Santander Free vs BBVA Azul: cashback vs points
| Santander Free | BBVA Azul | |
|---|---|---|
| APR (CAT) | 62% | 55% |
| Amount | $5k–$80k | $5k–$150k |
| Interest-free days | 50 días | 50 días |
| What sets it apart | No annual fee if you spend 3,000+ monthly; 1-3% cashback in select categories | Annual fee 590 pesos; BBVA points with good conversion to travel |
When to pick Santander Free
Santander Free wins if you spend 3,000+ pesos every month with the card and prefer cash direct to balance. Effective zero annual fee, APR 7 points higher than BBVA but offsettable if you pay in full. For medium users without BBVA payroll, a competitive option.
When to pick BBVA Azul
BBVA Azul wins on high spend (8,000+ monthly) where BBVA-to-travel point conversion beats Santander cashback. The 590-peso annual fee amortizes with intensive use and a bonus domestic round-trip flight. For BBVA payroll, smooth integration.
My recommendation
Medium spend without BBVA payroll: Santander Free for zero annual fee. High spend or BBVA payroll with point use: BBVA Azul.
How we compare these two
The figures in the table — CAT, amount, term — come from each institution’s public rate sheet, not from us, and the commercial relationship never changes them. The «cheaper» verdict weighs the total cost for a standard profile; your own CAT depends on your Buró and income, so treat the numbers as a starting point and confirm the final terms on the lender’s site before signing. The order of offers across the site follows our published methodology.