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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Each card has unique features catering to different spending habits and financial goals.
Card Overviews
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer to fly with Southwest Airlines. It offers a straightforward rewards structure and valuable perks specifically for Southwest flights.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is aimed at business owners who want to maximize their rewards on travel-related expenses. It provides extensive benefits, including premium travel perks and access to airport lounges, making it ideal for frequent business travelers.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card | The Business Platinum Card® from American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $69 | $695 |
| Welcome Bonus | 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months | 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 2X points on Southwest® purchases and selected categories, 1 point on all other purchases | 5X points on flights and hotels booked via AmexTravel.com, 1.5X points on eligible categories, 1X points on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Late payment fees apply | Late payment fees apply |
| Additional Benefits | 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year, 3,000 anniversary points | Airport lounge access, $200 Airline Fee Credit, various statement credits |
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® Plus Credit Card
- Pros:
- Lower annual fee
- Generous welcome bonus
- Great for Southwest Airlines travelers
- EarlyBird Check-In® perks
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines rewards
- Lower points earning potential compared to premium cards
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Pros:
- High earning potential on travel expenses
- Extensive travel benefits and perks
- Access to airport lounges
- Various statement credits
- Cons:
- High annual fee
- Higher spending requirement for welcome bonus
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is ideal for casual travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines and want to earn rewards without a hefty annual fee. It's suitable for users who value simplicity in their rewards structure.
The The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is best for business owners and frequent travelers who are willing to pay a higher annual fee in exchange for extensive travel perks, high rewards on travel-related purchases, and premium benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, both cards offer valuable rewards and benefits tailored to different types of users. Consider your individual spending habits, travel preferences, and financial goals when deciding which card is the best fit for you.