Table Of Content
Capital One is a premium online banking service that provides valuable applications to anyone looking for convenient, dependable service and physical locations.
With trustworthy and dependable service, Capitol One 360 has no hidden fees or minimums, allowing you to continue earning interest on your daily money. There are over 38,000 fee-free ATMs and over 2,000 Capital One ATMs that will successfully meet your needs for money access.
American Express is one of the world's most well-known credit card brand names. With its online savings and CD options, American Express National Bank provides a personal banking solution for customers and recently launched its first rewards checking accounts.
Banking Options
Capital One | American Express | |
|---|---|---|
Savings Accounts | ||
Checking Accounts | ||
CDs | ||
Money Market Account | ||
Debit Card | ||
Credit Cards | ||
Personal Loans | ||
Mortgage | ||
Government Mortgage | ||
Business Loans | ||
Investing Capabilities |
Savings Account
The American Express and Capital One savings accounts are almost identical, with few features to distinguish them from each other. Both offer no-fee savings accounts and provide access to mobile tools to help you to manage your money.
The primary difference is that both accounts are classified as high-yield savings accounts with account restrictions. While American Express allows nine withdrawals or transfers out of the account in any month, Capital One 360 only allows 6. There is a warning on the Capital One site that if you exceed this withdrawal number, you may face a fee or account closure.
Capital one | American Express | |
|---|---|---|
APY | 4.25% | 4.25% |
Fees | $0 | $0 |
Minimum Deposit | $0 | $0 |
Checking Needed? | No | No |
Main Benefits |
|
|
Checking Account
The Rewards Checking account is not currently available to everyone. To qualify, you need to have held an American Express personal credit card for a minimum of three months. Once your Rewards Checking account is opened, you’ll not only earn interest on your balance, but each time you make eligible purchases using your debit card, you’ll earn one Amex Membership Reward point for each $2.
There is no cap on the rewards you can achieve using your debit card, and your purchases are covered with 90 days of purchase protection against theft or damage. Capital One offers some great features, such as early paycheck and next-day overdraft grace, in addition to a low minimum deposit and no fees.
Capital one | American Express | |
|---|---|---|
APY | 0.10% | 1.00% |
Fees | $0 | $0 |
Minimum Deposit | $50 | $0 |
Main Benefits |
|
|
CDs
Another area where Capital One and American Express are very similar is their CD products. Both CDs have no minimum deposit.
Here are a comparison between Capital One Ans American Express CD rates:
Capital One | American Express | |
|---|---|---|
Minimum Deposit | $0 | $0 |
APY Range | 3.90% – 4.50% | Up to 4.25% |
APY 6 months | 4.25% | / |
APY 12 months | 4.50% | 4.10% |
APY 24 months | 4.00% | 3.75% |
APY 36 months | 3.75% | 3.00% |
No Penalty CD | / | / |
Credit Cards
American Express is best known as a credit card provider, offering an impressive choice of options. The most popular Amex reward cards include the Platinum card that has an annual membership fee of $695 and pays 5x membership reward points, the Gold card with a $325 annual membership and 4x points and the Green card that offers 3x points and has a $150 annual fee. However, there are other reward card options, including Blue Card, Amex EveryDay, and Amex EveryDay Preferred.
American Express cash back cards include Blue Cash Preferred, Blue Cash EveryDay, and Cash Magnet. These cards have no annual fee, except the Blue Cash Preferred is only free for the first year and allows you to earn as much as 6% cash back, depending on the specific card.
There are also Hotel and SkyMiles cards, or for those who want to build their credit, there is the Serve card. This is a prepaid card that has no credit check or hidden fees. You pay a $6.95 monthly fee unless you receive a direct deposit of $500 or more in that statement period.
Capital One credit card options provide different benefits based on customer type. You can browse the card options by category, credit rating, and rate. For those with excellent credit, Venture Rewards offers 2 miles per dollar spent. The QuickSilver Rewards card also offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. If you don’t mind an annual fee, Spark Cash Plus offers 2% unlimited cash back with an annual fee of $150.
