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Lower Prescription Drug Prices: How Cost Plus Drugs Could Save You Money

Lower Prescription Drug Prices: How Cost Plus Drugs Could Save You Money

As high as inflation has been lately, prescription drug prices have soared even higher. The cost of prescription drugs has increased 35% since 2014, according to Healthcare Finance, compared with 19% for all goods and services.

Some 18 million Americans can't afford their prescriptions, according to a 2021 Gallup survey, and 10% of adults actually skip doses as a way of cost-cutting. A National Health Interview Survey report shows that more than five million Medicare beneficiaries struggle to pay for prescription medication.

To help alleviate the burden, billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban launched the Cost Plus Drug Company in early 2022. The online marketplace offers prescription drugs at prices that are far lower than most retail pharmacies and even many discount sites.

"It's just wrong that people have to choose between eating, their rent, and taking their medications or buying their medications in the United States of America in 2022," Cuban told PBS in June. "It's just wrong. And it was obvious there was not going to be a political solution."

The newly signed Inflation Reduction Act gives Medicare the chance to negotiate drug prices for the first time ever -- but only on a limited number of medications. A June 2022 study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that Medicare could have saved $3.6 billion in 2020 if it purchased prescription medications through Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs.

How does Cost Plus Drugs work, why are its prescription drug prices so cheap and how can you take advantage of its low prices? We'll give you all the details.

What is Cost Plus Drugs?

Cost Plus Drugs was started in January by Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and radiologist Dr. Alexander Oshmyansky, now the company's CEO. 

"When I see an industry that is just so convoluted and messed up like the pharmaceutical industry is, I saw it as a great opportunity," Shark Tank investor Cuban said on The View in February, "and that allows us to charge much, much less."

The Cost Plus Drugs site was launched with the aim of avoiding pharmacy benefit managers -- intermediaries who negotiate drug prices with manufacturers on behalf of health insurance providers. PBMs have come under criticism for pocketing negotiated savings, as well as for a practice called "spread pricing" -- charging payers like Medicaid more than they pay the pharmacy for a medication and keeping the difference (or "spread") as profit.

Shortly before its launch, Cost Plus Drugs created its own pharmacy benefit manager, allowing it to provide medications to companies with health plans. But Cuban has promised Cost Plus Drugs' PBM will be "radically transparent" in negotiating drug prices and will not employ spread pricing.

What medications are available at Cost Plus Drugs?

As of Aug. 23, Cost Plus Drugs offers 338 drugs including medicines for high cholesterol, kidney disease, mental health, diabetes, arthritis, migraines, allergies, cancer, HIV and many other conditions.

Cost Plus Drugs sells the top 10 most prescribed generic drugs in the US -- atorvastatin, levothyroxine, lisinopril, metformin, amlodipine, metoprolol, albuterol, omeprazole, losartan and simvastatin -- as well as many of the top 50 most prescribed medicines. Although Cost Plus Drugs warns that some medicines have limited stock due to supply chain issues, a random check of 50 of its 337 medications found all of them were available.

The company is constantly expanding its inventory and provides a form for submitting requests for new medications. On The View, Cuban said that he hopes to be selling 2,000 medications by mid-2023.

How much lower are Cost Plus Drugs prescription prices?

Drug prices in general will vary considerably based on the provider and PBM. Cost Plus Drugs provides a comparison of a listed retail price and its own price for every medicine it sells.

Some of the savings are remarkable: 30 tablets of the generic version of the bipolar disorder medicine Abilify (aripiprazole) retails for $678, compared to the same amount and dosage for $6 at Cost Plus Drugs.

"It's wrong that people have to choose between eating, their rent and taking their medications," Cuban told PBS in June.

Garrett Ellwood/NBAE/Getty Images

However, retail prices of prescription drugs can skew higher than what many people actually pay. Discount online pharmacies like GoodRx, Blink Health and SingleCare already provide coupons that can lower prices considerably. Even so, prices at Cost Plus Drugs compare favorably.

For example, a box of 30 tablets of the generic version of Zegerid -- commonly prescribed for acid reflux -- currently sells for $20 at Cost Plus Drugs. Blink Health sells generic Zegerid for $86, much lower than a listed retail price of $2,073, but four times more than Cost Plus Drugs. 

The savings appear to be real for many prescription drugs. Thirty tablets of the generic version of the heart medication Toprol XL (metoprolol succinate) go for $3.90 at Cost Plus Drugs, compared to $24 per 90 pills (or $8 per 30) at Costco.

The generic version of the antidepressant Pristiq costs $18 at Cost Plus Drugs. Discount pharmacy GoodRx sells it for $25, the next lowest price we could find online. That's far lower than the average retail price of $290, but more than Cost Plus Drugs.

At CVS, a three-month supply of 20mg of generic Lipitor (atorvastatin), a commonly prescribed medication for high cholesterol, costs $362 without insurance.

At Cost Plus Drugs, the same three-month supply sells for $6.

The company is also in the process of constructing an $11 million, 22,000-square-foot facility in Dallas to manufacture its own versions of generic drugs, which could lower prices even further.

The price of atorvastatin at Cost Plus Drugs is much lower than the quote we received from CVS.

Cost Plus Drugs/Screenshot by Peter Butler/CNET

How do I order prescription drugs from Cost Plus Drugs?

First, you'll want to view the list of medications available at Cost Plus Drugs to see if it has the prescription drugs you need. If it does, you'll need to create an online account, verify your email address and enter basic information about your health history and any current medications you are taking.

After you're registered with Cost Plus Drugs, you can provide your doctor with a paper form that includes all of the information they'll need to submit your prescription.

Alternatively, you can ask your doctor to write a prescription that includes your name, email address, date of birth and any medications you take. The National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) Provider ID for Cost Plus Drugs is 4940208 and its telephone number for prescriptions is 833-926-3384.

