Bankrate: Your Guide to Amazon Credit Cards for Prime Big Day Deals

Let’s be real, everyone loves a good deal. And when it comes to online shopping extravaganzas, Amazon Prime Big Day reigns supreme. But did you know you could be maximizing your savings even further? That’s right, folks! Bankrate is here to be your trusty sidekick, guiding you through the wild world of Amazon credit cards to help you score big during Prime Big Day (and beyond!).

We’re talking about those shiny plastic rectangles specifically designed to make your Amazon addiction, uh, we mean “shopping habit,” even more rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned Prime pro or a curious newbie, choosing the right Amazon credit card can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. But fear not, dear readers, because we’re breaking down the two main contenders: the Amazon Prime Store Card and the Amazon Prime Visa.

Remember, picking the right card isn’t one-size-fits-all. It all boils down to your credit score, how much you typically spend on Amazon (be honest!), and what kinda perks make your heart sing. So, grab your metaphorical shopping carts, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of Amazon credit cards!

Understanding Amazon Credit Cards: A Tale of Two Cards

Before we unleash you on unsuspecting Prime Big Day deals, let’s get up close and personal with the two main players in the Amazon credit card game. Think of it like choosing your fighter before entering the ring (a ring overflowing with discounted Instant Pots and noise-canceling headphones, that is).

Amazon Prime Store Card: The Loyal Shopper’s BFF

Picture this: you live and breathe Amazon. You practically have Prime delivery drivers on speed dial, and your idea of a wild Friday night is browsing Amazon’s latest deals. If this sounds like you, the Amazon Prime Store Card, issued by Synchrony Bank, might just become your new best friend.

Here’s the catch: this card is a closed-loop card, meaning you can only use it for purchases on Amazon.com and its affiliated brands like Amazon Go, Audible, Amazon Fresh, and yes, even Whole Foods. Think of it as the VIP pass to the Amazon ecosystem, offering exclusive perks and rewards within its walled garden.

This card is best suited for die-hard Amazon shoppers who already have a trusty rewards card for their other spending needs. It’s like having your cake (or Prime delivery) and eating it too!

Amazon Prime Visa: Your All-Access Pass to Rewards

Now, if you’re a more adventurous soul who likes to spread the love (and your spending) around, the Amazon Prime Visa, issued by Chase, might be more your speed. This bad boy is an open-loop card, meaning you can whip it out anywhere Visa is accepted, from your local coffee shop to that fancy Italian restaurant you’ve been eyeing.

This card is perfect for Prime members rocking a good credit score who want to earn sweet, sweet rewards on both their Amazon sprees and everyday purchases. It’s like having a multi-tool of rewards, always ready to help you rack up points no matter where you shop.

Detailed Card Comparison: Let’s Get Down to Business

Now that we’ve introduced our contenders, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and compare these cards side-by-side. It’s time to see which one comes out on top in a battle of rewards, perks, and overall awesomeness.

A. Rewards: Where the Real Fun Begins

Let’s be real, the main reason we even consider getting store-branded credit cards is for those juicy rewards. It’s like getting a little pat on the back (and a discount) for treating yourself. So, how do our contenders stack up?

Prime Store Card: Keeping it Simple with 5% Back

The Amazon Prime Store Card keeps things straightforward, offering a flat 5% back on all your Amazon.com purchases. That’s right, whether you’re snagging a new laptop or stocking up on toilet paper, you’ll be earning rewards with every purchase. It’s like getting a mini high-five from your wallet every time you hit the “Place Order” button.

Prime Visa: A Rewards Smorgasbord

Hold onto your hats, folks, because the Amazon Prime Visa comes out swinging with a more complex (and potentially more lucrative) rewards structure. Prepare to be amazed:

• 5% back on Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and Chase Travel purchases. Yes, you read that right, you get the same 5% back on Amazon as the Store Card, but with the added bonus of earning rewards on travel booked through Chase.
• 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, local transit (hello, subway rides!), and rideshare services. Now you can feel a little less guilty about ordering takeout or treating yourself to a latte.
• 1% back on all other eligible purchases. Because every little bit counts, right?
• 10%+ back on rotating categories and select Amazon products. Keep your eyes peeled for these limited-time offers to maximize your earning potential.