If you only have fair credit, there are still great options, including the QuickSilverOne Rewards, which offers 1.5% unlimited cash back. There are also student cards such as the SavorOne Rewards with tiered rewards up to 3%, or if you’re looking to rebuild your credit, Capital One has the Platinum Secured card, which has a $200 initial credit limit from a deposit as low as $39. You will also be considered for an increase to your credit limit within six months.
Personal Loans
Capital One doesn't offer unsecured personal loan anymore while American Express do offer personal loans – however, loans are only available to pre-approved American Express card members, so unless you already have an Amex account, you won't be able to apply. American Express offers terms of 12 months, 24 months, or 36 months.
The terms you can select will depend on the size of your loan and your credit score. .
Keep in mind that shorter loan terms will result in increased monthly payments and lower interest costs. Longer terms result in lower payments but higher overall costs. These loan terms are ideal for people who require a personal loan for a short period of time.
As with most personal loans, the proceeds from an Amex loan can be used for almost anything, including debt consolidation, emergency situations or home improvement
American Express | |
|---|---|
APR | 6.98% – 19.99% |
Loan Amount | $3,500 – $40,000 |
Terms | 12-36 months |
Customer Service
American Express offers 24/7 customer support online or on the phone, so if you have a query or need help, you can easily access the customer service team.
Capital One’s support is a little more complicated. The bank has numerous dedicated phone lines according to your specific issue. So, if you have a credit card query, you’ll need a different line compared to those with a savings account issue.
However, this does mean that you won’t be put on hold while you’re transferred to the relevant department. You can access the support page on the Capital One website and click on the appropriate link to access the phone number and details about when the service team is available. There is also a mailing address or you can tweet @AskCapitalOne.
Online/Digital Experience
Both American Express and Capital One have apps to enhance the customer’s digital experience. The AMEX app is available for iOS and Android with a rating of 4.9/5 and 4.5/5 respectively on the Apple Store and Google Play. The Capital One mobile app is rated 4.8/5 and 4.9/5 on Apple and Google.
Both apps allow you more control over your account, with 24/7 access to manage your transactions, make transfers, lock your card and receive notifications.
As we touched on above, Capital One has an impressive website that allows you to not only compare card and account options but also access resources to help you improve your finances and discover the best products for your specific needs and circumstances.
Top Savings Accounts From Our Partners
Quontic High Yield Savings
- 4.50% APY on savings
- Interest is compounded daily
- No Monthly Service Fees
CIT Savings Connect
- Up to 4.85% APY on savings
- No monthly service fees.
- Zelle, Samsung & Apple Pay
Advertiser Disclosure
The product offers that appear on this site are from companies from which this website receives compensation.
Top Offers From Our Partners
Top Offers From Our Partners
Which Bank is The Winner?
With both banks offering similar products, we need to look a little more closely at which bank is better.
If you’re looking for a more full service bank that allows you to have a savings account, current account and credit card as well as business account options, then Capital One is a better choice.
However, American Express does have a great savings account and plenty of card options, if you prefer to go with this well established brand.
FAQs
Does Amex offers a promotion or bonus for new customers?
Amex offers promotions for new customers on both credit cards and banking products.
Does Capital One offers a promotion or bonus for new customers?
Capital One promotions are more focused on credit cards, but from time to time there are checking accounts bonuses for new accounts.
What are the requirements to open a Capital One bank account?
You'll need two types of identification, including proof of address and a driver's license, Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate (by way of a utility bill, mortgage statement, lease or similar document).
What's the biggest benefit of Amex national bank?
Besides high rates on savings products and no monthly fees, you'll earn 1.00% APY on your checking account balance.
What are the requirements to open a Capital One bank account?
You'll need two types of identification, including proof of address and a driver's license, Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate (by way of a utility bill, mortgage statement, lease or similar document).
