Best Credit Cards for Average Credit

If you have an average credit score (580–669), it may seem like you can’t get useful financial tools, but there are many credit cards that can help you improve your credit profile while giving you useful benefits. The right credit card can help you build better money habits, lower your interest costs, or earn rewards. It can also help you build a better credit future.

This list shows eight credit cards that are good for people with average credit. It lists their main benefits, features, and possible drawbacks. You can make a smart choice that meets both your short-term spending needs and your long-term financial health by knowing what your options are.

Best Credit Cards for Average Credit

Discover it® Secured Credit Card – Best for Earning Cash Back While Building Credit

If you want to build or rebuild your credit, the Discover it® Secured Credit Card is a great choice because it offers more than just a way to build credit. This secured card is different from most others because it not only reports your credit but also gives you cash-back rewards, which is not something you see very often in this type of card.

• Earn Rewards: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to the quarterly maximum) and 1% on all other purchases.
• No Annual Fee: No extra costs to worry about while working on your credit.
• Credit-Building Opportunity: Responsible use may qualify you for an upgrade to an unsecured card.
• Security Deposit Required: A refundable deposit establishes your credit limit.

This card is great for people who want to improve their credit score while also getting a small reward for their purchases.

Capital One Platinum Credit Card – Best for Automatic Credit Limit Reviews

The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is a good choice for people who want a simple credit card with no annual fee. It doesn’t offer rewards, but its credit limit review process is unique and can help users show that they are responsible with money over time.

• No Annual Fee: Keep costs minimal while using credit responsibly.
• Credit Limit Increases: Eligible users are automatically considered for a higher credit limit after six months.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: An excellent feature for those who travel internationally.

This card is a good choice for people with fair credit who want to raise their credit limit over time because it doesn’t require a security deposit.

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card – Best for Managing Existing Debt

The Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card has a long 0% introductory APR period, which makes it easier to pay off existing credit card balances without adding more interest.

This card doesn’t offer ongoing rewards, but its long introductory APR period makes it a great choice for people who want to improve their credit and keep their finances stable.

Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card – Best for Young Adults Establishing Credit

The Chase Freedom® Student Credit Card is a great choice for people who are new to credit because it has both credit-building benefits and rewards.

• 1% Cash Back on Every Purchase: A simple way to earn rewards on everyday spending.
• No Annual Fee: Helps students avoid unnecessary financial burdens.
• Credit Education Tools: Provides access to financial resources and insights.

This card encourages young adults to build a strong credit history early on by encouraging them to spend wisely and giving them rewards.

OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card – Best for No Credit Check Approval

Many credit cards require a credit check before they will approve you, which can be a problem for people with bad or limited credit histories. The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card gets rid of this problem by guaranteeing approval and letting you get your security deposit back.

This card is a good choice for people who want to improve their credit score because it doesn’t require a traditional credit check.

Indigo® Platinum Mastercard® – Best for Unsecured Credit with Easier Approval

The Indigo® Platinum Mastercard® is an unsecured credit card for people who might not be able to get a regular credit card. It doesn’t need a security deposit, but it might have an annual fee based on the applicant’s credit history.

• No Security Deposit: Unlike secured cards, this option does not require upfront cash.
• Credit Bureau Reporting: Payments are reported to all three major credit bureaus.
• Annual Fee May Apply: Costs vary based on creditworthiness.

This card is a good choice for people who want an unsecured card but need a simpler way to get approved.

Petal® 2 “Cash Back” Visa® Credit Card – Best for No Fees & Alternative Credit Evaluation

The Petal® 2 “Cash Back” Visa® Credit Card looks at more than just your credit score. It looks at things like your income and spending habits to help you find a credit card that doesn’t rely only on your credit score.

• Cash-Back Rewards: 1% back on all purchases, increasing up to 1.5% over time.
• No Fees: No annual, late, or foreign transaction fees.
• Higher Credit Limits: Based on financial behavior, not just credit history.

This is a great option for people with average credit or those who are new to credit and want a simple, fee-free experience.

Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card – Best for Flexible Payment Scheduling

The Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card is easy to use and lets you change how you pay and raise your credit limit.

• No Annual Fee: Reduces financial strain while working on credit.
• Flexible Payment Options: Allows users to adjust due dates for better financial planning.
• Credit Limit Growth: Higher limits may be granted with responsible use.

This card is a good choice for people who want to improve their credit without having to pay anything.

How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Average Credit

Selecting the right credit card depends on individual financial needs and goals. Consider the following when making a decision:

You can choose a credit card that fits your budget and helps you grow in the future by taking these things into account.

Final Thoughts

If you have average credit, you don’t have to settle for bad financial products. Many credit cards come with useful perks, such as cash back, lower fees, and chances to build credit. You can raise your credit score and get even better credit options in the future by making smart financial decisions, like paying your bills on time and keeping your balances low.

Before you apply, look at your options carefully and pick a card that fits with how you handle your money. Making the right choice today can set you up for better financial opportunities in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered “average” credit?

Average credit typically refers to a FICO credit score between 580 and 669. It falls between poor and excellent credit and may limit some financial product options—but many useful credit cards are still available.

Can I qualify for a credit card with average credit?

Yes. Many credit card issuers offer products specifically designed for people with average credit. These cards often include secured options, unsecured cards with moderate limits, and even some with rewards or low fees.

What is the difference between a secured and an unsecured credit card?

A secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit that typically becomes your credit limit. An unsecured credit card does not require a deposit, is more commonly available, but may be harder to qualify for if you have average credit.

Can using a credit card improve my credit score?

Yes. Responsible use—such as making on-time payments and keeping your credit utilization low—can help you build or improve your credit score over time.

Are there credit cards for average credit that offer rewards?

Absolutely. Some cards, like the Discover it® Secured and Petal® 2 Visa® offer cash-back rewards even to those with average or limited credit.

Do I need to undergo a credit check to get a credit card?

Most cards require a credit check, but there are exceptions like the OpenSky® Secured Visa®, which does not require a credit inquiry for approval.

What fees should I watch out for?

Watch for annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and late payment fees. Some cards are completely fee-free (e.g., Petal® 2 Visa®), while others may charge based on your credit profile.

Is it better to get a card with rewards or one focused on credit building?

It depends on your goals. If you’re working primarily to improve your credit, focus on cards with credit reporting and low or no fees. If you can manage your balance well, a card with rewards may add value.

How can I increase my credit limit?

Some cards automatically review your account for credit limit increases after a few months of responsible use (e.g., Capital One Platinum). Making timely payments and staying under your limit helps improve your chances.

Will applying for multiple cards hurt my credit?

Each credit card application results in a hard inquiry, which may slightly lower your score. Apply strategically and only for cards you’re likely to be approved for to avoid unnecessary hits to your credit.

Are student cards a good option for average credit?

Yes, especially if you’re a young adult or college student. Cards like the Chase Freedom® Student card are tailored to help beginners build credit and earn simple rewards.

What’s the best way to choose a credit card for average credit?

Evaluate your financial goals (e.g., debt repayment, building credit, earning rewards), and compare cards based on fees, APR, benefits, and whether they report to all three major credit bureaus.

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Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.

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Article Title: Best Credit Cards for Average Credit

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