Winner: Prime Visa Takes the Crown (and the Cash Back)

For sheer rewards diversity and earning potential, the Amazon Prime Visa emerges as the clear winner. It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of rewards cards, offering cashback opportunities on a wide range of purchases, both on and off Amazon.

B. Sign-up Bonus: Welcome to the Family!

First impressions matter, and credit card companies know it. That’s why they often roll out the red carpet (or at least a welcome mat) with enticing sign-up bonuses to lure you in. Let’s see which card offers the warmer welcome.

Prime Store Card: A $10 Amazon Gift Card to Get You Started

The Amazon Prime Store Card greets you with a friendly handshake and a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card upon approval. Hey, it’s not a fortune, but it’s enough to snag yourself a little something special (we’re looking at you, discounted Kindle books!).

Prime Visa: $100 Amazon Gift Card? Don’t Mind if I Do!

The Amazon Prime Visa, on the other hand, prefers grand gestures, welcoming you with open arms and a generous $100 Amazon.com Gift Card upon approval. That’s right, you can practically hear the shopping cart wheels squealing with delight!

Winner: Prime Visa’s Bonus is Music to Our Ears (and Wallets)

In the battle of the sign-up bonuses, the Amazon Prime Visa emerges victorious with its significantly more generous offer. A $100 gift card is a pretty sweet deal, especially if you’re planning a Prime Big Day shopping spree anyway. It’s like getting a head start on your savings before you even add anything to your cart.

C. Annual Fee: Free is Our Favorite Four-Letter Word

Nobody likes hidden fees, especially when it comes to credit cards. So, let’s address the elephant in the room (or at least the wallet in your pocket): the dreaded annual fee.

Both Cards: $0 Annual Fee (with a Catch)

Here’s some good news: both the Amazon Prime Store Card and the Amazon Prime Visa come with a $0 annual fee. Yes, you read that right, absolutely free! But (you knew there was a “but” coming, didn’t you?), there’s a tiny caveat. To be eligible for this free-as-a-bird perk, you need to be an Amazon Prime member, which will set you back $139 per year.

Winner: It’s a Tie!

Since both cards waive the annual fee for Prime members, it’s a tie in this category. So, if you’re already paying for Prime (and let’s be real, who isn’t these days?), you’re essentially getting a free pass on annual fees for both cards. It’s a win-win situation!

D. Foreign Transaction Fee: Globetrotters, Rejoice!

Planning a trip abroad? Then you’ll want to pack a credit card that doesn’t hit you with pesky foreign transaction fees, which can add up faster than you can say “passport.” Let’s see which card is the more travel-friendly companion.

Prime Store Card: Not Applicable (Sorry, Jet-Setters)

Remember how we mentioned the Prime Store Card is a closed-loop card? Well, that means it’s strictly for domestic use only. Think of it as a homebody card, perfectly content within the borders of the United States. So, if you’re planning an international adventure, you’ll need to pack a different card for your spending needs.

Prime Visa: Say “Bonjour” to No Foreign Transaction Fees

The Amazon Prime Visa, with its open-loop superpowers, is ready to accompany you on all your global adventures, charging no foreign transaction fees. That means you can sip your cappuccinos in Italy or browse Parisian boutiques without worrying about extra charges sneaking onto your statement.

Winner: Prime Visa Wins by a Landslide (and a Plane Ticket)

If you’re a frequent traveler (or just like the option of spontaneously booking a flight), the Amazon Prime Visa is the clear winner in this category. Its lack of foreign transaction fees makes it a much more cost-effective option for international spending.

