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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Capital One Spark Cash
This comparison aims to help potential cardholders decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Capital One Spark Cash. Both cards offer unique benefits, rewards, and features tailored to different spending habits and financial goals.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for individuals and families who frequently shop at supermarkets and use streaming services. It offers substantial cash back rewards on everyday purchases, making it ideal for those who want to maximize their rewards on common spending categories.
Capital One Spark Cash
The Capital One Spark Cash is geared towards business owners who want straightforward cash back rewards. This card provides a flat rate on all purchases, making it beneficial for businesses that prefer simplicity in their rewards structure and those looking to earn cash back without worrying about categories.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Capital One Spark Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $0 intro for first year; $95 after that |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months | $750 cash bonus after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets, 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% on transit and gas, 1% on other purchases | 2% cash back on all purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% | None |
| Other Fees | Plan fees after introductory period apply | None |
| Additional Benefits | Disney Bundle Credit, Cash Back can be redeemed as a statement credit | Free employee cards, rewards don’t expire |
Rewards Highlights
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- 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
Capital One Spark Cash
- Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening
- 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 2% cash back on every purchase
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back rates on supermarkets and streaming services
- Attractive welcome bonus
- Flexible redemption options
- Cons:
- Annual fee after the first year
- Foreign transaction fee
Capital One Spark Cash
- Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Flat cash back on all purchases
- Simple rewards structure
- Cons:
- Lower cash back rates compared to category-specific cards
- Higher spending requirement for welcome bonus
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families and individuals who spend significantly on groceries and streaming services. If your spending aligns with these categories, you can maximize your rewards.
On the other hand, the Capital One Spark Cash is well-suited for business owners who prefer a straightforward cash back approach without the hassle of tracking categories. It’s perfect for those who want to earn consistent rewards across all purchases.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Capital One Spark Cash comes down to your individual spending habits and financial goals. Consider where you spend the most and what type of rewards you value to make the best decision for your needs.