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Capital One Spark Cash vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Capital One Spark Cash and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. We will analyze each card's features, rewards, and benefits to determine which card might suit your financial needs best.
Card Overviews
Capital One Spark Cash
The Capital One Spark Cash is designed for businesses looking to earn cash back on every purchase. It offers straightforward rewards with no category restrictions, making it ideal for business owners who want simplicity and value in their credit card experience.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is tailored for frequent travelers and Marriott loyalists. With a focus on earning Marriott Bonvoy points, this card offers numerous travel-related benefits and rewards, making it an excellent choice for those who often stay at Marriott properties.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Capital One Spark Cash | Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro for first year; $95 after that | $650 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn $750 cash back after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months | Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2% cash back on every purchase | 6X points on Marriott purchases, 3X on restaurants and flights, 2X on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None | $50 deductible for cell phone protection claims |
| Additional Benefits | Free employee cards, cash back rewards do not expire | $300 dining credit, free night award, airport lounge access |
Rewards Highlights
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
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
- 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
- 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
Pros and Cons
Capital One Spark Cash
- Pros:
- No annual fee for the first year
- Simple cash back structure
- No foreign transaction fees
- Free employee cards
- Cons:
- Annual fee of $95 after the first year
- Limited travel perks compared to travel-focused cards
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus in points
- Extensive travel benefits and perks
- Access to airport lounges
- Free night award annually
- Cons:
- High annual fee of $650
- More complex rewards structure
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- Capital One Spark Cash: Ideal for business owners and individuals who prefer straightforward cash back rewards without worrying about categories. Perfect for those who want a card with no annual fee for the first year.
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Best suited for frequent travelers and Marriott patrons who can maximize the benefits and rewards of hotel stays, dining, and flights. The high annual fee can be justified by the extensive perks offered.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Capital One Spark Cash and Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card comes down to your individual spending habits and travel preferences. Consider your financial goals and whether you prioritize cash back simplicity or travel rewards when making your decision.