For as long as different kinds of rewards cards have been around, there’s been a debate about whether points or cash back is better. Both kinds of rewards can help you get more out of your credit card. But how do you choose between the two?
The simplicity of cash back credit cards can be appealing to many. But credit cards that offer points are tempting because they can help you land that dream holiday more quickly. Both types of cards have their share of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look at cash back vs points to help you decide which kind of rewards card is best for you.
Cash back credit cards: pros and cons
Cash back credit cards are usually straightforward. As you spend money using the card, you build up a cash back balance. But the rate at which you earn and can redeem cash back will vary depending on the cash back card you choose.
Earning cash
Several cash back cards offer extra cash back for purchases made in bonus spending categories. Other cash back cards offer a flat rate on all purchases made with the card. Some cash back cards offer sign-up bonuses as well, but they tend to be modest when compared with points-based cards.
Redeeming your cash
Cash back cards often offer a couple of ways to redeem your cash. Depending on the card, you may need to hit a cash back minimum before you’re eligible to make a redemption.
The beauty of cash is that it can be used for anything. If you have an unexpected £500 car repair pop up, you can redeem some of your cash back or statement credit to help cover the expense. Points can be used in a lot of ways too, but they generally can’t offer that kind of flexibility.
Hit the ground running
Another nice thing about cash back cards is that they tend to have low or no annual fees. So it usually won’t take long to “break even” with a cash back card, depending on how you use it. Cash back cards also tend to be easier to use. You won’t need to concern yourself with learning how to book hotels through a travel portal or transfer points to a travel partner. For the most part, cash back is just cash back. It’s not complicated. And you won’t need to worry that you haven’t discovered the “secrets” to taking full advantage of your rewards.
Points credit cards: pros vs cons
There are two main types of points cards. First, there are general points cards that tend to have the bank or credit card issuer’s name on the card. The second type of points cards are co-branded with a particular hotel or airline.
Earning points
With points cards, you’ll earn miles, points or whatever rewards terminology the card uses. Like cash back cards, points cards often offer bonus points for certain spending categories. But points cards tend to offer higher sign-up bonuses than cash back cards.
Extra perks
Another advantage to points cards is that they often offer additional benefits. For instance, hotel cards may offer one or more free reward nights per year. And some airline cards may offer free checked bags, seat upgrades or other benefits. And general points cards may offer extra perks like access to airport lounges or travel credits.
Higher cost and steeper learning curve
While points cards can offer great value, they can also be expensive to carry. Some of the best points cards come with hefty annual fees. With fees that high, it can take longer to “break even” on some points-based cards. And to do so, you’ll need to learn the best ways to redeem your points, which takes time and effort.
Cash back vs points: how to choose the best option
If you travel a lot, you’ll probably want to choose a points card. Frequent travellers often take great joy in maximising their redemptions and taking full advantage of travel-related perks.
If you’re loyal to one particular hotel or airline, you could get a lot of value out of a hotel or airline card. Otherwise, a points card that allows you to redeem with many different merchants will provide more redemption flexibility.
If you’re looking for a no-fee rewards card, you may want to choose a cash back card instead. And a cash back card could be a better choice if you don’t travel often or you just value a simple rewards structure.
But the best choice when it comes to cash back vs points may be to find a card that offers both. Several cards that offer points will allow you to redeem them for cash.
So, yes, it’s possible to have your cake and eat it, too.
What’s next?
Ultimately, the right type of rewards card for you depends on your spending habits, budget and preferences. Check out Credit Karma’s marketplace to compare rewards credit cards and find the perfect fit for you.