Your doctor can also fax your prescription information or the paper form to 650-683-9775.

Why are prescription drugs so cheap at Cost Plus Drugs?

Unlike the mysterious calculations behind drug pricing at traditional pharmacies, Cost Plus Drugs uses a transparent method -- the wholesale price Cost Plus Drugs pays for the medicine plus a 15% markup, a $3 pharmacy fee and a $5 shipping charge. Prescriptions are filled by the pharmacy services startup Truepill.

On the company's mission page, Cuban specifically calls out the price of albendazole, a drug used to treat hookworm, which continues to thrive among poorer communities in the Southeast US. (In a 2017 paper, researchers found more than one-third of the people in one Alabama county were infected with hookworm disease.)

Normally, albendazole costs on average $441 for its daily dose of two tablets, which could be taken for up to 30 days. At a wholesale price of $26 plus $4 markup and $3 pharmacy fee, Cost Plus Drugs can sell those two tablets for $33, plus $5 for shipping. Multiply that $408 in savings for two tablets by 30 days and you're talking about a potential difference of $12,240.

Does Cost Plus Drugs take health insurance?

Cost Plus Drugs does not currently accept any health insurance. The site claims that "even without insurance, our prices are less than what you would pay when using your insurance at a typical pharmacy."

The company does work with some pharmacy benefit managers, though, and allows the use of prescription drug discount cards for their members. According to the Cost Plus Drugs website, PBMs that work with Cost Plus Drugs can have members pay the listed price on its website or the insurance co-pay amount, whichever is lower.

For more on drug prices, learn how California is planning to make its own insulin to counter rising costs and how the Inflation Reduction Act will lower prescription prices and subsidize the healthcare marketplace.

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7 Ways to Save Money on Car Insurance

7 Ways to Save Money on Car Insurance

This story is part of Recession Help Desk, CNET's coverage of how to make smart money moves in an uncertain economy.

Car insurance is getting more expensive. The cost of car insurance has continued to climb throughout 2022, and increased another 1.3% in July, according to the Consumer Price Index, a key indicator of inflation.

Inflation aside, car insurance was already rising as of last year. Many major car insurers started receiving approval for substantial rate increases at the close of 2021, raising premiums anywhere from 3% to 12%, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. To top it off, gas prices have also hit record highs this year, making driving more expensive overall.

If you're tired of paying high car insurance premiums, we have a few tips you can try to reduce your auto insurance costs and add some extra breathing room to your budget. 

1. Raise your deductible 

Increasing your deductible -- your out-of-pocket cost before your insurance will pick up the bill on a claim -- can lower your premium. This move might make sense if you aren't driving much right now, do not have a history of accidents on the road or if you need to reduce your monthly costs to stay insured. Doing this could cost you later if you're in an accident, though, as you'll have to dish out more money before your carrier covers damages. You should make sure you have enough money to pay the higher deductible if you do end up in an accident.

2. Consider lower coverage for older vehicles

Older cars may not deserve the same insurance attention as your shiny new Tesla or all of the bells and whistles of a Mercedes-type policy. If your car is on its last go-round, you may want to cut out collision coverage or comprehensive coverage for that vehicle, both of which cover damages to your car.

Whether you should drop either coverage depends on the value of your car and the relative cost to insure it. Experts suggest that if your car is worth less than 10 times the annual premium, buying coverage for that vehicle may not be a cost-effective option. One of the quickest ways to check the value is by scrolling through Kelley Blue Book online. For example, say your annual premium is $1,600; 10 times that would be $16,000. If your car is worth less than $16,000, then it might make sense to lower insurance coverage for that car.

3. Use public transit or carpool when you can

Carriers may offer discounts if you have a low mileage count, meaning you drive less than the average number of miles per year compared to other Americans. Typically, you'd be considered a low-mileage driver if you drive less than 7,500 miles per year, but this isn't a bright-line rule. What actually determines if you're a low-mileage driver depends on what state you live in, your age and gender.

How much you can save depends on individual factors, in addition to the car insurance company you sign a policy with. State Farm offers one of the cheapest monthly premiums at $128 for low-mileage drivers, according to one analysis. 

If there is mass transit in your area, taking a bus a few days per week (or carpooling with others), could make you eligible for low-mileage discounts. If you don't live in an area with mass transit, you might also consider carpooling to work or school to bring your mileage down.

And if you transitioned to working or studying from home since the start of the pandemic and still haven't shifted back to an in-person workplace, contact your carrier to let them know -- and take advantage of any savings.

4. Bundle your insurance policies

One of the most straightforward ways to save money on insurance is by bundling your home and auto insurance, meaning you buy multiple insurance policies from the same company.  

Allstate , Liberty Mutual and GEICO each offer premium discounts for bundling -- depending on which policies and coverages you buy together. You can get discounts on your premium anywhere from 5% to 25%, depending on the provider. 

5. Shop around for car insurance rates

Maybe you're working from home permanently and need less coverage. Or perhaps you're returning to the office and need more coverage now. Whatever your situation may be, it's always a good idea to shop around to ensure you're getting the best rates, as other carriers might offer bigger discounts or lower premiums in general. 

If you aren't sure where to start, check out CNET's car insurance roundups, where you can see our picks for best overall car insurance, the cheapest car insurance, the best policies for teens and young drivers and the best options for military and veterans.

In addition to getting quotes online, you can reach out directly to some of the top insurance companies to ask about potential discounts.

6. Explore safe driving discounts

If you pride yourself on being a safe traveler, you're in luck. Carriers offer discounts for safe driving and modest claims history, and there are a number of discounts to take advantage of here. Call your carrier to ask how you can enroll in these types of programs. Once successfully enrolled, you should see your premium go down on your next bill.

