IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This comparison aims to help you decide between the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. By examining their key features, rewards structures, and benefits, you can determine which card aligns better with your financial goals and spending habits.

Card Overviews

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card is designed for individuals who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize their rewards on travel-related purchases. It offers a competitive rewards structure, significant bonuses on hotel stays, and valuable travel benefits.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express targets business owners who seek premium travel rewards, access to airport lounges, and exclusive purchase credits. With a high annual fee, it provides extensive benefits and rewards tailored for frequent travelers and business expenses.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

• Our Best Points Offer Ever! Earn up to 200,000 Bonus Points. Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending a total of $9,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.
• Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels and Resorts.
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, select advertising, and restaurants.
• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals and prepaid flight + hotel packages booked at AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1.5X points on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year.
• Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases.

Pros and Cons

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

• Pros:
  • Low annual fee of $99.
  • Generous welcome bonus of up to 200,000 points.
  • Free night stay at IHG hotels annually.
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status.
• Cons:
  • Limited bonus categories outside of IHG hotels.
  • Lower general rewards earning rate compared to premium cards.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Pros:
  • Extensive travel benefits including airport lounge access.
  • High welcome bonus potential with points and statement credits.
  • Variety of purchase credits available.
• Cons:
  • High annual fee of $695.
  • Spending requirements for bonuses are considerably high.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: Ideal for those who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize rewards on travel-related purchases without a high annual fee. Best suited for leisure travelers or small business owners who prioritize hotel rewards.
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for business owners who frequently travel and can take advantage of premium benefits such as airport lounge access and extensive purchase credits. Suitable for high spenders who can justify the higher annual fee through the card's rewards and benefits.

Conclusion

In summary, both the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offer unique advantages tailored to different user needs. Consider your spending patterns, travel habits, and financial goals to make the most informed decision that suits your lifestyle.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”