American Express® Business Gold Card vs Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

This comparison aims to help users decide between the American Express® Business Gold Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. Both cards cater to different business needs and preferences, and understanding their features will assist in making an informed choice.

Card Overviews

American Express® Business Gold Card

The American Express® Business Gold Card is designed for businesses looking to maximize their rewards on various spending categories. It offers a robust rewards structure, especially for businesses that frequently spend in specific categories. With an emphasis on flexibility and premium benefits, this card suits entrepreneurs and small business owners who travel or make significant purchases regularly.

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card focuses on travel and hospitality rewards, specifically for frequent travelers who prefer to stay at Marriott properties. It offers generous point earnings on hotel stays and dining, making it an ideal choice for business owners who value travel rewards and the benefits associated with Marriott Bonvoy membership.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

American Express® Business Gold Card

• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
• 1X is earned for other purchases. **

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

• 6x Marriott Bonvoy points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
• 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
• 2x points on all other eligible purchases.

Pros and Cons

American Express® Business Gold Card

• Pros:
• High rewards on two categories of choice.
• Flexible point redemption options.
• Comprehensive travel benefits.
• Metal card design adds a premium feel.
• Monthly statement credits for certain U.S. purchases.

• Cons:
• Higher annual fee compared to competitors.
• Complex rewards structure may require tracking.

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

• Pros:
• Lower annual fee.
• Generous rewards for Marriott stays and travel-related expenses.
• Free Night Awards enhance travel benefits.
• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status.

• Cons:
• Limited to Marriott hotels for maximum rewards.
• Fewer options for high-value points compared to Membership Rewards.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

The American Express® Business Gold Card is ideal for business owners who have varied spending patterns and wish to earn high rewards on selected categories, especially those who travel frequently and utilize American Express's travel services. Alternatively, the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card is well-suited for those who regularly stay at Marriott properties and prioritize hotel rewards, benefiting from additional perks like free nights and elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Conclusion

When deciding between the American Express® Business Gold Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card, it's essential to evaluate your individual spending habits and financial goals. Each card offers unique benefits and rewards that cater to different business needs, so consider what types of purchases you make most frequently and which rewards align best with 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.”