American Express Gold vs. Capital One Venture

To compare the two travel credit cards, here’s a breakdown of the most important factors:

Overview:

Both cards are great for earning rewards, with a focus on travel, but they offer distinct benefits that may suit different types of spenders.

Key Rewards and Earning Rates:

1. Card_Name:
   • 4x points on dining worldwide.
   • 4x points on up to $25,000 spent at U.S. supermarkets per calendar year (then 1x points).
   • 3x points on flights booked directly or through AmexTravel.com.
   • Welcome Bonus: Generous sign-up offer.
   • Flexibility in Rewards: Can redeem for travel, gift cards, statement credits, etc.
2. Card_Name:
   • 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
   • 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases.
   • Welcome Bonus: High sign-up offer that is easy to earn.
   • Perks: Includes travel-related perks like Global Entry fee credit and airport lounge access.

Redemption Value:

• Card_Name offers a better value in non-travel redemption (gift cards, statement credits, etc.) compared to Card_Name, especially for flexible miles and broader redemption options.
• Card_Name has a fixed value for its rewards, making it easier to cash out or use them without worrying about transfer partners.
• Card_Name focuses more on travel redemptions, with a high value when transferring miles to airline partners.

Annual Fees:

• Card_Name: Offers a lower annual fee compared to Card_Name, which could be easier to justify long-term, especially with its flexible rewards program.
• Card_Name has a higher annual fee, but its higher earning rates for certain categories might make it worth it if you spend a lot in those categories.

APR and Foreign Transaction Fees:

• Both cards have high APR ranges, making them not ideal for carrying a balance.
• Neither card has foreign transaction fees, so both are excellent for international travel.

Additional Perks:

• Card_Name:
  • $120 Dining Credit (split into $10 monthly credits).
  • $120 Uber Cash annually.
  • Travel Insurance Benefits: Includes baggage insurance, secondary auto rental coverage.
• Card_Name:
  • Airport Lounge Access: Two free visits per year to Capital One lounges.
  • Hertz Five Star Status.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Fee Credit: Up to $100 toward the cost of membership.
  • Global Assist Hotline and Baggage Insurance Plan.

Which Card Earns More?

• Card_Name offers a higher potential for earning rewards if you frequently spend on dining and U.S. supermarkets, thanks to the 4x points on those categories.
• Card_Name offers a more consistent earning structure, with 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and 5 miles for travel-related bookings, which is beneficial if your spending is more varied.

Bottom Line:

• Choose Card_Name if:
  • You spend heavily on dining and U.S. supermarkets.
  • You want flexible reward redemption options for travel and non-travel expenses.
  • You can take advantage of the dining and Uber credits.
• Choose Card_Name if:
  • You want a simple rewards structure with a high earning rate on travel bookings and general spending.
  • You value travel-related perks like lounge access, Hertz status, and TSA PreCheck credits.
  • You want a card with a solid travel-focused rewards program and fewer restrictions on redemption.

FAQ:

1. How much are Capital One miles worth?
   • Typically one cent per mile when redeemed for travel through Capital One. You could get more if transferred to Capital One’s partners.
2. Can I get both cards?
   • Yes, you can hold both cards, which could maximize your rewards haul if you spend in different categories. You may also earn welcome bonuses for both.