How to choose a credit card from Capital One
Whether you want to earn rewards, minimize interest or build credit, choosing the right credit card depends on your priorities. And Capital One offers credit cards for many different credit levels and spending habits.
This guide is here to help you learn what to look for in a credit card—and how to choose the Capital One credit card that works best for you.
What you’ll learn:
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The right credit card for you is one that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals.
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You can narrow down your credit card options by reviewing your credit scores, comparing interest rates and fees, and seeing whether you’re pre-approved.
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Comparing Capital One credit cards online can help you find the card most suitable for you.
How to pick a credit card: 4 tips
If you’re in the market for a new credit card, these tips for picking a credit card that’s right for you may help.
1. Review your credit
Understanding your credit scores can give you a better idea of which credit cards you might be eligible for. For example, some cards are geared toward those with excellent credit. Other cards might be better suited for people who are building credit.
Using CreditWise from Capital One is one way to see where your credit stands. It can help you better understand your credit score and keep up with changes to your credit report. Using CreditWise won’t hurt your credit scores. And it’s free, regardless of whether you’re a Capital One cardholder.
You can also request free copies of your credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com.
2. Determine your purpose
Thinking about why you want a new card can help you narrow down your options. Here are a few examples of why you might want a new credit card:
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To build your credit: Using a credit card responsibly can help you improve your credit scores and build good credit. If this is your goal, a secured credit card could be a good option.
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To pay off high-interest debt: You may be able to use a balance transfer to move debt from a high-interest credit card to a card with a promotional annual percentage rate (APR).
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To earn rewards: The right card can help you earn rewards and bonuses for spending you would be doing anyway. You might apply for a card with cash back rewards. Or you might consider a card that rewards you with travel miles.
- To finance a large purchase: A new credit card might offer an introductory APR, which could help you save on interest. Just be sure you understand when the introductory period ends and how it might affect your finances if you haven’t paid off your balance by then.
3. Research and compare terms and conditions
Looking at a credit card’s terms and conditions can help you be aware of any charges once you become a cardholder. Plus, learning more about the card’s interest rates and fees could help you decide which card is right for you.
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Credit card interest: Interest is the cost you pay to borrow money. A credit card’s interest rate and APR are typically the same. You can avoid interest on new purchases by paying off your statement each month. It’s also important to note that there may be different interest rates for certain transactions, such as balance transfers and cash advances.
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Promotional APR: If you’re approved for a promotional APR with a lower-than-normal interest rate, be sure you understand when the promotion ends—and how it might affect your finances if you haven’t paid off your balance by then.
- Credit card fees: Depending on the card and how you use it, you may be charged different credit card fees. These might include balance transfer fees, annual fees, late payment fees and more.
4. See if you’re pre-approved
Checking whether you’re pre-approved can show you credit cards you might be eligible for to help you better understand your options.
You can see which Capital One credit card offers might match your financial profile. Seeing if you’re pre-approved is easy, and it won’t affect your credit scores.
Compare Capital One credit cards by type
Capital One offers a variety of credit cards. You can narrow down your credit card search in many ways. One is by credit level. Comparing credit cards by credit level or credit score range can help you choose a card that you’re more likely to qualify for.
Another way to narrow down your search is to focus on cards that align with your lifestyle, spending habits and personal preferences. Here are a few categories of credit cards it may help to know about:
| Card category | Example Capital one cards |
| Student credit cards | Designed to help students build credit responsibly while earning cash back rewards, the Savor Student card and Quicksilver Student card could be great options. |
| Secured credit cards | The Platinum Secured card is backed by a refundable security deposit, which makes it easier to be approved for than unsecured cards. |
| Credit cards with no annual fee | With a VentureOne card, you can enjoy no annual fee while earning unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day. View important rates and disclosures. |
| Cash back credit cards | Earn cash back on every purchase, every day, with cards like Quicksilver. |
| Travel rewards credit cards | With the Venture X card, you can elevate your next adventure with premium travel benefits and more. |
| Dining rewards credit cards | The Savor card rewards cardholders with elevated cash back on food and fun. |
Picking a credit card FAQ
Keep reading to learn more about choosing a credit card.
What are some things to avoid when choosing a credit card?
When choosing a credit card, watch out for unnecessary fees, interest rates that don’t suit your repayment habits and rewards programs that don’t match how you spend. Taking the time to consider these factors could help you feel confident you’re getting value from your credit card. For example, if a card has an annual fee, it’s worth considering whether you’ll get enough from the card’s benefits to justify the expense.
Taking some time before you apply (or checking whether you’re pre-approved) could also help you avoid hard inquiries into your credit, which could hurt your credit scores.
How many credit cards should you have?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how many credit cards you should have. The right number can vary from person to person. If credit cards are used responsibly, they can have a positive effect on credit. But if having multiple cards makes it a struggle to keep up with payments or avoid high balances, it can negatively impact your credit.
What is considered a good credit score to get a credit card?
According to credit-scoring company FICO®, a good credit score falls between 670 and 739. The better your credit scores, the more credit card options and favorable terms might be available to you.
But even if your credit score isn’t considered good, that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify for a credit card. Options like secured credit cards and cards for fair credit can help people who are building their credit.
Key takeaways: How to choose a credit card
There are so many different kinds of credit cards out there. Taking the time to check your credit scores, research card options and compare card terms can help you find the right card for you.
If you’re new to credit or searching for your next credit card, Capital One can help:
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See if you’re pre-approved for credit cards without harming your credit scores.
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If you’re looking to build your credit with responsible use, explore cards for people with fair credit.
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Earn cash back on every purchase, every day, with a cash back rewards card.
- Monitor your credit report and score with CreditWise. It’s free, and using it won’t hurt your credit.