State Farm, for example, offers both accident-free discounts, where you'll get a discount if you've gone at least three continuous years without an accident, and good driving discounts, which lowers your premium when you go three or more years without moving violations or at-fault accidents. 

Telematics insurance programs are also a great way to obtain safe drivers discounts, and it'll factor in low-mileage discounts, too. These programs monitor your mileage and driving behavior through a phone app or a car plug-in device. Call your carrier to enroll in the plan, and while discounts vary by carrier and state, you could be looking at savings as large as 30% off your premium. You'll start at a base rate that will be adjusted depending on the telematics report, which will include factors like your average speed and braking habits. For example, State Farm will review your telematics data every six months to determine how safe your driving has been, and based on those measurements, it'll apply a discount to your policy ranging anywhere from 5% to 50%, according to Bankrate.

7. Find a less expensive car

If you're looking to buy a new or used car, consider comparing the insurance costs among different vehicles. Auto insurance premiums are calculated through a variety of factors, and some of those factors are based on the car itself, including the car's price, repair costs and general safety record.

"This is the thing that people forget about: You can buy a Honda or a Kia, and it's less expensive, or you could buy a Mercedes or a Tesla -- it's going to be more expensive," said Janet Ruiz, a chartered property casualty underwriter and director of strategic communications at the Insurance Information Institute. 

And the difference in the cost of insurance for a Mercedes compared to a Honda is stark: The average cost to insure a Mercedes-Benz is about $4,505 annually, compared to an average of $2,151 annually for a Honda. That means you'll pay an average of $179 on a monthly basis for the Honda compared to $375 for the Mercedes. 

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

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Motorola Moto G4 Play review: Our second-favorite super-budget phone

Motorola Moto G4 Play review: Our second-favorite super-budget phone

If the Moto G4 didn't exist, the stepped-down (and even cheaper) Motorola Moto G4 Play would be the deal of the century. For just $150 (or $100 for Amazon Prime members who submit to Amazon Prime ads, like this), £130 and AU$279, you get a budget phone that's surprisingly pleasant to use, for a rock-bottom price.

But there is a Moto G4, and it comes with a larger screen, a better camera and a much faster processor. Best yet, it only costs a little more -- $50 or £39 -- than the G4 Play (it doesn't sell in Australia, but the G4 Plus does). So for my money, I'd invest a little more and get the G4 over the G4 Play.

That said, the G4 Play is actually a great budget find on its own merit. I never encountered a moment where I thought, "I can't use this." The G4 Play is the Toyota Corolla of phones; it has that wonderful balance of price and value to do real-world things like text and email, upload photos and snap pictures of cute little Fifi.

The Moto G4 Play is pretty much identical to the Moto G4, just a tad smaller (see how specs compare over the page). Despite having a relatively low 1,280x720-pixel resolution for its 5-inch screen, images and websites looked fairly crisp and sharp. But even with adaptive brightness enabled, you might have trouble reading in the noontime sun.

Then there's the 8-megapixel rear facing camera. Honestly, I was surprised by its better-than-average performance. Is it the best phone camera out there? No way. But in good light, it takes good photos. In mixed light, it takes OK photos. And in low light, it struggles and images tend to have some noise. Skin tones looked fairly natural in selfies, and for those who like such things, there is an optional beauty mode. The Moto G4 Play shot serviceable 1,920x1,080-pixel resolution video at 30 frames per second (fps). Take a look at some of the snaps I took with the Moto G4 Play in the gallery below.

During my time with the G4 Play, I found it responsive in general use. I didn't experience any lags when opening or switching apps. However, playing games like Pokemon Go and Monument Valley really slowed things down, and so did taking panoramic photos. On the plus side, this little guy gets great battery life. In our looping video drain test, the Moto G4 Play lasted 13 hours, 36 minutes.

Storage is on the slim side -- 16GB -- which you expect for a low-cost phone. Luckily, a microSD slot supports an additional 128GB. Another perk: The Moto G4 Play comes with two years of free storage on Google Photos. Between photos and videos, it's easy to use that 16GB up pretty fast. I would definitely recommend getting a microSD card.

So what's it missing? A fingerprint sensor and color customization through the Moto Maker website. While the US and Australian models are missing NFC, the UK model is NFC-enabled. The G4 Play does have a headphone jack, unlike the higher-end Moto Z and Moto Z Force (US-only).

Take a look below to see how the G4 Play compares to the similarly specced (and priced) Moto G4, Samsung Galaxy J3, Sony Xperia XA and Huawei Honor 5X.

Phone spec comparison

	Motorola Moto G4 Play	Motorola Moto G4	Samsung Galaxy J3	Sony Xperia XA	Huawei Honor 5X
Display size, resolution	5-inch; 1,280x720 pixels	5.5-inch; 1,920x1,080 pixels	5-inch; 1,280x720 pixels	5-inch; 1,280x720 pixels	5.5-inch; 1,920x1,080 pixels
Pixel density	294ppi	401ppi	294ppi	294ppi	401ppi
Dimensions (Inches)	5.7x2.8x0.39 in	6.0x3.0x0.39 in	5.6x2.8x0.3 in	5.7x2.6x0.31 in	6x3x0.32 in
Dimensions (Millimeters)	144.4x72x9.9 mm	153x76.6x9.8 mm	142x71x7.9 mm	144x67x7.9 mm	151x76x8.2 mm
Weight (Ounces, Grams)	4.83 oz; 137 g	5.47 oz; 155 g	4.87 oz; 138 g	4.8 oz; 137.4 g	5.6 oz; 158 g
Mobile software	Android 6.0 Marshmallow	Android 6.0 Marshmallow	Android 6.0 Marshmallow	Android 6.0 Marshmallow	Android 5.1 Lollipop
Camera	8-megapixel	13-megapixel	5-megapixel	13-megapixel	13-megapixel
Front-facing camera	5-megapixel	5-megapixel	2-megapixel	8-megapixel	5-megapixel
Video capture	1080p HD	1080p HD	720p	1080p HD	1080p HD
Processor	1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410	1.5GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 617	1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410	2GHz octa-core MediaTek Helio P10	1.5GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 615
Storage	16GB	16GB	16GB	16GB	16GB
RAM	2GB	2GB	2GB	2GB	3GB
Expandable storage	Up to 128GB	Up to 128GB	Up to 128GB	200GB	Up to 128GB
Battery	2,800mAh (removable)	3,000mAh (removable)	2,600mAh (removable)	2,700mAh (nonremovable)	3,000mAh (nonremovable)
Fingerprint sensor	None	None	None	None	Back cover
Connector	Micro-USB	Micro-USB	Micro-USB	Micro-USB	Micro-USB
Special features	Splash-resistant	Water-resistant	N/A	N/A	Dual-SIM card slots
Price off-contract (USD)	$150	$199	$110-$180 (varies by carrier)	$280	$200
Price (GBP)	£130	£169	£140 (8GB version)	Converts to £195	Converts to £135
Price (AUD)	AU$279	Converts to AU$260	AU$329	Converts to AU$390	Converts to AU$275

