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If you're an avid user of Apple products, you might be interested in Apple Card. This sleek titanium card matches many of Apple's eye-catching products.
But with so many credit cards out there, do their benefits and perks really stand out?
This is an attractive card with no annual fee and 3% cash back. But if you're not wrapped up in Apple's existing ecosystem, you probably won't be able to take full advantage of its benefits.
Here's everything you need to know about Apple Card and how to decide if it's right for you.
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How Apple Card works
Backed by Goldman Sachs, the Apple Card has some unique features that set it apart from other cards.
One of the main benefits of the Apple Card is that there are no annual fees, no foreign transaction fees, and no late fees. This will help you use your credit card more wisely.
The Apple Card also comes with unlimited daily cash back, allowing you to save and earn interest automatically. Here's a closer look at how Apple's rewards program works.
How to earn Apple Daily Cash
With the Apple Card, you can earn 3% cash back every day at Apple and select other retailers, including Nike, Uber, and Walgreens. You also get 2% cash back every day when you use Apple Pay connected to your Apple Card.
Earn 1% back on all other purchases, including physical card purchases.
If you use Uber frequently, regularly upgrade your Apple devices, or shop at select retailers, the Apple Card may be worth it. You can take full advantage of your ability to earn cashback on your purchases. The same goes for using Apple Pay for most purchases.
How to redeem Apple Daily Cash
To get the most out of Daily Cash, you need an Apple Cash account. Rewards are generated daily and you can redeem them along with the money you have in your cash account.
All earnings are added to your cash account daily and can be used for:
- Invest in your Apple Savings account. This is a high-yield account that allows you to grow your funds faster.
- Store it in your Apple Cash account in the Wallet app
- Purchase with Apple Pay
- Use for Apple Card payments
- Send to another Apple Cash user
If you don't have an Apple Cash account set up, your offer will be applied to your balance as a statement credit.
How to apply for Apple Card
If you have an iPhone, you can complete the application process in just a few minutes. Once approved, you can start using your card immediately through your phone's digital wallet without having to wait for a physical card to arrive in the mail.
Apple does provide a physical card, but it's not delivered automatically and must be requested.
You can register even if you are rejected. Path to the Apple Card program. This program provides tips to improve your application and increase your score. Once completed, you will have a second chance to approve.
Apple Card limitations
Despite its unique benefits, Apple Card has some limitations.
- If you prefer to use a physical card or regularly shop at retailers that don't accept Apple Pay, this card may not be for you. That's because you only get 1% back on those purchases.
- This card is only useful if you are a regular Apple user or want to switch to Apple products. To get the most out of your card, you'll also need an Apple Cash account and an Apple Savings account.
- Apple Card does not come with benefits such as welcome offers or travel benefits. If your primary goal is to earn travel discounts or secure sign-on bonuses, you may want to consider other options.
Should I get an Apple Card?
If you're an Apple enthusiast, this is probably a great option. The Apple Card comes with solid cash back benefits, no annual fee, and seamless integration with Apple devices.
However, depending on your spending habits, you may want a card with a higher cash back earning rate. Or you may want a card that offers other travel benefits, such as airport lounge access or travel insurance.
Additionally, Apple Card's integration with Apple devices may not be a huge benefit if you don't use Apple products.
Alternatives to consider
Here are some possible alternatives to Apple Card, depending on your preferences.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
For foodies and entertainment enthusiasts looking to earn cash back, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice.
SavorOne is offering a whopping 10% cash back (much higher than Apple Card's 3%) on purchases made through Uber and UberEats through November 24, 2024. You'll also earn 8% and 5% cashback on purchases at Capital One Entertainment. Get unlimited 3% off on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, as well as dining, entertainment, popular streaming subscriptions, and grocery store purchases (excluding Superstore). All other products receive 1% back.
If you primarily spend your money on food and entertainment, this card is a much better deal than the Apple Card. Additionally, this card comes with a welcome bonus and no annual fee.
Citi Double Cash® Card
If you're looking for a simple, great value credit card, the Citi Double Cash® Card is the way to go. Earn 2% cash back on all purchases with this card. Earn 1% cashback on purchases. Once you pay it off, you'll receive an additional 1%.
Like Apple Card, there is no annual fee. However, unlike the Apple Card, you can earn and redeem cashback for travel rewards. Earn 5% cashback on hotels, rental cars and attractions booked through City Travel until December 2024.
bank of america travel rewards credit card
If you want to earn flat-rate rewards but also earn points instead of cash back, consider the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card.
With this card, you can earn 1.5x points on purchases. Points can be redeemed for gift cards, cash, statement credits, or transferred to hotels and partner airlines. Like the Apple Card, Bank of America Travel Rewards has no annual fee or foreign transaction fees.
conclusion
If you already use Apple products and want to extend that experience, this card has a lot to offer. However, depending on what you look for in a card, other cards may be better suited to your spending and offer better benefits.
As always, be sure to read the fine print and be clear about your financial goals as this will help you decide which card to choose.
The opinions expressed are the author's alone and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any organization included in the post.
