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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs United Gateway℠ Card
This comparison aims to provide an informative overview of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the United Gateway℠ Card. By evaluating their features, rewards, and benefits, this guide will help users make an informed decision based on their personal spending habits and financial goals.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is tailored for individuals who frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and enjoy streaming services. It offers a robust cash back rewards program, making it a great choice for families and regular grocery shoppers.
United Gateway℠ Card
The United Gateway℠ Card is designed for travelers, especially those who frequently fly with United Airlines. With no annual fee and rewards on travel-related purchases, it is an appealing option for those who want to earn miles without incurring extra costs.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | United Gateway℠ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months | 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 6% on select streaming, 3% on transit and gas, 1% on other purchases | 2x miles on United purchases, gas stations, and local transit; 1x on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Variable fees apply for Plan It® options after the first year | None |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, Cash Back redemption options | 25% back on food and beverages on United flights |
Rewards Highlights
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- 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.
United Gateway℠ Card
- Earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 2x miles on United® purchases, at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting.
- 1x mile on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back rates on groceries and streaming.
- Attractive welcome bonus.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- $95 annual fee after the first year.
- High spending requirement for the welcome bonus.
United Gateway℠ Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee.
- Good rewards on travel-related purchases.
- Bonus miles for new cardholders.
- Cons:
- Lower cash back rewards compared to competitors.
- Fewer benefits for non-travel purchases.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for families or individuals who spend heavily on groceries and streaming services and want to maximize their cash back rewards. On the other hand, the United Gateway℠ Card is best suited for frequent travelers, particularly those who fly with United Airlines, as it offers a straightforward way to earn miles without an annual fee.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the United Gateway℠ Card will depend on your individual needs and spending habits. Consider where you spend the most and what benefits align with your financial goals to make the best decision.