The Platinum Card from American Express vs United Explorer Card
Compare these two cards side by side to find the best fit for your spending and travel goals.
The Platinum Card from American Express American Express | United Explorer Card Chase | |
|---|---|---|
| Sign-Up Bonus | 175,000 points | 85,000 miles |
| Bonus Value | $2,625 | $1,275 |
| Spend Required | $8,000 | $3,000 |
| Timeframe | 6 months | 3 months |
| Annual Fee | $895 | $150 |
| Base Rewards | 1x on all purchases | 1x on all purchases |
| Rewards Currency | Membership Rewards | United MileagePlus |
| Network | Amex | Visa |
| Credit Needed | Excellent | Good |
The Platinum Card from American Express Perks
- +$200 airline fee credit
- +$200 hotel credit
- +$200 Uber Cash
- +Centurion Lounge access
- +Priority Pass
- +Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- +Hilton/Marriott Gold status
United Explorer Card Perks
- +Free first checked bag
- +Priority boarding
- +2 United Club passes/year
The Platinum Card from American Express Bonus Categories
- +5x flights booked directly
- +5x hotels via Amex Travel
United Explorer Card Bonus Categories
- +2x United
- +2x dining
- +2x hotels
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, The Platinum Card from American Express or United Explorer Card?
The The Platinum Card from American Express offers a higher sign-up bonus value (175,000 points vs 85,000 miles). However, the best choice depends on your spending habits, travel preferences, and whether the annual fee is worth it for your situation.
Can I have both the The Platinum Card from American Express and United Explorer Card?
Yes, since the The Platinum Card from American Express is issued by American Express and the United Explorer Card is issued by Chase, you can apply for and hold both cards simultaneously.
What credit score do I need for these cards?
The The Platinum Card from American Express typically requires excellent credit, while the United Explorer Card requires good credit. A score of 700+ is generally recommended for premium cards.