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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card. Each card offers unique features and 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 ideal for those who frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and enjoy streaming services. With a strong cash back rewards structure, this card is designed for everyday spenders who want to maximize their rewards on common purchases.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card caters to travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. This card provides valuable points for air travel and rewards loyal customers with additional benefits, making it a suitable choice for frequent flyers.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $69 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% at U.S. gas stations, 3% on transit, 1% on other purchases | 2X points on Southwest purchases, local transit, internet, cable, phone services; 1 point on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Cash Advance Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount (whichever is greater) | Cash Advance Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount (whichever is greater) |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, Buy Now, Pay Later options | 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year, 3,000 anniversary points |
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.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
- Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
- Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
- Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
- Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back rewards on groceries and streaming services.
- Generous welcome bonus.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee after the first year.
- Rewards limited to specific categories.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
- Pros:
- Strong rewards for travel with Southwest Airlines.
- Annual bonus points.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee.
- Rewards primarily benefit Southwest travelers.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
If you frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and enjoy streaming services, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a frequent flyer with Southwest Airlines, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card would provide more value through travel rewards and benefits.
Conclusion
Both the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offer unique benefits tailored to different spending habits. Consider your individual needs, spending patterns, and travel habits when choosing the right card for you.