Choosing between the Citi Double Cash Card (no annual fee) and the Citi Strata Elite Card ($595/yr) comes down to where you spend most. Both cards can deliver real value — let’s break it down, then run your numbers to find the winner.
Strongest in travel at 5%. Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. Earns a solid 2.0% on everything else.
Perfect if: You want solid rewards without paying an annual fee.
Apply NowStrongest in travel at 6% via portal. 12x on hotels/car rentals via Citi Travel, 6x on flights via Citi Travel, 3x on dining. Earns a solid 1.5% on everything else.
Perfect if: You maximize portal bookings and want premium perks to offset the fee.
Apply Now| Feature | Citi Double Cash Card | Citi Strata Elite Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | $595 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | $200 after $1,500 spend in 6 months | 75,000 points after $6,000 spend in 3 months |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% | 0% |
| Base Reward Rate | <strong>2.0%</strong> | 1.5% |
| Travel Rewards | 5% | <strong>6%</strong> |
| Dining Rewards | 2% | <strong>3%</strong> |
| Key Benefits | Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. | 12x on hotels/car rentals via Citi Travel, 6x on flights via Citi Travel, 3x on dining. |
Citi Double Cash Card pulls ahead for groceries, gas spending.
Citi Strata Elite Card wins on travel, dining.
The $595/year fee difference means Citi Strata Elite Card needs to earn at least that much more in rewards to justify its cost.
Not sure which fits your life? Enter your spending below and we’ll do the math.
Enter your typical monthly spending and we’ll show you exactly which card earns more — including fees and bonuses.