Samsung Galaxy Card takes aim at Apple Card with way more perks and rewards — here’s what you get

(Image credit: Samsung) With Galaxy Unpacked 2026 set to kick off in a matter of days, you know that Samsung’s new foldable phones won’t come cheap. If you’re planning on being an early adopter of one of them, like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, then you might want to sign up for the Samsung Galaxy Card.I think Samsung's first-ever U.S. credit card, which is a Visa card issued by Barclays, is going to give the Apple Card a run for its money. I know how a generous rewards system can entice someone to choose one credit card over another, so Samsung is making a compelling offer here.Even though it’s designated as a Samsung Wallet-first experience that lives as a digital card on your Galaxy phone, it will also be available as a premium black metal card. One of the biggest incentives is the 5% cash rewards you get on direct Samsung purchases.Samsung Galaxy Card vs. Apple CardSwipe to scroll horizontallyRow 0 - Cell 0 Samsung Galaxy CardApple CardAnnual Fee$0$0IssuerBarclays Goldman SachsCard TypeVisaMastercardDirect Brand Purchases5% cash rewards3% cash rewardsMobile Wallet Purchases3% via Samsung Wallet2% via Apple Pay (3% at select merchants)Streaming Services2% cash rewardsN/AAll Other Purchases1% cash rewards1% cash rewardsSign-Up Bonus$200 after $2,000 spent in first 90 days$75 when you spend $75 within the first 30 daysWhen I look at the comparison chart between the Samsung Galaxy Card and the Apple Card, I’m instantly hooked by the sign-up bonus Samsung is offering. You’ll get $200 back in cash rewards if you spend $2,000 within the first 90 days, whereas you typically only get a smaller, $75 welcome bonus when you spend $75 within the first 30 days with the Apple Card."Samsung Galaxy Card is part of our ongoing vision for Samsung Wallet to deliver more connected and rewarding everyday experiences," said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of the Digital Wallet Team at the Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. "Collaborating with like-minded partners, such as Barclays, is what made Samsung Galaxy Card possible. This marks yet another milestone in the evolution of Samsung Wallet and mobile payments — offering a new solution for busy users who want cash rewards whether they're running errands or purchasing the latest Galaxy devices." (Image credit: Samsung)Another important perk you should know about is the 5% cash rewards on all direct Samsung purchases. That’s huge if you intend on buying a lot of Samsung gear outside of phones, like Galaxy Watches, appliances, and TVs. By staying in the Samsung ecosystem, you earn more. In contrast, Apple maxes out at a 3% cash back reward when you buy directly from them or a few select merchants.While both credit cards offer a baseline 1% reward on all other purchases, you get 3% cash back when using the card through Samsung Wallet — beating Apple's 2% reward for standard Apple Pay transactions. These figures may sound inconsequential, but they quickly add up if you’re smart about how and where you shop.Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. (Image credit: Samsung)The only catch right now is that Samsung hasn't gone into full detail about its complete fee structure. While there's no annual fee, the Apple Card famously prides itself on having no fees at all — including late and foreign transaction fees. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. More from Tom's GuideSamsung Galaxy Z 8 preorders haven't started yet, but you can save up to $1,230 right now — here’s howI’m not convinced crease-free foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 actually matter. Prove me wrong.Every Samsung device from this month's Unpacked just leaked — here's your full look at the entire lineup John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.