What Are the Biggest Credit Card Companies?

Credit cards offer a useful way to pay for purchases. If you're thinking of applying for another credit card, you may be wondering which brands are the biggest credit card companies. Several of the largest credit card issuers offer various card options that appeal to many consumers. Keep reading to learn more about the biggest credit card companies.

Credit cards have become increasingly popular over the years. These personal finance tools not only offer a convenient way to make purchases, but when used with responsibility, they also give consumers the ability to establish credit and improve their credit scores.

With so many card options out there, you'll need to make an informed choice. Before getting a credit card, you may want to think about which credit card company to use.

There are several big card companies, and they're not all created equally, nor do they offer the same types of cards. Learning more about different companies and their credit card options can help you make a more informed decision when applying for your next card.

You may be wondering which credit card companies are the biggest.

We examined research related to credit card market share by network and issuer to determine which card issuers are the biggest.

Within our article, we used data provided by the Nilson Report. The organization looked at the 2019 market share for the top credit card issuers based on outstanding card balances. We used this data to compile the list below.

Many big-name issuers make up the below list of biggest credit card companies.

Chase

2019 market share: 16.6%

Chase, which is the banking business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., is the biggest credit card company on our list.

Chase is a common name in the credit card industry. The company has over 4,700 bank branches and offers more than 30 credit cards.

Many consumers choose to open Chase credit cards because the company offers a variety of card types -- such as travel rewards cards, cash back cards, student credit cards, hotel cards, and balance transfer cards.

Citi

2019 market share: 11.6%

Citi is another big credit card issuer, and the brand offers consumer and business solutions. This credit card company is next on our list. Currently, there are 14 Citi credit cards, and the brand has a variety of card types available.

American Express

2019 market share: 11.3%

American Express, also known as AmEx, is another big brand bank with plenty of credit card offerings, and it's in the third spot on our list.

This card issuer has 18 different credit cards and 14 business credit cards. American Express also offers corporate credit cards and prepaid debit cards.

Bank of America

2019 market share: 10.7%

Bank of America is another big name in the card industry. The company has 15-plus credit cards and offers a variety of credit card types.

Capital One

2019 market share: 10.5%

Capital One is another big credit card company. The company offers both consumer and small business cards. Currently, the company offers 30 different credit cards, including seven business credit cards.

Discover

2019 market share: 7.6%

While the company doesn't have as many card offerings as other brands, Discover is another big name in the industry, and consumers frequently use their cards to make purchases. At the time of writing, there are seven available Discover cards.

While Discover is a big company, some consumers may have difficulty getting a Discover card because of its firm application rules.

Wells Fargo

2019 market share: 4.3%

Wells Fargo has been around since 1852. The brand currently offers several consumer and business credit cards. Wells Fargo is in seventh place on our biggest credit card companies list.

While these aren't the only credit card issuers that exist -- and it's not an exhaustive list -- these are some of the biggest credit card companies that exist. You can learn more about other companies by reviewing this list of credit card companies.

Why do some consumers choose a big credit card issuer?

You may be wondering why you might want to go with a big credit card issuer. There is no rule in place that says you should do so. It's totally up to you when choosing a credit card company. However, here are some reasons why some consumers choose to go with a bigger issuer:

• Some consumers may feel that a bigger card company is more reputable. If the company has been able to successfully grow over the years, it will likely have more customers. You want to feel comfortable and confident when choosing a card, and going with a bigger credit card company may give you more confidence.
• Some larger credit card companies also offer more products. This gives you more choices when comparing products to find the best credit card for your needs.
• Some consumers may feel a bigger credit card company will stay in business for the long term. If you're thinking of taking out a new credit card to make purchases, you'll want to be able to use your card for many years.

How to choose the right credit card company

You may be thinking of choosing your next credit card based on how large the company is. While this is one factor to consider, it's not the only consideration you should make. Here are some other considerations to make when choosing the right credit card company and card:

Customer service: You want to choose a card issuer that will treat you well. You may want to research each company's customer satisfaction reputation to find the right brand for you. Getting quick, efficient help and support when you need it is essential.

Product offerings: You should look at the variety of product offerings for each card company. You want to go with a card issuer that has products that are a good fit for your financial situation and spending habits.

Card value: You'll want to choose a credit card company that has a credit card that offers value. It's a good idea to compare the value of different cards from various issuers to ensure you're getting benefits from the card you use. You may find a better card with more value if you go with a different credit card company.

READ MORE: How to Choose a Credit Card

Now you know which credit card issuers are the biggest credit card companies by market share. No matter what factors you consider when choosing your next credit card, make sure you take your time researching your options so you find the right card that meets all of your needs. Check out our list of top credit cards to browse and compare available options.