Discover it® Cash Back Card
vs. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Both the Discover it Cash Back Card and the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card offer enticing rewards and share the benefit of no annual fee. The Wells Fargo Active Cash edges ahead with its unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases, making it a winner for simplicity and consistent earning potential.

However, the Discover it Cash Back is a strong competitor, with its 5% cash back on rotating categories, and it has 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. While both cards are excellent, your preference for simplicity or maximizing category bonuses will guide your choice.

You might prefer the Discover it Cash Back if you optimize your spending to align with the 5% cash back rotating categories and value the unique first-year cash back match, which can amplify your rewards. This card is fitting for those who can manage the quarterly activation and track the bonus categories.

You might prefer the Wells Fargo Active Cash if you appreciate simplicity in earning rewards, with an unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. The $200 cash rewards bonus is a straightforward perk for new cardholders who meet the initial spending requirement. Additionally, this card offers cell phone coverage and Visa Signature Concierge services.

Evaluating APRs, fees, credit requirements, rewards, introductory offers and other features will show the differences between the Discover it Cash Back and Wells Fargo Active Cash cards. Use this section to decide which card aligns with your spending patterns, whether you prioritize lower fees, higher rewards or specific cardholder benefits.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card simplifies earning with unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases. This straightforward approach may appeal to you if you prefer consistent rewards without tracking rotating categories.

The Discover it Cash Back card offers a higher 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, such as gas and groceries, upon activation, capped at $1,500 in combined purchases, then 1%. While this can be lucrative, it requires more engagement to maximize the benefits. If you put in the effort, the Discover it Cash Back card can yield significant rewards in these categories.

Discover it Cash Back cardholders should stay updated on the quarterly categories to fully benefit from the card's rewards program. Check Discover's website for the latest categories to ensure you're earning the maximum cash back available.

Following this section, you'll find a table outlining the bonus categories for each card

Moving from earning to using your rewards, both cards offer flexible redemption options that are akin to cash, such as gift cards and statement credits. With the Discover it Cash Back, you can redeem your cash back at any time and in any amount, ensuring that your rewards are always accessible. Additionally, your cash back won't expire as long as your account remains active, with a generous 18-month period before inactivity triggers automatic redemption.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash allows for redemptions via check, statement credit or direct deposit, among other options. While it lacks travel partner transfers, the simplicity of a flat cash rewards rate and the assurance that rewards do not expire with an open account may appeal to those seeking straightforward benefits.

MoneyGeek's ranking process evaluates credit cards across various uses, such as balance transfers and cash back rewards. The Discover it Cash Back scores highest for balance transfers, while the Wells Fargo Active Cash is top-rated for cash back rewards.

The evaluation considers factors like introductory APR offers and regular APR for balance transfers, and effective reward rates for cash back. For a deeper understanding of our ranking criteria, you can review our ranking methodology.