Chase Sapphire Reserve vs United Explorer Card
Compare these two cards side by side to find the best fit for your spending and travel goals.
Chase Sapphire Reserve Chase | United Explorer Card Chase | |
|---|---|---|
| Sign-Up Bonus | 125,000 points | 85,000 miles |
| Bonus Value | $1,875 | $1,275 |
| Spend Required | $4,000 | $3,000 |
| Timeframe | 3 months | 3 months |
| Annual Fee | $795 | $150 |
| Base Rewards | 1x on all purchases | 1x on all purchases |
| Rewards Currency | Ultimate Rewards | United MileagePlus |
| Network | Visa | Visa |
| Credit Needed | Excellent | Good |
Chase Sapphire Reserve Perks
- +$300 annual travel credit
- +Priority Pass lounge access
- +Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- +Primary rental car insurance
- +No foreign transaction fees
United Explorer Card Perks
- +Free first checked bag
- +Priority boarding
- +2 United Club passes/year
Chase Sapphire Reserve Bonus Categories
- +3x dining
- +3x travel
- +10x hotels via portal
- +10x car rentals via portal
United Explorer Card Bonus Categories
- +2x United
- +2x dining
- +2x hotels
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Chase Sapphire Reserve or United Explorer Card?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a higher sign-up bonus value (125,000 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 Chase Sapphire Reserve and United Explorer Card?
Both cards are issued by Chase, so you can hold both. However, check Chase's rules on sign-up bonus eligibility if you already have one of these cards.
What credit score do I need for these cards?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve typically requires excellent credit, while the United Explorer Card requires good credit. A score of 700+ is generally recommended for premium cards.