most beneficial if you pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. We'll highlight pros, cons, and tips to help you decide.

How We Selected These Cards

Key criteria:

Rewards rate on online shopping (at least 2%, uncapped where possible)
Welcome bonus value
Annual fee and overall cost
Additional benefits like purchase protection or extended warranties
Flexibility for US travelers (e.g., miles redeemable for flights)

We avoided cards tied to single stores unless they offer standout value for common online habits, like Amazon's dominance in e-commerce.

Top Credit Cards for Online Shopping

1. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

This no-fee card shines for broad online retail purchases, making it ideal for everyday shoppers who buy from various sites.

Key Features:

Rewards: 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%). This includes sites like Amazon, Walmart.com, and Target.com, but excludes superstores like Costco if not coded as online retail. Also 3% at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations (same cap).
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months.
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months (then 19.74%-28.74% variable). Purchase protection up to $1,000 per item against damage or theft (120 days). Up to $7 monthly credit for Disney Bundle subscriptions.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High rate on online buys without quarterly activation. Cash back as Reward Dollars, redeemable as statement credits. Strong for families with grocery and gas spending.
Cons: $6,000 annual cap limits heavy spenders. Excludes some categories like streaming (unless bundled). American Express acceptance isn't universal online.

Who It's For: Beginners or moderate online shoppers looking for simplicity.

2. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

Customize your rewards to fit online shopping, perfect for those who want control over categories.

Key Features:

Rewards: 3% cash back in a choice category (up to $2,500 in combined choice/grocery/wholesale purchases per quarter, then 1%). Online shopping is an eligible choice, covering most e-commerce but excluding some like insurance or utilities. 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (same cap), 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles (then 17.74%-27.74% variable). Preferred Rewards members (with Bank of America accounts) can boost rates up to 75% (e.g., 5.25% on choice category).

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Flexible category selection each month via app. No foreign transaction fees, good for international online buys. Integrates with Bank of America banking for easy redemptions.
Cons: Quarterly cap combines categories, so heavy grocery spend might eat into online rewards. Must remember to change categories.

Who It's For: Bank of America customers or those who switch categories often.

3. Chase Freedom Flex®

Rotating categories can supercharge online shopping when it aligns, with solid base rewards.

Key Features:

Rewards: 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in rotating quarterly categories (activation required; e.g., past quarters included Amazon and streaming). 5% on Chase Travel, 3% on dining and drugstores, 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 after spending $500 in 3 months (not if you had it in last 24 months).
Other Perks: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Cell phone protection ($800/claim), purchase protection (120 days, $500/item), extended warranty. Complimentary DashPass for 6 months.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: High 5% when online shopping rotates in (common in Q2/Q4). Rewards as Ultimate Rewards points, transferable to airlines/hotels for travel value.
Cons: Requires activation and tracking quarters. Cap limits big spenders.

Who It's For: Savvy users who activate bonuses and pair with other Chase cards.

4. Citi® Double Cash Card

Simple flat-rate rewards make this a reliable pick for all online purchases without categories.

Key Features:

Rewards: 2% cash back on everything (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay). 5% on hotels, car rentals, and attractions via Citi Travel.
Annual Fee: $0.
Welcome Bonus: $200 cash back (20,000 ThankYou Points) after $1,500 spend in 6 months (not if bonus in last 48 months).
Other Perks: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months (3-5% fee). Rewards as ThankYou Points, redeemable for travel or gift cards.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Unlimited 2% with no caps or activations—great for uncategorized online buys. Easy to earn full rate by paying on time.
Cons: No bonus categories, so lower than specialized cards for high-volume shopping.

Who It's For: Minimalists who want consistent rewards.

5. U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card

Choose retailers for high rewards, ideal for loyal online shoppers at specific sites.

