Search Credit Card Offers
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Capital One Spark Cash vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Capital One Spark Cash and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique rewards structures and benefits tailored to different spending habits and lifestyles.
Card Overviews
Capital One Spark Cash
The Capital One Spark Cash is designed for businesses that seek straightforward cash-back rewards. With unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, this card appeals to business owners wanting to maximize rewards without the hassle of rotating categories.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The The New United℠ Explorer Card is tailored for frequent travelers, particularly those who fly with United Airlines. It offers a variety of travel-related perks, including bonus miles on United purchases and dining, as well as additional travel benefits that enhance the flying experience.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Capital One Spark Cash | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 intro for first year; $95 after | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. |
| Rewards Structure | Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases | 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel; 1x mile on all other purchases. |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Free employee cards, rewards do not expire, redeem cash back anytime. | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, United Club℠ passes, and travel credits. |
Rewards Highlights
Capital One Spark Cash Rewards
- Earn $750 cash back once you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening
- 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 2% cash back on every purchase
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.
Pros and Cons
Capital One Spark Cash Pros
- Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Free employee cards.
- Cash back rewards do not expire.
Capital One Spark Cash Cons
- Annual fee after the first year.
- Higher spending requirement for the welcome bonus.
The New United℠ Explorer Card Pros
- Generous welcome bonus with lower spending requirement.
- Travel benefits including free checked bags and priority boarding.
- 2x miles on United purchases and dining.
The New United℠ Explorer Card Cons
- Annual fee after the first year.
- Rewards mainly benefit travelers who fly with United.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The Capital One Spark Cash is ideal for business owners who prefer straightforward cash back without the complexities of categories and limits. On the other hand, The New United℠ Explorer Card is perfect for frequent United Airlines travelers who can take advantage of the travel perks and earn miles on their purchases.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Capital One Spark Cash and The New United℠ Explorer Card offer valuable rewards and benefits. Your choice will depend on your spending habits and financial goals, so consider what features are most important to you before making a decision.