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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences, making it essential to evaluate their features before making a decision.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for individuals who frequently shop at supermarkets and enjoy streaming services. With a robust cash back rewards structure, it targets consumers looking to maximize their everyday spending benefits.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is ideal for travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. Offering valuable points for travel-related purchases and benefits like anniversary points and travel credits, it caters to those who prioritize travel rewards.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $149 |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in first 6 months | 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 6% on select streaming, 3% on transit and gas, 1% on other purchases | 3X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X on local transit, 2X on phone/internet/streaming |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% | None |
| Other Fees | Plan fees after intro period | None |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, cash back as Reward Dollars | $75 travel credit, 7,500 anniversary points |
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 rates on supermarkets and streaming services.
- Generous welcome bonus.
- Flexible redemption options for cash back.
- Cons:
- Annual fee after the first year.
- Foreign transaction fee applies.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Annual travel credit and bonus points each year.
- Great rewards for Southwest purchases.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee.
- Points are most beneficial for frequent Southwest flyers.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best suited for individuals who spend heavily on groceries and streaming services and want to maximize cash back rewards.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card: Ideal for frequent travelers who prioritize earning points for air travel and prefer to fly with Southwest Airlines.
Conclusion
Both the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card offer unique advantages tailored to different spending habits. It's essential to consider your individual needs, spending patterns, and financial goals when making a decision.