This review originally published September 15 at 6 a.m. PT and updated at 12:12 p.m. PT with results from our second battery test. It was updated September 20 at 10:30 a.m. PT with more information about carrier connectivity as well as NFC.

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Vivo X50 Pro review: A solid all-rounder for camera lovers

Vivo X50 Pro review: A solid all-rounder for camera lovers

The Vivo X50 Pro is a midrange phone on the higher end of that spectrum and has many of the trappings of an enticing flagship. Starting at approximately $670, you get a crystalline screen, 5G, a powerful battery, a speedy display and fast charging. But the phone also has a camera feature that undeniably distinguishes it from its rivals. The X50 Pro is the world's first mass-produced phone with a built-in gimbal camera system that allows you to capture smooth, fast-action video with the click of a button. Out of Vivo's trio of X50 handsets -- which the Chinese phone-maker is marketing as a professional photography flagship -- the X50 Pro is the only one to boast this futuristic feature. But Vivo did make a few compromises. For instance, it lacks stereo speakers (a big drawback for music lovers like myself) and it isn't water resistant, which many phones of this class are. It also has a midrange processor (Snapdragon 765G) instead of the most adva nced chipset available.

If you're not fussed about shooting action video, you're better off buying Vivo's base X50 or the OnePlus Nord. Both have comparable specs but don't charge a premium for advanced video gimbals and hardware. The X50 and Nord feature a quad-camera system led by a 48-megapixel shooter, the same chipset and a fast display, but are nearly $100 to $200 cheaper respectively. But if being splash-proof is important to you, consider the iPhone 11 ($500 at Best Buy).

Vivo doesn't currently have plans to officially release the phone in the US. But X50 phones have been released in parts of Asia and Europe, so they'll be reasonably easy to import. Pricing also varies based on country with prices trending higher in Western countries. In India, the base variant (with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage) starts at 49,990 rupees (approximately $670, £510 or AU$930), while in Eastern Europe it starts at the equivalent of $780. 

Vivo's X50 Pro features a 6.5-inch AMOLED display. 

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

The X50 Pro's gimbal camera delivers

The X50 Pro has multiple rear cameras. The entire setup uses a gimbal-like system and a combination of optical image stabilization and electronic image stabilization to produce incredibly stable video. Vivo says its gimbal system reduces shakiness by up to three times compared to traditional stabilization technology, thanks to a "double ball structure" that allows it to rotate on three axes.

I captured a bunch of video in different lighting conditions to see how well the X50 Pro stacked up against another phone known for its video-camera prowess, the iPhone 11 Pro Max. In short, the X50 Pro performed very well. When I recorded video while walking in daylight and panning the cameras from side to side, I didn't see much of a difference between the two phones. Both captured stable footage without any obvious jerkiness. 

The differences were noticeable, however, when running, especially in darker conditions. Although the X50 Pro's output was steady and seamless, there were several times when the camera went out of focus and blurred slightly.The iPhone 11 Pro Max's footage, on the other hand, always remained in focus but was extremely shaky. In the end, I preferred video from the X50 Pro because it was easier for me to watch stable video with occasional blurs rather than jerky footage. Apart from video, another use-case for the gimbal system is taking photos while zooming. I was able to more easily capture some great photos zoomed in because of the stability it provided. 

Bottom line: The X50 Pro's gimbal-style camera is impressive and generally delivers what it promises. But it cannot replace a full-sized gimbal -- it is built into a phone after all. And while its technology is unique, its videos aren't earth-shatteringly better than, say, what you get on the pricier iPhone 11 Pro Max.

The X50 Pro's design is slender and classic

Though its design isn't wholly unique, the Vivo's X50 Pro is still a sleek phone with a classic aesthetic. I prefer designs like this because they're more enduring rather than envelope-pushing trends that seem to fade away (remember pop-up selfie cameras?). The X50 Pro has a spacious 6.56-inch curved display with a discreet hole-punch selfie camera. On the back there's a larger than average rectangular protrusion that's home to a rear quad-camera module and the phone's headline gimbal feature.

The X50 Pro comes in gray, which I love. Its subtle sheen adds to the phone's premium look. Overall the X50 Pro is neither heavy or exceptionally lightweight, but it is relatively slim, which allows me to type out emails and messages using one hand.

The X50 Pro's screen has a higher 90Hz refresh rate than most phones, which have 60Hz displays. It offers a silky smooth experience, which I really like, though it's not as high as the 120Hz screens on the OnePlus 8 Pro and Galaxy S20.

