Apple Card Review: Style Over Substance?

The Apple Card made a splash with its titanium design and Apple Pay integration. But beyond the aesthetics, is it actually a good credit card?

The Good

Clean interface: The Wallet app integration is excellent. Spending tracking, payment scheduling, and interest calculations are best-in-class.

Daily Cash: Cash back posts daily, not monthly.

No fees: No annual fee, no foreign transaction fee, no late fees (though interest still accrues).

Privacy focus: Apple doesn’t sell your data.

The Math

$2,000/month spending, 50% via Apple Pay:

• Apple Pay purchases: $1,000 × 2% = $20
• Physical card: $1,000 × 1% = $10
• Total: $30/month, $360/year

With Citi Double Cash (2% everything):

• $2,000 × 2% = $40/month, $480/year

You’re leaving $120/year on the table.

The Bottom Line

The Apple Card is a beautifully designed, below-average rewards card. The 1% on physical purchases is a dealbreaker for anyone who cares about maximizing returns. Get it for the aesthetic and app—not for the rewards.