Is the Apple Card Really Worth It? Are There Better Options?
The Apple Card is the latest credit card to hit the market, with promises of being the most innovative and user-friendly credit card yet. But is it really worth it? And are there better options out there?
Let’s start with the pros of the Apple Card. It offers cashback rewards on purchases made with Apple Pay, with 3% cashback on purchases made directly with Apple (such as the App Store or Apple Music), 2% cashback on all other purchases made with Apple Pay, and 1% cashback for purchases made with the physical card. The card is also designed to help users make more informed financial decisions, with a sleek and easy-to-use app that categorizes spending and displays it in a clear and intuitive way. Plus, the Apple Card doesn’t charge any annual fees or foreign transaction fees, which is a big plus for frequent travelers.
However, there are some downsides to the Apple Card. Firstly, it’s only available to iPhone users, so if you don’t own an iPhone, you won’t be able to use the card. Additionally, the cashback rewards are only worthwhile if you’re already a heavy user of Apple Pay; if you don’t regularly use Apple Pay, you’re better off with a credit card that offers cashback rewards on all purchases, not just those made through Apple Pay. Finally, the interest rates on the Apple Card aren’t the most competitive, with an APR ranging from 10.99% to 21.99% depending on your creditworthiness.
So, are there better options out there? It ultimately depends on your individual financial circumstances and spending habits, but there are a few credit cards that might be worth considering. If you’re looking for a credit card with strong cashback rewards on all purchases, the Citi Double Cash card offers 1% cashback on every purchase, plus an additional 1% cashback when you pay your bill on time. Additionally, the Chase Freedom Flex card offers 5% cashback on rotating categories (such as gas stations or grocery stores) and 1% cashback on all other purchases.
If you’re looking for a credit card that can help you build your credit, there are also several options to consider. The Discover it Secured card is designed for people with no credit or bad credit, and offers cashback rewards on all purchases. Plus, it reports your credit activity to the three major credit bureaus, which can help you build your credit score over time. Another option is the Capital One Platinum card, which doesn’t offer cashback rewards but has no annual fee and is designed for people with average credit.