Vivo's rear camera setup is headlined by a 48-megapixel shooter.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

The X50 Pro's multiple cameras have range

In addition to the phone's main 48-megapixel sensor, there are two telephoto shooters and an 8-megapixel ultrawide-angle lens. These multiple cameras offer plenty of variety and range in terms of photographic possibilities, which I really appreciate. For example, the ultrawide camera has a 120-degree field of view, while the periscope zoom camera can zoom in on an object up to 60x.

In general, the X50 Pro captured crisp and vibrant photos that captured my surroundings wonderfully and with accurate colors. But in certain lighting conditions, during sunset for example, photos were more saturated and punched-up in the X50 Pro than the iPhone 11 Pro. Whichever photo you prefer is likely a matter of personal preference, but you can see the difference for yourself in the photos below. Keep in mind that the monitor you're viewing these pictures on has an affect as well.

The Vivo X50 Pro captured a fiery yellow-orange sunset (left), while the photograph taken by the iPhone XS Max (right) was more true to life. 

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

This photo was taken indoors with the default lens. As you can see, there was natural light pouring through the windows and it wasn't the easiest lighting conditions for the camera to work with, but the image came out well.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

This image was taken using the default shooter and is more saturated in the photo than it was in real life.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

This image was taken at night using the camera's dedicated Night Mode setting.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

The phone's 60x zoom, known as "Hyper Zoom," doesn't close in as intimately as the Galaxy S20 Ultra's 100x "Space Zoom," but I was still blown away by the sheer power of it. Photos were blurry, but they still retained detail that I couldn't see with my own eyes. And when I didn't need to zoom that far, I was also able to take sharp and detailed images at 5x optical zoom, which few phones have.

Vivo's X50 Pro has range. Using its 60x hyper zoom, I was able to zoom into the sign on the hotel on the opposite side of the harbor. I couldn't see the sign with my naked eye and did not know it existed till I zoomed in with the phone.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

This image was taken on default settings (1x).

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

Zooming in 5x.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

Zooming in 10x.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

The four zoom modes side by side.

Sareena Dayaram/CNET

The phone's ultrawide lens captured sprawling landscapes and sunsets. Colors, however, weren't as true to life as they appeared when I took pictures with the X50 Pro's other lenses in most lighting conditions. For some reason, blues were darker on images taken with the ultrawide lens. This isn't a major flaw, but color accuracy is super important to photographers, and they're who Vivo is actively courting with this phone.

X50 Pro's software features and UI

The X50 Pro runs FunTouch OS 10.5 on top of Android 10. It's a clean interface that's easy to use. There was some bloatware, but most of it could be turned off and it didn't bother me much. The X50 Pro also comes with dark mode, an always-on display option and an app drawer. It also has circular icons, which I prefer to the rigidness of square ones.

Like most Android 10 phones, you'll use swiping gesture controls to navigate through the phone. But the phone does have some unintuitive controls of its own. In the early days of my reviewing the X50 Pro, for example, I accidentally hung up on a bunch of incoming calls. That's because to answer a call you need to swipe down as opposed to up, which is the more common direction on Android phones. 

X50 Pro battery and performance

The X50 Pro's battery comfortably lasted me throughout the day with mild usage. That means I used it for light gameplay, reading the news on various apps, answering emails, scanning my social media account and chatting with loved ones on WhatsApp. When I continuously played an HD video on Airplane mode for battery tests, the phone lasted 15 hours, 22 minutes at 50% brightness. 

When it did eventually run out of juice, it took the phone between 52 to 73 minutes to reach a full charge using the bundled 33-watt flash charger (during the three times that I tested it). That's a pretty good time -- most premium phones take about 90 minutes to fully charge.  By comparison, Apple says the fast charger that comes with its iPhone 11 Pro can hit a 50% charge in 30 minutes. Fast charging is super handy, especially for those occasions when I'm about to leave my apartment and I realize my phone is almost dead. 

The phone's Snapdragon 765G processor (the G stands for gaming BTW) is a lower-cost option for phone-makers to equip their phones with 5G. It isn't as powerful as the Snapdragon 865 chipset (as seen in the OnePlus 8 Pro and the Galaxy S20 line), but the 765G provided more than enough power for all my processing needs. The X50 Pro stacked up well in benchmark tests against other phones equipped with the same chip like the OnePlus Nord and LG Velvet. And when I played more demanding, graphics-intensive games such as PUBG, I didn't notice any lags or stuttering. The gaming experience was immersive and graphics were crisp.

3DMark Slingshot

Note:

Longer bars indicate better performance

Geekbench v.5.0 single-core

Note:

Longer bars indicate better performance

Geekbench v.5.0 multicore

Note:

Longer bars indicate better performance.

