In an increasingly cashless world, credit cards have become more than just a convenient payment method—they’re a lifestyle tool, offering everything from travel rewards to cashback on groceries. Every year, millions of Americans reassess which credit cards deserve a place in their wallets. In 2025, one credit card stands above the rest as the most widely used: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
But what makes one credit card more “used” than others? Is it the perks, ease of acceptance, low fees, or powerful rewards programs? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into credit card usage trends in 2025, top features users want, and the most popular cards people are swiping, tapping, and storing in their digital wallets.
🔍 Why Credit Card Usage Trends Matter
Understanding which credit cards are used most often isn’t just about popularity—it’s about insight into consumer behavior, financial priorities, and spending patterns. In 2025, credit card usage has surged, thanks to:
- Contactless payments becoming more mainstream
- The growing number of subscription services
- A return to global travel
- Rising inflation pushing people toward cards with cashback or purchase protection
Whether you’re a budget-savvy student or a frequent flyer, chances are your credit card choices are influenced by perks and practicality.
🏆 Most Used Credit Card of the Year: Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Based on industry reports, consumer reviews, and usage data, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has earned the title of Most Used Credit Card of 2025.
🌟 Why It’s #1:
- 2x points on travel and dining
- Generous sign-up bonus (currently 60,000 points after $4,000 spend in 3 months)
- No foreign transaction fees
- Flexible points through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Annual fee of just $95
The Verdict: This card strikes a perfect balance between high-value rewards and affordability, making it a top pick for millennials, Gen Z travelers, and everyday spenders alike.
📈 Credit Card Trends in 2025
Let’s break down the biggest credit card trends that defined 2025 and helped cards like the Sapphire Preferred rise to the top.
1. Travel is Back – With a Vengeance
After years of on-and-off travel restrictions, 2025 has been a golden year for jet-setters. As a result, cards that offer travel perks—from lounge access to hotel credits—have skyrocketed in popularity.
Top Travel Trend Cards:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- American Express® Gold Card
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
2. Cashback is Still King
While travel rewards are great for some, cashback cards remain the go-to for everyday spenders. Simplicity is key—people want to earn 1.5% or more without having to memorize reward categories.
Top Cashback Cards:
- Citi® Double Cash Card (2% cashback on everything)
- Discover it® Cash Back
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
3. Digital Wallets & Contactless Usage
Mobile payment usage is higher than ever, with over 70% of cardholders in the U.S. now regularly using Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay. Cards that are easily added to digital wallets and offer instant card issuance have become more appealing.
Notable Cards Supporting Instant Issuance:
- Apple Card
- Capital One cards
- Chase cards (via app)
4. Buy Now, Pay Later Alternatives
While BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) tools are still booming, credit cards have responded with 0% APR intro offers and flexible payment features like “Plan It” from AmEx or “My Chase Plan.”
🥇 Top 5 Most Used Credit Cards of 2025
Beyond the Chase Sapphire Preferred, here are four other cards that made big moves in 2025 based on usage frequency, rewards redemption, and digital wallet integration.
2. American Express® Gold Card
Best For: Foodies & frequent travelers
Annual Fee: $250
Key Perks:
- 4x points at restaurants (including takeout and delivery)
- 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25K/year)
- $120 dining credit + $120 Uber Cash
Why It’s Popular: Food is a major spending category in 2025, and the AmEx Gold card rewards it more generously than any other card on the market.
3. Citi® Double Cash Card
Best For: Straightforward cashback
Annual Fee: $0
Cashback Rate: 2% (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay)
Why It’s Popular: No frills, no categories, just simple 2% cashback on everything. It’s perfect for minimalists and those who don’t want to think about rotating bonuses.
4. Capital One Venture Rewards Card
Best For: Flexible travel rewards
Annual Fee: $95
Perks:
- 2x miles on every purchase
- Points transferable to 15+ travel partners
- $100 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
Why It’s Popular: With a strong earning rate and versatile redemption options, this card is a hit for both occasional travelers and digital nomads.
5. Apple Card (by Goldman Sachs)
Best For: Apple ecosystem users
Annual Fee: $0
Perks:
- 3% Daily Cash on Apple purchases and select merchants
- Instant approval & digital wallet integration
- No fees ever (not even late or foreign transaction fees)
Why It’s Popular: Gen Z and tech-savvy users love the transparency, real-time notifications, and ease of budgeting directly within the Wallet app.
🧾 What Perks Do Users Value Most in 2025?
According to recent surveys by NerdWallet and WalletHub, the top credit card perks that influenced consumer choice this year were:
| Rank | Most Desired Perk | % of Users Who Prioritized It |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cashback on everyday spending | 43% |
| 2 | No annual fee | 38% |
| 3 | Travel rewards (points or miles) | 35% |
| 4 | Welcome bonus | 30% |
| 5 | 0% intro APR | 22% |
| 6 | Fraud protection & purchase security | 18% |
This indicates a shift toward practicality and value, with most users wanting rewards they can use now, not just aspirational travel redemptions.
🧠 Expert Tips: Choosing the Right Credit Card for You
Choosing the “most used” card doesn’t always mean it’s right for your needs. Here are a few quick tips to help you pick the perfect card in 2025:
1. Know Your Spending Habits
If you spend heavily on dining or travel, a rewards card makes sense. If you’re looking to reduce debt or build credit, a low-interest or secured card might be best.
2. Don’t Fear Annual Fees
Some cards with fees (like AmEx Gold or Sapphire Preferred) offer value far exceeding the fee—if you use the benefits. Do the math!
3. Use Credit Responsibly
Rewards are great, but interest can wipe them out fast. Always pay off your balance in full if possible.
4. Stack Rewards with Portals
Use your card issuer’s shopping or travel portal (like Chase Ultimate Rewards® or AmEx Membership Rewards®) for extra points or cashback.
🧾 Final Thoughts: The Right Card = Big Rewards
2025 has been a big year for credit cards, and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® has earned its spot as the most used card, thanks to a perfect blend of rewards, accessibility, and flexibility.
But whether you’re looking for cashback, travel points, or financial flexibility, there’s a perfect card for everyone. Take the time to compare your options, consider your habits, and pick a card that rewards you for how you live and spend.
Want more personal finance insights like this? Keep up with all the latest credit card reviews, finance hacks, and lifestyle tips at BuzzTide.Online — where your money moves smarter.
