Premise

Uber announced, in partnership with Visa & Barclays, a new credit card into the already-crowded consumer market. While not a game-changer, it has many interesting and diverse qualities that could make sense for some consumers.

 

Rewards

  • 4% Cash Back on Dining (Including UberEats)
  • 3% on Hotel & Airfare
  • 2% on Online Purchases, including Uber
  • 1% on Everything Else

These points can be redeemed for cash back, uber credit, gift cards, most likely at a 1 point = 1 cent value, which makes this barely better than a 2% card in a couple categories? It pales compared to rewards credit cards for points or miles, but for straight cash back users who eat and travel heavily, this may make sense. Of course, the Chase Reserve is better, but we don’t talk about that here.

a black card with text and numbers

From Uber site

 

Other Perks

There is a earn $100 after spending $500 in 90 days, not too difficult. Redeeming points is easy, as well.

Per the Uber Website:

a black cell phone with a black screen

How to Redeem Rewards – from Uber Site

It gets even better with the card’s additional benefits, like the annual $50 subscription credit that can be used on services like Spotify, Netflix, or an Amazon Prime membership*. Cardholders will also get coverage for mobile phone theft or damage and receive invites to exclusive events like secret shows and dining experiences*.
However, the fine print clarifies:
Stream with a $50 subscription credit – Up to a $50 credit for online subscription services after you spend $5,000 or more on your card per year.

Ride in peace with mobile phone protection – Up to $600 for mobile phone damage or theft when you pay your mobile phone bill with your card.

This means you have to actively spend to earn that 1% credit, and attach your cell bill to your credit card, giving Uber more data about you. They also mention no foreign exchange fees, which is good for those busy travelers.

 

 

Costs & Details

The card is available starting next Thursday, November 2, 2017, and has no annual fee. APR is standard for a card like this, about 16-25% based on credit background. Of course, if you’re the type to be carrying a non-0% APR balance, perhaps you should work on paying that off/lowering your costs first.

 

Conclusion

Overall, I can see this card being good for people who travel and eat out a lot, who want simple, clean rewards redemptions, rather than thinking about booking flights/hotels with those points. The variable rates make it a little more interesting than a straight 2% cash back card, and the no annual fee is good for a starter. It would not be well suited to those who are knowledgeable about the Hobby and cards in general, as there are several better options out there in terms of dining or travel or both, as well as the value of those rewards. I will not be signing up for this card, although the design of the card does look amazingly beautiful, as well as the elegance of the app.

 

Featured Image is of the card, from Uber site.  Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links which, should you click through and/or make a purchase, grant me a commission. Also, I only post in the best interest of my readers. Note that The Hotelion is currently owned by Visa. Lastly, thank you for supporting my blog and my travels. 

What do you think of my writing? Have any questions? Let me know in the comments, or reach me directly at TheHotelion@gmail.com! Like my posts? See more here, on TravelUpdate! Follow me on Facebook (The Hotelion) or on Twitter and Instagram: @TheHotelion