Earning Potential: Putting Your Rewards to the Test

Alright, enough with the hypotheticals, let’s talk cold, hard cash (or at least cashback). We’re gonna put our two contenders in the ring for a simulated spending spree to see which card emerges as the ultimate rewards champion. Imagine this: you’re a Prime member (obvs!) with a moderate spending habit, and you’re ready to unleash your inner shopaholic.

Let’s say you spend roughly $2,000 annually on Amazon, like a boss. You also sprinkle in an additional $200 per month on other expenses like dining, gas, and the occasional spontaneous purchase (no judgment here!). How would our two cards measure up in this epic cashback battle royale?

Prime Store Card: Racking Up Rewards on Your Amazon Obsession

With the Prime Store Card’s steady 5% back on Amazon spending, your $2,000 yearly Amazon haul would net you a cool $100 in rewards. Not too shabby for simply indulging in your online shopping habit, right? That’s like getting a free month of Prime (almost!).

Prime Visa: Spreading the Love (and the Rewards)

Now, let’s see how the Prime Visa fares with its diverse rewards program. Remember that $2,400 you’re spending annually on dining, gas, and other miscellaneous expenses? Well, buckle up because it’s about to pay off (literally!). With the Prime Visa’s tiered rewards structure, you’d earn an estimated $118.80 in cashback on those purchases alone. Add that to the $100 you’re earning from your Amazon spending, and you’re looking at a grand total of $218.80 in annual rewards.

Conclusion: Prime Visa Takes Home the Gold (and the Cashback Crown)

It’s official: in our hypothetical spending showdown, the Amazon Prime Visa emerges as the clear winner, proving that diversification is key when it comes to maximizing your rewards. While the Prime Store Card holds its own for Amazon-specific purchases, the Prime Visa’s ability to earn rewards across various spending categories gives it a serious edge, especially for those who don’t limit their shopping sprees to the digital aisles of Amazon.

Amazon Prime Store Card Deep Dive: Your Go-To for Amazon Purchases

Alright, let’s zoom in on the Amazon Prime Store Card for a moment, shall we? This card is like that reliable friend who always has your back when it comes to, well, Amazon. It might not be the flashiest card in your wallet, but it gets the job done, especially if you’re all about that Amazon life.

Target Audience: Amazon Fanatics, Unite!

This card is practically tailor-made for Amazon devotees who want to earn rewards on their Amazon purchases without the hassle of juggling multiple credit cards. If you’re already racking up those Prime deliveries like it’s nobody’s business, this card is like adding fuel to your Amazon fire (but, you know, in a financially responsible way). It’s also a solid option for those with fair credit who might not qualify for the Prime Visa’s stricter credit requirements.

Pros: Simplicity and Easy Approval

The Prime Store Card keeps things refreshingly simple. You get a straightforward 5% back on eligible Amazon purchases, no complicated bonus categories or rotating reward tiers to keep track of. It’s like having a cashback system that even your grandma could understand (no offense to grandmas, of course!). Plus, it boasts relatively easy approval odds, even for those with less-than-perfect credit.

Cons: Limited Usage and Basic Benefits

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room (or at least the shopping cart in your virtual checkout). The Prime Store Card’s biggest limitation is its restricted usage. You can only use it on Amazon.com and its affiliated brands. So, if you’re looking for a card to use for everyday purchases or travel, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Additionally, this card keeps things pretty basic in the benefits department. Don’t expect any fancy travel insurance, purchase protection, or extended warranty perks here.

Financing Options: Spreading Out Those Big Purchases

The Prime Store Card offers two main financing options, giving you some flexibility when it comes to managing your purchases:

• Equal Monthly Payments: This option allows you to spread out your purchases over 6 to 24 months with 0% APR, depending on the purchase amount. It’s a great way to finance larger purchases, like that fancy new TV you’ve been eyeing, without getting slapped with immediate interest charges.
• Amazon Special Financing: This option offers deferred interest for promotional periods, meaning you won’t accrue interest if you pay off your balance in full within the specified timeframe. However, be mindful of the potentially high variable APR that kicks in if you don’t pay off your balance within the promotional period. It’s basically a game of “beat the clock” with your finances.

