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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
This comparison aims to assist you in deciding between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card. Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for consumers who prioritize cash back on everyday spending, particularly in categories such as groceries and streaming services. With a strong cash back rewards structure and an introductory offer, this card is ideal for families and individuals who frequently shop at supermarkets and enjoy streaming entertainment.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card is tailored for travelers and Marriott loyalists who want to earn rewards for their hotel stays and travel-related expenses. With no annual fee and generous points on hotel stays, this card is perfect for those who frequently travel and stay at Marriott properties.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months | 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% at U.S. gas stations, 3% on transit, 1% on other purchases | Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 2X at grocery stores and select services, 1X on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Plan fees may apply after the first 12 months | No fees on qualifying travel purchases |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, Cash Back can be redeemed as statement credits | Pay Yourself Back® for qualifying travel purchases, no annual fee |
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.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
- Earn up to 14X total points for every $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
- Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
- 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back rates on groceries and streaming.
- Introductory statement credit bonus.
- Flexible cash back redemption options.
- Additional benefits like the Disney Bundle Credit.
- Cons:
- $95 annual fee after the first year.
- Limitations on cash back categories.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee.
- Generous point earnings on hotel stays.
- Flexible travel-related redemption options.
- Cons:
- Lower point earnings on non-travel purchases.
- Limited to Marriott hotel benefits.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for individuals or families who spend significantly on groceries and streaming services, seeking to maximize cash back rewards. Conversely, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card is best suited for travelers who frequently stay at Marriott hotels and want to earn points for their stays and travel-related expenses without an annual fee.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card offer distinct advantages. It is essential to consider your spending habits and financial goals to select the card that best aligns with your lifestyle.