Best Overall Credit Card for 2026

The American Express Cobalt® Card

Perks and Rewards
The American Express Cobalt® Card stands out as the best overall credit card in Canada for its unbeatable combination of flexible rewards, high earn rates on everyday spending, and valuable travel perks.
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Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
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Annual Fee: $155.88 ($12.99/month)
Reward Rates:
- 5x points on food & drinks (restaurants, cafes, bars, delivery)
- 3x points on streaming services
- 2x points on travel & transit
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1x point on everything else
Best For: Everyday spending, travel rewards, and flexible redemptions via Amex Membership Rewards
With its generous multipliers and premium benefits, the Cobalt is ideal for Canadians who want to maximize points on the purchases they already make every day.
Find the Best Credit Card for You.
Backed by Capital Corner’s Expert Research.

The best credit card isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s the one that matches your unique lifestyle, goals, and spending habits. At Capital Corner, our team has reviewed and rated the best credit cards in Canada and the U.S. for 2025, from high-reward travel cards and cashback champions to 0% APR offers and no-annual-fee options so you can find the perfect fit for your wallet.
Best Credit Cards for 2026

Best for: Newcomers
Annual value
$277
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®

Welcome bonus
$170
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$250
21.99%
5.0
✈ Best for Newcomers
✔ Generous introductory cash back and strong grocery rewards with no annual fee and accessible approval options, perfect for newcomers building credit.
View details
2xPoints on eligible travel purchases.
2x Points on eligible purchases at gas stations in Canada.
2x on eligible purchases at grocery stores in Canada.
2x on eligible purchases at drugstores in Canada.
1x Point on purchases everywhere else.
Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points:
New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers, earn 5,000 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 in net purchases on your Card.
This could add up to 60,000 points in a year. That’s up to $600 towards your next vacation.
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada, and 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
The Card is now available in your choice of Gold or Rose Gold metal options.
Receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card.
You have access to an annual $100 CAD Travel Credit, compliments of your American Express Gold Rewards Card. Use the credit once annually towards any single travel booking of $100 or more charged to your Gold Rewards Card through American Express Travel Online.
As a Gold Rewards Cardmember, you can receive complimentary membership in Priority PassTM – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Escape the chaos of airports and relax in an oasis of calm and simply enjoy the fact that the travel experience has begun before your plane has even left the ground. Enrollment is required and entry fees apply.
Enjoy four (4) complimentary visits per Calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Entry fees apply once complimentary visits have been used.
Charge any eligible purchase to your credit Card then log in to redeem your earned points for a statement credit.
Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster.
Subject to approval. The preferred rate for purchases is 21.99% and funds advances is 21.99%. If you have Missed Payments, the applicable rates for your account will be 25.99% and/or 28.99%. See the information box included with the application for the definition of Missed Payment and which rates apply to charges on your account and other details
American Express is not responsible for maintaining of monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Best for: Luxury travel perks
Annual value
$1046
The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome bonus
$1000
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$799
21.99%
5.0
✈ Very strong travel benefits, lounge access, and premium insurance coverage
✔ Best for frequent travellers who can use annual credits
View details
Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®.
Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points - that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away
New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases.
Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service.
Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants.
Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands.
Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program.
Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities.
Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport.
You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis.
Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Best for: Travel
Annual value
$1614
RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Card

Welcome bonus
$1,100
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$120
20.99%
5.0
✔ Flexible travel redemptions — Use points on almost any airline, anytime, with no blackout dates.
✔ Comprehensive travel insurance — Includes trip cancellation, lost baggage, and emergency medical coverage.
View details
Earn a bonus 10% cash back on all purchases for your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). Plus, earn a $50 statement credit when you make a purchase in month 13. This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases.
Earn 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada, 4% cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually) and 2% cash back on all other purchases.
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Extensive insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
Best for: Groceries and Gas
Annual value
$1073
CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite Card*

Welcome bonus
$400
✔ Top-tier cash back on everyday essentials (e.g., groceries, gas, EV charging)
✔ Strong value for families and commuters with big gas/grocery spends
View details
Rewards Structure:
10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One TravelCapital One
5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One TravelKiplinger+5The Points Guy+5Capital One+5
2X miles on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in first 3 months.
$300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel.
10,000 miles anniversary bonus each year.
Complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and 1,300+ Priority Pass lounges.
Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.
No foreign transaction fees on international purchases.
Cellphone protection when monthly bill paid with the card.
Hertz President’s Circle status for elite car rental benefits.
Primary rental car insurance on rentals booked with the card.
Trip delay and cancellation insurance for eligible travel disruptions.
Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.
Designed for frequent travelers seeking premium perks and high travel rewards.
Best for: No-Fee
Annual value
$327
Simplii Cash Back Visa

