For as long as different kinds of rewards cards have been around, there’s been a debate about whether points or cashback 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 cashback credit cards can be appealing to many. But credit cards that offer points are tempting because they can help you land that dream vacation more quickly. Both types of cards have their share of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look at cashback vs. points to help you decide which kind of rewards card is best for you.
Cashback credit cards: pros and cons
Cashback credit cards are usually straightforward. As you spend money using the card, you build up a cashback balance. But the rate at which you earn and can redeem cash back will vary depending on the cashback card you choose.
Earning cash
Several cashback cards offer extra cash back for purchases made in bonus spending categories. Other cashback cards offer a flat rate on all purchases made with the card. Some cashback cards offer sign-up bonuses as well, but they tend to be modest when compared with points-based cards.
Redeeming your cash
Cashback cards often offer several ways to redeem your cash, such as statement credits, direct deposits, or sometimes cheques.
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 cashback as a check or statement credit to help cover the expense. Points can be used in a lot of ways too, though they’re typically most valuable when redeemed for travel rather than everyday expenses.
Hit the ground running
Another nice thing about cashback cards is that they tend to have low or no annual fees. So it usually won’t take long to “break even” with a cashback card, depending on how you use it.
Cashback 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, cashback is straightforward, though some cards include tiered rates or rotating categories that require a bit of attention.
Points credit cards: pros and 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.
It’s also worth noting that many travel rewards programs now use dynamic pricing, meaning the number of points required can vary based on demand. This can make it harder to predict the exact value of your points.
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 airport lounge access, travel credits, insurance coverage, or statement credits for travel-related purchases.
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.
Cashback vs points: how to choose the best option
If you travel a lot, you’ll probably want to choose a points card. Frequent travelers often take great joy in maximizing 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, cashback cards are often a strong option, though some no-fee points cards are also available.
And a cashback 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 cashback 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.
Bottom line
Ultimately, the right type of rewards card for you depends on your spending habits, budget and preferences. Whether you decide that a cashback would serve you best or a points card sounds like a better fit, check out the rewards cards marketplace on Credit Karma.