Is Capital One and Capital One 360 are the same?
Capital One 360 is Capital One's online banking division. This means that while both brands are owned by the same company, they are not the same bank.
Capital One 360 does not have the overhead of a traditional Capital One bank with physical branches because it is only available online. This means that if you don't need to visit branches frequently, the Capital One 360 products may be more appealing.
Does Capital One 360 offers more options than Ally checking account?
Both Capital One 360 and Ally checking are primarily providers of online banking services. They both offer higher rates than many traditional banks, as well as a variety of accounts. However, there are some distinctions that will influence which option is best for you.
Ally is a good choice if you want access to live support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and fee reimbursement for any out-of-network machine usage. Capital One, on the other hand, has a massive ATM network and highly competitive products.
Is American Express a reliable option for online banking?
American Express National Bank is an online bank that has no minimum balance requirements or monthly fees.
Furthermore, the online platform is simple to use and provides access to account management functionality. So, if you're looking for a reliable online banking platform, American Express is a viable option.
How's The American Express Reward Program Work?
American Express also has a Membership Reward Program that works similarly to their points-based reward system. You'll gradually accrue membership rewards by using your cards for purchases over time, just like the points system. Those points will not expire unless you have an American Express card account.
The Membership Reward program also does not have a point cap. You can keep earning points as long as you use your card, and there is no cap on how many you can earn.
Membership Rewards points have varying values depending on how they are redeemed. You'll have access to the same types of rewards as regular reward points, such as using them for online purchases, converting them to travel points, and redeeming points for gift cards and other rewards.
Compare American Express Bank
Discover Bank is a full-service online bank as well as a provider of payment services. Discover can be used for banking and retirement planning by individuals. Discover is best known for its credit cards with rewards, but it also provides personal, student, and home equity loans.
American Express is one of the world's most well-known credit card brand names. Customers can get a personal banking solution from American Express National Bank, which offers online savings and CD options. Personal savings accounts have a high potential yield. They do not, however, provide as many products as Discover Bank does.
Read Full Comparison: Discover vs American Express: Which Bank Account Is Better?
Although Chase Bank has a modern, trendy image, it is one of the oldest banks in the United States. JP Morgan Chase's consumer division, Chase Bank, is one of the largest banks in the United States. Even though its interest rates aren't particularly competitive when compared to online banks and credit unions, loyal Chase customers who keep a significant amount of money with the bank can earn slightly better rates.
American Express is best known for its credit card business. The financial services firm, on the other hand, has a banking subsidiary that offers high-yield savings and CD accounts. For those looking to save money with a well-known financial institution, the American Express High Yield Savings Account is a popular option.
Read Full Comparison: American Express vs Chase Bank
The Citi checking account is a fairly standard product. The account does have a $12 monthly fee, but it is waived if you make a qualifying deposit or make a qualifying bill payment. Overdraft protection is also available, which automatically transfers funds from your savings account to avoid overdraft fees.
Because the American Express savings account has a high yield, the number of withdrawals or transfers you can make each month is limited to nine. It's also a nice touch that American Express allows you to choose paper statements if you prefer the old-fashioned way.
Read Full Comparison: American Express vs Citi: Where to Save Your Money?
While CIT Bank lacks a credit card option, it does have a decent eChecking account, mortgages, and home loans. However, American Express has personal loans and an impressive choice of credit card options.
CIT Bank vs American Express: Which Bank Account Is Better For You?
While Amex has a decent checking account and better credit card options, Ally's CD and lending options are superior. Here's our comparison: American Express Bank vs. Ally Bank
For most consumers, Bank of America may be a better option. American Express is a solid option for customers with higher wealth. Here's why.
American Express Bank vs. Bank of America: Which Bank Account Is Better?
