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IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card vs United Gateway℠ Card
This comparison aims to help you decide between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the United Gateway℠ Card. Both cards offer unique benefits catering to different travel preferences and spending habits. Let's delve into the specifics.
Card Overviews
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer staying at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With a focus on hotel rewards and exclusive benefits, this card is perfect for those who want to maximize their hotel stays and earn significant points on travel-related expenses.
United Gateway℠ Card
The United Gateway℠ Card caters to United Airlines travelers seeking to earn miles on their purchases. This card is ideal for those who frequently fly with United, offering perks that enhance the travel experience with the airline without any annual fee.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card | United Gateway℠ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $99 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months | Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | Up to 26 points per $1 at IHG Hotels, 5 points on travel, gas, and restaurants, 3 points on all other purchases | 2x miles on United purchases, gas, and local transit; 1x mile on all other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Anniversary Free Night, Automatic Platinum Elite status, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck reimbursement | 25% back on food, beverages, and Wi-Fi on United flights |
Rewards Highlights
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all 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
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus
- High earning potential at IHG hotels
- Automatic Platinum Elite status
- Anniversary Free Night benefit
- Cons:
- Annual fee of $99
- Best suited for IHG loyalists
United Gateway℠ Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee
- Solid earning on United purchases and gas
- 25% back on in-flight purchases
- Cons:
- Lower overall rewards potential compared to IHG card
- Limited benefits outside of United Airlines
Who Should Consider Which Card?
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is ideal for individuals who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize their hotel rewards, particularly those who travel often for leisure or business. On the other hand, the United Gateway℠ Card is perfect for casual travelers who primarily fly with United Airlines and wish to earn miles on everyday purchases without incurring an annual fee.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the United Gateway℠ Card will depend on your individual travel habits and preferences. Consider your spending patterns and which benefits align with your travel goals to make the best decision.