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Chase Sapphire Reserve® vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Each card offers unique benefits and features tailored to different spending habits and travel preferences.
Card Overviews
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is designed for frequent travelers who want to maximize their rewards on travel and dining purchases. With a high annual fee, it offers substantial travel perks, including a generous points redemption value and access to premium lounge services.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card targets United Airlines travelers, providing benefits that enhance their travel experience with the airline. The card has a lower annual fee after the first year and rewards users for purchases related to United flights and dining.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Chase Sapphire Reserve® | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $550 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 5x on flights, 10x on hotels and car rentals through Chase Travel, 3x on other travel and dining, 1x on all other purchases | 2x on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, 1x on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | Various fees apply, including cash advance fees | Various fees apply, including cash advance fees |
| Additional Benefits | $300 Annual Travel Credit, 50% more value on travel redemption, lounge access, travel insurance | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, 2 United Club passes each year, travel 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.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Rewards
- Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠.
- Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠.
- Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
- Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Pros:
- High rewards on travel and dining purchases.
- Significant travel benefits, including lounge access and travel credits.
- High point redemption value for travel through Chase Travel.
- Cons:
- High annual fee.
- May not be worth it for infrequent travelers.
- Pros:
- Lower annual fee after the first year.
- Great for United Airlines travelers with specific airline benefits.
- Strong introductory bonus offer.
- Cons:
- Fewer rewards on non-United purchases.
- Limited to United Airlines perks.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Ideal for frequent travelers who prioritize luxury travel experiences, high rewards on travel and dining, and extensive travel protections.
- The New United℠ Explorer Card: Best for those who frequently fly with United Airlines and want to maximize their rewards with airline-specific benefits and a lower introductory fee.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
Who Should Consider Which Card?
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The New United℠ Explorer Card, consider your travel habits, spending preferences, and whether the benefits align with your financial goals. Each card offers unique advantages that cater to different types of users. Choose the one that best fits your lifestyle!