Chase Bank is our winner, while Amex and Chase offer great banking services and credit card portfolios. Here's our side-by-side comparison: American Express Bank vs. Chase Bank
While PNC Bank is a brick-and-mortar bank, American Express Bank's is an online bank. Let's compare their banking products side by side: American Express Bank vs. PNC Bank
U.S. Bank is one of the largest brick-and-mortar banks in the US, while Amex Bank is among the best online banks. Let's compare them: U.S. Bank vs. American Express Bank
Our preferred choice is American Express, which provides a comprehensive banking package that outshines Truist Bank. Here's how they compare: Truist Bank vs. American Express Bank
While TD offers a better selection of checking accounts and lending options, Amex is a great option for online banking. How do they compare? American Express Bank vs. TD Bank
American Express and HSBC focus on serving wealthier customers by providing services and features beyond the standard. How do they compare? American Express Bank vs. HSBC Bank (USA)
Amex comes out on top with a solid checking option (which Barclays doesn't have), an excellent savings account, and great credit cards.
Barclays Bank vs. American Express Bank: Which Bank Account Is Better?
American Express is our winner with a decent checking account, an impressive savings account, and a great selection of credit cards.
Synchrony Bank vs. American Express Bank: Which Bank Account Is Better?
Compare Capital One With Other Banks
Discover Bank is a full-service online bank as well as a provider of payment services. Discover can be used for banking and retirement planning by individuals. Discover is best known for its credit cards with rewards, but it also provides personal, student, and home equity loans.
Capital One began as a credit card company, but it has grown to offer a diverse range of traditional banking services over the years. In addition to credit cards, it offers checking and savings accounts, loan refinancing, auto finance, and children's accounts. As a result, Capital One is more appealing to those seeking a traditional banking experience.
Read Full Comparison: Discover vs Capital One: Which Bank Account Wins?
CIT Bank offers a variety of savings accounts. Savings Connect has two tiers, with the first offering a higher rate if you make qualifying deposits and link your checking account. Savings Builder, on the other hand, offers 3.99 percent if you keep a balance of $25,000 or make monthly deposits of at least $100. There are no account maintenance fees, but you can only make six transactions per statement cycle.
Capital One offers a high yield savings account with a slightly lower rate than CIT Bank's top rate. However, you are not required to jump through any hoops. The account allows six withdrawals per calendar month, but there is no minimum deposit or balance requirement to keep your account open.
Read Full Comparison: CIT Bank vs Capital One: Which Bank Account Is Better?
Chase and Capital One both have banking product lines that compete with traditional high street banks.
Capital One also has a competitive advantage in terms of checking accounts. The Capital One checking account is not only fee-free, but you can also earn interest on your account balance. Chase's checking account does not pay interest, and you must meet certain requirements to have the $12 monthly fee waived.
However, when you open a qualifying account, Chase will give you a welcome bonus, and its checking account has some nice features such as paperless statements for up to seven years and checking account upgrade options.
Read Full Comparison: Chase vs Capital One: Compare Banking Options
Capital One began as a credit card company, but has expanded its line of banking products to rival a traditional bank. Aside from checking and savings accounts, you can also get loan refinancing, auto finance, and children's accounts.
Wells Fargo offers an even broader range of products. There are several checking accounts available, as well as two savings accounts and investment options such as IRAs and 401ks. You can also get loans and mortgages, as well as wealth management services. Wells Fargo is thus a highly comparable alternative to the traditional high street bank.
Read Full Comparison: Capital One vs Wells Fargo: Which Bank Wins?
Ally has a decent banking product lineup that would make switching from a traditional high street bank relatively simple. Checking, savings, CDs, auto loans, personal loans, mortgages, investments, and retirement products are among the products available. The only obvious omission from the Ally line is the absence of a credit card.
Capital One began as a credit card company, but it has since expanded into a variety of other banking services. You can access auto finance, loan refinancing, and children's accounts in addition to savings and checking accounts.
