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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences, making it important to understand their features and rewards to find the best fit for your needs.
Card Overviews
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer Southwest Airlines. With generous points earning on Southwest purchases and additional benefits, this card is ideal for those who value loyalty rewards and travel perks.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card is perfect for travelers who frequently fly with United Airlines. Offering a robust welcome bonus, travel credits, and priority boarding, this card is tailored for those who want to enhance their travel experience with exclusive benefits.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $69 | $0 Intro Annual Fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. |
| Rewards Structure | 2X points on Southwest® purchases, local transit, commuting, internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming. 1 point on all other purchases. | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel. 1x mile on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | 3,000 anniversary points each year, 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year. | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, 2 one-time passes to United Club℠, up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS 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® Plus Credit Card
- Pros:
- Lower annual fee compared to United Explorer Card.
- Generous points earning on Southwest purchases.
- Anniversary points.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines for maximum value.
- Lower welcome bonus compared to United Explorer Card.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- Significant welcome bonus.
- Priority boarding and free checked bag offer.
- Introductory annual fee waived for the first year.
- Multiple travel credits and benefits.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee after the first year.
- Requires higher spending for welcome bonus.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card: Best for travelers who frequently fly Southwest Airlines and prefer earning points through Southwest purchases and local transit.
- The New United℠ Explorer Card: Ideal for United Airlines travelers looking for enhanced travel perks, including priority boarding and significant travel credits.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card will depend on your travel preferences, spending habits, and which airline you most frequently use. Consider your individual needs and how each card's features align with your travel goals to make the best decision.