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Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card vs Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
This comparison aims to assist users in deciding between the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences and spending habits.
Card Overviews
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
- Best for frequent travelers who stay at Marriott hotels.
- Offers substantial rewards on hotel stays and additional perks for Marriott members.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
- Ideal for those who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines.
- Focuses on earning points for air travel and offers benefits related to Southwest flights.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $125 | $99 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 3 Free Night Awards after $6,000 in purchases in the first 6 months. | Earn 60,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months. |
| Rewards Structure | 6x points at Marriott hotels, 4x at restaurants, gas stations, and more, 2x on all other purchases. | 3x on Southwest purchases, 2x on hotel and car rental partners, 2x on rideshare, 1 point per $1 on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Terms apply. | Terms apply. |
| Additional Benefits | Free Night Award annually after renewal, Gold Elite Status, discounts on bookings. | 2 EarlyBird Check-In each year, 6,000 bonus points after anniversary. |
Rewards Highlights
- 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
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
- Pros:
- High rewards rate on Marriott purchases.
- Valuable welcome offer with free night awards.
- Complimentary Gold Elite Status.
- Annual free night benefit.
- Cons:
- Annual fee is higher than some other business cards.
- Welcome bonus requires significant spending.
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- Low annual fee compared to similar cards.
- Attractive welcome bonus with fewer spending requirements.
- Rewards structure favors Southwest travelers.
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines for maximum benefits.
- Fewer rewards categories compared to Marriott card.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card:
- Best for individuals or businesses that frequently stay at Marriott hotels.
- Those who value hotel rewards and additional travel perks.
- Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card:
- Ideal for those who often fly with Southwest Airlines.
- Frequent travelers who prefer straightforward earning on air travel.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card and the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card ultimately depends on your travel habits and preferences. Consider your spending patterns and whether you lean more towards hotel stays or airline travel to make the best decision for your needs.