Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

This comparison aims to help potential users decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and lifestyles, making it essential to understand their features thoroughly.

Card Overviews

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for consumers who want to maximize their cash back rewards, especially on everyday purchases like groceries and streaming services. With a strong rewards structure and an introductory annual fee offer, it's ideal for those who frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and engage in various streaming subscriptions.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card caters to frequent travelers and Marriott loyalists. With its robust rewards program for hotel stays, dining, and travel perks like free night awards and airport lounge access, this card is perfect for those who often stay at Marriott properties and seek to enhance their travel experiences.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express Rewards

• 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.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Rewards

• 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

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • High cash back on groceries and streaming services.
  • Introductory annual fee offer.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
• Cons:
  • Annual fee increases after the first year.
  • Limited rewards categories compared to travel cards.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • High rewards for hotel stays and travel spending.
  • Comprehensive travel benefits and dining credits.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
• Cons:
  • High annual fee.
  • Best suited for frequent Marriott guests.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for users who frequently shop at supermarkets and engage in streaming services, making it a great choice for families or individuals looking to earn cash back on everyday expenses.

On the other hand, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is best for travelers who regularly stay at Marriott hotels and want to maximize their travel rewards while enjoying premium perks like free night awards and dining credits.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card depends on your spending habits and financial goals. Consider how often you dine out, travel, and what types of rewards will benefit you the most before making a decision.

“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.”