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Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Both cards offer unique features catering to different types of users, and understanding these differences can assist in making an informed decision.
Card Overviews
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is designed for small business owners who frequently travel with Southwest Airlines. This card offers a generous rewards structure for Southwest purchases and additional perks that enhance travel experiences.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is tailored for business professionals who desire premium travel experiences. With high rewards potential, airport lounge access, and extensive travel credits, this card is suitable for frequent travelers looking for luxury and convenience.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card | The Business Platinum Card® from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $199 | $695 |
| Welcome Bonus | 80,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months | 150,000 points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months, plus $500 statement credit |
| Rewards Structure | 4X pts on Southwest® purchases, 3X on Rapid Rewards® partners, 2X on rideshare, 2X on social media/search engine ads, 1X on all other purchases | 5X points for flights/hotels booked at AmexTravel.com, 1.5X points on select purchases, 1X on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available | Access to 1,400+ airport lounges, $200 Airline Fee Credit, $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit, and more |
Rewards Highlights
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals and prepaid flight + hotel packages booked at AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases.
Pros and Cons
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- Low annual fee compared to premium cards.
- Generous rewards on Southwest purchases.
- Bonus points for cardmember anniversary.
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines for maximized rewards.
- Fewer luxury travel perks compared to higher-end cards.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Pros:
- High welcome bonus and extensive rewards structure.
- Access to premium travel benefits and airport lounges.
- Multiple statement credits that can offset the annual fee.
- Cons:
- High annual fee.
- Spending requirement for bonus can be high for smaller businesses.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card is ideal for small business owners who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines and prefer a lower annual fee while earning rewards on their travel purchases. On the other hand, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is better suited for frequent travelers who value luxury, extensive airport access, and are willing to pay a higher fee for premium benefits.
Conclusion
When deciding between the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, consider your individual travel habits, spending patterns, and the value you place on various benefits. Each card has unique features that cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns best with your business goals and lifestyle.