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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express vs United Quest℠ Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the United Quest℠ Card. Each card has its unique features and benefits tailored to different spending habits and goals.
Card Overviews
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is designed for those who frequently shop at U.S. supermarkets and use streaming services. It offers attractive cash back rewards and a low introductory annual fee, making it ideal for families and everyday spenders.
United Quest℠ Card
The United Quest℠ Card is tailored for frequent travelers, especially those who fly with United Airlines. It provides a robust rewards structure on travel-related purchases and added perks like free checked bags and priority boarding, making it a great choice for avid flyers.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Blue Cash Preferred® Card | United Quest℠ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 | $250 |
| Welcome Bonus | $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months | 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% at U.S. gas stations, 3% on transit, 1% on other purchases | 3x miles on United® purchases, 2x on dining, select streaming, and all other travel; 1x mile on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Plan fees apply after the first year | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | $84 Disney Bundle Credit, cash back redemption options | Free first and second checked bags, priority boarding, up to $125 United® purchase credit |
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 Quest℠ Card
- Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- 3x miles on United® purchases.
- 2x miles on dining, select streaming services & all other travel.
- 1x mile on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Pros:
- High cash back rewards at supermarkets and streaming services.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Good introductory annual fee.
- Cons:
- Annual fee applies after the first year.
- Cash back is limited to certain categories.
United Quest℠ Card
- Pros:
- Robust rewards on travel and dining.
- Travel benefits such as free checked bags.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee compared to other travel cards.
- Less cash back on everyday purchases.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is ideal for those who spend heavily on groceries and streaming services and prefer cash back rewards.
- The United Quest℠ Card is better suited for frequent travelers who fly with United Airlines and want to maximize their travel rewards and benefits.
Conclusion
When choosing between the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express and the United Quest℠ Card, consider your individual spending patterns and financial goals. Whether you prioritize cash back on everyday purchases or travel perks, each card has distinct advantages tailored to different lifestyles.