Vivo X50 specs vs. X50 Pro vs. rivals

	Vivo X50	Vivo X50 Pro	OnePlus Nord	OnePlus 8	iPhone 11
Display size, resolution	6.5-inch AMOLED	6.5-inch AMOLED; 2376x1,080 pixels	6.44-inch; 2,400x1,080 pixels	6.55-inch AMOLED; 2,400x1,080 pixels	6.1-inch LCD Liquid Retina; 1,792x828 pixels
Dimensions (Inches)	6.28 x 2.96 x 0.29	6.28 x 2.97 x 0.29 inches	6.23 x 2.88 x 0.32 inches	6.3 x 2.8 x 0.31 inches	5.94 x 2.98 x 0.33 inches
Dimensions (Millimeters)	159.54 x 75.4 x 7.55mm	158.46 x 72.8 x 8.04mm	158.3 x 73.3 x 8.2mm	160 x 72.9 x 8.0 mm	150.9x75.7x8.3 mm
Weight (Ounces, Grams)	174.5g	181.5 grams	6.49 oz; 184g	6.35 oz; 180g	6.84 oz; 194g
Mobile software (at launch)	Android 10	Android 10	Android 10	Android 10	iOS 13
Camera	48-megapixel (main), 8-megapixel (ultra wide-angle), 5-megapixel (macro), 13-megapixel (portrait telephoto)	48-megapixel (main), 8-megapixel (ultra wide-angle), 8-megapixel (periscope), 13-megapixel (portrait telephoto)	48-megapixel (standard), 12-megapixel (wide-angle), 2-megapixel (macro), 5-megapixel (depth-sensing)	48-megapixel (standard), 16-megapixel (ultra-wide), 2-megapixel (macro)	12-megapixel (wide), 12-megapixel (ultra-wide)
Front-facing camera	32-megapixel	32-megapixel	32-megapixel, 8-megapixel (wide-angle)	16-megapixel	12-megapixel with Face ID
Processor	Snapdragon 765G	Snapdragon 765G	Snapdragon 765G	Snapdragon 865	A13 Bionic
Video capture	4K	4K	4K	4K	4K
Storage	128GB, 256GB	128GB, 256GB	128GB, 256GB	128GB, 256GB	64GB, 128GB, 256GB
RAM	8GB	8GB	8GB,12GB	8GB, 12GB	Not disclosed
Expandable storage	No	No	No	No	No
Battery	4,200 mAh	4,315 mAH	4,115 mAh	4,300 mAh	Not disclosed, but Apple claims it will last 1 hour longer than iPhone XR
Fingerprint sensor	Yes	Yes	In-screen	In-screen	None (Face ID)
Connector	USB-C	USB-C	USB-C	USB-C	Lightning
Headphone jack	No	No	No	No	No
Special features	5G enabled, 20x Digitial Zoom, 90Hz refresh rate	Gimbal-like camera, 60x hyperzoom, 90Hz refresh rate, dual SIM support, 33W fast charging	5G enabled, 90Hz refresh rate, 30W fast-charging	5G enabled; Warp Charge; 90Hz refresh rate	Water resistant (IP68); dual-SIM capabilities (nano-SIM and e-SIM); wireless charging
Price (USD) at launch	$470 for 128GB (converted from 34,990 rupees)	$665 for 128GB (converted from 49,990 rupees )	$572 (converted from 500 euros)	$699 (8GB RAM/128GB), $799 (12GB RAM/256GB)	$699 (64GB), $749 (128GB), $849 (256GB)

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Mortgage Interest Rates for Sept. 1, 2022: Rates Climb

Mortgage Interest Rates for Sept. 1, 2022: Rates Climb

Some important mortgage rates increased today. The average 15-year fixed and 30-year fixed mortgage rates both grew. For variable rates, the 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage also floated higher.

Though mortgage rates have been rather consistently going up since the start of this year, what happens next depends on whether inflation continues to climb or begins to retreat. Interest rates are dynamic and unpredictable -- at least on a daily or weekly basis -- and they respond to a wide variety of economic factors. Right now, they're particularly sensitive to inflation and the prospect of a US recession. With so much uncertainty in the market, if you're looking to buy a home, trying to time the market may not play to your favor. If inflation rises and rates climb, this could translate to higher interest rates and steeper monthly mortgage payments. For this reason, you may have better luck locking in a lower mortgage interest rate sooner rather than later. No matter when you decide to shop for a home, it's always a good idea to seek out multiple lenders to compare rates and fees to find the best mortgage for your specific situation.

30-year fixed-rate mortgages

The average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate is 5.95%, which is an increase of 3 basis points compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) The most common loan term is a 30-year fixed mortgage. A 30-year fixed rate mortgage will usually have a smaller monthly payment than a 15-year one -- but usually a higher interest rate. You won't be able to pay off your house as quickly and you'll pay more interest over time, but a 30-year fixed mortgage is a good option if you're looking to minimize your monthly payment.

15-year fixed-rate mortgages

The average rate for a 15-year, fixed mortgage is 5.19%, which is an increase of 11 basis points from the same time last week. Compared to a 30-year fixed mortgage, a 15-year fixed mortgage with the same loan value and interest rate will have a higher monthly payment. But a 15-year loan will usually be the better deal, if you're able to afford the monthly payments. These include typically being able to get a lower interest rate, paying off your mortgage sooner, and paying less total interest in the long run.

5/1 adjustable-rate mortgages

A 5/1 ARM has an average rate of 4.42%, a climb of 9 basis points compared to a week ago. For the first five years, you'll usually get a lower interest rate with a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage compared to a 30-year fixed mortgage. But you could end up paying more after that time, depending on the terms of your loan and how the rate adjusts with the market rate. If you plan to sell or refinance your house before the rate changes, an adjustable-rate mortgage could make sense for you. If not, shifts in the market could significantly increase your interest rate.

Mortgage rate trends

Though mortgage rates were historically low at the beginning of 2022, they have been rising somewhat steadily since then. The Federal Reserve recently raised interest rates by another 0.75 percentage points in an attempt to curb record-high inflation. The Fed has raised rates a total of four times this year, but inflation still remains high. As a general rule, when inflation is low, mortgage rates tend to be lower. When inflation is high, rates tend to be higher.

Though the Fed does not directly set mortgage rates, the central bank's policy actions influence how much you pay to finance your home loan. If you're looking to buy a house in 2022, keep in mind that the Fed has signaled it will continue to raise rates, and mortgage rates could increase as the year goes on. Whether rates follow their upward projection or begin to level out hinges on if inflation actually slows.

We use data collected by Bankrate, which is owned by the same parent company as CNET, to track changes in these daily rates. This table summarizes the average rates offered by lenders across the country:

Current average mortgage interest rates

Loan type	Interest rate	A week ago	Change
30-year fixed rate	5.95%	5.92%	+0.03
15-year fixed rate	5.19%	5.08%	+0.11
30-year jumbo mortgage rate	5.94%	5.93%	+0.01
30-year mortgage refinance rate	5.92%	5.85%	+0.07

Updated on Sept. 1, 2022.