Redemption: Treat Yourself (on Amazon, of Course)

When it comes to redeeming your hard-earned rewards with the Prime Store Card, you’ve got a few options, all conveniently centered around (you guessed it!) Amazon:

• Statement Credits: You can choose to apply your rewards as a statement credit, reducing your overall balance. Think of it as a mini discount on your next Amazon shopping spree.
• Automatic Statement Credit: If you’re feeling lazy (or just super efficient), you can opt for automatic statement credit, where your rewards are automatically applied to your balance each month. It’s like having your own personal cashback fairy automatically sprinkling discounts on your statement.
• Towards Amazon Purchases: Of course, you can always use your rewards directly towards your next Amazon purchase. Just select the rewards option at checkout, and voila! Your discount is applied. It’s like having a secret stash of Amazon cash just waiting to be spent.

Amazon Prime Visa Deep Dive: Your All-Around Rewards Companion

Now, let’s shift gears and explore the Amazon Prime Visa, the more versatile and reward-rich sibling in the Amazon credit card family. This card is like that friend who’s always down for an adventure, whether it’s a spontaneous road trip or a fancy dinner out. It’s all about maximizing your rewards, both on and off Amazon.

Target Audience: Prime Members with Good Credit (and a Thirst for Rewards)

This card is best suited for Prime members with good to excellent credit who aren’t afraid to embrace the wonderful world of rewards. If you’re the type who meticulously tracks credit card points and strategically swipes your card to maximize cashback opportunities, then the Prime Visa might just become your new secret weapon. It’s also great for those who appreciate a little extra something in the benefits department, like travel insurance and purchase protection.

Pros: High Rewards and Extensive Benefits

The Amazon Prime Visa shines when it comes to rewards, offering a generous 5% back on Amazon and Whole Foods Market purchases, along with a respectable 2% back on restaurants, gas stations, and local transit. And let’s not forget that sweet 1% back on all other purchases, because every little bit counts, right? But wait, there’s more! This card also comes loaded with a slew of benefits, including travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, rental car coverage, purchase protection, extended warranties, and more. It’s like having a personal assistant for your shopping and travel needs, minus the awkward small talk.

Cons: Requires Good Credit for Approval

The Amazon Prime Visa’s biggest hurdle is its credit requirements. You’ll need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for this card. So, if you’re still working on building your credit history, this card might be a bit out of reach for now. But hey, there’s always room for improvement, right?

Financing Options: 0% APR for a Limited Time

The Prime Visa keeps things simple in the financing department, offering a straightforward 0% APR introductory period for 6 to 12 months on eligible purchases, depending on the current promotion. This can be a great way to finance larger purchases or consolidate debt without accruing interest, as long as you pay off your balance within the promotional timeframe. Just be mindful of the regular APR that kicks in after the introductory period ends.

Redemption: So Many Choices, So Little Time!

One of the best things about the Amazon Prime Visa is its flexible redemption options. You’ve got a buffet of choices, from Amazon gift cards to travel rewards, ensuring there’s a redemption option to satisfy even the pickiest of reward enthusiasts:

• Amazon Purchases: You can redeem your points directly towards Amazon purchases at checkout. It’s like having a secret stash of Amazon cash just waiting to be spent on all those things you’ve been eyeing (we won’t judge!).
• Travel: Book flights, hotels, rental cars, and more through the Chase travel portal using your rewards points. It’s like having a personal travel agent in your pocket, minus the cheesy Hawaiian shirts.
• Statement Credits: Apply your rewards as a statement credit to reduce your overall balance. Think of it as a mini-victory dance every time you see your balance decrease.
• Bank Deposits: Deposit your rewards directly into an eligible bank account. Because sometimes, cold, hard cash is the most satisfying reward of all.
• Gift Cards:Redeem your points for gift cards from a wide range of retailers and restaurants. It’s like giving yourself a gift, but with the added satisfaction of using your hard-earned rewards.