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The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This comparison aims to help you decide between two popular American Express business credit cards: The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card®. Each card offers unique features and benefits tailored to different business spending needs. Let's explore their key characteristics to determine which card may be the best fit for you.
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is designed for small business owners looking for a straightforward rewards program without an annual fee. This card offers flexibility with its rewards structure and the ability to spend beyond your credit limit, making it an attractive option for businesses with moderate spending needs.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium credit card aimed at frequent travelers and businesses that require extensive travel benefits. With a higher annual fee, this card provides lucrative rewards, travel credits, and access to exclusive airport lounges, making it a top choice for those who travel often for business.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card | The Business Platinum Card® |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | No annual fee | $695 |
| Welcome Bonus | 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months | 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months + $500 statement credit after $2,500 on qualifying flights |
| Rewards Structure | 2X points on up to $50,000 in purchases; 1 point thereafter | 5X points on flights and hotels booked at AmexTravel.com; 1.5X points on select purchases; 1X points on others |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Terms apply | Terms apply |
| Additional Benefits | Expanded Buying Power; no annual fee | Global Lounge Collection; $200 Airline Fee Credit; multiple statement credits |
Rewards Highlights
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express:
- Earn 2X points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter. Terms and limitations apply.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express:
- 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
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
- Pros:
- No annual fee
- Flexible rewards structure
- Earn points on a variety of business purchases
- Expanded Buying Power
- Cons:
- Lower rewards potential compared to premium cards
- Limited travel benefits
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus
- Extensive travel benefits, including lounge access
- High earning potential on travel-related purchases
- Multiple statement credits available
- Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires significant spending to maximize rewards
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is ideal for small business owners who prefer no annual fee and want to earn rewards on everyday purchases without the need for extensive travel benefits.
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is best suited for businesses that travel frequently and can benefit from premium travel perks, lounge access, and a higher rewards earning potential on travel-related expenses.
Conclusion
When choosing between The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, it's essential to consider your individual needs and spending patterns. If you prioritize no annual fee and a simpler rewards structure, The Blue Business® Plus may be the better option. However, if you frequently travel for business and can take advantage of the extensive benefits offered by The Business Platinum Card®, the investment may prove worthwhile. Evaluate your business's financial goals to make the best decision.