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Capital One Spark Cash
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

Capital One Spark Cash vs IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

This comparison aims to help users decide between the Capital One Spark Cash and the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored for different spending habits and preferences.

Card Overviews

Capital One Spark Cash

The Capital One Spark Cash is designed for businesses looking to earn cash back on everyday purchases. With a straightforward rewards structure, users can enjoy unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, making it ideal for those who prefer simplicity and consistent returns.

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card caters to frequent travelers, especially those who stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. It offers a robust points system that rewards spending on hotels, monthly bills, gas stations, and restaurants, making it perfect for users who travel often and want to maximize their points for hotel stays.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature Capital One Spark Cash IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
Annual Fee $0 intro for first year; $95 after that $0
Welcome Bonus Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months Earn 80,000 Bonus Points
Rewards Structure 2% cash back on every purchase Up to 17 points per $1 at IHG; 3 points on monthly bills, gas, and restaurants; 2 points on all other purchases
Foreign Transaction Fee None None
Other Fees None specified None specified
Additional Benefits Free employee cards; cash back does not expire Redeem 3 Nights, Get the 4th Night Free; redeemable at various IHG properties

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

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

  • Earn up to 17 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent on purchases on monthly bills, at gas stations, and restaurants.
  • Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Pros and Cons

Capital One Spark Cash

  • Pros:
    • Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
    • Generous welcome bonus
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Free employee cards
  • Cons:
    • $95 annual fee after the first year
    • Higher spending requirement for the welcome bonus

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

  • Pros:
    • No annual fee
    • High earning potential for hotel stays
    • Generous welcome bonus
    • 4th night free on hotel stays
  • Cons:
    • Rewards mainly beneficial for IHG hotel stays
    • Lower cash back on non-hotel purchases

Who Should Consider Which Card?

  • The Capital One Spark Cash is ideal for business owners who want a straightforward cash back structure and frequently make purchases across various categories.
  • The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is best for travelers who often stay at IHG properties and seek to maximize their rewards through hotel stays and related spending.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Capital One Spark Cash and the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card depends on your individual spending habits and financial goals. Consider how often you stay at IHG hotels versus your general purchasing needs to find the card that best fits your lifestyle.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

“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.”