I’ve been thinking about getting the Apple Card, especially since I already use Apple Pay a lot. It offers 3% cash back on Apple purchases and some other stores, plus 2% back on everything else with Apple Pay. But if I use the physical card, it’s only 1%. Is the card actually worth it if I’m not buying Apple products all the time? How does it stack up against other cash-back cards like the Citi Double Cash?
I got the Apple Card about a year ago, and it’s been great for Apple purchases and some stores that take Apple Pay. But honestly, the 1% for physical card purchases is pretty weak. I mostly use it for the 3% on Apple and Uber Eats.
@Hale
Yeah, I was wondering if the 1% is a dealbreaker. Do you think the 2% on Apple Pay is enough to make up for it?
Landry said:
@Hale
Yeah, I was wondering if the 1% is a dealbreaker. Do you think the 2% on Apple Pay is enough to make up for it?
It depends on how much you use Apple Pay. If most of your purchases are through Apple Pay, it’s worth it. But if you shop somewhere that doesn’t accept it, you might want a backup card like the Citi Double Cash for better rewards on everything else.
The interest-free payment plans for Apple products are really helpful if you’re planning to buy something expensive like a MacBook. But if you’re not making big Apple purchases, there are better cards for general use. I use the Wells Fargo Active Cash® for a simple 2% back on everything.
@Barbara
That’s good to know! I don’t really buy Apple stuff that often. The 2% on all purchases with Wells Fargo does sound appealing.
If you’re a frequent Apple Pay user, it’s pretty solid. But keep in mind that not everywhere accepts Apple Pay. I use my Apple Card for tech stuff, but for everyday purchases, I stick to my Chase Freedom Unlimited® for better flexibility.
@MarkLee
Do you feel like you’re missing out by not using it as your main card?
Landry said:
@MarkLee
Do you feel like you’re missing out by not using it as your main card?
Not really. It’s nice for the Apple-specific perks, but I prefer cards that don’t limit me to Apple Pay for higher rewards. The Freedom Unlimited gives me 1.5% or more on everything without having to think about it.
I love the Apple Card for the Daily Cash feature. Getting cash back immediately is awesome, and it’s so easy to use with Apple Pay. But I agree that the 1% on physical card purchases is a bit of a letdown.
@Broderick
Immediate cash back does sound nice! Do you ever feel limited by the merchants that take Apple Pay?
Landry said:
@Broderick
Immediate cash back does sound nice! Do you ever feel limited by the merchants that take Apple Pay?
Sometimes, but most places I shop take Apple Pay, so it hasn’t been a huge issue for me. I just make sure to use another card where it’s not accepted.
The Apple Card is good if you’re really in the Apple ecosystem. But if you’re just looking for a solid cash-back card for everyday purchases, there are better options like the Citi Double Cash or the Capital One Quicksilver for more consistent rewards.
@Zia
Thanks! I do use Apple Pay often, but it sounds like I might be better off with a more versatile card for everyday use.