Welcome bonus
$100
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$0
21.99%
4.9
✔ Best No Fee Credit Card
✔ : Excellent cash back on dining, gas, groceries and everyday essentials with no annual fee, making it ideal for Canadians who want strong rewards without costs.
View details
Card Details
3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
1% cash back on all other purchases
No annual fee
Best for: Cash Back
Annual value
$875
BMO CashBack® World Elite®

Welcome bonus
$650
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$120
20.99%
4.9
✔ Best for Cash Back
✔ High cash back rates across groceries, transit, gas and recurring bills make this card ideal for maximizing rewards on everyday life and larger household expenses.
View details
Card Details
5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
3x on dining, online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), and select streaming services
2x on other travel purchases
1x on everything else
60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
$50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit
Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards
$95 annual fee
Best for: Students
Annual value
$1453
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Students

Welcome bonus
$900
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$139
21.99%
4.9
✔ Best for Students
✔ Rewards students with flexible travel points, no annual fee and no minimum income requirement to help build credit and power everyday spending.
View details
Card Details
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
3% on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
3% at drugstores
1.5% cash back on all other purchases
No annual fee
Best for: Online Shopping
Annual value
$1570
American Express Cobalt® Card

Welcome bonus
$300
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$0
21.99%
5.0
✔ Rewards on nearly all purchases
✔ Huge rewards on online spending
View details
Card Details
Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months
No annual fee
Best for: Everyday Spending
Annual value
$1570
American Express Cobalt® Card

Welcome bonus
$300
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$0
21.99%
5.0
✔ Rewards on nearly all purchases
✔ Huge rewards on everyday spending
View details
Card Details
No rewards program
Focused on balance transfers and avoiding late fees
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and purchases for 12 months
No late fees or penalty APR
No annual fee
Best for: Dining & Entertainment
Annual value
$1300
Scotiabank® Gold American Express® Card

Welcome bonus
$350
Annual Fee:
Interest Rate:
$120
20.99%
5.0
✔ Earn high rates on groceries, dining and entertainment
✔ Ideal for cardholders who want strong value on both everyday and travel spending
View details
Card Details
5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (e.g., grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Amazon.com)—up to the quarterly maximum when activated
1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Cashback Match: Discover matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
No annual fee
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®
Best for: Newcomers
$277

5.0
Welcome bonus
$170
Annual rewards
$277
$277
$180
21.99%
$250
✈ Best for Newcomers
✔ Generous introductory cash back and strong grocery rewards with no annual fee and accessible approval options, perfect for newcomers building credit.
$170
Perks and Rewards
2xPoints on eligible travel purchases.
2x Points on eligible purchases at gas stations in Canada.
2x on eligible purchases at grocery stores in Canada.
2x on eligible purchases at drugstores in Canada.
1x Point on purchases everywhere else.
Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points:
New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers, earn 5,000 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 in net purchases on your Card.
This could add up to 60,000 points in a year. That’s up to $600 towards your next vacation.
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada, and 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
The Card is now available in your choice of Gold or Rose Gold metal options.
Receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card.
You have access to an annual $100 CAD Travel Credit, compliments of your American Express Gold Rewards Card. Use the credit once annually towards any single travel booking of $100 or more charged to your Gold Rewards Card through American Express Travel Online.
As a Gold Rewards Cardmember, you can receive complimentary membership in Priority PassTM – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Escape the chaos of airports and relax in an oasis of calm and simply enjoy the fact that the travel experience has begun before your plane has even left the ground. Enrollment is required and entry fees apply.
Enjoy four (4) complimentary visits per Calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Entry fees apply once complimentary visits have been used.
Charge any eligible purchase to your credit Card then log in to redeem your earned points for a statement credit.
Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster.
Subject to approval. The preferred rate for purchases is 21.99% and funds advances is 21.99%. If you have Missed Payments, the applicable rates for your account will be 25.99% and/or 28.99%. See the information box included with the application for the definition of Missed Payment and which rates apply to charges on your account and other details
American Express is not responsible for maintaining of monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for: Luxury travel perks
$1046

5.0
Welcome bonus
$1000
Annual rewards
$1046
$1046
$400
21.99%
$799
✈ Very strong travel benefits, lounge access, and premium insurance coverage
✔ Best for frequent travellers who can use annual credits
$1000
Perks and Rewards
Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®.
Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points - that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away
New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases.
Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service.
Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants.
Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands.
Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program.
Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities.
Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport.
You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis.
Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Card
Best for: Travel
$1614

