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Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to assist users in deciding between the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card by analyzing their key features, benefits, and drawbacks.
Card Overviews
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
This card is designed for business owners who frequently travel with Southwest Airlines. It offers a robust rewards structure tailored for earning points on airline purchases, hotel stays, and other business-related expenses.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
Aimed at travelers who prefer United Airlines, this card provides a range of travel benefits and perks, especially for those who fly frequently with United. The introductory fee structure makes it attractive for new cardholders.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $199 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 4X points on Southwest® purchases, 3X on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rentals, 2X on rideshare and advertising, 1X on other purchases | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel; 1x on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, United Club℠ access with 2 passes, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® fee credit |
Rewards Highlights
- Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel.
- 1x mile on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
- Pros:
- High earning potential on Southwest® purchases.
- Multiple categories for bonus points.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- 4 Upgraded Boardings benefit.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee compared to some competitors.
- Best value is achieved primarily through Southwest Airlines travel.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year.
- Free first checked bag and priority boarding.
- Access to United Club℠ with annual passes.
- Good rewards structure for United® purchases.
- Cons:
- Annual fee applies after the first year.
- Limited benefits when not flying with United Airlines.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- Consider the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card if:
- You frequently fly with Southwest Airlines.
- You want to earn points on a variety of business-related expenses.
- Consider The New United℠ Explorer Card if:
- You prefer United Airlines for travel.
- You want immediate benefits like a waived first checked bag fee and priority boarding.
- You are looking for a card with no annual fee in the first year.
Conclusion
Both the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card offer valuable rewards and benefits. Your choice should depend on your individual travel habits, preferred airline, and how you plan to utilize the card's features. Consider your spending patterns and travel preferences to make the best decision for your financial goals.