Search Credit Card Offers
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.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card. Both cards offer unique features and rewards structures, catering to different spending habits and travel preferences.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for consumers who frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and enjoy streaming services. It offers attractive cash back rewards on everyday purchases, making it beneficial for families and individuals who prioritize cash back on groceries and entertainment.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is ideal for business owners and travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. It provides opportunities to earn points on travel-related expenses, which can be redeemed for flights, making it a great choice for those who prioritize travel rewards.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $99 |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months | 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets, 6% on select streaming subscriptions, 3% at gas stations and transit, 1% on other purchases | 3X points on Southwest Airlines purchases, 2X points on hotel and car rental partners, 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Cash advance fee: $5 or 3% of the amount, whichever is greater | Cash advance fee: $5 or 3% of the amount, whichever is greater |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, Plan It® feature | 2 EarlyBird Check-In each year, 6,000 bonus points after Cardmember anniversary |
Rewards Highlights
- 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.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back on groceries and streaming services.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Generous welcome bonus.
- Disney Bundle Credit adds value for families.
- Cons:
- Annual fee after the first year.
- Lower cash back on non-bonus categories.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- Great for frequent Southwest flyers.
- Earn points on various travel-related expenses.
- Bonus points on Cardmember anniversary.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee applies from the start.
- Rewards are mainly beneficial for Southwest Airlines travel.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families and individuals who often grocery shop and enjoy streaming services, maximizing cash back on those categories.
- The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is perfect for business owners and travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines and want to earn points on travel-related purchases.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card ultimately depends on your individual spending patterns and financial goals. Consider your priorities, whether they lean towards cash back on everyday purchases or travel rewards, to make the best decision for your needs.