Card Score: ✅✅✅ 3.35/5
*The credit card score is based on the sole opinion of Credit Mileage without input or influence from the card issuer.
Prime Visa and Amazon Visa Overview
The Prime Visa and Amazon Visa are the two primary Amazon credit card options.
Previously known as the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, the Prime Visa was recently rebranded but continues to offer exceptional rewards to Prime members. Both cards are issued by Chase and provide cashback rewards designed for frequent Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers.
The primary difference between the two cards is that the Prime Visa offers higher rewards for Amazon Prime members, while the Amazon Visa has a simpler rewards structure suitable for non-members.
In this review, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and potential downsides of each card, compare them against each other, and evaluate their performance against other popular credit cards.
Prime Visa Features and Benefits
- Rewards Program: The Prime Visa offers 5% cash back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market purchases for Prime members, 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0 annual fee, but requires an Amazon Prime membership ($139/year).
- Sign-Up Bonus: Typically offers an Amazon gift card upon approval, which can be used immediately.
- APR: Variable APR, depending on creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None.
- Additional Perks: Travel and purchase protections, including baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and purchase protection.
Amazon Visa Features and Benefits
- Rewards Program: The Amazon Visa offers 3% cash back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market purchases, 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: No annual fee, with no Prime membership requirement.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Typically offers a smaller Amazon gift card upon approval.
- APR: Variable APR based on creditworthiness.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None.
- Additional Perks: Includes travel and purchase protections, though not as extensive as the Prime Visa.
Comparison: Prime Visa vs. Amazon Visa
The Prime Visa stands out due to its 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods, making it ideal for Prime members who shop frequently at these stores. Meanwhile, the Amazon Visa offers 3% cash back on the same purchases without requiring a Prime membership, making it a good choice for occasional Amazon shoppers.
While both cards have similar features like no annual fee (excluding Prime membership costs) and no foreign transaction fees, the Prime Visa’s additional travel and purchase protections make it slightly more attractive for cardholders who want added security when traveling or shopping. On the other hand, the Amazon Visa’s simplicity may appeal to those who want a straightforward cashback card without any membership requirements.
Pros and Cons: Prime Visa
Pros:
- High 5% cash back rate for Prime members on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases.
- No annual fee, apart from the Prime membership.
- Includes travel and purchase protection benefits.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Get a $150 Amazon gift card upon card application approval
Cons:
- Requires an Amazon Prime membership ($139/year).
- Cashback redemption limited to Amazon purchases or statement credits.
- Rewards are less valuable for non-Amazon and non-Whole Foods purchases.
Pros and Cons: Amazon Visa
Pros:
- 3% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods without the need for a Prime membership.
- No annual fee.
- Basic travel and purchase protection benefits.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Get a $75 Amazon gift card upon card application approval
Cons:
- Lower cashback rate compared to Prime Visa.
- Limited redemption options.
- Lacks the more extensive benefits offered by premium credit cards.
Comparing Prime Visa and Amazon Visa to Other Credit Cards
Citi Double Cash Card
Read our review of the Citi Double Cash card here.
- Rewards Program: 2% cash back on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay).
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Best For: Those who prefer a flat-rate cash-back program on all purchases.
- Comparison: While the Citi Double Cash Card offers a consistent cash-back rate, it lacks the higher rewards rates for specific categories like Amazon purchases.
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Read our review of the SavorOne Cash Rewards card here.
- Rewards Program: 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, streaming services, and groceries; 1% on all other purchases.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Best For: People who frequently spend on dining and entertainment.
- Comparison: SavorOne provides better rewards for dining and entertainment, but the Prime Visa is superior for Amazon and Whole Foods spending.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
- Rewards Program: 1.5% cash back on all purchases; 3% on dining and drugstores.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Best For: Users who want a flat-rate cash-back card with bonus rewards on dining.
- Comparison: Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a wider range of bonus categories than the Amazon Visa but doesn’t match the 5% offered by the Prime Visa for Amazon and Whole Foods.
Who Should Consider the Prime Visa?
This card is an excellent choice for Prime members who frequently shop at Amazon and Whole Foods. The 5% cash back adds significant value, especially for families or individuals who make large or regular purchases on these platforms. It also offers worthwhile travel and purchase protections, which are a plus for travelers.
Who Should Consider the Amazon Visa?
The Amazon Visa suits non-Prime members or those who shop at Amazon and Whole Foods occasionally. With 3% cash back in those categories and no membership requirement, it’s an appealing card for someone who wants rewards without the added cost of a Prime subscription.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Prime Visa and Amazon Visa
Both the Prime Visa and Amazon Visa provide valuable rewards for Amazon shoppers, but their suitability largely depends on whether you are an Amazon Prime member. The Prime Visa’s 5% cash back and additional protections make it a strong contender for frequent Amazon and Whole Foods customers. Meanwhile, the Amazon Visa’s 3% cash back and no annual fee or membership requirement offer a simpler yet effective option for non-members.
For those who prioritize Amazon purchases and already have a Prime membership, the Prime Visa is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a no-fuss cashback card without needing a subscription, the Amazon Visa provides a worthwhile alternative. Both cards have specific strengths, so consider your shopping habits and preferences to make the best choice.