How to find personalized mortgage rates

When you are ready to apply for a loan, you can reach out to a local mortgage broker or search online. When researching home mortgage rates, take into account your goals and current financial situation. A range of factors -- including your down payment, credit score, loan-to-value ratio and debt-to-income ratio -- will all affect your mortgage interest rate. Generally, you want a higher credit score, a larger down payment, a lower DTI and a lower LTV to get a lower interest rate. Apart from the mortgage rate, additional costs including closing costs, fees, discount points and taxes might also impact the cost of your home. Be sure to comparison shop with multiple lenders -- including credit unions and online lenders in addition to local and national banks -- in order to get a mortgage that's the right fit for you.

What's the best loan term?

One important thing to consider when choosing a mortgage is the loan term, or payment schedule. The most common mortgage terms are 15 years and 30 years, although 10-, 20- and 40-year mortgages also exist. Mortgages are further divided into fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. For fixed-rate mortgages, interest rates are set for the life of the loan. Unlike a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rates for an adjustable-rate mortgage are only set for a certain amount of time (commonly five, seven or 10 years). After that, the rate adjusts annually based on the current interest rate in the market.

One thing to think about when deciding between a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage is how long you plan on staying in your house. Fixed-rate mortgages might be a better fit if you plan on staying in a home for quite some time. Fixed-rate mortgages offer greater stability over time in comparison to adjustable-rate mortgages, but adjustable-rate mortgages might offer lower interest rates upfront. If you aren't planning to keep your new house for more than three to 10 years, though, an adjustable-rate mortgage might give you a better deal. The best loan term is entirely dependent on your personal situation and goals, so be sure to think about what's important to you when choosing a mortgage.

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Best Gas Credit Cards for September 2022: Earn Rewards for Your Gas Spending

Best Gas Credit Cards for September 2022: Earn Rewards for Your Gas Spending

Whether you're commuting to work or taking a summer road trip, using a gas credit card is a good way to put some rewards back in your pocket for spending you have to make.

These cards are designed with high rewards rates specifically on gas and gas station purchases -- you can earn up to 5% of your gas costs back, among other perks like welcome bonuses, grocery rewards and introductory APRs. The picks below fit a variety of needs, so there's sure to be a good choice for your wallet. 

Intro Offer Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $750 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

APR16.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

Intro Purchase APR0% for 15 months on purchases

Recommended Credit Excellent, Good

Reward Rates

• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
• Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Annual Fee$0

Intro Balance Transfer APR0% for 15 months on balance transfers

Balance Transfer APR16.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

Balance Transfer Fee Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

Late Payment Fee Up to $41

Foreign Transaction Fees 3%

Penalty APR Up to 29.99% (Variable)

• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
• Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Our Take

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card allows cardholders to earn 5% cash back on their highest eligible spending category, on up to $500 of expenditure within a billing cycle, then 1%. Gas stations are an eligible category. This 5% gets applied automatically depending on your spending within the billing cycle, so be sure to use this card primarily for gas. For most commuters, this card will maximize your cash-back earnings on gas savings over all others.

Other eligible spending categories include restaurants, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs and live entertainment. 

Check out our full review of the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card.

Intro Offer For a limited time, earn 80,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening

APR18.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Recommended Credit Excellent, Good

Reward Rates

• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Hotels
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Annual Fee$95

Balance Transfer APR18.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

Balance Transfer Fee Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

Late Payment Fee Up to $41

Foreign Transaction Fees 0%

Penalty APR Up to 29.99% (Variable)

• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Hotels
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Our Take

The Citi Premier Card is a great option for anyone who does most of their spending at gas stations (and supermarkets, restaurants, hotels or air travel). When you spend in those categories, you'll earn 3x points for every dollar you spend, compared with just 1x points per dollar in all other spending categories. And you can earn points at gas stations worldwide.

These points can be redeemed for 1 cent each as a statement credit -- essentially netting you 3% return on gas station purchases. Plus, there's no cap on the amount you can earn the 3x points on. The only downside is its $95 annual fee, so make sure you're earning enough in rewards to make up for it. Check out our full review of the Citi Premier Card for more details on its other benefits.

Intro Offer Earn a $350 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

APR16.24%-27.24% Variable

Intro Purchase APR0% on purchases for 12 months

Recommended Credit Excellent, Good

Reward Rates

• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases

Annual Fee$95

Intro Balance Transfer APR0% on balance transfers for 12 months

Balance Transfer APR16.24%-27.24% Variable

Balance Transfer Fee Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Late Payment Fee Up to $40

Foreign Transaction Fees 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Penalty APR 29.99% Variable

• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases

Our Take

The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express offers high cash-back rates for U.S. gas stations at 3%. But if you don't drive, or commute via public transit or ride-share often, you also get 3% back on those purchases (and parking, tolls, buses, trains and more). In addition to these great transit rewards, you can also earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 of spending per year, then 1%, and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Intro Offer Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match - only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 into $200. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.

APR14.49% - 23.49% Variable

Intro Purchase APR0% for 6 months

Recommended Credit Fair/New to Credit

Reward Rates

• Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
• Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Annual Fee$0

Intro Balance Transfer APR10.99% for 6 months

Balance Transfer APR14.49% - 23.49% Variable

Balance Transfer Fee 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

Late Payment Fee None the first time you pay late. After that, up to $41.

Foreign Transaction Fees None

• Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.
• Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Our Take

The Discover it® Student chrome* is designed to help make credit more accessible for students and to help them build credit, but it still has surprisingly good rewards. You'll earn 2% on gas station and restaurant spending (on up to $1,000 in combined purchases per quarter, then 1%). You'll also earn 1% cash back on all other purchases, as well as an Unlimited Cashback Match at the end of your first year, as is tradition with Discover cards. Because it's a student card, it doesn't come with some of the other perks you might expect.