Read Full Comparison: Ally vs Capital One: Compare Banking Options
Capital One began as a credit card company, but it has recently expanded its banking product line. Capital One offers checking and savings accounts, children's accounts, auto finance and refinancing, in addition to an impressive selection of credit cards.
Citi offers a diverse range of banking products, including checking and savings accounts, CDs, credit card options, mortgages, personal loans, wealth management plans, IRAs, and investment options.
Read Full Comparison: Citi vs Capital One: Which Bank is Best For You?
Bank of America has an impressive product lineup, as one would expect from a large banking institution. There are various checking and savings accounts, as well as numerous credit card options, auto loans, home loans, and investments. This makes switching from your current bank a breeze.
Capital One began as a credit company, but it has recently expanded its product line. You can now access checking and savings accounts, auto finance, refinancing, and children's accounts in addition to an impressive selection of credit cards.
Read Full Comparison: Bank of America vs Capital One: Which Bank Wins?
Picking the right bank account can be confusing, especially when looking at big banks like U.S. Bank and Capital One. Here's our winner: U.S. Bank vs. Capital One
Capital One is our winner as it offers a full banking package. But if you have specific checking requirements, M&T Bank may win. Here's why.
Capital One is our winner as it offers a full banking package, which is better than TD Bank, especially if you have deposit needs. Here's why.
Regions Bank has physical branches you can visit, while Capital One operates mainly online. Let's compare their banking products: Regions Bank vs. Capital One
While PNC Bank is a brick-and-mortar bank, Capital One's presence is mainly online. Let's compare them and see which is our winner: Capital One vs. PNC Bank
Capital One is our winner as it is a better fit for most consumers, while HSBC banking products are designed for high-net-worth individuals.
Capital One is our winner for most consumers than Barclays bank. But, there are important things to consider when comparing them: Barclays Bank vs. Capital One
Capital One is our winner with a full banking package, including a decent checking option, high savings rates, and great credit cards.
Banking Reviews
Ally Bank Review
Capital One Bank Review
Discover Bank Review
Chase Bank Review
Bank of America Review
Wells Fargo Bank Review
Citi Bank Review
SoFi Bank Review
Barclays Bank
Synchrony Bank
American Express Bank
Varo Bank Review
TD Bank Review
Aspiration Review
Merrick Bank Review
Sallie Mae Bank Review
BMO Harris Bank Review
Citizens Bank Review
Quontic Bank Review
Axos Bank Review
CIT Bank Review
PNC Bank Review
Connexus Credit Union Review
U.S. Bank Review
LendingClub Review
PenFED Credit Union Review
Alliant Credit Union Review
How We Compared Capital One and American Express: Methodology
In our comprehensive banking comparison, The Smart Investor team thoroughly assessed Capital One and American Express across five main categories:
- Checking Accounts (30%): We scrutinized essential features like direct deposit, debit card availability, monthly maintenance fees, ATM and branch access, check deposit, bill pay options, and account alerts. Additionally, we considered any special checking account options and promotions offered to customers.
- Savings Accounts including CDs (20%): Our evaluation focused on critical factors such as APY (Annual Percentage Yield), minimum deposit requirements, Terms and Flexibility of accounts, and the assurance of FDIC insurance. We also examined special savings options, variety of CDs, automatic renewal options, and early withdrawal penalties.
- Credit Cards (15%): We analyzed the rewards program, annual fees, intro bonuses, travel benefits, APR, and balance transfer options offered by each bank's credit cards, ensuring a comprehensive comparison of available features.
- Lending Options (15%): We assessed the variety of lending options available, including personal loans, student loans, mortgages, secured loans, HELOCs, and Home Equity Loans, providing consumers with insights into the bank's lending capabilities.
- Customer Experience And Bank Reputation (20%): Our evaluation included an analysis of online banking and mobile app usability and ratings, customer support accessibility, online reviews, JD Power research, Trustpilot ratings, and the overall Financial Stability of each bank, ensuring a holistic view of customer experience and reputation.