Key Features:

Rewards: 6% cash back at two chosen retailers (up to $1,500/quarter combined, then 1.5%). Options include Amazon.com, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, etc. 3% in one everyday category (up to $1,500/quarter), 1.5% elsewhere. 5.5% on travel via U.S. Bank.
Annual Fee: $0 first year, $95 after.
Welcome Bonus: $250 after $2,000 spend in 120 days.
Other Perks: Real-time redemptions via text. ExtendPay for interest-free installments.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Highest rate (6%) for picked retailers like Amazon. Flexible choices quarterly.
Cons: Fee after year one; caps and enrollment required.

Real-User Insights: Community feedback values retailer customization, with users reporting big savings on Amazon. Some note the fee is worth it for heavy spend.

Who It's For: Shoppers loyal to 1-2 online retailers.

6. Prime Visa (Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card)

For Amazon addicts, this offers unbeatable returns on the giant.

Key Features:

Rewards: 5% back at Amazon.com, Whole Foods, and Chase Travel (with Prime). 2% on dining, gas, transit; 1% elsewhere.
Annual Fee: $0 (but requires Amazon Prime, $139/year).
Welcome Bonus: $100 Amazon gift card upon approval.
Other Perks: No foreign fees. Purchase protection, extended warranty.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Top rate for Amazon buys. Instant gift card bonus.
Cons: Tied to Prime membership; lower outside Amazon.

Real-User Insights: X users rave about Prime Day stacking, while Reddit warns of devaluations if not a heavy Amazon user.

Who It's For: Prime members.

Comparison Table

Card Name	Online Rewards Rate	Annual Fee	Welcome Bonus	Key Benefit	Best For
Blue Cash Everyday® (Amex)	3% up to $6,000/year	$0	$200 after $2,000	Broad online retail	Everyday variety
Customized Cash Rewards (BoA)	3% in choice category (up to $2,500/quarter)	$0	$200 after $1,000	Customizable	Flexible spenders
Freedom Flex® (Chase)	5% rotating (up to $1,500/quarter)	$0	$200 after $500	Transferable points	Bonus trackers
Double Cash (Citi)	2% unlimited	$0	$200 after $1,500	Simple flat rate	Consistency
Shopper Cash Rewards (U.S. Bank)	6% at 2 retailers (up to $1,500/quarter)	$0 intro, $95 after	$250 after $2,000	Retailer-specific	Loyal shoppers
Prime Visa (Chase)	5% at Amazon	$0 (+Prime $139)	$100 gift card	Amazon focus	Prime users

How to Choose the Right Card for You

Consider your habits: If online shopping is 20% of your budget, prioritize high-rate cards. Check credit score (most need good/excellent, 670+). Factor in bonuses—$200 can offset early spending.

For travelers, opt for miles cards like Chase for airline transfers. Test with pre-qualification tools on issuer sites to avoid hard inquiries.

Recent industry changes, like the Visa/Mastercard settlement, might let merchants surcharge rewards cards, potentially affecting value. Monitor your statements.

Tips to Maximize Rewards on Online Shopping

Stack deals: Use portals like Rakuten for extra cash back.
Pay attention to codes: Ensure purchases code as "online" (e.g., via app vs. in-store pickup).
Rotate cards: Use category bonuses seasonally.
Redeem wisely: Cash back for bills, points for travel (often 1.25-2 cents/point value).
Avoid debt: Pay full to dodge 20%+ APRs.
Track with apps: Many issuers have tools to monitor earnings.

Example: A $5,000 annual online spender on Amex Blue Cash could earn $150 back (3%), vs. $100 on Citi Double Cash (2%).

Introduction

How We Selected These Cards

Top Credit Cards for Online Shopping

1. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

2. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

3. Chase Freedom Flex®

4. Citi® Double Cash Card

5. U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card

6. Prime Visa (Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card)

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Card for You

Tips to Maximize Rewards on Online Shopping

Conclusion

Further Reading

Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping in 2025: Earn More on Every Click

Introduction

How We Selected These Cards

Top Credit Cards for Online Shopping

1. Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

2. Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card

3. Chase Freedom Flex®

4. Citi® Double Cash Card

5. U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card

6. Prime Visa (Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card)

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Card for You

Tips to Maximize Rewards on Online Shopping

Conclusion

Further Reading