Intro Offer Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

APR15.49% - 21.49% Variable

Intro Purchase APR0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months

Recommended Credit Good, Excellent

Reward Rates

• Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
• Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
• Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn

Annual Fee$0

Balance Transfer APR15.49% - 21.49% Variable

Balance Transfer Fee Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Foreign Transaction Fees 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.

Penalty APR Up to 29.99%

• Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
• Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
• Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn

Our Take

If you need a gas credit card for your small business, consider the Chase Ink Business Cash card. It's one of the best business credit cards on the market right now. Not only does it offer cash-back rewards on categories that businesses often need like office supplies and telecommunications, but it also offers 2% cash back on gas station purchases (on up to $25,000 in combined gas station and restaurant purchases each year) -- netting you up to $500 in cash back per year just on gas station purchases. And despite the business perks and great welcome bonus, it has no annual fee and a 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months (15.49% to 21.49% variable APR thereafter).

Intro Offer N/A

APR15.90% or 23.90% Variable

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Recommended Credit Excellent/Good Credit

Reward Rates

• 5% cash back on gas anywhere (up to $6,000)
• Plus members earn 3% back on eligible purchases when shopping in-club or digitally through Sam's Club when they use their Sam's Club Mastercard and another 2% back from their Plus membership, for a total of up to 5% rewards on eligible purchases.
• 3% cash back on dining and takeout
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Annual Fee$0

Foreign Transaction Fees $0

• 5% cash back on gas anywhere (up to $6,000)
• Plus members earn 3% back on eligible purchases when shopping in-club or digitally through Sam's Club when they use their Sam's Club Mastercard and another 2% back from their Plus membership, for a total of up to 5% rewards on eligible purchases.
• 3% cash back on dining and takeout
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Our Take

If you're a Sam's Club member, then this Mastercard might be a good option for a gas credit card. With the Sam's Club Mastercard*, not only do you earn 5% cash back on gas purchases at Sam's Club, but you earn the same 5% back at all other gas stations (on the first $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%). It's an especially attractive card if you're a Sam's Club Plus member and can take advantage of the higher cash back at the store. However, this card doesn't come with many of the perks you'd expect of another rewards credit card, such as a large welcome bonus or 0% introductory APR.

Check out our full review of the Sam's Club Mastercard for more details.

Intro Offer N/A

APR17.49% (Variable)

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Recommended Credit Excellent

Reward Rates

• 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
• 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Annual Fee$0

Balance Transfer APR17.49% (Variable)

Balance Transfer Fee Balance transfer fee applies with this offer 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

Late Payment Fee Up to $41

Foreign Transaction Fees 0%

Penalty APR Up to 29.99% (Variable)

• 4% cash back on eligible gas for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases
• 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Our Take

If you're a Costco member -- or willing to become one -- the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi* offers 4% cash back on eligible gas for up to $7,000 per year (then 1%). Technically there isn't an annual fee to maintain an account, but you'll need to pay $60 annually for a Costco membership. If you're averaging around $135 per week or less in gas, the 4% cash-back rate can cover your gas bill for the year. The catch is that you can only redeem your rewards on an annual basis.

For more details on how to redeem these rewards and other features, check out our full review of the Costco Anywhere Visa Card.

FAQs

What is a gas credit card?

A gas credit card is one that rewards cardholders for spending at gas stations. Most gas credit cards aren't offered by gas stations themselves. Instead, other credit card issuers offer bonus rewards on gas purchases, among others. The best gas credit cards offer up to 5% back on gas purchases, but most offer 2% to 3%.

What credit score do I need for a gas credit card?

The credit score you need to qualify for a gas credit card depends on the specific card you apply for. Most credit cards on this list require a good credit score of 670 or higher. That being said, some may have stricter requirements. 

On the other hand, cards like the Discover it Student chrome are designed for lower-credit borrowers and may require only average credit.

Who should get a gas credit card?

Gas credit cards can be an excellent option for anyone who does a lot of driving and would see a financial benefit from increased rewards on gas purchases. Consider this: If you spend $250 per month (which amounts to $3,000 per year) on gas, then a card that offers 3% cash back on gas could help you score an extra $90 per year in gas purchases alone. With a card offering 1% cash back on gas, the same amount of spending would result in just $30 per year in cash back.

Is it better to get a cash-back card or a gas credit card?

A cash-back credit card offers you a percentage of cash back on your spending -- either overall at a flat rate or on certain spending categories. A gas credit card is a type of cash-back card that specifically rewards you when you spend money at gas stations. 

One of the benefits of the credit cards on our list is that they don't just reward you for your gas purchases. Instead, they're general cash-back credit cards that happen to include gas as one of their bonus categories. As a result, you can earn higher cash back for your gas purchases (and other spending categories) while still earning baseline rewards for all of your spending.

Our methodology

CNET reviews credit cards by exhaustively comparing them across set criteria developed for each major category, including cash-back, welcome bonus, travel rewards and balance transfer. We take into consideration the typical spending behavior of a range of consumer profiles -- with the understanding that everyone's financial situation is different -- and the designated function of a card. 

For cash-back credit cards, for example, key factors include the annual fee, the "welcome bonus" and the cash-back rate (or rates, if they differ by spending category). For rewards and miles cards, we calculate and weigh the net monetary value of a card's respective perks. And with balance transfer credit cards, we analyze specs such as the duration of the introductory 0% APR period and the balance transfer fee, while acknowledging secondary factors such as the standard APR and the length of time you have to make a balance transfer after you open the account.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express, click here .

*All information about the Discover it Student chrome, Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi, and Sam's Club Mastercard was collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

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