Starting out with zero credit is frustrating. Secured cards guarantee approval and help build your credit score quickly. Is it better to start with them? I’d rather put down a deposit than keep getting rejected for unsecured cards.

I want to start fresh with U.S. credit, so how can I compare secured cards with beginner-friendly unsecured options — like student or entry-level cash-back cards — to see which could help me build credit faster while keeping fees and risks low?