The method
A recommendation is useful only when you can see what shaped it.
CardTutor is a guided comparison, not a ranking page. It shows the tradeoffs and assumptions behind each result.
Operating principles
05
- 01Goals before productsThe comparison starts with what you want to improve. A card is useful only when it has a clear job in that plan.
- 02Ongoing value before bonusesWe compare annual fees with recurring rewards and benefits. Welcome offers stay outside the ongoing estimate.
- 03Uncertainty stays visibleReasonable planning assumptions keep a comparison moving. We disclose estimates, show what was tested, and explain when a missing safety detail limits the result.
- 04Complexity must earn its placeAnother card should solve a meaningful gap. The number of cards you’re open to is a limit, not a goal.
- 05Interest before rewardsWhen lowering interest is a goal, rewards rankings stop. The balance and its real financing cost take priority.
Comparisons
What the recommendation considers
When a card comparison fits your goal, we weigh your normal spending, annual-fee preference, desired upkeep, and current wallet.
Optional unknown answers can use disclosed planning assumptions. Missing safety or unsupported wallet details can still limit a recommendation. Restricted credits count only when you say you would use them naturally.
Independence
Payment does not determine the order
CardTutor does not currently earn money from card recommendations or application links. If that changes, compensation will be disclosed beside the relevant links and will not affect recommendation order.
What is CardTutor?
CardTutor is a guided credit-card comparison tool. It compares setups using your goals, current cards, spending estimates, annual fees and preferred level of upkeep.
Can I use it without applying for another card?
Yes. You can review how to use the cards you already have or consider additions. More cards are not the goal. Comparisons depend on supported wallet coverage and the details you provide.
What does the estimated value leave out?
Welcome offers are excluded from ongoing value. CardTutor does not predict approval or cover every card. Estimates and tested scenarios are not guaranteed savings, and the underlying card data remains a draft that has not completed human review.
Do I need an account or bank connection?
No. Your answers and results are stored in this browser tab, not a CardTutor account. Read the privacy notice for storage limits, page-view analytics and hosting details.
Who makes CardTutor?
CardTutor is built by Kevin Zhang. Send questions or feedback to hello@cardtutor.app.
Important limitation
CardTutor is educational, not financial advice or an approval predictor. It doesn’t cover every card or financial situation, and terms can change. Verify current issuer information before applying or changing an account.