If you’re looking for a cash-back credit card with strong rewards, Capital One Spark Cash Plus and Capital One Spark Cash are two excellent options. Both offer unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, but they have key differences in how they handle payments, fees, and flexibility.
This comparison will help you decide which card best suits your financial needs.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Spark Cash Plus | Spark Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Back | 2% on all purchases | 2% on all purchases |
| Card Type | Charge card (must pay in full) | Credit card (carry a balance if needed) |
| Welcome Bonus | $1,200 if you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months | $500 if you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months |
| Annual Fee | $150 (waived with $150,000 spend) | $95 (waived for the first year) |
| Spending Limit | No preset spending limit | Fixed credit limit |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | None | None |
| APR | No APR (balance must be paid in full) | Variable APR based on creditworthiness |
Capital One Spark Cash Plus: Best for High Spenders
The Spark Cash Plus is a charge card, meaning it doesn’t have a traditional credit limit, and you must pay your balance in full each month. This can be beneficial for those with large expenses, as it offers flexibility in spending.
Pros:
✅ Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
✅ No preset spending limit, adjusting based on payment history
✅ Higher welcome bonus ($1,200 for $30,000 spend in 3 months)
✅ No foreign transaction fees
✅ Annual fee can be offset with a $150,000 spend
Cons:
❌ Must pay in full each month
❌ $150 annual fee, which is higher than Spark Cash
Capital One Spark Cash: Best for Flexible Payments
The Spark Cash card functions as a traditional credit card, allowing you to carry a balance if needed. This can be useful for those who prefer more flexibility in managing cash flow.
Pros:
✅ Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
✅ Lower annual fee ($95, waived the first year)
✅ Ability to carry a balance when necessary
✅ No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
❌ Fixed credit limit (not as flexible as Spark Cash Plus)
❌ Lower welcome bonus ($500 for $4,500 spend in 3 months)
Which Card Should You Choose?
| Choose This Card If You… | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Spend large amounts monthly and want no preset spending limit | Spark Cash Plus |
| Want a higher welcome bonus and can meet the spending requirement | Spark Cash Plus |
| Prefer to carry a balance occasionally | Spark Cash |
| Want a lower annual fee and a waived first-year fee | Spark Cash |
Bottom Line
- If you spend a lot and always pay in full, the Spark Cash Plus offers higher rewards and no preset limit.
- If you prefer payment flexibility, the Spark Cash is a better choice with a lower fee.
