IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card vs Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

This comparison aims to help you decide between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. Both cards cater to travelers, especially those who frequently stay at IHG or Marriott properties, but they offer different benefits and rewards structures that may better suit different spending habits and travel preferences.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for travelers who often stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With a lower annual fee and attractive rewards for IHG stays, it also offers an Anniversary Free Night and benefits like Global Entry reimbursement.

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card targets frequent travelers who prefer Marriott properties. This card features a higher annual fee but offers generous rewards at Marriott hotels and a welcome offer that includes multiple Free Night Awards.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

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.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants.
• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Pros and Cons

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• Pros:
  • Lower annual fee
  • Generous welcome bonus
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status
  • Global Entry application fee reimbursement
• Cons:
  • Limited to IHG properties for maximum rewards
  • Fewer bonus categories compared to competitors

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

• Pros:
  • High earning potential at Marriott hotels
  • Significant welcome offer with Free Night Awards
  • Discounts on eligible bookings
• Cons:
  • Higher annual fee
  • Spending requirement for welcome offer is higher

Who Should Consider Which Card?

• The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is ideal for travelers who primarily stay at IHG hotels and want a lower annual fee with strong rewards on IHG stays.
• The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card is better suited for frequent travelers who prefer Marriott properties and can take advantage of the higher rewards structure and substantial welcome offers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card offer valuable rewards for frequent travelers. Your choice should depend on your travel habits, whether you prefer IHG or Marriott properties, and how much you are willing to pay in annual fees. Consider your individual needs and spending patterns to make the best decision for your travel rewards strategy.

“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.”