Choosing between the Chase Freedom Unlimited (no annual fee) and the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card ($95/yr) comes down to where you spend most. Both cards can deliver real value — let’s break it down, then run your numbers to find the winner.
Strongest in travel at 5% via portal. 3% on dining and drugstores, 5% on Chase Travel. Earns a solid 1.5% on everything else.
Perfect if: You're comfortable booking through the issuer's portal for the best rate.
Apply NowStrongest in travel at 5% via portal. 5x points on travel through Chase Travel, 3x on dining and online groceries, 2x on other travel.
Perfect if: You're comfortable booking through the issuer's portal for the best rate.
Apply Now| Feature | Chase Freedom Unlimited | Chase Sapphire Preferred Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | $95 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | $200 after $500 spend in 3 months | 75,000 points after $5,000 spend in 3 months |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% | 0% |
| Base Reward Rate | <strong>1.5%</strong> | 1.0% |
| Travel Rewards | 5% | 5% |
| Dining Rewards | 3% | 3% |
| Groceries Rewards | 1.5% | <strong>3%</strong> |
| Key Benefits | 3% on dining and drugstores, 5% on Chase Travel. | 5x points on travel through Chase Travel, 3x on dining and online groceries, 2x on other travel. |
Chase Freedom Unlimited pulls ahead for gas spending.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card wins on groceries.
The $95/year fee difference means Chase Sapphire Preferred Card needs to earn at least that much more in rewards to justify its cost.
Not sure which fits your life? Enter your spending below and we’ll do the math.
Enter your typical monthly spending and we’ll show you exactly which card earns more — including fees and bonuses.