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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and financial goals.
Card Overviews
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is designed for avid travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. This card offers a robust rewards structure focused on airline purchases, along with various travel benefits suitable for Southwest users.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is geared towards business owners who seek premium travel rewards and extensive benefits. With high earning potential on travel-related purchases, this card is ideal for those looking to maximize their rewards and enjoy luxury travel perks.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card | The Business Platinum Card® from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $149 | $695 |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months | 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 3X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X on local transit and select services | 5X points on flights, prepaid hotels, and more; 1X on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | $75 annual travel credit, 7,500 anniversary points | Global lounge access, $200 airline fee credit, up to $1,000 in statement credits |
Rewards Highlights
- 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 (that’s an extra half point per dollar) 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. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases.
Pros and Cons
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus for new cardholders.
- Great rewards on Southwest® purchases.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Annual travel credit enhances value.
- Anniversary points reward loyalty.
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines for maximum rewards.
- Annual fee may deter some users.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Pros:
- High welcome bonus with significant earning potential.
- Extensive travel benefits and lounge access.
- Various statement credits available for tech and travel expenses.
- Flexible points earning structure.
- Cons:
- High annual fee may not be justified for casual users.
- Spending requirements for bonuses are steep.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is ideal for frequent Southwest Airlines travelers who want to maximize their rewards on airline purchases and enjoy travel-related benefits.
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is better suited for business owners or frequent travelers seeking high rewards on various travel purchases, lounge access, and extensive statement credits.
Conclusion
Both the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card and Business Platinum Card® from American Express cater to different audiences with distinct benefits. Consider your individual spending habits and travel preferences to choose the card that best aligns with your financial goals.