Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
vs. BankAmericard® Credit Card

Shield Insurance

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If you're seeking a credit card with a strong introductory APR offer and no annual fee, you may be considering the Citi Diamond Preferred Card and the BankAmericard Credit Card. The Citi Diamond Preferred Card is generally better for longer balance transfer periods, offering 0% for 21 months on balance transfers, compared to BankAmericard's 18 months. However, the BankAmericard Credit Card may be more suitable if you're looking for a lower regular APR after the introductory period ends, with a range of 16.24% to 26.24% variable versus Citi's 18.24% to 28.99% variable.

Credit Card logo for Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card
BankAmericard® Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.1/ of 5
MoneyGeek Rating
4.4/ of 5
On Issuer's Site
On Issuer's Site

Citi Diamond Preferred Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card: Which Is Better for You?

You might prefer the Citi Diamond Preferred Card if: you're planning a balance transfer and want the longest possible introductory period to pay it off without accruing interest. With a 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers, this card helps those who need an extended timeframe. Additionally, if you occasionally make large purchases, you'll benefit from the 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases. However, there's a penalty APR of up to 29.99% variable for late payments, which could be a downside if you sometimes miss payment deadlines.

You might prefer the BankAmericard Credit Card if: you're looking for a card with a generous introductory APR period and a slightly higher customer satisfaction rating. The BankAmericard offers a 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases and balance transfers, which is slightly less than the Citi card but still substantial. It also has a lower late fee of up to $40 and no penalty APR, which could provide peace of mind if you're concerned about the possibility of making a late payment. While it doesn't offer rewards, its fee structure and introductory offer make it a strong contender for those seeking a cost-effective credit card.

MoneyGeek's Take on the Citi Diamond Preferred Card

The Citi Diamond Preferred Card boasts a MoneyGeek Balance transfer card rating of 4.1 out of 5, reflecting its strength in this category. With an outstanding 21-month 0% intro APR on balance transfers, this card is a strong contender for those looking to consolidate and pay down existing credit card debt without accruing additional interest. The card also offers a 12-month 0% intro APR on purchases, making it a good option for new, large purchases that you plan to pay off within a year.

With no annual fee, the Citi Diamond Preferred Card keeps costs down, although it does charge a balance transfer fee of 5% or $5 minimum. The regular variable APR ranges from 18.24% to 28.99%, which is something to consider if you're likely to carry a balance past the introductory periods. While the card doesn't offer rewards like cash back or points, its value lies in the potential interest savings during the intro periods.

Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
Credit Card logo for Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.1/ of 5
On Issuer's Site

Regular APR
17.49% - 28.24% variable
0% APR Offer
0% for 12 months on purchases
Balance Transfer Offer
0% for 21 months on balance transfers
Rewards Summary
N/A
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

MoneyGeek's Take on the BankAmericard Credit Card

The BankAmericard Credit Card, issued by Bank of America, is a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward credit card with a focus on balance transfers and financing large purchases. It stands out for its introductory offers. The card boasts a $0 annual fee. It offers a generous 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 18 billing cycles, making it an attractive option for individuals looking to manage existing debt or fund upcoming expenses without incurring interest charges immediately.

It's best suited for consumers with a good to excellent credit score, ranging from 670 to 850, who are looking for a cost-effective way to pay down balances or finance purchases over a period of time. However, be mindful of balance transfer and foreign transaction fees, which could add to your costs if you plan to transfer a balance or use the card abroad.

BankAmericard® Credit Card
Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.4/ of 5
On Issuer's Site

Regular APR
15.74% - 25.74% variable
0% APR Offer
0% for the first 18 billing cycles
Balance Transfer Offer
0% for the first 18 billing cycles
Rewards Summary
N/A
Recommended Credit
670-850 (good to excellent)

Details Comparison: Citi Diamond Preferred Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card

Our breakdown will help compare APRs, fees, required credit, rewards, introductory offers and other features. For instance, if you're planning a large purchase or need to transfer a balance, the Citi Diamond Preferred Card's longer 0% APR period on balance transfers could save you more in the long run. Conversely, if you're looking for a longer 0% APR on purchases, the BankAmericard Credit Card extends this offer for 18 billing cycles. Examining these details lets you pinpoint which card aligns with your financial habits and goals.

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    Regular APR

    The BankAmericard Credit Card offers a lower APR range of 16.24% to 26.24% variable, compared to the Citi Diamond Preferred Card's APR range of 18.24% to 28.99% variable.

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    Annual Fee

    Both cards have no annual fee. This makes them equally attractive for users looking to avoid yearly charges.

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    Introductory 0% APRs

    For introductory 0% APRs on purchases, the BankAmericard Credit Card offers a 0% intro APR for the first 18 billing cycles, longer than the Citi Diamond Preferred Card's 12 months. For balance transfers, the Citi Diamond Preferred Card extends a 0% intro APR for 21 months, surpassing BankAmericard's 18 billing cycles. Here are some of the best balance transfer credit cards for further comparison.

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    Rewards

    Neither the Citi Diamond Preferred Card nor the BankAmericard Credit Card offers rewards such as cash back, miles or points. For those interested in rewards, consider exploring MoneyGeek's best rewards credit cards.

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    Welcome Offers

    Neither the BankAmericard Credit Card nor the Citi Diamond Preferred Card provide a welcome bonus or welcome offers, making them equal in this aspect.

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    Recommended Credit Score

    Both cards require a credit score in the range of 670 to 850, This means that for individuals with good to excellent credit, either card could be a viable option.

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    Penalties and Fees

    BankAmericard Credit Card is better for avoiding higher penalties, with a late fee of up to $40 and no penalty APR. Both cards charge a 5% cash advance fee and a 3% foreign transaction fee. The Citi Diamond Preferred Card has a late fee of up to $41 and a penalty APR of up to 29.99% variable that may apply indefinitely.

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    Issuer Satisfaction

    The BankAmericard Credit Card has a better issuer reputation compared to the Citi Diamond Preferred Card.

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    Other Features & Perks

    The Citi Diamond Preferred Card offers unique entertainment benefits through Citi Entertainment®, allowing cardholders special access to purchase tickets to thousands of events. In contrast, the BankAmericard Credit Card does not highlight any specific entertainment or lifestyle perks.

FAQ: Citi Diamond Preferred Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card

What are the introductory APR offers for each card?

How do the balance transfer fees compare between the two cards?

What credit score is needed for the Citi Diamond Preferred Card and the BankAmericard Credit Card?

Do either of the cards offer rewards programs?

Are there any unique perks associated with each card?

About Doug Milnes, CFA


Doug Milnes, CFA headshot

Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets.

Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.


*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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