Choosing between the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card ($149/yr) and the United Explorer Card ($150/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 3%. 3x on Southwest purchases, 2x on groceries and restaurants up to $8,000/year.
Perfect if: You want a strong rewards rate with no spending caps to worry about.
Apply NowStrongest in travel at 2%. 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays.
Perfect if: You want a strong rewards rate with no spending caps to worry about.
Apply Now| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card | United Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $149 | $150 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 50,000 points after $1,000 spend in 3 months | 70,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% | 0% |
| Base Reward Rate | <strong>1.0%</strong> | <strong>1.0%</strong> |
| Travel Rewards | <strong>3%</strong> | 2% |
| Dining Rewards | 1% | <strong>2%</strong> |
| Key Benefits | 3x on Southwest purchases, 2x on groceries and restaurants up to $8,000/year. | 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays. |
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card pulls ahead for travel spending.
United Explorer Card wins on dining.
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.