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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits and features tailored to different spending habits and preferences.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for consumers who want to maximize cash back rewards on everyday purchases, particularly in supermarkets and streaming services. With a rich cash back structure and attractive introductory offers, it's ideal for families and frequent shoppers.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The The New United℠ Explorer Card is targeted at travelers, especially those who frequently fly with United Airlines. It offers a range of travel perks, including bonus miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, making it suitable for those who value travel rewards and benefits.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150. |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months. | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% on transit, 3% at U.S. gas stations, 1% on other purchases. | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays booked with the hotel; 1x mile on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | $0 intro plan fees for the first 12 months on Plan It®; after that, up to 1.33% of purchase amount. | $100 United travel credit after spending $10,000 within a calendar year. |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit; Cash Back can be redeemed as statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. | Priority boarding, free first checked bag, two one-time United Club℠ passes each year, up to $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® fee credit. |
Rewards Highlights
The New United℠ Explorer Card Rewards
- Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel.
- 1x mile on all other purchases.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card Rewards
- 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
- 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros: High cash back rates on supermarkets and streaming services.
- Pros: $250 statement credit welcome bonus.
- Cons: Annual fee after the first year.
- Cons: Limited travel benefits.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros: Excellent travel rewards, especially for United flights.
- Pros: Priority boarding and free first checked bag.
- Cons: Higher annual fee after the first year.
- Cons: Limited cash back opportunities outside travel-related spending.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families or individuals who frequently shop at supermarkets and use streaming services, maximizing their cash back on day-to-day expenses. On the other hand, The New United℠ Explorer Card is suited for avid travelers, particularly those who prefer flying with United Airlines and can take advantage of the travel benefits it offers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and The New United℠ Explorer Card have their unique advantages. It's essential to evaluate your individual spending patterns and financial goals to choose the card that best fits your lifestyle.