5.0
Welcome bonus
$1,100
Annual rewards
$1614
$1614
$514
20.99%
$120
✔ Flexible travel redemptions — Use points on almost any airline, anytime, with no blackout dates.
✔ Comprehensive travel insurance — Includes trip cancellation, lost baggage, and emergency medical coverage.
$1,100
Perks and Rewards
Earn a bonus 10% cash back on all purchases for your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). Plus, earn a $50 statement credit when you make a purchase in month 13. This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases.
Earn 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada, 4% cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually) and 2% cash back on all other purchases.
Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
Extensive insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite Card*
Best for: Groceries and Gas
$1073

Welcome bonus
$400
Annual rewards
$1073
$1073
$541
20.99%
$120
✔ Top-tier cash back on everyday essentials (e.g., groceries, gas, EV charging)
✔ Strong value for families and commuters with big gas/grocery spends
$400
Perks and Rewards
Rewards Structure:
10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One TravelCapital One
5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One TravelKiplinger+5The Points Guy+5Capital One+5
2X miles on all other purchases
Welcome Bonus:
75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in first 3 months.
$300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel.
10,000 miles anniversary bonus each year.
Complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and 1,300+ Priority Pass lounges.
Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.
No foreign transaction fees on international purchases.
Cellphone protection when monthly bill paid with the card.
Hertz President’s Circle status for elite car rental benefits.
Primary rental car insurance on rentals booked with the card.
Trip delay and cancellation insurance for eligible travel disruptions.
Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.
Designed for frequent travelers seeking premium perks and high travel rewards.
Simplii Cash Back Visa
Best for: No-Fee
$327

4.9
Welcome bonus
$100
Annual rewards
$327
$327
$278
21.99%
$0
✔ Best No Fee Credit Card
✔ : Excellent cash back on dining, gas, groceries and everyday essentials with no annual fee, making it ideal for Canadians who want strong rewards without costs.
$100
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
1% cash back on all other purchases
No annual fee
BMO CashBack® World Elite®
Best for: Cash Back
$875

4.9
Welcome bonus
$650
Annual rewards
$875
$875
561
20.99%
$120
✔ Best for Cash Back
✔ High cash back rates across groceries, transit, gas and recurring bills make this card ideal for maximizing rewards on everyday life and larger household expenses.
$650
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
3x on dining, online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), and select streaming services
2x on other travel purchases
1x on everything else
60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
$50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit
Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards
$95 annual fee
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Students
Best for: Students
$1453

4.9
Welcome bonus
$900
Annual rewards
$1453
$1453
$636
21.99%
$139
✔ Best for Students
✔ Rewards students with flexible travel points, no annual fee and no minimum income requirement to help build credit and power everyday spending.
$900
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
3% on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
3% at drugstores
1.5% cash back on all other purchases
No annual fee
American Express Cobalt® Card
Best for: Online Shopping
$1570

5.0
Welcome bonus
$300
Annual rewards
$1570
$1570
$1,292
21.99%
$0
✔ Rewards on nearly all purchases
✔ Huge rewards on online spending
$300
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months
No annual fee
American Express Cobalt® Card
Best for: Everyday Spending
$1570

5.0
Welcome bonus
$300
Annual rewards
$1570
$1570
$1,292
21.99%
$0
✔ Rewards on nearly all purchases
✔ Huge rewards on everyday spending
$300
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
No rewards program
Focused on balance transfers and avoiding late fees
0% intro APR on balance transfers for 21 months and purchases for 12 months
No late fees or penalty APR
No annual fee
Scotiabank® Gold American Express® Card
Best for: Dining & Entertainment
$1300

5.0
Welcome bonus
$350
Annual rewards
$1300
$1300
$342
20.99%
$120
✔ Earn high rates on groceries, dining and entertainment
✔ Ideal for cardholders who want strong value on both everyday and travel spending
$350
Perks and Rewards
Card Details
5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (e.g., grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, Amazon.com)—up to the quarterly maximum when activated
1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases
Cashback Match: Discover matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
No annual fee
Best Rewards Back Card
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
-
Affiliate Compensation: Often $200–$400+ per approved sign-up (through major affiliate networks like CJ, FlexOffers, or Impact)
-
High Conversion Rate: One of the most popular no-annual-fee cards
-
Very Attractive Rewards:
-
5% on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
-
3% on dining and drugstores
-
1.5% on all other purchases (higher than the standard 1%)
-
$200 sign-up bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months
-
-
No annual fee
-
Backed by a strong brand (Chase), which builds trust and increases conversion

5.0
$170
21.99%
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®

5.0
$1000
21.99%
The Platinum Card® from American Express

5.0
$1,100
20.99%
RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Card

4.9
$100
21.99%
Simplii Cash Back Visa

4.9
$650
20.99%
BMO CashBack® World Elite®

4.9
$900
21.99%
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Students

5.0
$300
21.99%
American Express Cobalt® Card

5.0
$300
21.99%
American Express Cobalt® Card



