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IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card vs Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card. Both cards offer unique rewards and benefits tailored to different travel preferences and spending habits.
Card Overviews
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer staying at IHG Hotels & Resorts. It offers significant rewards for hotel stays, including bonus points and an annual free night, making it appealing for those who often book accommodations with IHG brands.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is ideal for business owners and those who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. It provides generous points for airline purchases, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses, along with benefits like EarlyBird Check-In, enhancing the travel experience.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $99 | $99 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months | Earn 60,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | Up to 26 points per $1 at IHG Hotels, 5 points on travel, gas, restaurants, 3 points on other | 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X on Rapid Rewards partners, 1 point on others |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Anniversary Free Night, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, Automatic Platinum Elite status | 2 EarlyBird Check-In per year, 6,000 bonus points on anniversary |
Rewards Highlights
- 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:
- High rewards rate for IHG hotel stays
- Generous welcome bonus
- Annual free night benefit
- Platinum Elite status with automatic enrollment
- No foreign transaction fees
- Cons:
- Annual fee of $99
- Limited to IHG Hotels for maximum rewards
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- Strong rewards on Southwest Airlines purchases
- Bonus points on cardmember anniversary
- EarlyBird Check-In benefits
- No foreign transaction fees
- Cons:
- Annual fee of $99
- Less flexible rewards outside of Southwest Airlines
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is best for those who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize their hotel rewards, including enjoying complimentary nights and elite status. In contrast, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is ideal for business travelers who regularly fly with Southwest Airlines and appreciate the convenience of points on airline purchases and exclusive check-in benefits.
Conclusion
When choosing between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card, consider your individual travel habits, preferences, and how you plan to use the card's rewards. Both cards offer valuable benefits that cater to different types of travelers.